February 21st, 2019

Now, children ages 3-5 can have the same unforgettable Summer at Emerson experience during Preschool Camp. It’s a new partnership with Allen Creek Preschool, which brilliantly blends its early childhood expertise with the intimate, absurdly fun camps Summer at Emerson is known for.

All preschool camps will be held at Allen Creek and are open to all students ages 3, 4, and 5, regardless of school attended—even if he/she is not enrolled in school yet. If your child is currently attending Young 5s and will start kindergarten in the fall, preschool camp at Allen Creek is the perfect fit!

Preschool camps are held in the mornings from 9:15am-12:15pm, hoping to accommodate families attending both Summer at Emerson camps and Preschool Camp at Allen Creek.

Preschool Summer Camp Guide

Register for camp

December 6th, 2018

ONE OF 96 TEAMS ADVANCING TO STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

(See more photos here)

The Emerson School EAGLES robotics team (EAGLES), which competes with hundreds of other Michigan middle schools in the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) robotics program, is currently ranked 10th in the nation out of nearly 2,000 teams. The EAGLES team was part of the three-team alliance that took first place at the Dec. 1 state qualifying tournament in Mason, Mich., and students are now preparing for the State Championship on Dec. 14 and 15 in Battle Creek, Mich.

“Everyone on the team participated and came together at the Mason tournament,” said Diego Del Rio, Emerson 8th grader and EAGLES team member since the Robotics Program was founded in 2015. “There were so many nights we stayed late practicing and ate dinner together, so I was glad to see it all pay off. Now we have a chance to qualify for the World Championships, but I’m just as excited to compete with and learn from some of the best teams in the country at States.”

The EAGLES team is made up of 11 middle school students from Emerson School. It is one of 75 Michigan teams have already earned one of the 96 State Championship bids, with the final teams being decided after this weekend’s last round of tournaments.

“This is only our team’s second year competing at this level, so going to States is an amazing achievement,” said Marchell Burgess, Robotics Program Coordinator and 4th grade teacher at Emerson School. “Our kids have really had to figure things out on their own because they don’t have the high school support most teams do. I’m so proud of that and the character they’ve shown all along the way.”

In the spirit of cooperation, all teams compete as part of two- and three-team alliances. At the Dec. 6 tournament, the EAGLES competed in the final round alongside the CSPA Miners from Brighton (the alliance captains) and the Classical Engineers from Bedford Junior High. In addition to being part of the tournament’s first place alliance, the EAGLES were honored with the event’s Inspiration Award, which is given to the team that inspires others, serves as a role model, is a top contender, and is a gracious competitor.

Emerson’s two other robotics teams, which compete with other elementary school teams in the FIRST Lego League programs, also qualified to go to the State Championships. That means all three teams in the Emerson Robotics Program will be at States for the first time ever.

FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) was founded in 1989 to inspire young people’s interest and participation in science and technology. Based in Manchester, NH, the 501(c)(3) not-for-profit public charity designs accessible, innovative programs that motivate young people to pursue education and career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math, while building self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills. Visit http://www.firstinspires.org for more information.

October 30th, 2018

By Lenny Dale, Emerson Athletic Director and Soccer Coach

The Emerson Eagle middle school soccer team wrapped up another successful season, ending the regular season at the top of the league table, and then playing dominantly in the tournament from the opening kick-off to the final whistle.

Michael Needham scored barely a minute into the first game against Steiner School, and the Eagles never looked back. With captain Lance Caswell on the bench, recovering from an injury earlier in the week, and the dangerous Vince Vartanian also resting in anticipation of a stern test in the following morning’s season ending game, Emerson put together a rock-solid performance, suffocating the Storm offense, maintaining possession, and creating many scoring chances. Converting enough of those chances to lead comfortably 4-0 late in the game, the Eagles did give up a goal in the last few minutes, but the outcome was never in doubt, and the team was able to ride the momentum of their 4-1 victory into the championship game the next morning.

Saturday was chilly and damp, but the rain held off. Under the weather, however, was Loui Gabaron, Emerson’s swift left mid, and the Eagles were also without the services of forward Neel Moudgal and outside back Michelle Mobius. Still, things looked promising with the return of Lance and Vince. Emerson faced another team of ‘Eagles’, from Ann Arbor Christian School, who had earned their way to the championship game by virtue of an upset of Spiritus Sanctus Plymouth the previous evening, 2-1, in a shootout.

Emerson jumped out ahead with another early goal, and, if anything, were even more control throughout the game than on the previous evening. Vince Vartanian’s speed and explosiveness to the ball added yet another dimension to an already balanced attack and relentless defense. On the subject of defense, 6th grade center back Talen Pilz, and classmate Naveen Owens, a transplant from striker to the outside back position for this occasion, played with skill and assuredness beyond their years. Ava Heung, at the other outside back, completed the back end of the Emerson Diamond Defense, which left keeper Ian Lewis with precious little in the way of work on the way to a clean sheet. Seventh grade outside mids Dominic Schuster and Lachlan Rae made many runs down the sidelines en route to effective crosses into the opposing penalty area. 8th graders Vince, Michael, and Lance repeatedly were too much to handle in the center of the field. 6th grade wing forward Fred DeBord came oh so close to finishing on three different balls to his post. In the end, Emerson put away 6 of the chances they created, for a resounding 6-0 final score, and the championship.

September 26th, 2018

By Lenny Dale, Emerson Athletic Director and Soccer Coach

Emerson Soccer got off to a strong start in the 2018 season, hosting Spiritus Sanctus Plymouth on September 13. The first quarter of the game was a back and forth affair, but the Eagles started to assert themselves and find their rhythm. In the 20th minute, Michael Needham found Vince Vartanian with room to shoot, and Vince buried it for the first goal of the season. Just before the half, Fred DeBord made it 2-0 on a back-heel off a scramble at the corner of the net, and the tone was set. Vince’s second made it 3-0 five minutes into the second half, then served Lance Caswell in front, and Lance brought the score to 4-0. Michael Needham got his second, followed closely by a Spiritus Sanctus tally which made it 5-1, but Lance got his second to return the lead to 5, and Arjun Bajaj finished off a pass from Vince to cap the scoring at 7-1.

Steiner School was next to come to Bateson Field, on September 18, and the Eagles picked up where they’d left off, Vince again opening the scoring, followed closely by Naveen Owens, who made it 2-0 in the 12th minute. Naveen’s corner 3 minutes later found Loui Gabaron, who headed it in, and then Loui put in his second of the season to bring the score to 4-0. Vince finished the scoring for the first half, and things didn’t last much beyond that. Arjun scored twice to open the second half, and then Dominic Schuster’s goal ended the game 20 minutes early with the Eagles 8th of the day.

Emerson went on the road on the 20th, travelling north to Ann Arbor Christian School’s field to take on the ‘other’ Eagles team. AACS had a couple games under their belt, including an 11-0 victory that suggested this game would be considerably tougher than Emerson’s previous two, and that suggestion was borne out. The two teams feinted and parried for a good 20 minutes before Vince Vartanian put Emerson up 1-0 on a strong shot from just inside the right corner of the penalty area, inside the far post. That lead held into the second half, Emerson generally having the better of the play but unable to add on, when AACS was able to score off a scramble in front of the Emerson net. The resulting tie was short-lived, as Michael Needham gave Emerson the lead back in the 40th minute, followed by numerous additional Emerson chances that were turned away by the AACS keeper. In the 50th minute Vince struck again, giving Emerson a bit of breathing room with a 3-1 lead. AACS did manage to cut the lead to 3-2, but Emerson was generally putting a great deal of pressure on the AACS goal, hitting the crossbar, a post, and getting off a number of strong shots that the keeper barely turned away. In the end, Emerson went home with a hard-fought, very sweaty, 3-2 victory, and a strong grip on first place in league play.

Emerson plays at home twice this coming week. On Tuesday, 9/25, Washtenaw Christian visits, and on Thursday, 9/27, Steiner comes back for a ‘friendly’. Both games begin at 4:15.

September 14th, 2018

Congratulations to the seven Emerson alums listed below on being named National Merit Scholarship semifinalists! Only 114 high school seniors were selected from Washtenaw and Livingston Counties, and we’re so proud to see our students representing such a large part of that group.

Julia Ammer
Randie Jo Evans
Callum McCullough
Ava Hoffmann
Lukas Jonsson
Camden Treiber
Henry Fleischmann

For context, 10% of Emerson’s 2014-2015 graduating class became National Merit Scholarship semifinalists! And Emerson students represent more than 6% of the semifinalists in Washtenaw and Livingston County, despite representing less than 1% of the overall student population.

See the news stories announcing these outstanding students via the links below.

+ MLive: 109 Washtenaw County students named National Merit Scholarship semifinalists
+ The Livingston Post: Five county students named National Merit Semifinalists

April 26th, 2018

Merci beaucoup to all of the French World Language students from Emerson School who finished among the best in the country in the 2018 National French Contest.

Gold Award Recipients (95th National Percentile):

Celine Duenyas (7th grade)
Kit Bellovin (8th grade)
Nina Gardner (8th grade)

Silver Award Recipient (90th National Percentile):

Arvid Jonsson (8th grade)

Bronze Award Recipients (75th or 80th National Percentile):

Peyton Feeney (8th grade)
Carson Lewis (8th grade)
Talia Dauer (7th grade)
Eva Klayman (7th grade)
Asha Owens (7th grade)

Honorable Mentions (55th to 70th National Percentile):

Emily Cooper (7th grade)
Marin Heusel (7th grade)
Sophia Hildebrandt (7th grade)
Lucy Mehraban (7th grade)
Sydney Shea (7th grade)
MK Coolican (8th grade)
Ariana Levin (8th grade)
Cate Weiser (8th grade)

December 21st, 2017

By Marchell Burgess, Rising Robots Coach and Emerson 4th Grade Teacher

Congratulations to the Rising Robots on an outstanding season. As a second year team, they attended the FIRST LEGO League State Tournament on Saturday, December 16th. These ten 4th and 5th graders were required to present a science project, attend an engineer judging review, demonstrate how they worked as a team, and compete with their robot. They competed hard in each of these areas, giving their best on all accounts. Each of them added valuable skills to the team and its success, representing Emerson very well. A huge thank you for working so hard all season, and a heartfelt thank you to their mentors – Sachin Kheterpal, Michael Wilson, Tamara Faber-Doty, and Terence Groening – who spent countless hours leading them through the season. All their hard work paid off when they were awarded the Strategy and Innovation Award for the state tournament. Well done, Rising Robots!

+ More photos

December 13th, 2017

By Marchell Burgess, E.A.G.L.E.S. Robots Coach and Emerson 4th Grade Teacher

Congratulations to the Emerson E.A.G.L.E.S. robotics team for an outstanding rookie season! They placed 4th at the Mason Qualifier, allowing them to be alliance captains for the finals—a huge honor. After competing hard all day long at the Oxford Qualifier, and performing the “Play of the Day,” the team finished in 6th place, performing well against some very strong, well-established teams. These students represented Emerson so well and showed what true leaders and great engineers they really are. A huge thank you for working so hard all season, and a heartfelt thank you to their mentors who worked equally hard to lead them through this entire season. Well done, EAGLES.

+ More photos

February 21st, 2019

Now, children ages 3-5 can have the same unforgettable Summer at Emerson experience during Preschool Camp. It’s a new partnership with Allen Creek Preschool, which brilliantly blends its early childhood expertise with the intimate, absurdly fun camps Summer at Emerson is known for.

All preschool camps will be held at Allen Creek and are open to all students ages 3, 4, and 5, regardless of school attended—even if he/she is not enrolled in school yet. If your child is currently attending Young 5s and will start kindergarten in the fall, preschool camp at Allen Creek is the perfect fit!

Preschool camps are held in the mornings from 9:15am-12:15pm, hoping to accommodate families attending both Summer at Emerson camps and Preschool Camp at Allen Creek.

Preschool Summer Camp Guide

Register for camp

December 6th, 2018

ONE OF 96 TEAMS ADVANCING TO STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

(See more photos here)

The Emerson School EAGLES robotics team (EAGLES), which competes with hundreds of other Michigan middle schools in the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) robotics program, is currently ranked 10th in the nation out of nearly 2,000 teams. The EAGLES team was part of the three-team alliance that took first place at the Dec. 1 state qualifying tournament in Mason, Mich., and students are now preparing for the State Championship on Dec. 14 and 15 in Battle Creek, Mich.

“Everyone on the team participated and came together at the Mason tournament,” said Diego Del Rio, Emerson 8th grader and EAGLES team member since the Robotics Program was founded in 2015. “There were so many nights we stayed late practicing and ate dinner together, so I was glad to see it all pay off. Now we have a chance to qualify for the World Championships, but I’m just as excited to compete with and learn from some of the best teams in the country at States.”

The EAGLES team is made up of 11 middle school students from Emerson School. It is one of 75 Michigan teams have already earned one of the 96 State Championship bids, with the final teams being decided after this weekend’s last round of tournaments.

“This is only our team’s second year competing at this level, so going to States is an amazing achievement,” said Marchell Burgess, Robotics Program Coordinator and 4th grade teacher at Emerson School. “Our kids have really had to figure things out on their own because they don’t have the high school support most teams do. I’m so proud of that and the character they’ve shown all along the way.”

In the spirit of cooperation, all teams compete as part of two- and three-team alliances. At the Dec. 6 tournament, the EAGLES competed in the final round alongside the CSPA Miners from Brighton (the alliance captains) and the Classical Engineers from Bedford Junior High. In addition to being part of the tournament’s first place alliance, the EAGLES were honored with the event’s Inspiration Award, which is given to the team that inspires others, serves as a role model, is a top contender, and is a gracious competitor.

Emerson’s two other robotics teams, which compete with other elementary school teams in the FIRST Lego League programs, also qualified to go to the State Championships. That means all three teams in the Emerson Robotics Program will be at States for the first time ever.

FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) was founded in 1989 to inspire young people’s interest and participation in science and technology. Based in Manchester, NH, the 501(c)(3) not-for-profit public charity designs accessible, innovative programs that motivate young people to pursue education and career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math, while building self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills. Visit http://www.firstinspires.org for more information.

October 30th, 2018

By Lenny Dale, Emerson Athletic Director and Soccer Coach

The Emerson Eagle middle school soccer team wrapped up another successful season, ending the regular season at the top of the league table, and then playing dominantly in the tournament from the opening kick-off to the final whistle.

Michael Needham scored barely a minute into the first game against Steiner School, and the Eagles never looked back. With captain Lance Caswell on the bench, recovering from an injury earlier in the week, and the dangerous Vince Vartanian also resting in anticipation of a stern test in the following morning’s season ending game, Emerson put together a rock-solid performance, suffocating the Storm offense, maintaining possession, and creating many scoring chances. Converting enough of those chances to lead comfortably 4-0 late in the game, the Eagles did give up a goal in the last few minutes, but the outcome was never in doubt, and the team was able to ride the momentum of their 4-1 victory into the championship game the next morning.

Saturday was chilly and damp, but the rain held off. Under the weather, however, was Loui Gabaron, Emerson’s swift left mid, and the Eagles were also without the services of forward Neel Moudgal and outside back Michelle Mobius. Still, things looked promising with the return of Lance and Vince. Emerson faced another team of ‘Eagles’, from Ann Arbor Christian School, who had earned their way to the championship game by virtue of an upset of Spiritus Sanctus Plymouth the previous evening, 2-1, in a shootout.

Emerson jumped out ahead with another early goal, and, if anything, were even more control throughout the game than on the previous evening. Vince Vartanian’s speed and explosiveness to the ball added yet another dimension to an already balanced attack and relentless defense. On the subject of defense, 6th grade center back Talen Pilz, and classmate Naveen Owens, a transplant from striker to the outside back position for this occasion, played with skill and assuredness beyond their years. Ava Heung, at the other outside back, completed the back end of the Emerson Diamond Defense, which left keeper Ian Lewis with precious little in the way of work on the way to a clean sheet. Seventh grade outside mids Dominic Schuster and Lachlan Rae made many runs down the sidelines en route to effective crosses into the opposing penalty area. 8th graders Vince, Michael, and Lance repeatedly were too much to handle in the center of the field. 6th grade wing forward Fred DeBord came oh so close to finishing on three different balls to his post. In the end, Emerson put away 6 of the chances they created, for a resounding 6-0 final score, and the championship.

September 26th, 2018

By Lenny Dale, Emerson Athletic Director and Soccer Coach

Emerson Soccer got off to a strong start in the 2018 season, hosting Spiritus Sanctus Plymouth on September 13. The first quarter of the game was a back and forth affair, but the Eagles started to assert themselves and find their rhythm. In the 20th minute, Michael Needham found Vince Vartanian with room to shoot, and Vince buried it for the first goal of the season. Just before the half, Fred DeBord made it 2-0 on a back-heel off a scramble at the corner of the net, and the tone was set. Vince’s second made it 3-0 five minutes into the second half, then served Lance Caswell in front, and Lance brought the score to 4-0. Michael Needham got his second, followed closely by a Spiritus Sanctus tally which made it 5-1, but Lance got his second to return the lead to 5, and Arjun Bajaj finished off a pass from Vince to cap the scoring at 7-1.

Steiner School was next to come to Bateson Field, on September 18, and the Eagles picked up where they’d left off, Vince again opening the scoring, followed closely by Naveen Owens, who made it 2-0 in the 12th minute. Naveen’s corner 3 minutes later found Loui Gabaron, who headed it in, and then Loui put in his second of the season to bring the score to 4-0. Vince finished the scoring for the first half, and things didn’t last much beyond that. Arjun scored twice to open the second half, and then Dominic Schuster’s goal ended the game 20 minutes early with the Eagles 8th of the day.

Emerson went on the road on the 20th, travelling north to Ann Arbor Christian School’s field to take on the ‘other’ Eagles team. AACS had a couple games under their belt, including an 11-0 victory that suggested this game would be considerably tougher than Emerson’s previous two, and that suggestion was borne out. The two teams feinted and parried for a good 20 minutes before Vince Vartanian put Emerson up 1-0 on a strong shot from just inside the right corner of the penalty area, inside the far post. That lead held into the second half, Emerson generally having the better of the play but unable to add on, when AACS was able to score off a scramble in front of the Emerson net. The resulting tie was short-lived, as Michael Needham gave Emerson the lead back in the 40th minute, followed by numerous additional Emerson chances that were turned away by the AACS keeper. In the 50th minute Vince struck again, giving Emerson a bit of breathing room with a 3-1 lead. AACS did manage to cut the lead to 3-2, but Emerson was generally putting a great deal of pressure on the AACS goal, hitting the crossbar, a post, and getting off a number of strong shots that the keeper barely turned away. In the end, Emerson went home with a hard-fought, very sweaty, 3-2 victory, and a strong grip on first place in league play.

Emerson plays at home twice this coming week. On Tuesday, 9/25, Washtenaw Christian visits, and on Thursday, 9/27, Steiner comes back for a ‘friendly’. Both games begin at 4:15.

September 14th, 2018

Congratulations to the seven Emerson alums listed below on being named National Merit Scholarship semifinalists! Only 114 high school seniors were selected from Washtenaw and Livingston Counties, and we’re so proud to see our students representing such a large part of that group.

Julia Ammer
Randie Jo Evans
Callum McCullough
Ava Hoffmann
Lukas Jonsson
Camden Treiber
Henry Fleischmann

For context, 10% of Emerson’s 2014-2015 graduating class became National Merit Scholarship semifinalists! And Emerson students represent more than 6% of the semifinalists in Washtenaw and Livingston County, despite representing less than 1% of the overall student population.

See the news stories announcing these outstanding students via the links below.

+ MLive: 109 Washtenaw County students named National Merit Scholarship semifinalists
+ The Livingston Post: Five county students named National Merit Semifinalists

April 26th, 2018

Merci beaucoup to all of the French World Language students from Emerson School who finished among the best in the country in the 2018 National French Contest.

Gold Award Recipients (95th National Percentile):

Celine Duenyas (7th grade)
Kit Bellovin (8th grade)
Nina Gardner (8th grade)

Silver Award Recipient (90th National Percentile):

Arvid Jonsson (8th grade)

Bronze Award Recipients (75th or 80th National Percentile):

Peyton Feeney (8th grade)
Carson Lewis (8th grade)
Talia Dauer (7th grade)
Eva Klayman (7th grade)
Asha Owens (7th grade)

Honorable Mentions (55th to 70th National Percentile):

Emily Cooper (7th grade)
Marin Heusel (7th grade)
Sophia Hildebrandt (7th grade)
Lucy Mehraban (7th grade)
Sydney Shea (7th grade)
MK Coolican (8th grade)
Ariana Levin (8th grade)
Cate Weiser (8th grade)

December 21st, 2017

By Marchell Burgess, Rising Robots Coach and Emerson 4th Grade Teacher

Congratulations to the Rising Robots on an outstanding season. As a second year team, they attended the FIRST LEGO League State Tournament on Saturday, December 16th. These ten 4th and 5th graders were required to present a science project, attend an engineer judging review, demonstrate how they worked as a team, and compete with their robot. They competed hard in each of these areas, giving their best on all accounts. Each of them added valuable skills to the team and its success, representing Emerson very well. A huge thank you for working so hard all season, and a heartfelt thank you to their mentors – Sachin Kheterpal, Michael Wilson, Tamara Faber-Doty, and Terence Groening – who spent countless hours leading them through the season. All their hard work paid off when they were awarded the Strategy and Innovation Award for the state tournament. Well done, Rising Robots!

+ More photos

December 13th, 2017

By Marchell Burgess, E.A.G.L.E.S. Robots Coach and Emerson 4th Grade Teacher

Congratulations to the Emerson E.A.G.L.E.S. robotics team for an outstanding rookie season! They placed 4th at the Mason Qualifier, allowing them to be alliance captains for the finals—a huge honor. After competing hard all day long at the Oxford Qualifier, and performing the “Play of the Day,” the team finished in 6th place, performing well against some very strong, well-established teams. These students represented Emerson so well and showed what true leaders and great engineers they really are. A huge thank you for working so hard all season, and a heartfelt thank you to their mentors who worked equally hard to lead them through this entire season. Well done, EAGLES.

+ More photos

October 26th, 2017

By Lenny Dale, Emerson Athletic Director and Soccer Coach

The Emerson Middle School Soccer Team wrapped up an undefeated season this past weekend, winning the AAIAA tournament to go with their regular season championship. This marks the sixth consecutive season championship for Emerson.

After enjoying a bye in the first round, by virtue of their first place season finish, the Eagles held Washtenaw Christian without a shot on goal en route to a 6-0 decision in the semifinals. In the final game, the Steiner School Storm jumped ahead early, on a well-placed shot from the corner of the 18-yard box which curled inside the far post. From that point the Eagles took control of the game, maintaining a large advantage in possession, denying any more scoring chances, and creating many of their own. Emerson drew even mid-way through the first half, when Noah took the ball deep down the right touch-line, then sent a fine cross to Trevor Finnegan attacking the far post, and Trevor out-touched the keeper to tie the score. The second half was more of the same, Emerson controlling the ball and creating chances, and eventually scoring the winning goal when Loui Gabaron drove a shot from inside the left edge of the penalty box over the reach of the Storm keeper and just inside the top right corner. From there, the defense took over, denying Steiner any sort of attack over the final few minutes, and the Eagles took home their third undefeated season in the past four, and their sixth consecutive championship.

October 19th, 2017

By Leslie Cappozoli, Emerson Orchestra Director

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE SHAR SCHOLARSHIP APPLICANTS AND WINNERS!

Many of Emerson’s talented string musicians prepared auditions and performed in the SHAR Scholarship Auditions last week. The judges enjoyed listening to the students and faced a difficult decision. Mr. Hook, who listened to the auditions, wrote, “I was extremely impressed by all the students. They had all obviously prepared for this and put real effort into it. Please extend my and Tina’s appreciation to them and their families for caring so much about music, and about Emerson. You have a great group of students there!”

To celebrate the auditions, all of the students who participated will take part in a fun field trip to SHAR to see how an instrument is crafted. Two of the students received generous scholarships that will help support their private music study. Congratulations to Maya Thornton and Mara Krupka! We are so happy for you! Thank you to our friends at SHAR for this incredible gift to our school and for the instruments that we lovingly use every day.

MAYA THORNTON
“I started to play the cello in kindergarten. I chose cello because my brother was playing it. My teacher is Melissa Kraut. My first teacher was Suzanne Smith, and she moved to Vermont. I really like the cello because of how it sounds. With cello, even when you think you’ve covered it all, you discover a whole new world. I think the Emerson orchestra is fun, and I like playing in concerts!”

MARA KRUPKA
Mara started playing cello 5 years ago when she was inspired by her cousin! Music, as well as the way the cello makes the music sound, are a way to forget work and school, to relax, to have fun, to be creative and goofy, to compose and to hang out with friends! Mara studies with Ken Ishii and was a former student of Martin Torch-Ishii. She is delighted to receive this scholarship and will be using it to take MORE cello lessons and to prepare for high school auditions.

June 8th, 2017

Congratulations to the eighty-two Emerson students who participated in this year’s Washtenaw Elementary Science Olympiad which was held on Saturday, June 3rd, at Pioneer High School. Emerson was one of 42 schools from the county who competed, and our 2nd–5th grade students represented Emerson so well—we are very proud of their participation and achievements!

See more photos from the event

Congratulations to our terrific Science Olympians:

2nd Grade: Rohit Chaudhary, Pablo Del Rio, Nico Bichakjian, Grayson Landau, Laya Shanawani, Ellie Kim, Maximo Atkins, Ewan Russel, Joseph Ranzini, Liam Pilz, William Pearce, Ella Sinha, Maggie Wancer
3rd Grade: Dominick VanOyen, Maya Thornton, Max Park, Oliver Jacobson, Gillian Harrison, Alexandra DeSilva, Erica Lee, Zarina Chugh, Deeksha Sriram, Jack Corbett, Audrey Bain, Harper Cash, Stephanie Chen, Sameer Kheterpal, Henry Beck, Ellen Kuchinski, Jiajia Huang, Evan Johnson, River Nicolich, Rykken Vivekanand, Walter Groening, Caterina DeSilva
4th Grade: Robert Pandolfi, Jack Huber, Aidan Drain, Kiran Sinha, Oliver Wancier, Pierce VanOyen, Michael Nakashima, Ruth Norton, Anjali Brahmasandra, Elle Wong, Jayden Im, Maxine Bruienne, Frederick Debord, Naveen Owens, Preston Zabinko, Maddie Lowen, Chase Weaver, Ateesh Lath, James Stross, Hansen Billionton, Skyla Shea, Sophie Chen, Lucy Sweeney, Tove Vivekanand, Lizzie Smith
5th Grade: Micah Jacobson, Parini Rao, Lucas Caswell, Lachlan Rae, Adelyn Boucher, Andy Zhang, Neel Moudgal, Cooper Duke, Emma Zamansky, Carson Strauss, Lucas Nor, Anya Akhoury, Ava Hall, Anne-Marie Begola, Teddy Tolbert, Faith Pearson, Margaret Loszewski, Chiara Bichakjian, Maia Hodgin, Simran Kheterpal, Addison Kim, Victoria Zhang, Lyle Mondano

Emerson took home medals in 24 events this year:

2nd Grade:

Map Reading 1st Place (Ewan, Joseph)
Photon Phun 1st Place (Ellie, Laya, Maximo)
Pasta Bridges 5th Place (Ella, Maggie)

3rd Grade

In Bloom 1st Place (Jack, Audrey)
Map Reading 2nd Place (Ellen, Jiajia)
Pasta Bridges 2nd Place (Sameer, Henry)
Feathered Friends 4th Place (Dominick, Maya)
Aerodynamics Honorable Mention (Oliver, Max)
To Infinity & Beyond Honorable Mention (Gillian, Alexandra)
No Bones About It Honorable Mention (Zarina, Deeksha, Erica)

4th Grade

GENE-ius 1st Place (Naveen, Fred, Preston)
Circuit Wizardry 3rd Place (Ruth, Pierce, Michael)
Map Reading 4th Place (Lucy, Sophie)
Back to Nature 5th Place (Lucy, Tove)
Write It, Build It Honorable Mention (Robert, Hansen, Maddie, Ruth)
To Infinity & Beyond Honorable Mention (Maxine)

5th Grade

GENE-ius 2nd Place (Neel, Adelyn, Andy)
Circuit Wizardry 2nd Place (Micah, Parini, Neel)
Mystery Architecture 2nd Place (Margaret, Faith)
On Target 2nd Place (Lachlan, Lucas C.)
Write It, Build It 3rd Place (Parini, Anne-Marie, Teddy, Maia)
Potions 3rd Place (Simran, Addison)
Estimania 4th Place (Lyle, Victoria)
Map Reading Honorable Mention (Maia, Chiara)

If you see an event coach from Emerson, please take time to thank them for their time, commitment, and expertise. They are the reason Emerson students are able to participate in this great community-wide event!

Grades 2-5 WESO Coaches: Pallavi Jha, Angela Kasmer, Hasan Shanawani, Nicki Pilz, Bisher Akil, Ingrid Arias, Luis Del Rio, Jamie Sinha, Wei Cao, Xianglei Huang, Julie Lee, Nghi Tran, Ruchika Kheterpal, Sachin Kheterpal, Kara Bloom, Gail Krieger, Kris Nicolich, Terence Groening, Pepijn Bruienne, Thor Helgeson, Rashmi Chugh, Natalie Goodwin-VanOyen, Carol & Scott Drain, Amitabh Sinha, Elizabeth Molina Sweeney, Sundu Brahmasandra, Lonnie Shea, Bing Chen, Carolyn Norton, Ann Wann, Michele Thomsen, Pete Pandolfi, Jeanne Wei, Michelle & Corey Weaver, Sonal Owens, Stephanie Zabinko, Varsha Moudgal, Vivek Moudgal, Michael Loszewski, Ratin Akhoury, Margaret Hicken, George Zhang, Bryan Begola, Venkat Rao, Paul Boucher, and Mike Wilson.

Thank you to parents who volunteered their time and skills at the event: Maria Bichakjian, Becky Wancier, Christy Nakashima, Jessica Lowen, Vanika Lath, Steve Strauss, Lori Pearson, Andrea Zamansky, Thor Helgeson, Beth Helgeson, Allison Hong, Eleanor Sun, Janice Huber, Melissa Cash, Christine Kim, Jennifer Vivekanand, David Ammer, Liz Tolbert, Elizabeth Caswell, Jan Hewitt, Lin Zhang, Abbie Lawrence, Renee Mondano, Lisa Ranzini, Leigh Pearce, Christa Harrison, Priya Rajagopel, Fred Corbett, and Robert Chen .

Emerson must provide an event supervisor each year in order to participate in WESO… special thanks to our event supervisors: Mike Wilson (Water Rockets) Terence Groening (Gravity Racer), and Debra Meyer (GENE-ius) Event Supervisor. Thank you to Katsuyo Thornton as well for all her work with Photon Phun.

Thank you to the many parents that helped with the ice cream party and brought food on Saturday—all help was appreciated!

And finally… thank you to Emerson colleagues who helped along the way: Mike Wilson, Marchell Burgess, Robin Joye, Rose Hacker, Wei Cao, Mike Shaw, and all the Emerson teachers who shared their rooms so we could practice!

Kelly Vohland
Head Coach

May 24th, 2017

EMERSON SCHOOL RECEIVES 10 INSTRUMENTS, LONG-TERM SUPPORT

See photos of gift presentation and performance

SHAR Music (SHAR), an Ann Arbor-based global supplier of string instruments and accessories, has made an gift valued at more than $20,000 to benefit students at Emerson School. The gift includes eight cellos and two basses—more than doubling the number of instruments available to students—the repair and maintenance of Emerson’s instrument inventory, and the creation of a new music scholarship program to provide lessons for a to-be-determined number of students. The gift will benefit students attending Emerson School in Ann Arbor, and will help offset some of the costs associated with music study.

“Music has a profound ability to enrich the lives of children,” said Eric Hook, President of SHAR, “Emerson’s long-standing commitment to music as a core part of its curriculum really stood out. It’s obvious these instruments will be used and loved for years to come, and we’re excited about the start of a long-term relationship today.”

The 10 instruments were presented by Hook and Tina Avsharian, COO of SHAR Music, during a special event at Emerson School on Wednesday, May 10, 2017. SHAR made a three-year commitment to the maintenance and repair of Emerson’s string instruments, and a pledge to continue to support and educate Emerson students through special performances and workshops.

“SHAR’s gift allows Emerson to provide instruments to budding cellists and bassists,” said Leslie Capozzoli, Orchestra Director at Emerson. “Low string instruments provide foundation and balance that are essential for full, beautiful sound. However, they can be costly and present transportation challenges. Getting a bass from the car to the orchestra room is an especially tall order for our members in second grade! We are delighted that we can make playing the cello or bass at school easier for our students and their parents. SHAR’S incredible generosity will have a profound impact on our instrumental program for years to come.”

As part of the event, students were treated to an inspiring performance by Tina Avsharian (violin), Paul Cheng (violin), Aaron Prior (viola), Anthony Marchese (cello), and Aaron Johnson (bass). Students also participated in an “Instrument Petting Zoo,” where they could handle instruments, learn how they’re played, and begin making sounds. The students who currently play a stringed instrument enjoyed their own presentation. They learned about caring for their instrument and selecting instrument accessories, and each left with a special bag of music gifts from SHAR.

About SHAR Music Company
SHAR Music is a family owned business in Ann Arbor, Mich., and a market leader in North America as a supplier of string family instruments, bows, sheet music, cases, strings, and accessories. It was founded by Michael Avsharian, Sr. in 1962 and now employees more than 100 individuals and has customers in all states/provinces and more than 60 countries.

May 11th, 2017

Congratulations to the following French World Language students for their performance on the National French Contest!

Platinum Award Recipient (Highest score in level/division—National rank 1)

Shailen Chugh (8th grade)

Gold Award Recipient (Students in 95th percentile)

Arvid Jonsson (7th grade)

Silver Award Recipients (Students in 90th or 85th percentile)

Kit Bellovin (7)
Samuel Bechar (8)
Lacey Cooper (8)
Aly Pacifico (8)

Bronze Award Recipient (Students in 80th or 75th percentile)

Peyton Feeney (7)

Mention d’honneur Recipients (Students in 70th, 65th, 60th, 55th, or 50th percentiles)

Ariana Levin (7)
Nina Gardner (7)
Cate Weiser (7)
David Benkes-Toth (8)
Gabby Pacifico (8)

May 1st, 2017

— By Señora Lopez, Spanish Teacher

Students Earn 13 Medals and 7 Honorable Mentions

Congratulations to several Spanish students from Emerson School who attained national recognition for excellent performance on the 2017 National Spanish Examinations. Students from Emerson School earned 4 gold, 4 silver, and 5 bronze medals, along with 7 honorable mentions.

“Attaining a medal or honorable mention for any student on the National Spanish Examinations is very prestigious,” said Kevin Cessna-Buscemi, National Director of the Exams, “because the exams are the largest of their kind in the United States with over 157,000 students participating in 2017.”

Students from Emerson School have a long history of high achievement on these exams. The National Spanish Examinations are administered each year in grades 6 through 12, and are sponsored by the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese.

Congratulations to the following students:

LEVEL 01

Silver
Tiffany Li
Zoe Beekman

Bronze
Julian Skifstad

Honorable Mention
Ben Faulkner
Sylvie Swerdlow
Nathan Stotlar
Sebastian Oliva

LEVEL 1

Gold
Will Collin
Grant Murphy
Olivia Rasche
Meredith Vohland

Silver
Ben Colis
Hannah Halberstam

Bronze
Rory Conlin
Shruthi Chakravarthy
Nikhil Gunaratnam
Kajal Patel

Honorable Mention
John Evangelista
Sophie Fetter
Zack Kubisiak

April 27th, 2017

Congratulations to all of the students on the Emerson track team, who earned a big first place victory at the Greenhills Track Meet on April 26, 2017! The camaraderie and support you showed each other was equally impressive!
+ See photos

3200M Run:
1st Place – Anthony Van Oyen

200M Relay (Girls):
1st Place – Emerson School

800M Run(Girls/Boys):
1st Place – Luka Hecht
1st Place – Marin Heusel
2nd Place – Emily Cooper
3rd Place – Andreanna Ulery
3rd Place – David Benkes-Toth

1600M Run (Girls/Boys):
1st Place – Lacy Cooper
2nd Place – Shailan Chugh
3rd Place – Anthony Van Oyen
5th Place – William Collin
6th Place – Diego Del Rio

100M Dash:
2nd Place – Aly Pacifico

400M Dash:
1st Place – Luka Hecht
3rd Place Shailan Chugh

800M Relay:
1st Place – Emerson School (Boys)

70yd Dash (Girls/Boys):
2nd Place – Kit Belovin
3rd Place – Josh Moss

200M Dash (Girls):
2nd Place – Abby Pacifico
3rd Place – Esme Cohen

400M Relay (Girls/Boys):
1st Place – Emerson School
1st Place – Emerson School

Long Jump (Girls/Boys):
1st Place – Gabby Pacifico 11’10”
1st Place – Luka Hecht 12’9″
2nd Place – Lydia Hall
2nd Place Ben Faulkner 14’8″

Shot Put:
2nd Place – Meredith Gilbert ‘767

Total Meet Placement:
1st Place – Emerson School (Boys) 120pts
1st Place – Emerson School (Girls) 108pts

March 31st, 2017

By Andy Zimmer, Middle School Director at Emerson School

Screen Shot 2017-03-31 at 2.39.51 PM

The question I hear the most from the parents of our middle school aged students is “Why?” This can come in response to something a child did, something they said, or something that happened to them. When this same question is posed to the child, the response is often in the form of an honest and truthful, “I don’t know.” I believe that.

Often our children are struggling with comprehending why they do, in fact, do many of the things they do. But as our knowledge and understanding of the brain grows, we are able to attribute reasons to this time honored tween question of “Why…?” Here are some examples from my experience as a middle school educator over the last ten years, along with the neuroscience:

Why would you do that?
We’ve all asked this of our adolescent children. Impulse control is something all parents of adolescents struggle with. The irrational impulse to engage in semi- to very risky behavior is at an all-time high. Adolescents brains are guided during this time by a very active limbic system, along with an underdeveloped prefrontal cortex. This combination creates a child with heightened emotional state, along with the inability to make rational decisions, especially in times of stress or anxiety (see: around peers). Our goal as parents is to encourage our children to identify risky situations and learn how to step away from these situations prior to them learning the hard way. Our goal as teachers at Emerson is to recognize and value mistakes as learning opportunities. Conversations around these mistakes guide students to uncovering alternative paths in the future and helping them develop the skills to manage these situations in the future.

Additional Resource: Watch Sarah-Jayne Blake’s TED Talk: The Mysterious Working of the Adolescent Brains

Why won’t you commit to anything?
Students at this age are often experimenting with their identities and interests. The potential to form new neural-pathways through the increased grey matter and myelin formation in the brain presents adolescents with heightened interest in new ideas and the ability to learn. Our goal as parents is to encourage our children to experiment and experience many different and unique experiences, in order form the pathways for lifelong learning. We offer a variety of changing electives at Emerson so students are challenged to learn through multiple modalities and experience new things. Students will often gravitate toward the familiar and comfortable; however, our jobs as educators is to challenge that status quo and push them into new challenges.

Why won’t you go to sleep?
Adolescent children NEED sleep. During deep sleep (REM sleep) our brains go through a cleansing process that removes unused and unneeded neurons and myelin, thus strengthening those pathways that have been recently activated (i.e. reinforcing learned concepts and skills). When children do not enter this sleep stage, they miss out on the beneficial process. Our tween children are also growing more and more connected through technology and devices. Unfortunately, the blue light emitted from LED screens can disrupt and disturb the release of melatonin in the brain, the chemical we use to calm down and fall asleep. Our goal as parents is to limit the exposure to blue light to at least two hours before bedtime.

Why would you send that?
As mentioned earlier, our tween children have a heightened emotional state which is compounded by a need to feel connected and secure with their circle(s) of friends. With the growth of technology, our children are posed with the engaged in dialogue and relationships that exist in cyberspace, the context of which often live on into perpetuity. While, when we grew up our conversations disappeared the minute they left our lips, our children can read, look at and re-read the texts, Snaps, posts, and pictures from friends around the world. This complex social network combined with their underdeveloped prefrontal cortex creates a dangerous environment, in which our children sometimes struggle to appropriately manage. Our goal as parents is to proactively talk with our students about appropriate use of technology, work through ground rules and guidelines for usage (often using an activist approach, in which are children are actively involved in the development of these rules), and ultimately support them when they make mistakes (which they will).

Additional Resource: Watch “Generation Like,” an in-depth PBS report on adolescent social media use and self-esteem
Additional Resource: Read “It’s Complicated – The Social Lives of Networked Teens” by Darah Boyd

March 20th, 2017

20170318_151138_575

Emerson A Team – 2017 Quiz Bowl State Champs!

A team of four 8th grade students from Emerson School in Ann Arbor won first place at the Michigan Middle School Quiz Bowl State Championships. It took place on Saturday, March 18, 2017, and included 27 teams from throughout Michigan. This is only Emerson School’s third year participating in Quiz Bowl competitions.

“It is a very friendly, civil competition, but we really wanted to win,” said Zach Halberstam, an 8th grader and member of Emerson’s A Team. “We played a great team in the final round. It was the fourth time we’d faced this team, and they beat us every time except this one—it felt really good.”

Thousands of middle schools across the U.S. compete in National Academic Quiz Tournaments’ Quiz Bowl competitions, which have been compared to team Jeopardy for students. Two teams compete head-to-head, racing to buzz in first and correctly answer questions from all areas of knowledge, including history, literature, science, fine arts, current events, sports, and popular culture.

“There’s nothing better than seeing your students achieve their goals,” said Bryan Seymour, Emerson Quiz Bowl Coach and 6th Grade Language Arts Teacher. “This team had been talking about winning States since they took 2nd place in 2016, and it came down to one final question in a close match. When our team answered it and secured the championship, the audience erupted. They’ll remember that feeling for the rest of their lives.”

Emerson at State Quiz Bowl 2017_575

A total of five teams from Emerson School qualified to compete at the 2017 Quiz Bowl state championships, and four of the five teams finished in the top 10.

Team – Finish at 2017 MI State Championship:
Team Member (grade)

Emerson A – 1st Place
Zach Halberstam (8), Anders Ruiter-Feenstra (8), Shailen Chugh (8), Joseph Alphonso (8)
Emerson B – 6th Place
Esmé Cohen (8), Grant Murphy (8), Hayg Balis (8), James Ulery (6)
Emerson C – 9th Place
Maya Mustata (6), Mateo Gonzalez (7), Steven Theisen (8), Terence Ashforth (7)
Emerson D – 10th Place
Will Collin (8), Conor Pyle (8), Phillip Crumm (7), Julian Toogood (7), Arjun Bajaj (6)
Emerson E – 13th Place
Dereck Russel (6), Michael Needham (6), Kira Saporsky (6), Andrew Grier (6)

“I was very proud of all our students’ performance and sportsmanship throughout the tournament,” added Seymour. “They’re not only strong competitors, but they win with grace and foster a positive and supportive environment.”

The top teams 160 teams in the United States qualify to compete at the National Championship, which will take place in Dallas, Tex., May 12-14, 2017. Six teams from Michigan will compete at Nationals, including two teams from Emerson School.

March 15th, 2017

Each year, schools in our community apply to earn Green School Status through the Livingston & Washtenaw Green Schools Program. Schools can received one of three statuses, Green, Emerald, or Evergreen, by completing environmental activities in four categories and earning 10, 15, and 20 points respectively. Emerson completed multiple initiatives in all four categories, earning 20 points, and has once again earned Evergreen status—the highest level achievable—for 2016-2017.

The four categories include:

Reduce/Reuse/Recycle/Use of Renewable Resources at School
Energy
Environment
Miscellaneous Projects

Michigan Green Schools began as an idea from students and teachers of Hartland Consolidated School District in Livingston County in the fall of 2005. In the first year of the program, 18 schools participated. The program has grown in Livingston and Washtenaw Counties with as many as 50 schools participating each year.

+ Learn more about the Livingston & Washtenaw Green Schools Program

March 15th, 2017

By Linda Lakshminarayanan, Emerson School Librarian

Every year, Emerson 4th and 5th grade students become literary critics. Each class chooses a category for their award, designs a medal, nominates books, and narrows down their final selections for a final vote by all students in grades K – 8. Below are the six winners of the 2017 Emerson Book Awards, along with the honorable mentions.

Using technology as our voting tool, we have had 215 voters for our Emerson Book Awards. These awards are created, defined, and selected by the 4th and 5th grade classes. Then Lisa Wilson, Emerson Tech Integrator and Teacher, helped us by creating a form for all of the votes to be recorded safely and securely. Here are the winners and the other nominees

The winners are (Drum roll please)…

B.O.S.S.A (BEST OF SARAH SWISS AWARD)
Best Graphic Novel (Sarah Swiss’s class)

WINNER: Sisters by Raina Telgemeier
Bone 1 Out of Boneville by Jeff Smith
Big Nate Sports Edition by Lincoln Peirce
Binky, the Space Cat by Ashley Spires

GIGGLING GUMMY BEARS AWARD
Best Humorous Book (Mrs. Burgess’s class)

WINNER: The Elephant and Piggie Books by Mo Willems
Garfield Comics by Jim Davis
Captain Underpants by Dav Pilkey
Big Nate by Lincoln Peirce
Stick Dog by Tom Watson

MIDNIGHT AWARD
Best Page-Turner (Rob Bauman’s class)

WINNER: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Holes by Louis Sachar
Evil Spy School by Stuart Gibbs
Al Capone Does My Shirts by Gennifer Choldenko
City of Orphans by Avi

CREATIVE CREATIVITY AWARD
Most Creative Book (Mrs. Chenier’s class)

WINNER: The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien
Wings of Fire by Tui Sutherland
Gabriel Finley and the Raven’s Riddle by George Hagen
From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E. L. Konigsburg
The Willoughbys by Lois Lowry

HAT (HILARIOUS, ARTISTIC, TERRIFIC) PICTURE BOOK AWARD
Picture books (Mrs. Kime’s class)

WINNER: Interrupting Chicken by David Ezra Stein
The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
Creepy Carrots by Aaron Reynolds
Sylvester and the Magic Pebble by William Steig

CRIKEY! I’M A GIRAFFE AWARD
For Horror/Scary Books (Connie Weber’s class)

WINNER: Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs
Coraline by Neil Gaiman
Michigan Mega Monsters (American Chillers #1) by Jonathan Rand
A Tale Dark and Grimm by Adam Gidwitz
Ghostopolis by Doug TenNapel

Nicola’s Books will have a display of the choices and the winners in their children’s department after St. Patrick’s Day. Be sure to go in to see them and perhaps thank the bookstore people for giving us a chance to display our student selections.

March 2nd, 2017

By Bryan Seymour, Quiz Bowl Coach and 6th Grade Language Arts Teacher

What a great past week for Emerson Quiz Bowl! Participating in Livonia St. Michael’s annual Quiz Bowl competition, Emerson’s A Team racked up a perfect 10-0 record to bring home our first ever Quiz Bowl tournament championship! Congratulations to Anders Ruiter-Feenstra, Josh Moss, Shailen Chugh, and Zach Halberstam for this achievement!

A Team of (L-R) Shailen Chugh, Zach Halberstam, Josh Moss, and Anders Ruiter-Feenstra

Emerson’s B Team matched the A team and started the day off with a 5-0 record, and finished with an excellent 3rd place finish—congrats to Grant Murphy, Joseph Alphonso, Mateo Gonzalez, and Terence Ashforth! This is the highest position that two Emerson teams have ever finished at a Quiz Bowl tournament.

B Team of (L-R) Terence Ashforth, Joseph Alphonso, Mateo Gonzalez, and Grant Murphy

Emerson had three other teams finish between 10th and 13th place (out of 22 teams)—records to be proud of! These teams were led by 8th graders Conor Pyle, Esmé Cohen, Hayg Balis, Steven Theisen, and Will Collin, 7th graders Julian Toogood and Phillip Crumm, and 6th graders Andrew Grier, Arjun Bajaj, Kira Saporsky, Maya Mustata, and Michael Needham. Four of Emerson’s players finished in the top 10 of the tournament – Maya (10th), Terence (8th), Julian (7th) and Zach (1st) out of 107 total participants. Because of their performance at this tournament, Emerson has qualified two teams for the Middle School National Championship Tournament in Dallas in May. We are looking forward to this opportunity!

8th Graders

7th Graders

6th Graders

February 3rd, 2017

By Lenny Dale, Emerson Athletic Director and Physical Education Teacher

The Emerson girls basketball team’s seasons got off to shaky starts this week, as they collectively dropped three games. On Tuesday, the varsity opened at St. Mary’s, and had a hard time generating offense in a 32-10 defeat. Thursday the girls hosted Spiritus Sanctus of Ann Arbor. The junior varsity got off to a slow start, trailing 10-2 after the first quarter. The margin stayed around 10 points until the last quarter, when the girls made a bit of a run, closing to 22-16 for the final score. The varsity kept it close through the first half, but their offense faltered in the second half while SSAA cranked things up, pulling away for a 31-14 final score.

Next week the girls will host Ann Arbor Christian Tuesday and Steiner School Thursday.

January 26th, 2017

By Bryan Seymour, Quiz Bowl Coach and 6th Grade Language Arts Teacher

Congratulations to Emerson’s Quiz Bowl team for their performance this past weekend at Detroit Country Day. Emerson’s A team made it to the Championship Division and finished 3rd overall (out of 24 teams) with an 8-2 record. Both losses were close matches – our team of Anders Ruiter-Feenstra, Hayg Balis, Josh Moss, and Shailen Chugh should be proud! Emerson’s B team (Conor Pyle, Esmé Cohen, and Phillip Crumm) also competed very well, finishing with a strong record in the First Division. Emerson’s C team had an excellent day, persevering through three straight loses to start the day to win seven straight matches, finishing on several high notes! Congrats to Arjun Bajaj, Dereck Russel, James Ulery, and Kira Saporsky! Finally, two Emersonians (Shailen Chugh and Esmé Cohen) finished in the top 10 of all competitors (110 total) – the first time Emerson had more than one top 10 finisher. Looking forward to the next tournament!

January 21st, 2017

By Lenny Dale, Emerson Athletic Director and Physical Education Teacher

Both of Emerson’s middle school boys’ basketball teams won their league tournament this weekend. The varsity (7th and 8th graders) fended off a tough, determined challenge from St Paul in their championship game. St Paul battled back from an 11-point 2nd quarter deficit to tie the game in the 4th quarter, butt Emerson finished strong and closed it out for a 38-34 victory. The junior varsity (5th and 6th grade) tournament was hosted at Emerson, and it was an exceptionally exciting affair. On the first day of the tournament, after Emerson jumped out to an 18-5 halftime lead over Ann Arbor Christian and then cruised to a 34-19 victory, 8th seed Steiner School surprised everyone with a great effort against top-seed Spiritus Sanctus. On day 2, Emerson faced St Paul, and it was a battle, with Emerson winning each quarter by a very slim margin on the way to a 42-30 victory. 4th seed Washtenaw Christian upset 1 seed Spiritus Sanctus, 37-24. Christ the King and Ann Arbor Christian had an epic battle – a buzzer-beater by AACS sent the game to overtime, and then a buzzer beater by CTK won it in overtime, 42-40. Saturday morning the previous night’s magic wasn’t there for CTK, as St Paul won easily to open the day. Spiritus Sanctus held off a 4th quarter rally by St Mary’s, winning 33-30, and earning a trip to the 3rd place game against St Paul. In the championship game, Emerson and WCA had a terrific game. Emerson got out to a small lead, and nurtured it until only about one minute remained in the game, when the tournament’s dominant player, WCA’s point guard, gave the ‘Cats the lead, 40-39. Emerson responded, regaining the lead at 41-40, then getting a defensive stop, and then killing the final 30 seconds with great ball movement. More so than any other team that made it to the final day of the tournament, Emerson showed offensive balance and team defense. By making it hard for WCA’s point guard to go to his right, Emerson was able to, just barely, get the job done defensively, and with five 5th graders (no names on purpose, as this was all about team effort) each contributing significantly for the great bulk of their own scoring, the Eagles brought it home. Spiritus Sanctus and St Paul closed the tourney with an exciting game for 3rd place honors. SSA got out to an 8-1 lead, but St Paul had a big 3rd quarter, building a 19-14 lead and maintaining that 5-point margin well into the final stanza, when SSA closed the gap, tied it, and finally came away with a 31-29 win. It was, I think, the best, most competitive JV tourney I’ve witnessed in my 22 years at Emerson, and it was accompanied by fine sportsmanship on the part of players and coaches alike. With each intense, emotional finish, there were, of course, some tears shed, but in every instance the coaches were able to have their kids leave justifiably proud and happy with their efforts. Kudos all around

December 22nd, 2016

By Lenny Dale, Emerson Athletic Director and Physical Education Teacher

The Emerson boys basketball teams closed out 2016 with an away date at St Paul, followed by a game at home for the JV against Steiner.

Against St Paul on Monday, word has it, the JV won a pretty hard-fought battle, while the cold-shooting varsity dropped their game 26-20.

Wednesday’s JV game with Steiner was not so hard fought, and, as I witnessed it, I can give a much more complete picture than just the brief summary I relayed of the St Paul games. The boys got off to a sluggish start offensively, unable to put points on the board through the first 3 minutes, though they did only allow Steiner 2 points in return. Midway through the first quarter a lineup change got things moving a bit faster, with Idrys Cotton leading the way. Idrys drove to the basket, drew a foul, and sank both free throws to tie things up, then scored two field goals to give the Eagles a 6-4 lead at the break. The offense matched the defense in the 2nd quarter, putting up 12 while Steiner could again only muster 4, and Emerson went into half-time up 18-8. In the 2nd half the defense really went to town, and, save for one bit where an Eagle who shall remain nameless did what the great Ernie Harwell would describe as ‘he stood there like the house by the side of the road and watched it (sic) go by’ – it being the person he was supposed to be guarding in this case, not a fastball – allowing an uncontested layup, Emerson very nearly put up a shutout for the whole half. As it happened, the Eagles outscored their opponents 20-2 over the last 2 quarters to go into the holiday break with a 38-10 victory.

December 21st, 2016

By Lenny Dale, Geography Bee Director and Emerson Athletic Director

Kids in grades 4 through 8 participated in the Emerson Geography Bee Tuesday afternoon. One of the stronger and more balanced field in memory was reduced to nine finalists, all middle school students. Diego Del Rio finished 5th, and then Maya Mustata and Julian Toogood battled through a lengthy tie-breaker to determine the 3rd place finisher, with May edging out Julian. Shailen Chugh and Robert Yang were the two who made it into the Championship Round, and Robert got the better of Shailen by one slim point to claim the championship. All the contestants earned my eternal admiration, but Robert gets the extra-special bonus of taking a test to try to qualify for the State Geography Bee. Way far cool!

December 15th, 2016

Food, Fun, and Service to Our Community

Thursday, Dec. 22, 2016, 7:30am – 9:00am

On Thursday, December 22, Emerson Middle School’s NJHS and volunteers have invited all Emerson students to the 7th Annual Pancake Breakfast, held from 7:30am–9:00am. This event is optional, but we hope many students will partake in the pancakes. Parents are more than welcome to join in the breakfast as well.

This annual pancake breakfast brings our students and community together and supports Emerson’s community service initiative. This year the funds raised will go to support Emerson’s community service efforts throughout the year, and the Toasty Toes Project coordinated by current 5th grader Parini Rao and alum Anvit Rao. Any student who brings in one or more pairs of new socks for the Toasty Toes Project will receive $1.00 off the pancake breakfast.

Cost and Timing
The cost of the breakfast is $5.00 and can be billed to student accounts. Funds raised will go to support Emerson’s community service efforts throughout the year, and any student who brings in one or more pairs of new socks will receive $1.00 off the pancake breakfast. The pancake breakfast includes up to three pancakes, toppings, and a drink.

Middle school students can purchase pancakes upon their arrival at school.
3rd–5th grade students will be allowed to leave their homeroom around 8:20-8:30am to purchase the breakfast and will eat in their homerooms.
K–2nd grade students will have a pancake breakfast cart delivered to their classrooms that morning.

Ingredients and Allergy Info
GFS pancake mix (contains: wheat, milk, and eggs), GFS canned strawberry topping, GFS whipped topping, and Mrs. Butterworth syrup. Drinks will be either water or Country Time Lemonade.

For students with allergies, we will have separate breakfast stations with a separate peanut-free and egg-free pancake option (this option does contain gluten) and a wheat-free, dairy-free, nut-free, soy-free option.

Thank you for your support. Any questions, please contact Kelly Vohland or Carol Kelly.

December 13th, 2016

By Lenny Dale, Emerson Athletic Director and Physical Education Teacher

The Emerson boy’s basketball teams both won their home games against Ann Arbor Christian Tuesday, but in almost diametrically opposed fashion relative to each other.

The junior varsity dominated from the opening tip, getting eight players on the score sheet while holding their opponents without a field goal for the entire second half on the way to a 31-5 victory.

The varsity had a much tougher go of it, facing the only team to have beaten them this season. AACS got the lead early, and maintained it, holding a 16-10 edge as halftime neared. Emerson scored twice in the final minute of the half, closing to 16-14, then continued their pressure through most of the third quarter, resulting in an 18-3 run that saw a 6-point deficit turn into a 9-point lead. AACS was never able to recover from that 6-minute onslaught, and the game finished 36-31 in Emerson’s favor. Jaden Thomas and Nikhil Gunaratnam shared scoring honors for Emerson with 8 each, negating the 14 points of the AACS high scorer, and Emerson got scoring from 8 additional players, showing too much balance for the other 4 AACS players who got on the score sheet to overcome.

December 8th, 2016

By Lenny Dale, Emerson Athletic Director and Physical Education Teacher

The Emerson JV boys suffered their first loss of the season Monday, at the hands of Spiritus Sanctus Ann Arbor. The kids got off to an uncharacteristically shaky start, falling behind 20-8 at the half, and were never able to completely close the gap in a 30-23 final. The varsity gained a measure of revenge for their young brethren, and the only thing that wasn’t characteristic was the absence of team leader Gabe Kellman. The team put up another shutout period, racing out to a 10-0 lead after the first quarter, stretching the lead to 24-7 at the half, and coasting to a 44-26 final.

Tuesday, the JV boys turned things around, taking a page out of the varsity playbook—a shutout quarter. Ahead 8-4 after the first quarter, and maintaining that lead at the half, 12-8, the kids blanked their opponents in the third, pushing the margin to 20-8, then cruising through the fourth to win 30-16. Balanced scoring, another characteristic of the youngsters, was evident again, with 9 different players contributing points, after only 5 did so in Monday’s game. Perhaps the varsity game from the day before served as a reminder—the older kids got scoring from 8 players, and kept all but 3 of their opponents off the score sheet.

The boys have their final regular season home games next week, hosting Steiner on Monday and Ann Arbor Christian on Tuesday.

December 2nd, 2016

By Lenny Dale, Emerson Athletic Director and Physical Education Teacher

Emerson’s boys had another fine week on the basketball court. On Tuesday, Washtenaw Christian came to play. In the JV game, WCA had the top scorer, but the balance of Emerson was too much for the visitors to handle, and the young Eagles won handily, 32-21. Nine players scored in the game, six were Eagles, and the top five scorers of those Eagles are 5th graders: Idrys Cotton, JD Hatch, Carson Strauss, Lucas Nor and Nikash Bhagat. The varsity game was somewhat similar. Tough Emerson defense only allowed three visitors to score at all, and only two of them hit a field goal. Emerson threw a shutout in the 3rd quarter, marking the 4th game in this young season that the Eagles have held an opponent scoreless for an entire period. The Eagles, meanwhile, got scoring from eight players on the way to swamping WCA by a 38-11 score.

Thursday it was Christ the King as the opponent, and the results weren’t altogether different. The JV again got balanced scoring, and seven of the nine Eagles to put up points were 5th graders. Emerson raced out to a 23-6 half-time lead and then cruised to a 30-15 victory. The varsity pitched another 2nd quarter shutout, led at the half 14-9, then pulled away through the entire second half for a 34-15 win. Best ‘think before you speak’ moment was in the 4th quarter, when a WCA player could be heard on their bench, telling a teammate on the court to not worry about Gabe Kellman, because supposedly “he can’t shoot”, when in fact Gabe already had already scored more field goals than the entire WCA team would finish the game with. Go figure, Go Eagles!

December 1st, 2016

DECEMBER

1

Letter from the Head of School

Dear Parents,

Think back to the outstanding teachers you’ve had over the years. The ones who inspired you, who cared for you, who sparked your curiosity and led you to places you never would have gone. Emerson has many such educators, but sadly, we must say farewell to two such veterans who will be retiring at the close of the 2016-2017 school year. Both have served as teachers as well as school leaders, both share the same last name (though they are unrelated!), and both leave behind incredible legacies of their time here at Emerson.

Tim Wilson
Tim joined Emerson in 1982 as a science teacher, when Emerson was starting its ninth year of operations, and the school was housed in the basement of Westside Methodist Church. From 1987 to 1993, Tim took the reins as Headmaster, leading the school forward as it grew its present campus. Under his leadership, Emerson built a specials wing, received its first ISACS accreditation, and created a new Middle School. Having finished these daunting tasks, Tim returned to the classroom to serve as middle school science teacher, where he has sparked a joy in learning for more than 20 years. It is through his passion and dedication that we now enjoy the Emerson Nature Center, where he has brought hundreds of students to learn about the environment.

It is a daunting task to begin to list Tim’s many contributions to Emerson, one that will take us quite some time to compile. Tim, like many great leaders, has a special connection with many of us—mentor to new teachers; touchstone for the community; source of wry humor; keeper of the flame. Tim has been an elemental presence for all of us, and we will miss him dearly! Few educators would have been able to negotiate the transition from teacher to school administrative leader, then back again, with the grace that Tim has demonstrated. As school Head and as science teacher, he has been a positive force for Emerson. Each role he has played, and the extraordinary combination of positions he has undertaken, testify to his seminal significance for the success of this school. Upon his retirement from Emerson, Tim plans to take on a new challenge, as he seeks to join a new venture with a mission to increase educational opportunities for school children of Detroit.

(And before you ask, let me reassure you that his wife and 2nd Grade Teacher Ruth Wilson has sworn that she has no plans to retire this coming year!)

Peggy Wilson
In 1991, Peggy came to Emerson to fill the role of 1st grade teacher—perhaps one of the most fortunate hires the school could have made, given the deep impact that Peggy came to have at Emerson. She demonstrated herself to be a master teacher, and she successfully taught some of our youngest children for the next 15 years. In 2007, she was named the school’s first Assistant Head of School, and in this role, she has been a guide to faculty, parents, students, and administrators alike. As one of her many achievements, she has been instrumental in developing our Learning Support Center to ensure that all our students’ needs may be met. She has also championed professional development for our faculty, ensuring that our teachers are best prepared to meet the needs of our students.

Peggy’s contributions to Emerson cannot be overstated. She is very much the glue that binds us together. Not only does she have many responsibilities as an Assistant Head, but she fills countless other roles as well – master proofreader; problem solver; supportive confidant; joyful Halloween celebrant; considerate communicator. Peggy cares deeply for all of us, and her thoughtfulness is evident in everything she does. She looks forward to spending her retirement with her husband Dick Tobin, who is also retiring at the close of this school year from Greenhills.

So, where do we go from here? First, we look to a date this coming spring for a gathering of our community and alumni to help celebrate the milestone achievements of these two. Please keep an eye out for a future newsletter for an announcement on ways for us to celebrate Peggy’s and Tim’s many years. I will also be announcing our transition plans early in the calendar year. In the meanwhile, please join me in celebrating their outstanding tenures.

Take care,

John

All School News and Info

Parent Community Event: Technology and Your Child, presented by Washtenaw Area Council for Children

Thursday, Dec. 1 at 7:00pm in the AIC

The Washtenaw Area Council for Children will lead families through an exploration of the world of technology at our students’ fingertips. They will share data on current trends and challenges, as well as provide strategies for helping your child handle this unprecedented access to information. The WACC will also share information on cyber safety, strategies for protecting your child in this age of access, and what concerning behaviors adults should watch out for in their children.

Emerson Geography Bee Sign-Ups

Sign Up by Friday, Dec. 16

The Emerson Geography Bee, open to all Emerson students in grades 4 through 8, is scheduled for Tuesday, December 20, at 11:15, in the library/media center. There is no cost, and registration couldn’t be easier – just give Lenny Dale a piece of paper with your name and the letters GB legibly written on it before he leaves school on Friday, December 16.
Bee questions cover a wide range of topics. Sample questions from previous years can be found on the National Geographic website. The school bee winner gets to take an on-line test to try to qualify for the state bee.

Families Invited to Admissions Events

Current Parents of 4th and 5th Graders Invited

Tours on Wednesday, Dec. 7 at 9:00am
Attend this admissions event to learn more about the Middle School. You will meet teachers and students, visit classrooms in action, and see why children continue to thrive in Emerson’s middle school.

Middle School Q&A Brown Bag Lunch

Wednesday, Dec. 14 at 12:00pm in Andy’s Office
Sit down for lunch with Andy Zimmer, Emerson’s Middle School Director, and other teachers and staff for some candid Q&A. This very casual setting is the perfect opportunity to ask questions and learn more about Middle School at Emerson.

Prospective Families Invited to K-8 Tour

If you know of a family considering Emerson, or who should be, please invite them to attend. Students will still lead the way, but the tour will extend beyond the middle school experience our current families will partake in.

Science Fair Needs Space Enthusiasts

Emerson’s Astrofest Science Fair is scheduled for the evening of January 26th. In order to offer the Emerson community unique astronomy experiences and information, we are looking for scientists and enthusiasts who would be willing to present their expertise, passions, and/or materials/resources that evening. Maybe you are in the field of astrophysics or space exploration, or know of someone who is, and would be willing to share your knowledge?
+ Please send your reply to kvohland@emerson-school.org

Untangled: Guiding Teenage Girls Through the Seven Transitions Into Adulthood, with Lisa Damour

Monday, Dec. 12 at 7:00pm in the AIC

In this webinar from the Independent Schools Association of Central States (ISACS), Lisa Damour will hit the highlights of her New York Times best-selling book to help girls’ parents, educators, and advocates understand why teenage girls sometimes confusing and dramatic behavior is actually predictable and normal. Damour will explain the seven developmental transitions that turn girls into grown-ups and help the adults form happier, healthier relationships with the teenagers in their care. This webinar is for parents and all who work with girls ages 10-19.

Register

Bake Sale Raises $2,200 for Emerson Tech

A huge thank you to the entire Emerson community for making the 2016 ESPO Bake Sale a fantastic success! This year, $2,195.74 in bake sale goods were sold and enjoyed! Proceeds from the BAKE Sale will go directly to the Emerson Technology Department for the purchase of iPad minis!
— Maria Bichakjian and Jeanne Cooper, Bake Sale Chairs

Basketball News by Lenny

Eagles Head into Thanksgiving with Wins

The Eagles boys basketball teams went into the holiday break on a winning note, each handling the visitors from St. Paul…
+ Read more

Tickets Available for Middle School Musical: The Little Mermaid, Jr.

Thursday, Dec. 8–Saturday, Dec. 10 in the Arts and Innovation Center at Emerson

Students have spent months rehearsing and countless hours learning lines, choreography, and songs for this fun, all-ages musical. Their dedication and hard work always results in an unbelievable performance—don’t miss it. Tickets are available at www.emerson-school.org/musical.

Get Your Tickets

Tell Amazon to Give Back to Emerson

Amazon Smile Will Donate 0.5% to Emerson

Did you know you can have Amazon give 0.5% back to Emerson on every purchase? Just set Emerson School as your recipient at smile.amazon.com/ch/23-7442766. No work, no cost, huge impact!

Set Emerson Smile for Emerson

Emerson Annual Fund: All In, All Win!

Thank you for making a difference with your support

At Emerson, as at most independent schools, tuition does not fully cover operating costs. Annual Fund gifts help bridge the gap, and we are counting on your gift this fall.

Your gift will help to sustain this creative, nurturing school. It will help Emerson’s passionate educators engage our bright students by tapping into their curiosity and encouraging their search for answers. It will inspire in our children a love for learning that will last a lifetime. When we are all in, we all win!
+ Make your gift online at ww.emerson-school.org/give

Check the Lost and Found

Items will be donated after Wednesday, Dec. 21

Please check the Lost and Found, located in the Fish Bowl near the After care entry doors. It is overflowing with sweatshirts, jackets, water bottles, and more. Items remaining after December 21 will be donated.

School Dress Code Has Been Updated

Students, teachers, and administrators have spent many months evaluating and reworking Emerson School’s dress code. The goal has been to develop a policy that provides common-sense guidelines, while better reflecting our commitments to diversity, equity, and justice. The result is the policy linked below, which expands on the abbreviated policy included in this year’s Family Handbook.
+ Read the updated Dress Code & Appropriate Clothing Policy

Giving to You on Giving Tuesday

Thank You Volunteer Baristas and Recipients

To thank you for all that you do for our school, Emerson trustees Peter Toogood, Holly Dolbey, and Christine Kim volunteered to join the Development office in serving coffee to our families curbside. Thank you for helping us thank our families on Giving Tuesday.

Community Activities

Handmade Items from Uganda on Sale to Support Education for Children

Thursday and Friday, Dec. 8–9 at Emerson

Emerson 5th grader Nate Ernst will be selling handmade items from Uganda to support Children Waiting Everywhere—an organization that supports education in Uganda. Aprons, jewelry, and carved wooden figures will be on sale in the Middle School Commons for $5 each, and proceeds will support education for Ugandan children.
+ Learn more, and more

Festival of Lights with Refugee Photovoice for JFS

Sunday, Dec. 11, 3:00pm–5:30pm

Emerson parent Abbie Lawrence-Jacobson has worked with a group of refugees from Syria, Iraq, Sudan and Afghanistan to create a “photovoice” photo exhibit entitled “Resettlement through the Eyes of Refugees.” Refugees are given prompts, and camera to photograph moments in their daily lives that have meaning for them as they work to make a new home in the Ann Arbor area. See this exhibit on display as part of the Festival of Lights, which also includes food and music.
+ Learn more

TEDxYouth@AnnArbor Seeking Middle School Presenters

Auditions the Fist Two Weeks of December

It’s that time of the year again for TEDx talks. TEDxYouth@AnnArbor is holding auditions during the first two weeks of December for our event next April. We invite middle schools students to participate. You do not need to have a full speech prepared, just pitch us your good idea worth spreading at auditions.
+ Learn more

Emerson Students Performing in Nutcracker

Dec. 16–18 at the Power Center in Ann Arbor

Emerson students Chiara Bichakjian, Francesca Bichakjian, Alita Cunningham, Chloe Eavy, Elena Mychaliska, Asha Owens, John Umbriac, Joseph Ranzini, and Liliana Ranzini will be performing in the Ann Arbor Ballet Theatre’s production of Nutcracker. Way to go Emerson stars!
+ Learn more

November 29th, 2016

By Coach Lenny Dale, Emerson Athletic Director and Physical Education Teacher

Emerson ‘Gobbles’ Up St. Paul Before Thanksgiving Break

The Eagles boys basketball teams went into the holiday break on a winning note, each handling the visitors from St. Paul.

The JV jumped out to a 12-2 lead after the first quarter, and then cruised to a 37-22 victory, with Nikash Bhagat leading all scorers with 12 points, and Lucas Nor close behind with 10.

The varsity got off to a quick start, too, jumping out to a 5-0 lead early, but then saw St. Paul go on an 8-0 run, before going on a 17-5 run of their own to regain the lead and go into the half up 22-13. St Paul had a strong third quarter to get back within a point, but in the fourth Gabe Kellman, Nikhil Gunaratnam and Jaden Thomas combined to ‘squash’ St. Paul’s hopes: Gabe’s final 5 of his game high 18 points, plus his defense, and his court sense helping Nikhil get his final 6 of 10 points off open looks, and feeding Jaden to get his final 4 of 9 points from nice passes inside. St Paul actually got scoring from 7 players, compared to Emerson’s 5, but Gabe, Nikhil and Jaden were the top three in the game, providing inside, outside and full-court games that resulted in a 43-33 final score in the Eagles’ favor.

November 22nd, 2016

By Coach Lenny Dale, Athletic Director and Physical Education Teacher

Emerson’s boys varsity basketball team had their home opener Thursday evening, after an up and down start on the road. Having overwhelmed Spiritus Sanctus, but then falling at Ann Arbor Christian in a tight one, Emerson hosted Steiner School.
The Eagles had a hard time getting going offensively, but the defense threw a shutout through the first nine (minutes), by which time the offense was starting to get it in gear, and Emerson took a 16-2 lead into the halftime intermission. It was more of the same in the second half, the lead growing, the defense stifling and, save for 3 Steiner points in the last minute, the final opponents tally would have been the same paltry 6 that Spiritus Sanctus managed. The Eagles, meanwhile, put up a well-balanced 44, all coming in the paint, 9 players scoring, Gabe Kellman and Nikhil Gunaratnam sharing high game honors with 10 apiece, Joseph Alphonso chipping in 8 and Maoz Bareket 6. Perhaps the most telling statistics were the 27-12 edge in rebounding, along with 10 steals (to none) and 2 blocked shots (also to none).

Emerson next hosts St Paul Tuesday, 11/22, before heading into the Thanksgiving break.

November 22nd, 2016

NOVEMBER

22

Robotics Team’s Big Day

Emerson’s two robotics teams did so well at the big competition last Saturday! Competing against students in grades 4–8, Emerson’s veteran Rising Robots team of 5th and 6th graders took 2nd place overall—and an invite to the state championships—while the 4th and 5th grade Cyber Eagles team earned the Rising Star award for best rookie team! And Emerson alum Caleb Burgess received the Student Mentor award for his dedication to the team. GO EAGLES!
+ See more photos

Letter from the Head of School

Dear << Test First Name >>,

This past Sunday morning when I woke up, it suddenly felt like Thanksgiving Break had already arrived. Some magical combination of the drop in temperature, the light dusting of snow, flannel sheets on the bed, extended family in the guest room, a tidied up house—it all contributed to a sense of stillness that falls at break time.

And that time has now come. Please enjoy this opportunity for family, for food, and for fellowship. Pull out the puzzles and family games—I’m a fan of Settlers of Catan, but will also consent to the occasional round of Exploding Kittens if pressed. Set your email on auto-reply, and try your hardest to disconnect from the ever-present pull of electronics.

And don’t forget, next week when return, we’ll be greeting you with a cup of coffee or cocoa at curbside as part of Giving Tuesday. It’s our way of thanking you for your support of Emerson.

Have a joyful break,

John

All School News and Info

Grandparent and Special Friends’ Day

Hundreds of grandparents and special friends joined us today and put some huge smiles on the faces of our students. We are thankful for that!
+ See more photos

Astrofest Needs Space Enthusiasts

Emerson’s Astrofest Science Fair is scheduled for the evening of January 26th. In order to offer the Emerson community unique astronomy experiences and information, we are looking for scientists and enthusiasts who would be willing to present their expertise, passions, and/or materials/resources that evening. Maybe you are in the field of astrophysics or space exploration, or know of someone who is, and would be willing to share your knowledge?
+ Please send your reply to kvohland@emerson-school.org

School Dress Code Has Been Updated

Students, teachers, and administrators have spent many months evaluating and reworking Emerson School’s dress code. The goal has been to develop a policy that provides common-sense guidelines, while better reflecting our commitments to diversity, equity, and justice. The result is the policy linked below, which expands on the abbreviated policy included in this year’s Family Handbook.
+ Read the updated Dress Code & Appropriate Clothing Policy

Giving to You on Giving Tuesday

Complimentary Curbside Coffee & Cocoa on Nov. 29

To thank you for all that you do for our school, we are giving to you on Giving Tuesday. Just pull forward after dropping off your children at curbside and an Emerson trustee or staff member will take your oder for a steaming cup of coffee or cocoa—you don’t even need to get out of your car.

Basketball News by Coach Lenny

Emerson’s boys varsity basketball team had their home opener Thursday evening, after an up and down start on the road. Having overwhelmed Spiritus Sanctus, but then falling at Ann Arbor Christian in a tight one, Emerson hosted Steiner School. The Eagles had a hard time getting going offensively, but the defense threw a shutout through the first nine (minutes), by which time the offense was starting to get it in gear…
+ Read more

Open Mic Night: A Special Coffee House Edition

Nov. 30 at 6:00pm at Emerson School

Children and adults can sing a song, play an instrument, read original poetry, perform a monologue, play as an ensemble, etc. Each performer has about five minutes each to share their talents and passions in front of a laid-back and supportive audience of families from schools throughout the greater-Ann Arbor area. This Open Mic Night will have a special coffee house feel—don’t miss it!

Open Mic Nights are part of the Thriving Child A2 series, presented by Emerson School. Families from any school are welcome to participate, so please invite others.

Sign Up to Perform

Emerson Annual Fund: All In, All Win!

Thank you for making a difference with your support

At Emerson, as at most independent schools, tuition does not fully cover operating costs. Annual Fund gifts help bridge the gap, and we are counting on your gift this fall.

Your gift will help to sustain this creative, nurturing school. It will help Emerson’s passionate educators engage our bright students by tapping into their curiosity and encouraging their search for answers. It will inspire in our children a love for learning that will last a lifetime. When we are all in, we all win!
+ Make your gift online at ww.emerson-school.org/give.

Parent Community Event: Technology and Your Child, presented by Washtenaw Area Council for Children

Thursday, Dec. 1 at 7:00pm in the AIC

The Washtenaw Area Council for Children will lead families through an exploration of the world of technology at our students’ fingertips. They will share data on current trends and challenges, as well as provide strategies for helping your child handle this unprecedented access to information. The WACC will also share information on cyber safety, strategies for protecting your child in this age of access, and what concerning behaviors adults should watch out for in their children.

Emerson Geography Bee Sign-Ups

Sign Up by Friday, Dec. 16

The Emerson Geography Bee, open to all Emerson students in grades 4 through 8, is scheduled for Tuesday, December 20, at 11:15, in the library/media center. There is no cost, and registration couldn’t be easier – just give Lenny Dale a piece of paper with your name and the letters GB legibly written on it before he leaves school on Friday, December 16.
Bee questions cover a wide range of topics. Sample questions from previous years can be found on the National Geographic website. The school bee winner gets to take an on-line test to try to qualify for the state bee.

Community Activities

Emerson Student Performed in Silent Night

Congratulations to Emerson 8th grader Marcellin Barbeau, who performed in the sold out Michigan Opera Theatre production of the Pulitzer prize winning opera, Silent Night!

AAHOM ScienceFest: Space Odyssey

Nov. 25–27 at the Hands-On Museum

3….2…..1…..blast off! Visit the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum for an unforgettable odyssey through the wonders of space. From rocket science to astronomy, engineering to astrophysics, we’ll explore what lies beyond our own world. With hands-on activities, demos, and more for preschoolers to grandparents, there will be plenty for the whole family to enjoy.
+ Learn more

TEDxYouth@AnnArbor Seeking Middle School Presenters

Auditions the Fist Two Weeks of December

It’s that time of the year again for TEDx talks. TEDxYouth@AnnArbor is holding auditions during the first two weeks of December for our event next April. We invite middle schools students to participate. You do not need to have a full speech prepared, just pitch us your good idea worth spreading at auditions.
+ Learn more

Emerson Students Performing in Nutcracker

Dec. 16–18 at the Power Center in Ann Arbor

Emerson students Chiara Bichakjian, Francesca Bichakjian, Alita Cunningham, Chloe Eavy, Elena Mychaliska, Asha Owens, John Umbriac, Joseph Ranzini, and Liliana Ranzini will be performing in the Ann Arbor Ballet Theatre’s production of Nutcracker. Way to go Emerson stars!
+ Learn more

WHAT’S AHEAD

Nov. 23–28

NO SCHOOL: Thanksgiving Break

Nov. 29, 4:30pm

Boys Basketball: Home vs. Washtenaw Christian

Nov. 30, 6:00pm

Family-Friendly Open Mic Night
+ Learn more

Dec. 1, 4:30pm

Boys Basketball: Home vs. Christ the King

Dec. 5, 4:00pm

Boys Basketball: Home vs. Spiritus Sanctus

Dec. 6, 4:30pm

Boys Basketball: Home vs. St. Mary’s

Dec. 7, 9:00am–11:00am

Admissions Tour and Info Meeting

Dec. 8, 7:00pm

Emerson Musical: Disney’s Little Mermaid
+ Tickets

Dec. 9, 7:00pm

Emerson Musical: Disney’s Little Mermaid
+ Tickets

Dec. 10, 2:00pm

Emerson Musical: Disney’s Little Mermaid
+ Tickets

* Indicates a change
+ Online calendars
+ 2016-2017 Print Calendar
(Updated 8-17-16)

EMERSON FACEBOOK

See what’s happening every day at Emerson.
+ Emerson on Facebook

November 22nd, 2016

Updated Nov. 12, 2016, and to be reflected in the 2017-2018 Family Handbook.

Dress Code & Appropriate Clothing Policy

We are committed to empowering students to grow as responsible decision-makers. Therefore, the primary responsibility for a student’s attire resides with the student and parents / guardians.

We require students to wear appropriate clothing when attending school, which means wearing an appropriate and opaque top, bottom, and footwear. We have three basic standards to help guide students and families in making appropriate clothing decisions for school.

All clothing worn to school:

must provide for a focused and active learning environment.
must be comfortable and assure safety in the classroom and on the playground.
must reflect the values of respect and responsibility, and exhibit due consideration for the sensitivities of others.

Any images or language depicting or referring to violence, hate speech, illegal activity or profanity are prohibited.

Appropriate shoes for outdoor and P.E. activities are expected and required. Indoor P.E. requires clean shoes solely for use within the gym.

Classes that include attire as part of the curriculum may include assignment-specific dress as determined by the teacher.

We encourage all students to keep a change of clothing in their backpack or locker for emergencies.

If, in the judgement of a teacher or administrator, these standards are not being followed, this will be communicated to the student and/or the student’s parent(s)/legal guardians(s). The student may be required to change clothes before returning to class. Should a student continually break these standards, disciplinary or remedial action will be taken.

November 18th, 2016

Passport to the World: Emerson’s triennial celebration of cultures, heritage, and diversity

passport2014-55 Passport to the World is an ESPO-sponsored celebration held every three years. Emerson families are given the opportunity to showcase the diversity of heritage and culture at our school. So get ready to travel the world on April 21, 2017.

You will be invited to travel from one corner of the globe to another in our very own gymnasium while collecting stamps in an Emerson passport. Along the way, you may wish to view or participate in various performances, and sample foods from each country.

Please Consider Being an Ambassador
The 2014 Passport to the World was a huge success because of the tremendous participation we had from our Emerson families. Please consider being an ambassador to a country. It may be a country where you are from, studied/worked, or even your favorite travel destination. Feel free to team-up with another Emerson family to showcase your country with a table-top display and activity. Families with Middle School students, please reach out to your student’s Middle School Advisor so you can work together. Every family is encouraged to bring a dish to share (perhaps an old family favorite).

If you would like to become a country ambassador, please email your name(s) and country to Caroline Begola at carolinebegola@gmail.com by December 19th, 2016.

Questions?
Should you have further questions, feel free to discuss this special event with any of the Passport committee:

Jennifer Ratliff-Moss
Christine Kim
Silvia Nor
Jamie Sinha
Caroline Begola
Linda Lakshminarayanan

We forward to hearing from you!

— The ESPO Passport to the World Committee

November 17th, 2016

November

17

Teachers’ Perspective on Thriving at Emerson

Why do children thrive at Emerson? We asked our teachers, and their heartfelt answers in this video sum it up so much better than this description could.
+ Watch on Facebook
+ Watch on YouTube

Letter from the Head of School

The Power of Your Support

Dear parents,

It’s rare that I read a book which so affects me that it makes me change my mind. It’s a book which I found both heavy and inspiring, thought-provoking and emotional, simple and yet powerful.

Please do yourself a favor and go over to Nicola’s to pick up a copy of Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption by Bryan Stevenson. Stevenson, founder of the Equal Justice Initiative, writes about his efforts to defend those wrongly condemned due to poverty and racism. He also argues passionately that the death penalty is a “failed, expensive policy defined by bias and error.”

In these charged political times, as we consider the world in light of this year’s presidential election results, it’s easy to lose sight of other issues. For example, you may have missed that three states voted on propositions to maintain or strengthen the death penalty; all three supported the practice. And this past summer, Michigan state legislators debated whether to provide financial restitution for innocent people wrongly incarcerated. Should Michigan do so, it would join the majority of states which do provide such funds.

The day after the election, Linda Lakshiminarayan, Emerson’s incredible librarian, gave an excellent presentation on the topic of how to speak to children about racism. One of her recommendations is to break out of the mold of reading stories solely about the familiar, and to read more about other races, cultures, religions, etc. And as I read about the lives told in Just Mercy, I was rewarded greatly by this poignant book. I think you will be, too.

Be well,

John Huber

P.S. – I just heard that he’ll be receiving the Wallenberg Medal from the U. of M., and he’ll be speaking here in March.

All School News and Info

Exceptional Middle School Band & Orchestra Concert

Congratulations to all of our Middle School Band and Orchestra members on a wonderful concert! It was a joy to hear you perform in your small ensembles, as well as in the band and orchestra. The “borchestrand” selections were a hit! Remember to keep playing in your small ensembles; you can perform again at the Open Mic Night on November 30, and many of you will be taking your selections to the Solo and Ensemble festival on February 4. Well done!
+ See more photos

Astrofest Needs Space Enthusiasts

Emerson’s Astrofest Science Fair is scheduled for the evening of January 26th. In order to offer the Emerson community unique astronomy experiences and information, we are looking for scientists and enthusiasts who would be willing to present their expertise, passions, and/or materials/resources that evening. Maybe you are in the field of astrophysics or space exploration, or know of someone who is, and would be willing to share your knowledge?
+ Please send your reply to kvohland@emerson-school.org

ESPO Bake Sale

Tuesday, Nov. 22 in the Middle School Commons

Get your favorite recipes ready for this delicious fundraiser for Emerson students. In an effort to increase awareness of food allergies, to increase feelings of safety and inclusiveness, and to reduce the potential for some airborne allergens, this year’s ESPO Bake Sale organizers request your help in eliminating some of the most common allergens from the bake sale: peanuts and tree nuts. Please note that the Bake Sale will NOT be a “nut-free” or “allergen-free” event and should not be considered as such by parents of children with food allergies.

More Bake Sale Information

Sign Up to Contribute Food and Volunteer

Bake Sale Ingredient Form

Emerson Annual Fund: All In, All Win!

Thank you for making a difference with your support

At Emerson, as at most independent schools, tuition does not fully cover operating costs. Annual Fund gifts help bridge the gap, and we are counting on your gift this fall.

Your gift will help to sustain this creative, nurturing school. It will help Emerson’s passionate educators engage our bright students by tapping into their curiosity and encouraging their search for answers. It will inspire in our children a love for learning that will last a lifetime. When we are all in, we all win!
+ Make your gift online at ww.emerson-school.org/give.

Emerson Book Fair at Nicola’s Books Extends Through Saturday

Just Mention Emerson at Nicola’s Checkout

Thank you to everyone who participated in the Emerson book fair on Sunday evening—shoppers, performers, volunteers, your support is greatly appreciated! If you were not able to join us last night, there is still time to support the Emerson library and purchase books for Emerson classrooms. Stop in at Nicola’s all week long and let them know you are with Emerson School. Your purchases will be credited to the overall book fair total. Gift cards and teacher wish list books are also available throughout the week. Thank you!

Grandparent and Special Friends’ Day

Tuesday, Nov. 22, 1:00pm in the AIC

This is an annual opportunity for students to share everything they’re learning with their grandparents and special friends, and to show them around school. Invitations have been mailed to grandparents (only sent if you indicated during enrollment/re-enrollment that you would like your grandparent to receive an invitation) and we look forward to seeing many next week.
+ Grandfriends’ Day invitation and schedule

Giving Tuesday; Curbside Coffee!

Thank you for all you do for Emerson. We look forward to serving you on Giving Tuesday

When we return to school on Giving Tuesday, November 29, please accept a complimentary cup of coffee or cocoa after dropping off your children. It’s our way of saying thanks to you! You don’t even need to get out of your car, just pull forward toward the middle school and an Emerson Trustee or staff member will take your order for a steaming cup of coffee or cocoa and bring it right back to you.

Parent Community Event: Technology and Your Child, presented by Washtenaw Area Council for Children

Thursday, Dec. 1 at 7:00pm in the AIC

The Washtenaw Area Council for Children will lead families through an exploration of the world of technology at our students’ fingertips. They will share data on current trends and challenges, as well as provide strategies for helping your child handle this unprecedented access to information. The WACC will also share information on cyber safety, strategies for protecting your child in this age of access, and what concerning behaviors adults should watch out for in their children.

Emerson Geography Bee Sign-Ups

Sign Up by Friday, Dec. 16

The Emerson Geography Bee, open to all Emerson students in grades 4 through 8, is scheduled for Tuesday, December 20, at 11:15, in the library/media center. There is no cost, and registration couldn’t be easier – just give Lenny Dale a piece of paper with your name and the letters GB legibly written on it before he leaves school on Friday, December 16.
Bee questions cover a wide range of topics. Sample questions from previous years can be found on the National Geographic website. The school bee winner gets to take an on-line test to try to qualify for the state bee.

Open Mic Night: A Special Coffee House Edition

Nov. 30 at 6:00pm at Emerson School

Children and adults can sing a song, play an instrument, read original poetry, perform a monologue, play as an ensemble, etc. Each performer has about five minutes each to share their talents and passions in front of a laid-back and supportive audience of families from schools throughout the greater-Ann Arbor area. This Open Mic Night will have a special coffee house feel—don’t miss it!

Open Mic Nights are part of the Thriving Child A2 series, presented by Emerson School. Families from any school are welcome to participate, so please invite others.

Sign Up to Perform

Community Activities

Emerson Students Donate 160 Pounds of Candy to Troops

Emerson 5th Grader Lucas Caswell collected candy that will be included in care packages sent to the troops. From Lucas: “Thank you for donating candy to the troops. This year with your help we collected 160 Pounds and 8 ounces of candy this year at least 20 pounds more than last year. This year I collected 1 pound and 1 ounces letters and cards from the library classes with the help of Linda L. Thanks again and bye.”

Emerson Students Star in Crazy for You

Friday–Sunday, Nov. 17–20 at Mendelssohn

Emerson students Louis Gabaron, Lacey Cooper, and Emily Cooper will be performing in the Young People’s Theater performance of Crazy for You. The performance radiates with playful humor, Broadway glamour, a wild west setting and a “ruby in the dust” plotline!
+ Learn more

Mrs. C Performing in ASO Concert

Sunday, Nov. 20 at 3:00pm

If you are interested in hearing live classical music, consider the Adrian Symphony’s concert this Sunday afternoon. You will hear three amazing works and be able to see guest pianist Steven Lin play Rachmaninoff. If you attend, be sure to go up to the stage at intermission and say hi to Ms. C!
+ Learn more

AAHOM ScienceFest: Space Odyssey

Nov. 25–27 at the Hands-On Museum

3….2…..1…..blast off! Visit the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum for an unforgettable odyssey through the wonders of space. From rocket science to astronomy, engineering to astrophysics, we’ll explore what lies beyond our own world. With hands-on activities, demos, and more for preschoolers to grandparents, there will be plenty for the whole family to enjoy.
+ Learn more

Emerson Students Performing in Nutcracker

Dec. 16–18 at the Power Center in Ann Arbor

Emerson students Chiara Bichakjian, Francesca Bichakjian, Alita Cunningham, Chloe Eavy, Elena Mychaliska, Asha Owens, John Umbriac, and Liliana Ranzini will be performing in the Ann Arbor Ballet Theatre’s production of Nutcracker. Way to go Emerson stars!
+ Learn more

WHAT’S AHEAD

Nov. 17, 4:00pm

Boys Basketball: Home vs. Steiner

Nov. 18, 7:30am–9:30am

1st Grade Coffee with the Head

Nov. 21, 7:30am–9:30am

Kindergarten Coffee with the Head

Nov. 22

First Trimester Ends

Nov. 22

ESPO Bake Sale

Nov. 22, 1:00

Grandparent and Special Friends Day

Nov. 22, 4:00pm

Boys Basketball: Home vs. St. Paul

Nov. 23–28

NO SCHOOL: Thanksgiving Break

Nov. 29, 4:30pm

Boys Basketball: Home vs. Washtenaw Christian

Nov. 30, 6:00pm

Family-Friendly Open Mic Night
+ Learn more

Dec. 1, 4:30pm

Boys Basketball: Home vs. Christ the King

* Indicates a change
+ Online calendars
+ 2016-2017 Print Calendar
(Updated 8-17-16)

EMERSON FACEBOOK

See what’s happening every day at Emerson.
+ Emerson on Facebook

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November 10th, 2016

November

10

Andy Goldsworthy-Inspired Art in the Nature Center

Emerson’s Nature Center provided the canvas and mediums for these 5th graders to create beautiful Andy Goldsworthy-inspired works of art. Stunning examples of cross-curricular, hands-on learning.
+ See more

Letter from the Head of School

The Power of Your Support

Dear praents,

This past week, many of our faculty members took part in enriching professional development opportunities. A number attended the National Association for Gifted Children conference, where they gained access to the latest research on teaching gifted and talented students. Others traveled to Columbus to participate in the Independent School Association of the Central States conference so that they might learn more about programmatic innovations and topics of inclusivity. All of these professional development activities ultimately benefit our many students.

The only reason we can send our teachers to conferences such as these is because our parents generously support our Annual Fund. Our Annual Fund helps to cover professional development, curriculum enrichment, extracurricular opportunities—you name it. And this past year, we reached the highest level of parent participation in our Annual Fund ever. We’re looking to beat last year’s ambitious goal, but we can only do so with your help.

Please be on the lookout for Annual Fund letters, and please make Emerson your philanthropic priority. Your contribution, great or small, unlocks our true potential. Join us!

Be well,

John Huber

P.S. – For a little bit of fun, our Middle School students will be coming up with a joyful challenge for Middle School parents. Stay tuned to learn more!

Make Your Annual Fund Gift Today

All School News and Info

Attend, Volunteer, and Enjoy the Emerson Book Fair

Sunday, Nov. 13, 5:00pm–8:00pm at Nicola’s Books

The book fair is a family friendly event that supports the Emerson library and classroom book collections—25% of proceeds go to support the Emerson library. Shoppers can choose from Nicola’s full selection of books or purchase gift cards to use in the future. Student performances are a highlight of this event, and all lower school students are invited to participate in group singing performances. The evening will include Chinese dancing, storytellers, and several middle school band and orchestra members as well. Please see the schedule of performances linked here. We are still looking for event volunteers, so please sign up below if you are interested.

If you are unable to stop in at the main event on Sunday, Nicola’s will continue to credit your purchases toward the book fair through next week, just let them know you are from Emerson School. Teacher wish list books will be available for purchase next week as well.

Food Nutrition Info

Volunteer

Middle School Band and Orchestra Concert Tonight

Thursday, Nov. 10 at 7:00pm in the AIC

The MS Band and Orchestra will perform a concert of chamber music, as well as a few pop and jazz tunes including Rockin’ Halloween and Baby, It’s Cold Outside. Please join us next Thursday. Everyone is welcome, no tickets are required, and it is free of charge.

ESPO Bake Sale

Tuesday, Nov. 22 in the Middle School Commons

Get your favorite recipes ready for this delicious fundraiser for Emerson students. More information about contributing food, volunteering, and nutrition/allergy info will be coming soon.

Grandparent and Special Friends Day

Tuesday, Nov. 22, 1:00pm at Emerson

This is an annual opportunity for students to share everything they’re learning with their grandparents and special friends, and to show them around school. Invitations have been mailed to grandparents (only sent if you indicated during enrollment/re-enrollment that you would like your grandparent to receive an invitation). If you would like an invitation sent to someone else, please email Lower School Office Manager Joan Gregorka, or call 734-665-5662, ext. 307.
+ Grandfriends’ Day invitation and schedule

Emerson Geography Bee Sign-Ups

Sign Up by Friday, Dec. 16

The Emerson Geography Bee, open to all Emerson students in grades 4 through 8, is scheduled for Tuesday, December 20, at 11:15, in the library/media center. There is no cost, and registration couldn’t be easier – just give Lenny Dale a piece of paper with your name and the letters GB legibly written on it before he leaves school on Friday, December 16.
Bee questions cover a wide range of topics. Sample questions from previous years can be found on the National Geographic website. The school bee winner gets to take an on-line test to try to qualify for the state bee.

Open Mic Night: A Special Coffee House Edition

Nov. 30 at 6:00pm at Emerson School

Children and adults can sing a song, play an instrument, read original poetry, perform a monologue, play as an ensemble, etc. Each performer has about five minutes each to share their talents and passions in front of a laid-back and supportive audience of families from schools throughout the greater-Ann Arbor area. This Open Mic Night will have a special coffee house feel—don’t miss it!

Open Mic Nights are part of the Thriving Child A2 series, presented by Emerson School. Families from any school are welcome to participate, so please invite others.

Sign Up to Perform

Video: Fall Colors Erupting at Emerson

An Aerial Tour from Emerson’s Drone

Every fall, Emerson School’s campus turns into a stunning work of art. Enjoy this video. Did you get goosebumps too?
+ Watch and share on Facebook (fixed link)
+ Watch on YouTube

Community Activities

Figuring Out Friendships: A Mother-Daughter Workshop for Girls

Junior League of Ann Arbor on Saturday, Nov. 12, 9:00am–1:00pm

For mothers of 5th and 6th grade girls, this workshop is to open conversations between you and your daughters while maintaining her child’s growing need for independence.

To help build positive alliances between mothers and daughters
Teaches about relational aggression
Offers skills to help young adolescents cope with challenges they may encounter

+ Learn more

3rd Grader Performing in Nutcracker

Dec. 16–18 at the Power Center in Ann Arbor

Emerson 3rd grader Chloe Eavy will be performing as a Sugarplum in the Ann Arbor Ballet Theatre’s production of Nutcracker. Congrats Chloe!
+ Learn more

WHAT’S AHEAD

Nov. 10, 7:00pm

Middle School Band and Orchestra Concert

Nov. 11, 7:30am–9:30am

2nd Grade Coffee with the Head

Nov. 13, 5:00pm–8:30pm

Emerson Book Fair at Nicola’s Books

Nov. 15, 4:00pm

Boys Basketball: Away at AACS

Nov. 17, 4:00pm

Boys Basketball: Home vs. Steiner

Nov. 18, 7:30am–9:30am

1st Grade Coffee with the Head

Nov. 21, 7:30am–9:30am

Kindergarten Coffee with the Head

Nov. 22

First Trimester Ends

Nov. 22

ESPO Bake Sale

Nov. 22, 1:00

Grandparent and Special Friends Day

Nov. 22, 4:00pm

Boys Basketball: Home vs. St. Paul

Nov. 23–28

NO SCHOL: Thanksgiving Break

* Indicates a change
+ Online calendars
+ 2016-2017 Print Calendar
(Updated 8-17-16)

EMERSON FACEBOOK

See what’s happening every day at Emerson.
+ Emerson on Facebook

Copyright © *|CURRENT_YEAR|* Emerson School, All rights reserved.
5425 Scio Church Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, 734-665-5662

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November 3rd, 2016

November

3

Attend, Volunteer, and Enjoy the Emerson Book Fair

Sunday, Nov. 13, 5:00pm–8:00pm at Nicola’s Books

Please come out and enjoy an evening of wonderful student performances, refreshments and shopping—25% of proceeds go to support the Emerson library. All lower school students are invited to perform, along with several middle school students. Please see the schedule of performances linked here. Volunteers are needed to help the event run smoothly, so please use the link below to sign up.

Sign Up to Volunteer

Food Nutrition Info

Letter from the Head of School

One Small Request for Student Well-Being

Dear parents,

For this week’s newsletter, I have but one request.

Please slow down and drive safely.

I know that many of you reading this newsletter do drive carefully, as witnessed each morning and afternoon of curbside. But recent local news of the tragedy that can befall pedestrians, coupled with my own observations of a few impatient drivers in our parking lot, lead me to make the request to the entire community directly.

I know that there are lessons to attend, appointments to make, meetings to catch. But this should not encourage you to skip ahead in carline, swerve around drivers trying to pull out of parking spots, get distracted by your cellphone, or accelerate upon making the final turn of the parking lot.

Everyone should take a few minutes now, right now, to watch our curbside video. It’s short, adorable, and clear. And once you’ve done so, please slow down and drive safely.

I ask this for the safety and well-being of our students.

Be well,

John Huber

All School News and Info

Middle School Experience Tour

Tuesday, Nov. 8, 9:00am–11:15am

Parents of current 4th and 5th grade students are invited to this special student-led tour, where students will show you their classrooms in action, introduce you to their teachers, and share their perspective on middle school at Emerson.

Prospective Families Invited to K-8 Tour

If you know of a family considering Emerson, or who should be, please invite them to attend. Students will still lead the way, but the tour will extend beyond the middle school experience our current families will partake in.

Picture Retake Day and Team Pictures

Wednesday, Nov. 9 in the Morning

If you would like picture retakes, please be sure to bring and return your original picture packet (required). Team pictures will be taken at 11:07, so please remind your child to bring his/her team jersey.

Video: Fall Colors Erupting at Emerson

An Aerial Tour from Emerson’s Drone

Every fall, Emerson School’s campus turns into a stunning work of art. Enjoy this video. Did you get goosebumps too?
+ Watch and share on Facebook
+ Watch on YouTube

Grandparent and Special Friends Day

Tuesday, Nov. 22, 1:00pm at Emerson

This is an annual opportunity for students to share everything they’re learning with their grandparents and special friends, and to show them around school. Invitations have been mailed to grandparents (only sent if you indicated during enrollment/re-enrollment that you would like your grandparent to receive an invitation). If you would like an invitation sent to someone else, please email Lower School Office Manager Joan Gregorka, or call 734-665-5662, ext. 307.
+ Grandfriends’ Day invitation and schedule

Middle School Elective Sign-Ups

Open Through Wednesday, Nov. 9 at Noon

Trimester 2 Electives are now open. Students are encouraged to review the elective options with their families and then sign up through the Google Form that was sent to their Emerson email on Tuesday, November 1. This form will be open until Wednesday, November 9 at noon. Please email Beth Muszkiewicz (bethm@emerson-school.org) with any questions.
+ Review the elective options

Emerson Geography Bee Sign-Ups

Sign Up by Friday, Dec. 16

The Emerson Geography Bee, open to all Emerson students in grades 4 through 8, is scheduled for Tuesday, December 20, at 11:15, in the library/media center. There is no cost, and registration couldn’t be easier – just give Lenny Dale a piece of paper with your name and the letters GB legibly written on it before he leaves school on Friday, December 16.
Bee questions cover a wide range of topics. Sample questions from previous years can be found on the National Geographic website. The school bee winner gets to take an on-line test to try to qualify for the state bee.

Parent Community Event: Being Bigger Than Your Triggers, with Annie Zirkel

Wednesday, Nov. 9, 7:00pm in the Arts and Innovation Center at Emerson School

Local relationship consultant, Annie Zirkel, will present to current and future middle school families about the impact that triggers can have on students and adults. She will discuss the physiological impact of being triggered, the neuroscience behind the triggered brain, and how we can support students when they are triggered. We may even learn more about how we can support ourselves when we are triggered.
+ Visit Annie Zirkel’s website for more information

Middle School Band and Orchestra Concert

Thursday, Nov. 10 at 7:00pm in the AIC

The MS Band and Orchestra will perform a concert of chamber music, as well as a few pop and jazz tunes including Rockin’ Halloween and Baby, It’s Cold Outside. Please join us next Thursday. Everyone is welcome, no tickets are required, and it is free of charge.

Emerson Volleyball Finishes Strong

Wins 2 of 3 Final Games, 4th in Tournament

The girls volleyball team rallied for an incredible end to the season. They won two of the three final games of the season, and went into the AAIAA tournament seeded sixth. With the momentum of those hard-fought wins, the team played well at the tournament and earned a 4th place finish! Congratulations volleyball team.

Congratulations All-State Band and Orchestra Hopefuls

Congrats to all of the band and orchestra members who auditioned last weekend for a seat in the Michigan All-State Band and Orchestra. It is awesome that you challenged yourself to learn the music and take the audition. We are proud of you!

Maoz Bareket
Shruthi Chakravarthy
Hannah Halberstam
Zach Halberstam
Josh Moss
Julian Toogood

Community Activities

Donate Leftover Candy to Operation Gratitude

Boxes in Commons and Fish Bowl Oct. 31–Nov. 7

Operation Gratitude is a non-profit, volunteer-based organization that sends care packages to the Military and First Responder Communities. The organization’s mission is to say “Thank You” and express it’s appreciation of the American people to all who serve. Last year the Emerson community donated more than 100 pounds of candy, and organizers Lucas Caswell hopes to beat that this year. Donation bins will be in the middle school commons and the fish bowl Oct. 31 through Nov. 7.
+ Contact Lucas Caswell with questions or for more info

‘Tween Girls’ Portrait Campaign Needs Volunteer Models

Proceeds to Ronald McDonald House of A2

Emerson parent Cheryl Hall, of Cheryl Hall Photography, is seeking girls ages 9 to 11 to be photographed for a “Tween Girls” book, with proceeds benefitting Ronald McDonald House of Ann Arbor. Each Participant will receive a fine art 7×5 portrait.
+ Learn more or contact Cheryl Hall at cheryl@studiochp.com

The Hunchback of Notre Dame at Pioneer

Nov. 4, 6, 11, 12, 13 at Pioneer High School

Congrats to Emerson alums Claire Robinson and Henry Kiley, who will be performing in the upcoming performance of The Hunchback of Notre Dame at Pioneer High School!
+ Learn more

Trimathlon Community Event

Sunday, Nov. 5 at 9:00am

Mathnasium of Dexter will host a fun math competition open to all students who are in grades 2, 3, 4 and 5.
+ Learn more

Figuring Out Friendships: A Mother-Daughter Workshop for Girls

Junior League of Ann Arbor on Saturday, Nov. 12, 9:00am–1:00pm

For mothers of 5th and 6th grade girls, this workshop is to open conversations between you and your daughters while maintaining her child’s growing need for independence.

To help build positive alliances between mothers and daughters
Teaches about relational aggression
Offers skills to help young adolescents cope with challenges they may encounter

+ Learn more

Social Security Retirement Basics Event

By Key Bank on Tuesday, Nov. 15 at 4:30 in the AIC

Key Bank’s Bob Hartnett was employed by the Social Security Administration for more than 40 years. He will share his insight into Social Security at this free event for the Emerson community.
+ Learn more

WHAT’S AHEAD

Nov. 4, 3:00pm

Band and Orchestra Survivor Challenge

Nov. 8

NO BUS SERVICE: Due to AAPS Closure for Elections

Nov. 8, 9:00am

Admissions: Middle School Experience Tour

Nov. 8, 4:30pm

Boys Basketball at St. Mary’s

Nov. 9

Picture Retake Day

Nov. 9, 8:30am

ESPO Meeting

Nov. 9, 7:00pm

Parent Community Event: Being Bigger than Your Triggers, by Annie Zirkel

Nov. 10, 4:00pm

Boys Basketball at Spiritus Sanctus Academy

Nov. 10, 7:00pm

Middle School Band and Orchestra Concert

Nov. 11, 7:30am–9:30am

2nd Grade Coffee with the Head

Nov. 13, 5:00pm–8:30pm

Emerson Book Fair at Nicola’s Books

Nov. 15, 4:00pm

Boys Basketball: Away at AACS

Nov. 17, 4:00pm

Boys Basketball: Home vs. Steiner

Nov. 18, 7:30am–9:30am

1st Grade Coffee with the Head

Nov. 21, 7:30am–9:30am

Kindergarten Coffee with the Head

Nov. 22

First Trimester Ends

Nov. 22

ESPO Bake Sale

Nov. 22, 1:00

Grandparent and Special Friends Day

* Indicates a change
+ Online calendars
+ 2016-2017 Print Calendar
(Updated 8-17-16)

EMERSON FACEBOOK

See what’s happening every day at Emerson.
+ Emerson on Facebook

Copyright © *|CURRENT_YEAR|* Emerson School, All rights reserved.
5425 Scio Church Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, 734-665-5662

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October 28th, 2016

The Emerson Geography Bee, open to all Emerson students in grades 4 through 8, is scheduled for Tuesday, December 20, at 11:15, in the library/media center. There is no cost, and registration couldn’t be easier—just give Lenny Dale a piece of paper with your name and the letters GB legibly written on it before he leaves school on Friday, December 16.

Bee questions cover a wide range of topics. Sample questions from previous years can be found on the National Geographic website. The school bee winner gets to take an on-line test to try to qualify for the state bee.

screen-shot-2016-10-28-at-9-15-18-am

October 27th, 2016

October

27

Band and Orchestra Comes Together at Frankenmuth

When you’re part of Band and Orchestra you’re part of a family, and the annual Frankenmuth trip brings that family even closer. Thank you to all of the parents and faculty who make it happen!
+ See more photos

Letter from the Head of School

Connect with Me on LinkedIn

Dear Parents,

Over the course of my Coffees with the Head, the topic of technology keeps bubbling to the surface—and often in worrying terms. Certainly new technology is frightening in its power and its opportunity to be used for harm. As the creator of the British series “Black Mirror” recently shared, technology is “an amazing tool that we…are just getting to grips with, because it’s like we’ve grown a new ultra powerful limb and we’re learning how to use it.” And as we learn, we occasionally flail around and knock over the furniture.

But for all the concerns that new technology brings, it comes with great strength as well. As shared in this same interview, there’s no “cure” for technology, nor would we want one—would we try to “cure” the creation of the printing press? One particular strength of social media is our ability to connect to the members of our community. And as I connect with more of our Emerson parent body via technology, I fully appreciate all the diverse skills, talents, and experiences our parents bring. I also find that social media can be a wonderful way to connect with those who aren’t as readily able to come on campus, but instead support Emerson from afar.

So, to that end—let’s connect. Let’s use technology for positive purposes. At the risk of sounding like a shill for LinkedIn, I have found it to be a useful professional tool, far better than the ubiquitous Facebook for connecting with our parent body. Please feel free to find me there for occasional updates as well as opportunities to find other Emerson families.

And I promise—no cat videos, political rants, or forwarded hoaxes. Although I do like cat videos.

Happy Halloween,

John Huber

All School News and Info

Halloween Info and Allergy Alert

Costumes, Events, and Schedule

If you missed the email on Monday, please click the link below to learn more about costumes, events, and the day’s schedule.
+ Halloween 101

Food Ingredient and Nutrition Info

Food is available to students during the Halloween Carnival. To minumize the risk to students with allergies, the following ingredient and nutrition information is available.
+ Food Nutrition Info
+ Ingredient List

10:00am Late Start on Tuesday, Nov. 1

Childcare is Available Beginning at 7:30am

While the kids recover from a late night of trick-or-treating, Emerson faculty and staff will be learning best practices for supporting students with serious allergies. Please be patient and take extra caution during curbside drop-off as Lower School and Middle School families will be dropping off at the same time.

Middle School Experience Tour

Tuesday, Nov. 8, 9:00am–11:15am

Parents of current 4th and 5th grade students are invited to this special student-led tour, where students will show you their classrooms in action, introduce you to their teachers, and share their perspective on middle school at Emerson.

Prospective Families Invited to K-8 Tour

If you know of a family considering Emerson, or who should be, please invite them to attend. Students will still lead the way, but the tour will extend beyond the middle school experience our current families will partake in.

Girls’ Friendships & Drama: How to Support Your Daughter, by Dr. Tim Jordan

Tuesday, Nov. 1, 7:00pm in the Arts and Innovation Ctr

In this live-audience webinar, parents will become aware of the pressures on girls today and the hidden culture of girls’ relationship aggressions. Parents will take away new skills to help girls handle conflicts directly and effectively; know and express their emotions in healthy ways; handle teasing and “mean words”; speak with authority, be unafraid of making mistakes; and become strong leaders. This session is for parents of girls ages K-12.
+ Learn more

6 Students Auditioning for All-State Band and Orchestra

Several of our 7th and 8th grade members are auditioning this weekend for the All-State Band and Orchestra programs. Along with 2,000-plus students from across the state, these students will perform “blind” auditions for the opportunity to rehearse and perform with the All-State Ensembles in Grand Rapids this January. We wish them great luck and hope to see them on the All-State stage!

Maoz Bareket
Shruthi Chakravarthy
Hannah Halberstam
Zach Halberstam
Josh Moss
Julian Toogood

Emerson Book Fair Gives 25% Back

Sunday, Nov. 13. 5:00pm–8:00pm at Nicola’s Books

The book fair is a wonderful family event that supports the Emerson library as well as classroom collections. Nicola’s gives 25% of proceeds from the event to support the Emerson Library. As with years past, shoppers can choose from Nicola’s full selection of in-stock books or purchase gift cards to use in the future. All lower school students will have an opportunity to participate in group performances, as well as some middle school students. So please, mark your calendars, gather up your family and join us for an evening of delightful student performances, refreshments and shopping!

Auction 2017 is Now Underway!

Save the Date: Friday, Mar. 10, 2017

Thank you to all of the parents who attended this week’s Auction Kick-Off meeting. Many have already stepped up to fill important roles, but volunteers are still needed to chair committees, serve as a leaders, or to be Auction Ambassadors. We hope you will get involved and join the fun!
+ Learn more and volunteer

2017 Auction Leadership

Parent Director: Diana Rooks
Honorary Chairs: Christine and James Kim
Acquisitions Chairs: Kris Evangelista and Katherine Arst
Class Baskets Chair: Elizabeth Caswell
Data Team: Caroline Begola, Dana DeBord, Suzan Duenyas
Decorations Chair: Corina Mazak
Displays & Packaging Chair: Kathy Akhoury
Donation Pick up Chair: Liz Tolbert
Raffles & Classroom Offerings Chair: Open
Wine Pull Chair: Hanna Song

Emerson Soccer Wins Championship!

Dramatic Tournament Victory, Season Champs

By Coach Lenny: The Emerson middle school soccer team wrapped up their season Saturday as they hosted the AAIAA tournament. Top seed by virtue of their perfect regular season record, Emerson had a bye Friday, and started Saturday’s play against Washtenaw Christian…
+ Read more about the dramatic tournament finale

Parent Community Event: Being Bigger Than Your Triggers, with Annie Zirkel

Wednesday, Nov. 9, 7:00pm in the Arts and Innovation Center at Emerson School

Local relationship consultant, Annie Zirkel, will present to current and future middle school families about the impact that triggers can have on students and adults. She will discuss the physiological impact of being triggered, the neuroscience behind the triggered brain, and how we can support students when they are triggered. We may even learn more about how we can support ourselves when we are triggered.
+ Visit Annie Zirkel’s website for more information

How Schools Can Soften The Blow Of Sixth Grade

Advisory, Grade Level Collaboration, Social-Emotional

In a follow-up to the story about 6th graders doing best in K-8 schools, Association for Middle Level Education Director Dru Tomlin was asked how schools could make the transition easier. His suggestions include making time for grade level teachers to meet, social-emotional learning, and an advisory system—all part of Emerson’s Middle School.

According to Tomlin, “Another structure that is imperative, I think, is something called advisory or advisement…That’s the environment in which young adolescents flourish: When they feel like they have a personal connection and someone who really cares about them.”
+ Read the full story on NPR
+ Read the study in the American Educational Research Journal

Community Activities

Give Leftover Candy to Operation Gratitude

Donation in Commons and Fish Bowl Oct. 31–Nov. 7

Operation Gratitude is a non-profit, volunteer-based organization that sends care packages to the Military and First Responder Communities. The organization’s mission is to say “Thank You” and express it’s appreciation of the American people to all who serve. Last year the Emerson community donated more than 100 pounds of candy, and organizers Lucas Caswell hopes to beat that this year. Donation bins will be in the middle school commons and the fish bowl Oct. 31 through Nov. 7.
+ Contact Lucas Caswell with questions or for more info

‘Tween Girls’ Portrait Campaign Needs Volunteer Models

Proceeds to Ronald McDonald House of A2

Emerson parent Cheryl Hall, of Cheryl Hall Photography, is seeking girls ages 9 to 11 to be photographed for a “Tween Girls” book, with proceeds benefitting Ronald McDonald House of Ann Arbor. Each Participant will receive a fine art 7×5 portrait.
+ Learn more or contact Cheryl Hall at cheryl@studiochp.com

Mindful Parent Workshop: Mindful Games that Reduce Stress in Our Youth and Ourselves

Saturday, Oct. 29 in Ann Arbor

Several Emerson faculty and staff will be attending the workshop for professionals, and families are encouraged to attend the parent workshop. In this talk, Susan Kaiser Greenland, renowned author and teacher of mindfulness, will offer us information about true and tested mindfulness practices we can apply to help reduce stress in our children and cultivate the essential life skills of attention (A), emotional balance (B) and compassion (C).
+ Reserve your tickets

The Hunchback of Notre Dame at Pioneer

Nov. 4, 6, 11, 12, 13 at Pioneer High School

Congrats to Emerson alums Claire Robinson and Henry Kiley, who will be performing in the upcoming performance of The Hunchback of Notre Dame at Pioneer High School!
+ Learn more

Trimathlon Community Event

Sunday, Nov. 5 at 9:00am

Mathnasium of Dexter will host a fun math competition open to all students who are in grades 2, 3, 4 and 5.
+ Learn more

Figuring Out Friendships: A Mother-Daughter Workshop for Girls

Junior League of Ann Arbor on Saturday, Nov. 12, 9:00am–1:00pm

For mothers of 5th and 6th grade girls, this workshop is to open conversations between you and your daughters while maintaining her child’s growing need for independence.

To help build positive alliances between mothers and daughters
Teaches about relational aggression
Offers skills to help young adolescents cope with challenges they may encounter

+ Learn more

Social Security Retirement Basics Event

By Key Bank on Tuesday, Nov. 15 at 4:30 in the AIC

Key Bank’s Bob Hartnett was employed by the Social Security Administration for more than 40 years. He will share his insight into Social Security at this free event for the Emerson community.
+ Learn more

WHAT’S AHEAD

Oct. 27, 7:30am–9:30am

3rd Grade Coffee with the Head

Oct. 27, 4:00pm

Volleyball Home vs. CTK

Oct. 27, 4:15pm

Cross Country at St. Francis

Oct. 28, 8:45am

Halloween Parade

Oct. 28, 10:30am

Halloween Carnival by ESPO
+ Get involved

Oct. 29

Volleyball Tournament at WCA

Oct. 29-30

All State Band and Orchestra Auditions

Nov. 1

LATE START: 10:00am
(Childcare available)

Nov. 1, 7:00pm

Girls’ Friendships & Drama: How to Support Your Daughter, by Dr. Tim Jordan

Nov. 4, 3:00pm

Band and Orchestra Survivor Challenge

Nov. 8

NO BUS SERVICE: Due to AAPS Closure for Elections

Nov. 8, 9:00am

Admissions: Middle School Experience Tour

Nov. 8, 4:30pm

Boys Basketball at St. Mary’s

Nov. 9

Picture Retake Day

Nov. 9, 8:30am

ESPO Meeting

Nov. 9, 7:00pm

Parent Community Event: Being Bigger than Your Triggers, by Annie Zirkel

Nov. 10, 4:00pm

Boys Basketball at Spiritus Sanctus Academy

Nov. 10, 7:00pm

Middle School Band and Orchestra Concert

Nov. 11, 7:30am–9:30am

2nd Grade Coffee with the Head

Nov. 13, 5:00pm–8:30pm

Emerson Book Fair at Nicola’s Books

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+ 2016-2017 Print Calendar
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October 20th, 2016

October

20

Inspired Food Forests Designed by Students

Students in the Permaculture elective are working together to design food forests—a source of food that mimics what would naturally be available in our climate. It’s an ambitious task, but they’ve risen to the challenge and are already presenting some outstanding concepts.
+ See more photos

Letter from the Head of School

Our Brains Are Working Against Us

Dear Parents,

It isn’t easy to make a thoughtful decision. And that includes something as straightforward as picking the right Halloween costume.

Next week, many of our students and faculty will be dressed in costumes as part of our Halloween celebration. A number of our parents will come in costume as well (and thanks to them for volunteering!) But as much as I enjoy the fun of dressing up in a costume, I do get a little stressed out about selecting the right outfit. Should I go for funny? Topical? Scary-but-not-too-scary? And is my costume offensive in any way?

Interestingly, our brains try to keep us from thinking too hard about such decisions. There’s a beautiful chart I came across last week, categorizing over 170 inherent cognitive biases. Each day, our brains are faced with too much information, not enough meaning, limited capacity, and a need to act quickly. So trying to think deeply, one’s Halloween costume choice may not seem worth the effort.

And yet, if we don’t think carefully, we may end up stereotyping, and we might assume that what we find appropriate will be acceptable for others. For example, is it ok to change one’s skin color to a different shade? (Somewhere I once read that if you do decide to change your skin color as part of your costume, it’s safest to pick a color found in gummy bears, rather than people.)

To that end, I recently came across Ohio University’s, We’re a Culture, Not a Costume, campaign. It’s an important reminder that some costumes create barriers, and that we should take the time to be thoughtful in our choices.

So, after much thought, I’ve decided to dress up as James T. Kirk from Star Trek. Makes sense, given how often I get mistaken for Chris Pine.

Happy Halloween,

– John Huber

All School News and Info

Test of Parent Alert at 2pm on Friday

Expect a Text Message and Phone Call

Please be aware that we will be testing the Parent Alert system on Friday, Oct. 21. This system is only used to notify parents of urgent matters, like school closures and critical situations. Parents will receive a text and phone call at the mobile phone on file in RenWeb. If you do not receive an alert, please contact the Lower School or Middle School office to update your contact info.

10:00am Late Start on Tuesday, Nov. 1

Childcare is Available Beginning at 7:30am

Thank you for keeping our teachers on the cutting edge by making time for professional development opportunities like this. Please be patient and take extra caution during curbside drop-off as Lower School and Middle School families will be dropping off at the same time.

Emerson Soccer Wins Championship!

Dramatic Tournament Victory, Season Champs

By Coach Lenny: The Emerson middle school soccer team wrapped up their season Saturday as they hosted the AAIAA tournament. Top seed by virtue of their perfect regular season record, Emerson had a bye Friday, and started Saturday’s play against Washtenaw Christian…
+ Read more about the dramatic tournament finale

Allergy Alert: Halloween Carnival Food

Food Ingredient and Nutrition Info Available

Food is available to students during the Halloween Carnival. To minumize the risk to students with allergies, the following ingredient and nutrition information is available.
+ Food Nutrition Info
+ Ingredient List

Volunteers Needed for Halloween Carnival

Sign up early to secure your preferred spot

Halloween is quickly approaching and plans are underway for our ESPO Halloween Carnival on Friday, Oct. 28! This is such a fun event for the kids (and adults), but we need lots of help. There are many ways to help—donating items, spending time helping decorate, and helping on the day of the carnival.
+ Contact Christine Kim with questions
+ Sign up to help!

Emerson Book Fair is Around the Corner!

Sunday, Nov. 13. 5:00pm–8:00pm at Nicola’s Books

The book fair is a wonderful family event that supports the Emerson library as well as classroom book collections. 25% of proceeds from the event go to support the Emerson library. So please, mark your calendars, gather up your family and join us for an evening of delightful student performances, refreshments and shopping! More details to follow….

Wanted: Your Junk – A Child’s Treasure

Linda’s Library Contest Will Use Small Toys as Prizes

Each day before and after school, the library has many children do Linda’s contest, which matches her jewelry to events of the day. Each child who enters wins a small prize which was donated by someone like you. Please bring your unwanted toys (e.g. fast food toys, goodie bag toys, things your child has outgrown) to Linda, and she will ensure it makes a child very happy.

Auction 2017 is Now Underway!

Save the Date: Friday, Mar. 10, 2017

Thank you to all of the parents who attended this week’s Auction Kick-Off meeting. Many have already stepped up to fill important roles, but volunteers are still needed to chair committees, serve as a leaders, or to be Auction Ambassadors. We hope you will get involved and join the fun!
+ Learn more and volunteer

2017 Auction Leadership

Parent Director: Diana Rooks
Honorary Chairs: Christine and James Kim
Acquisitions Chairs: Kris Evangelista and Katherine Arst
Class Baskets Chair: Elizabeth Caswell
Data Team: Caroline Begola, Dana DeBord, Suzan Duenyas
Decorations Chair: Corina Mazak
Displays & Packaging Chair: Kathy Akhoury
Donation Pick up Chair: Liz Tolbert
Raffles & Classroom Offerings Chair: Open
Wine Pull Chair: Hanna Song

How Schools Can Soften The Blow Of Sixth Grade

Advisory, Grade Level Collaboration, Social-Emotional

In a follow-up to the story about 6th graders doing best in K-8 schools, Association for Middle Level Education Director Dru Tomlin was asked how schools could make the transition easier. His suggestions include making time for grade level teachers to meet, social-emotional learning, and an advisory system—all part of Emerson’s Middle School.

According to Tomlin, “Another structure that is imperative, I think, is something called advisory or advisement…That’s the environment in which young adolescents flourish: When they feel like they have a personal connection and someone who really cares about them.”
+ Read the full story on NPR
+ Read the study in the American Educational Research Journal

Girls’ Friendships & Drama: How to Support Your Daughter, by Dr. Tim Jordan

Tuesday, Nov. 1, 7:00pm in the Arts and Innovation Ctr

In this webinar, parents will become aware of the pressures on girls today and the hidden culture of girls’ relationship aggressions. Parents will take away new skills to help girls handle conflicts directly and effectively; know and express their emotions in healthy ways; handle teasing and “mean words”; speak with authority, be unafraid of making mistakes; and become strong leaders. This session is for parents of girls ages K-12.

Coffee with the Head of School Dates

By Grade, 7:30am–9:30am on the Dates Below

Parents are invited to start the school year with a cup of coffee and candid conversation with Head of School John Huber. It’s a great opportunity to meet John, and to share whatever is on your mind—the good and the bad.

To accommodate working parents, these coffees will begin at 7:30am (complimentary childcare available, reservations required). Come early and leave by 8:30am, or arrive at the normal school start time and stay through 9:30am.

8th Grade: September 16
7th Grade: September 23
6th Grade: September 29
5th Grade: October 7
4th Grade: October 21
3rd Grade: October 27
2nd Grade: November 11
1st Grade: November 18
Kindergarten: November 21

Thank You to Parents for the Feast!

This time last week, teachers were wrapping up a long day of classes and about to start a long night of parent-teacher conferences. Without time to leave for dinners, our incredibly generous parent body stepped up to feed our teachers, filling their bellies and warming their hearts. THANK YOU!

Community Activities

Give Leftover Candy to Operation Gratitude

Donation in Commons and Fish Bowl Oct. 29–Nov. 7

Operation Gratitude is a non-profit, volunteer-based organization that sends care packages to the Military and First Responder Communities. The organization’s mission is to say “Thank You” and express it’s appreciation of the American people to all who serve. Last year the Emerson community donated more than 100 pounds of candy, and organizers Lucas and Lance Caswell hopes to beat that this year. Donation bins will be in the middle school commons and the fish bowl Oct. 29 through Nov. 7.
+ Contact Lucas Caswell with questions or for more info

‘Tween Girls’ Portrait Campaign Needs Volunteer Models

Proceeds to Ronald McDonald House of A2

Emerson parent Cheryl Hall, of Cheryl Hall Photography, is seeking girls ages 9 to 11 to be photographed for a “Tween Girls” book, with proceeds benefitting Ronald McDonald House of Ann Arbor. Each Participant will receive a fine art 7×5 portrait.
+ Learn more or contact Cheryl Hall at cheryl@studiochp.com

Cyber Awareness and Internet Safety Forum: What Families Need to Know

Thursday, Oct. 20, 7:00pm at Forsythe Middle School

95% of teenagers use the internet. Understand how to use it safely. This session is intended for parents and caretakers and will address online predators, sexting, digital reputations and other relevant issues.
+ Learn more

Mindful Parent Workshop: Mindful Games that Reduce Stress in Our Youth and Ourselves

Thursday, Oct. 27 in Birmingham or Saturday, Oct. 29 in Ann Arbor

Several Emerson faculty and staff will be attending the workshop for professionals, and families are encouraged to attend the parent workshop. In this talk, Susan Kaiser Greenland, renowned author and teacher of mindfulness, will offer us information about true and tested mindfulness practices we can apply to help reduce stress in our children and cultivate the essential life skills of attention (A), emotional balance (B) and compassion (C).
+ Reserve your tickets

Trimathlon Community Event

Sunday, Nov. 5 at 9:00am

Mathnasium of Dexter will host a fun math competition open to all students who are in grades 2, 3, 4 and 5.
+ Learn more

Social Security Retirement Basics Event

By Key Bank on Tuesday, Nov. 15 at 4:30 in the AIC

Key Bank’s Bob Hartnett was employed by the Social Security Administration for more than 40 years. He will share his insight into Social Security at this free event for the Emerson community.
+ Learn more

October 17th, 2016

New, Affordable, 5-Week Format for Middle School Students

Wednesdays, 3:00pm-6:00pm, Oct. 26 – Nov. 30
In response to Emerson family feedback for a shorter, more affordable Dale Carnegie training experience, we are pleased to offer this five-week program which includes the most essential components of the full 8-week course, in a powerful and concise format. Any students in grades 6–8 are welcome, including students from other schools.

The Workshop will help participants to:

Enhance self-confidence
Strengthen verbal communication skills
Manage stress and maintain a positive attitude
Overcome fear
Build better relationships at home, school, and in social situations

The Details

Who: 6th-8th graders
What: Specially-designed, five-session Dale Carnegie® Workshop!
When: Wednesdays, 3:00pm-6:00pm, Oct. 26 – Nov. 30 (no class Nov. 23)
Where: Middle School Room 205
Fee: $600 billed to your account at the end of October
Included: snack, participant manual, and all supplies

For more information or to reserve a spot, contact Carly Meloche at cmeloche@emerson-school.org by October 19, 2016.

October 17th, 2016

By Coach Lenny Dale, Soccer Coach, Athletic Director, and Phys. Ed. Teacher

The Emerson middle school soccer team wrapped up their season Saturday as they hosted the AAIAA tournament. Top seed by virtue of their perfect regular season record, Emerson had a bye Friday, and started Saturday’s play against Washtenaw Christian, winners Friday against Spiritus Sanctus Plymouth. The Eagles prevailed, 4-1, on goals from Zack Kubisiak, Gabe Kellman, Michael Michaliska and Terence Ashforth. The win notwithstanding, Emerson’s play was ragged in the second half, lacking the quickness and intensity shown in the final games of the regular season.

Still, the win put the Eagles in the championship game, against 2-seed Ann Arbor Christian, who were there after edging Steiner School. Prior to the championship, Steiner battled to 3rd place, knocking off SSP and WCA back to back.

The final was as a final should be – tense, and hard fought. Gabe scored first, but AACS tied the scored before the half. Gabe scored twice more in the second half, but, just as Emerson might have been able to feel they were safely ahead, or perhaps because of it, AACS struck back twice to tie the score. The Eagles had a few chances that very narrowly missed. One, on a scramble in the AACS crease, was covered by the keeper just before it crossed the line. Another, a beautifully lofted pass from Gabe to Zack, who ran onto it and chipped it, on the bounce, over the keeper, but inches wide right.

Tied 3-3, the game went to over-time. The best chance came when Zack fed a wonderful through ball to Gabe, who ran onto it and tapped it past the on-coming keeper, but a brilliant play by an AACS defender saw it swept away inches from crossing the line.

After overtime came a shootout. Each team put forward 5 shooters, and each team switched to a new keeper. Emerson shot first, scored, Gabe saved the first AACS shot, and Emerson went in to the last round of the 5 shots ahead 1, but AACS saved the last Emerson shot and then scored to tie, moving to a sudden death shootout. Zack, just like the first time around, calmly and cleanly scored again, and then Gabe saved the next AACS shot and it was over. It goes in the books as a 4-3 win, with Emerson completing an undefeated, untied season

October 13th, 2016

October

13

Learning the Art of Tap Dance with the UMS

These 4th graders experienced the movement, sound, and energy a tap dancer makes during a special UMS workshop—a prelude to seeing Dorrance Dance! at UMS—led by the brilliant Susan Filipiak and Emerson alumna Jenny Herzog. Thank you UMS!
+ See more photos

Letter from the Head of School

Paper or Plastic?

Dear parents,

It seems like forever since I’ve heard this question at the checkout at the grocery store. And yet this question popped into my head during a recent discussion about how we as a school communicate with our parents.

Our discussion centered around our Family Directory, the list of parent addresses, phone numbers, and emails we print every year and provide for each family. (As an aside, your copy of the Family Directory will be arriving early next week.) Going forward, should we continue to make print copies?

In our ongoing effort to reduce waste and add convenience, the school has already made many transitions from print to digital—such as this very e-newsletter. However, we know that some prefer print materials that don’t rely on phones that lose their charge and internet connections that may drop.

So, before we contemplate a switch for next year, we thought we’d take a straw poll (digitally, of course).

Family Directory – Paper or Digital?

I thank you for your feedback on this. While it is a small question, in the greater scope of our work it helps to inform us as to how best to support you.

– John Huber

All School News and Info

No School Tomorrow, Friday, Oct. 14

Childcare Available (Registration is Required)

Full day child care is available from 8:00am – 3:00pm at $55/day.
After care is available from 3:00pm – 6:00pm at $6/hour.
Hourly child care during conferences is available at $10/hour. Reservations required.
All students in the building must sign into the after care program in the library while parents attend conferences.
Send your child with a lunch if he/she will be with us from 12:00pm – 12:30pm.

+ Contact Carly Meloche to register or ask questions

Volunteers + Time + Talent = Emerson’s Most Fabulous Party!

Wednesday, Oct. 19 at 8:30am in MS Conf. Room 212

Please join us! Planning is underway for the annual Auction (Friday, March 10, 2017). At the Auction Kick-off meeting meet other parents and learn how you can volunteer and share your talents, whether in a leadership or committee role, or with fun one-day tasks. Please contact Lorna Hildebrandt (lhildebrandt@emerson-school.org or 734-665-5662, ext. 306) to let her know if you can attend, or if you’re interested but not able make the meeting. Light refreshments will be served. We’d be thrilled if you just showed up too!
+ Learn more and volunteer

First Kaleidoscope Meeting Next Week

Wednesday, Oct. 19, 3:15–4:30, Monthly Thereafter

Kaleidoscope allows Emerson students who self-identify as children of color to come together to reflect upon, feel empowered by, and be validated in their identity. Friends and those curious about this group, whether or not they identify themselves as someone of color, are welcome to join. The first monthly meeting of the year is next Wednesday, October 19 from 3:15-4:30pm. A snack will be offered at each meeting followed by an opening welcome with questions and discussions. Hands-on activities will be planned for participation at each session with a time for reflection, sharing, and closing. Led by Linda and Jennifer Tanau, this class is free and meets in the Art Room.
+ RSVP by emailing Rose Hacker

Sports Update

Admissions Tour and Info Event

Wednesday, Oct. 19 at 9:00am

If you know of a family who is considering Emerson—or should be—please invite them to this laid-back group tour, where they will see our K-8 classrooms in action, meet faculty and staff, and talk with parents about what makes Emerson such a special place to learn.
+ Event info

Volunteers Needed for Halloween Carnival

Sign up early to secure your preferred spot

Halloween is quickly approaching and plans are underway for our ESPO Halloween Carnival on Friday, Oct. 28! This is such a fun event for the kids (and adults), but we need lots of help. There are many ways to help—donating items, spending time helping decorate, and helping on the day of the carnival.
+ Contact Christine Kim with questions
+ Sign up to help!

Wanted: Your Junk – A Child’s Treasure

Linda’s Library Contest Will Use Small Toys as Prizes

Each day before and after school, the library has many children do Linda’s contest, which matches her jewelry to events of the day. Each child who enters wins a small prize which was donated by someone like you. Please bring your unwanted toys (e.g. fast food toys, goodie bag toys, things your child has outgrown) to Linda, and she will ensure it makes a child very happy.

Please Be Considerate Drivers

Pick-up and drop-off are busy and often tense times for parents. But even if your student is running late for school, or you have an appointment, or you just want to get through the line-up as quickly as possible, please show your respect and consideration for all parents by following the curbside etiquette.
+ Pick-Up and Drop-Off 101: Rules and Etiquette

Science Fair Moved to Jan. 26

Scientists and Enthusiasts Needed for ‘Astrofest’

The Emerson Science Department is pleased to announce that we will be presenting a science fair of incredible, astronomical proportions—a virtual, universal festival of Space—something we call… ASTROFEST 2017!

In order to offer the Emerson community unique astronomy experiences and out-of-this-world information, we are looking for scientists and enthusiasts who would be willing to present their space expertise, passions, and materials/resources the evening of January 26th. Please contact Kelly Vohland (kvohland@emerson-school.org) if you are interested.

Study Finds 6th Graders Do Best in K-8 Schools

Less Bullying and Fighting, More Safety and Belonging

Sixth graders do best in K-8 schools where they’re the upperclassmen—the leaders and “top dogs.” That’s according to a massive study of more than 90,000 students in 500 schools.

According to the study published in the American Educational Research Journal, “This paper provides the first credibly causal evidence that top dog status improves the learning environment and academic achievement. We further find that the top dog effect is strongest in 6th grade and in schools with longer grade spans and that the top dog effect is not explained by new students to a school or student height.”
+ Read the full story on NPR
+ Read the study in the American Educational Research Journal

Emerson Community Event: Being Bigger Than Your Triggers – Annie Zirkel

RESCHEDULED: Wednesday, Nov. 9, 7:00pm

Local relationship consultant, Annie Zirkel, will present to current and future middle school families about the impact that triggers can have on students and adults. She will discuss the physiological impact of being triggered, the neuroscience behind the triggered brain, and how we can support students when they are triggered. We may even learn more about how we can support ourselves when we are triggered. Please visit Annie Zirkel’s website for more information on this session (http://www.anniezirkel.com/)

33 Families Added to Carpool Map

Check to See Changes, Join in Carpool

Families continue to join the carpool map—33 new families to date. If you already participate in the carpool map, you may want to check to see if there are other families near you. If you don’t participate, please consider joining to free up time, be good stewards of the environment, meet others in our community, and to help relieve transportation challenges for other Emerson families.
+ Participate in the Carpool Map

Coffee with the Head of School Dates

By Grade, 7:30am–9:30am on the Dates Below

Parents are invited to start the school year with a cup of coffee and candid conversation with Head of School John Huber. It’s a great opportunity to meet John, and to share whatever is on your mind—the good and the bad.

To accommodate working parents, these coffees will begin at 7:30am (complimentary childcare available, reservations required). Come early and leave by 8:30am, or arrive at the normal school start time and stay through 9:30am.

8th Grade: September 16
7th Grade: September 23
6th Grade: September 29
5th Grade: October 7
4th Grade: October 21
3rd Grade: October 27
2nd Grade: November 11
1st Grade: November 18
Kindergarten: November 21

The Observatory Has Been Moved

The observatory is now on its new perch near the soccer fields and ready for student stargazing. Big thanks to the strong faculty and staff who lifted the surprisingly heavy top into place!
+ See more photos

Community Activities

Mindful Parent Workshop: Mindful Games that Reduce Stress in Our Youth and Ourselves

Thursday, Oct. 27 in Birmingham or Saturday, Oct. 29 in Ann Arbor

Several Emerson faculty and staff will be attending the workshop for professionals, and families are encouraged to attend the parent workshop. In this talk, Susan Kaiser Greenland, renowned author and teacher of mindfulness, will offer us information about true and tested mindfulness practices we can apply to help reduce stress in our children and cultivate the essential life skills of attention (A), emotional balance (B) and compassion (C).
+ Reserve your tickets

Cyber Awareness and Internet Safety Forum: What Families Need to Know

Thursday, Oct. 20, 7:00pm at Forsythe Middle School

95% of teenagers use the internet. Understand how to use it safely. This session is intended for parents and caretakers and will address online predators, sexting, digital reputations and other relevant issues.
+ Learn more

Row Along with the Pioneer Crew Team

Saturday, October 15, 10:00am – 2:30pm

This event will feature 90 min. rowing lessons by Pioneer coaches and a row in the Huron River in a racing boat. Advance registration required. See http://www.pioneercrew.org/ for more details about age groups, cost, or to register, or contact Laura Davis at laladavis92@gmail.com.

Trimathlon Community Event

Sunday, Nov. 5 at 9:00am

Mathnasium of Dexter will host a fun math competition open to all students who are in grades 2, 3, 4 and 5.
+ Learn more

October 13th, 2016

By Coach Lenny Dale, Soccer Coach, Athletic Director, and Phys. Ed. Teacher

Emerson’s middle school soccer team secured its fifth consecutive regular season championship on Monday, dominating Steiner School in an 8-1 win. Gabe Kellman scored 2 minutes into the game, then got what would prove to be the eventual game-winner in the 13th minute. Zack Kubisiak and Samuel Bechar each scored late in the first half to give the Eagles a 4-0 edge at intermission. Gabe scored again in the opening minute of the second half, and, after Steiner got on the board in the 35th minute, Samuel got his second to return the margin to 5 goals. Grant Murphy made it 7-1 mid-way through the half, and Loui Gabaron concluded the scoring with 4 minutes left.

Ian Lewis made two strong saves in goal, and, in anticipation of being shorthanded for the upcoming tournament, various combinations of Kieran Heung, Gillian Giordano, Steven Theisen, Hayg Balis and Alexander Bauer were tried and generally showed themselves as capable back lines.

October 7th, 2016

By Coach Bryan Seymour, Cross Country Coach and Language Arts Teacher

Strong Finishes in Two-Mile County Farm Park Race

The Emerson cross country runners performed very admirably in their most recent 2 mile race at County Farm Park while running with St. Francis, St. Thomas, St. Paul, and Honey Creek. On the girls side, sixth grader Katarina Bauer finished 2nd in the 5th/6th grade race, while fifth grader Ava Hall finished 2nd in the varsity (typically 7th/8th grade) race! For the boys, sixth grader Anthony Van Oyen finished in a comfortable 1st place, while eighth grader Conor Pyle finished in 4th place with three other Emerson runners coming in 7th, 8th, and 11th to give Emerson a solid score for the second race in a row. Looking forward to Friday’s meet at Emerson – come cheer on your Eagles XC team at 4pm!

October 6th, 2016

By Coach Lenny Dale, Soccer Coach, Athletic Director, and Phys. Ed. Teacher

Oct. 3: Second Half of Season Starts With Win Against Washtenaw Christian

The Emerson Middle School soccer team hosted Washtenaw Christian Academy Monday, to begin the second half of their season. Gabe Kellman had the scoring touch early, including a header off a corner from Zack Kubisiak, staking the Eagles to a 2-0 lead, before WCA scored on a well-struck free kick from 25 yards out that came down under the cross bar and just inside the post to keeper Thor Helgeson’s right. Gabe got the goal back soon enough, though, for his hat trick, and Zack kept assisting on goals, setting up Arjun Bajaj and Luka Hecht, both before the half, and Emerson was comfortably ahead, 5-1. In the second half, Steven Theisen converted a nice lead pass from Gabe, and Grant Murphy twice found the net, bringing the final score to 8-1 in favor of the Eagles.

For all the offensive fireworks, it was the defense that, yet again, quietly did yeoman’s work. Gillian Giordano, Luka, Kieran Heung, Alexander Bauer, and Steven shared duty along the back 3, and Gabe, Steven and Grant shared time at defensive center mid, forming a defensive diamond that consistently shut down the opposition.

Oct. 4: Win Against St. Francis Improves Emerson Record to 7-0

The Emerson Middle School soccer team earned their 7th win without a loss Tuesday, besting St. Francis, 7-0. The Mustang keeper played an excellent game, the final score notwithstanding. The Eagle defense completely shut down the Mustangs until the final few minutes, when St Francis was able to muster a few chances against a younger Emerson back line. The Eagle keepers, Michael Needham, Ian Lewis and, at the end, Luka Hecht, handled everything that came their way though, and the duo of Gabe Kellman and Luka provided more than enough scoring. Gabe scored four on the day, and Luka added a hat trick, while a number of others came close, but couldn’t quite finish. Part of the issue was generally slow ball movement.

Emerson plays at Ann Arbor Christian on Thursday, and will need to get cleaner finishes, and quicker play overall, if they are to continue to their season undefeated.

Oct. 6: Big Road Trip Win Against Ann Arbor Christian

The Emerson Middle School soccer team went up US23 to take on Ann Arbor Christian School Thursday afternoon, for a match-up that would go a long way toward determining the AAIAA regular season champion. AACS had been the only team to score more than a single goal and also to hold a lead against the Eagles this season, and playing them on their home pitch in the unseasonable heat promised a hard-fought game.
The game opened with both teams making runs deep into their offensive zones, and AACS had a decent chance early, but their shot from the corner of the 18-yard box crossed outside the far post. Emerson gradually began to have the better of the play, though unable to quite punch through the AACS defense, which was bringing all but one player back into their 18-yard area, clogging things up. Finally, in the 16th minute, Gabe Kellman held the ball at the corner of the 6-yard box, turned two defenders, fed Luka Hecht directly in front of the goal, Luka buried it, and the Eagles started finding creases, gaps, and the net. Gabe had a shot blocked, but Lance Caswell was there to put away the rebound, and then Gabe scored two in a row, followed by Luka getting his second just before the half. What had been a fairly tense game was suddenly 5-0, and the Emerson kids were feeling confident about the way they were playing. Gabe scored on a free kick in the second half, and, while AACS did score midway through the period, the Eagle defense was able to reassert itself. The AACS midfielder who had scored a hat-trick in the first meeting between the teams was visibly frustrated by the defensive attention of Luka, who was on him like spots on dice throughout this game. Zack Kubisiak quickly got that one goal back, re-establishing a 6-goal margin at 7-1, and then Zack added the coup de grace, bringing the final tally to 8-1. It was all over but the shouting. Once again, the Eagle defense was suffocating, with Kieran Heung, Julian Skifstad, Gillian Giordano, Alex Bauer, Gabe, Luka, Zack, and, frankly, the entire team making life miserable for AACS.

Emerson is in commanding position to be the season champs, with a perfect record through 8 games. Two games remain on the regular season schedule – a home game Monday, 10/10, with Steiner School, followed by a trip to Washtenaw Christian on Thursday, 10/13, both starting at 4o’clock.

October 6th, 2016

OCTOBER

6

Author Laurie Halse Anderson Visits Emerson Students

Renowned author Laurie Halse Anderson talked with students about the childhood creativity that helped her become an author, and the making of her latest book, “Ashes.” A special thank you to Nicola’s Books for partnering with Emerson to create such wonderful opportunities like this for our students.
+ See more photos

Letter from the Head of School

Dear Parents,

First, thank you to everyone who helped us restore our bus service. The turnaround time from the publication of my newsletter to a response from Ann Arbor Public Schools was just over 24 hours! I’m not sure exactly which parent message did the trick, or whether it was one key individual or a flood of many concerned emails—but however we accomplished this, I thank you.

Looking ahead to next week, I do hope that you can take part in Parent/Teacher Conferences to talk with your child’s teachers and learn how your child is doing in school. This face-to-face communication is so critical for the success of our partnership, and we appreciate that you take the time to do this. (We also appreciate all the wonderful meals we receive!)

This can also be a time for a brave conversation, one in which either the parent or the teacher has a concern, and needs to bring this to the table to solve it together. It’s difficult to share a concern face-to-face, but it’s the best way we can collaborate. Proximity matters.

I think that as a parent, it’s important to remember that a student’s perception is his/her reality, and to take that as a baseline for the conversation. It’s incredibly helpful to share observations of your child’s worldview with the teacher, and recognize that this worldview may be unique to your child, and is but one interpretation of the school experience. Be aware that we can see a different side to your child. Nothing is more joyful that getting to share with parents how polite and kind their child is at school, when that same child acts much differently in the comfort of the home!

I appreciate your partnership, and thank you for the opportunity to educate your children. Parenting is difficult, fraught with emotion and family history and worry, and not one of us can claim to be professional parents. Let’s see what we can do next week to provide our support as your child develops and grows.

– John Huber

All School News and Info

Volunteers Needed for Halloween Carnival

Sign up early to secure your preferred spot

Halloween is quickly approaching and plans are underway for our ESPO Halloween Carnival on Friday, Oct. 28! This is such a fun event for the kids (and adults), but we need lots of help. There are many ways to help—donating items, spending time helping decorate, and helping on the day of the carnival.
+ Contact Christine Kim with questions
+ Sign up to help!

Science Fair Moved to Jan. 26

Scientists and Enthusiasts Needed for ‘Astrofest’

The Emerson Science Department is pleased to announce that we will be presenting a science fair of incredible, astronomical proportions—a virtual, universal festival of Space—something we call… ASTROFEST 2017!

In order to offer the Emerson community unique astronomy experiences and out-of-this-world information, we are looking for scientists and enthusiasts who would be willing to present their space expertise, passions, and materials/resources the evening of January 26th. Please contact Kelly Vohland (kvohland@emerson-school.org) if you are interested.

Schedule Parent-Teacher Conferences

The online scheduler is now open and parents can schedule conferences at http://emerson-school.ptcwizard.com through Oct. 11 at 9:00pm.

Thursday, October 13, 3:00pm – 8:00pm
Child care available 2:45-6:00pm. Child care ends promptly at 6:00pm and the normal late fee of $4/minute applies. No child care available 6:00pm – 8:00pm.
Friday, October 14, 8:00am – 3:00pm
Full-day and drop-in child care available 8:00am – 6:00pm, email Carly Meloche to register.

+ Scheduling instructions and additional info

Help Feed the Teachers: ESPO Conference Potluck

Food and Volunteers Needed Thursday, Oct. 13

From ESPO: On Thursday, October 13, Emerson teachers and staff follow up their busy school day with parent conferences until 8:00pm. Many teachers will only have a short break that doesn’t allow them to leave, so ESPO parents generously provide a potluck dinner to get them through to the end of the night.

If you prefer not to cook, we can still use your help! A few parents are needed to assist with set-up on Thursday after school as well as items that are needed such as utensils.
+ Learn more and contribute

Study Finds 6th Graders Do Best in K-8 Schools

Less Bullying and Fighting, More Safety and Belonging

Sixth graders do best in K-8 schools where they’re the upperclassmen—the leaders and “top dogs.” That’s according to a massive study of more than 90,000 students in 500 schools.

According to the study published in the American Educational Research Journal, “This paper provides the first credibly causal evidence that top dog status improves the learning environment and academic achievement. We further find that the top dog effect is strongest in 6th grade and in schools with longer grade spans and that the top dog effect is not explained by new students to a school or student height.”
+ Read the full story on NPR
+ Read the study in the American Educational Research Journal

Sports Update

Soccer team wins all three games this week and imroves record to 8-0.

Emerson Community Event: Being Bigger Than Your Triggers – Annie Zirkel

RESCHEDULED: Wednesday, Nov. 9, 7:00pm

Local relationship consultant, Annie Zirkel, will present to current and future middle school families about the impact that triggers can have on students and adults. She will discuss the physiological impact of being triggered, the neuroscience behind the triggered brain, and how we can support students when they are triggered. We may even learn more about how we can support ourselves when we are triggered. Please visit Annie Zirkel’s website for more information on this session (http://www.anniezirkel.com/)

No Glass Bottles at School Please

Several recent accidents have caused quite a mess, which could easily be avoided. Please do not send glass bottles to school.

Lower School Art Square 1 Fundraiser

Artwork Must Be Submitted by Oct. 18

The Lower School art classes will once again participate in theSquare 1 Art fundraiser. This fundraiser is an opportunity for families to purchase mugs, greeting cards, t-shirts, phone cases, pillow cases, and key chains—just a few of huge array of items available—and many families like to use these as gifts for the holidays.. Purchasing items is completely optional, but the proceeds will offset some of the cost of buses for the Toledo and Detroit art museums trips in the spring.
+ Learn more

Free Pizza and Smiles Could Be Yours!

Volunteer to Serve ESPO Pizza Lunch on a Friday

Please sign up to help with an ESPO Pizza Lunch on a Friday! It’s fun, easy, and a very small time commitment. Choose a Friday that works for you—opportunities are available throughout the year—and enjoy the smile on your child’s face when they see you helping out at school! Volunteers also receive a complimentary slice of pizza.
+ Sign up to volunteer

30 Families Added to Carpool Map

Check to See Changes, Join in Carpool

Families continue to join the carpool map—30 new families to date. If you already participate in the carpool map, you may want to check to see if there are other families near you. If you don’t participate, please consider joining to free up time, be good stewards of the environment, meet others in our community, and to help relieve transportation challenges for other Emerson families.
+ Participate in the Carpool Map

Coffee with the Head of School Dates

By Grade, 7:30am–9:30am on the Dates Below

Parents are invited to start the school year with a cup of coffee and candid conversation with Head of School John Huber. It’s a great opportunity to meet John, and to share whatever is on your mind—the good and the bad.

To accommodate working parents, these coffees will begin at 7:30am (complimentary childcare available, reservations required). Come early and leave by 8:30am, or arrive at the normal school start time and stay through 9:30am.

8th Grade: September 16
7th Grade: September 23
6th Grade: September 29
5th Grade: October 7
4th Grade: October 21
3rd Grade: October 27
2nd Grade: November 11
1st Grade: November 18
Kindergarten: November 21

Community Activities

Mindful Parent Workshop: Mindful Games that Reduce Stress in Our Youth and Ourselves

Thursday, Oct. 27 in Birmingham or Saturday, Oct. 29 in Ann Arbor

Several Emerson faculty and staff will be attending the workshop for professionals, and families are encouraged to attend the parent workshop. In this talk, Susan Kaiser Greenland, renowned author and teacher of mindfulness, will offer us information about true and tested mindfulness practices we can apply to help reduce stress in our children and cultivate the essential life skills of attention (A), emotional balance (B) and compassion (C).
+ Reserve your tickets

Cyber Awareness and Internet Safety Forum: What Families Need to Know

Thursday, Oct. 20, 7:00pm at Forsythe Middle School

95% of teenagers use the internet. Understand how to use it safely. This session is intended for parents and caretakers and will address online predators, sexting, digital reputations and other relevant issues.
+ Learn more

Row Along with the Pioneer Crew Team

Saturday, October 15, 10:00am – 2:30pm

This event will feature 90 min. rowing lessons by Pioneer coaches and a row in the Huron River in a racing boat. Advance registration required. See http://www.pioneercrew.org/ for more details about age groups, cost, or to register, or contact Laura Davis at laladavis92@gmail.com.

Trimathlon Community Event

Sunday, Nov. 5 at 9:00am

Mathnasium of Dexter will host a fun math competition open to all students who are in grades 2, 3, 4 and 5.
+ Learn more

WHAT’S AHEAD

Oct. 7

Band and Orchestra Solo & Ensemble Registration Due

Oct. 7

Cross Country at Emerson

Oct. 7–8, 12:00pm

Middle School Band and Orchestra Frankenmuth Retreat

Oct. 10, 4:00pm

Soccer Home vs. Steiner

Oct. 11, 4:00pm

Volleyball at SSA

Oct. 11, 4:15pm

Soccer ‘Friendly’ Home vs. St. Francis

Oct. 13, 3:00pm–8:00pm

Parent-Teacher Conferences
Childcare available 3:00pm–6:00pm

Oct. 13, 4:00pm

Soccer at WCA

Oct. 13, 4:15pm

Cross Country at Honey Creek

Oct. 13, 5:00pm

Volleyball at AACS

Oct. 14

NO SCHOOL: Parent-Teacher Conferences
Childcare available 8:00am–6:00pm

Oct. 14, 8:00am–3:00pm

Parent-Teacher Conferences
Childcare available 8:00am–6:00pm

Oct. 14, 4:00pm

Soccer Tournament at Emerson

Oct. 15, 9:00am

Soccer Tournament at Emerson

Oct. 18, 4:00pm

Volleyball Home vs. Steiner

Oct. 18, 4:30pm

Cross Country at Greenhills

Oct. 20, 4:00pm

Volleyball at St. Paul

Oct. 20, 4:15pm

Cross Country at Honey Creek

* Indicates a change
+ Online calendars
+ 2016-2017 Print Calendar
(Updated 8-17-16)

EMERSON FACEBOOK

See what’s happening every day at Emerson.
+ Emerson on Facebook

Copyright © 2016 Emerson School, All rights reserved.
5425 Scio Church Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, 734-665-5662Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list

September 29th, 2016

September

29

Latin Naming Ceremony Welcomes 6th Graders

Donned in togas, with the good omen of a bird soaring by, our 6th grade Latin students received their new names today. They’re now part of a long history of students who’ve taken part in Emerson’s Latin Naming Ceremony—a brief activity they’ll always remember.
+ See more photos

Letter from the Head of School

When Help is Needed

Dear Parents,

Long ago, I learned an important lesson from a fellow Head of School:

Never worry alone.

It’s not always easy to follow this piece of advice, though. How many times have we sought to solve a problem by ourselves, when we’d be better off getting the support of our family and friends?

I write to you to ask for your help with a worry that I’ve been fretting over since August. And that’s bus service.

For the past few years, Emerson has typically had a morning bus route with four high school locations, and an afternoon route with three to four different stops. Bus service is provided to students through Ann Arbor Public Schools, as is required by state law, which mandates students may receive transportation under “regular routes.”

A few weeks before the start of this school year, we were notified by Durham School Services (the transportation firm contracted by AAPS) that they would not be able to provide bus service to our students. After a gentle reminder about state laws, bus service was restored—but in a significantly reduced capacity. We currently have only one pickup stop and one drop-off stop. This severe reduction in service is not just an inconvenience to our many families, it also significantly affects those students for whom bus transportation is a real necessity.

Over the past month, I’ve sought to explain this challenge to both Durham School Services and the AAPS administration, with the goal of finding an amicable resolution for our students. Sadly, my last two emails have gone unanswered.

May I kindly ask for your help? If you could reach out to AAPS’s Interim Director of Physical Properties, the Superintendent, and Durham’s District Manager, I would greatly appreciate it. Please join me in asking for restoration of our regular morning and afternoons bus routes. We seek nothing more that the continuation of service that we’ve had in the past.

My sincere hope is that with your help, we will be able to restore bus transportation services soon to our students. Additionally, you can help support our families by adding your information to Emerson’s carpool map at www.emerson-school.org/carpool.

John Huber

All School News and Info

10:00am Late Start on Monday, Oct. 3

Childcare is available beginning at 7:30am

Please remember that Monday will be a late start and classes will begin at 10:00am for all students.

Sports Update

Girls Volleyball team wins its first game of the season in three straight sets against Washtenaw Christian Academy!
Cross Country places the first 5 runners (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th place—a perfect score and a rare cross country feat) and 8 of top 10 at Greenhills meet.
Soccer team remains undefeated with wins against Steiner, Ann Arbor Christian, St. Francis, and Spiritus Sanctus Plymouth.

Schedule Parent-Teacher Conferences

The online scheduler is now open and parents can schedule conferences at http://emerson-school.ptcwizard.com through Oct. 11 at 9:00pm.

Thursday, October 13, 3:00pm – 8:00pm
Child care available 2:45-6:00pm. Child care ends promptly at 6:00pm and the normal late fee of $4/minute applies. No child care available 6:00pm – 8:00pm.
Friday, October 14, 8:00am – 3:00pm
Full-day and drop-in child care available 8:00am – 6:00pm, email Carly Meloche to register.

+ Scheduling instructions and additional info

Help Feed the Teachers: ESPO Conference Potluck

Food and Volunteers Needed Thursday, Oct. 13

From ESPO: On Thursday, October 13, Emerson teachers and staff follow up their busy school day with parent conferences until 8:00pm. Many teachers will only have a short break that doesn’t allow them to leave, so ESPO parents generously provide a potluck dinner to get them through to the end of the night.

If you prefer not to cook, we can still use your help! A few parents are needed to assist with set-up on Thursday after school as well as items that are needed such as utensils.
+ Learn more and contribute

Visiting Author: NY Times Bestselling Author Laurie Halse Anderson

Thursday, Oct. 6 in Library for Grades 4–8

Anderson is coming to Emerson to share her latest book, Ashes, which completes the trilogy that began with Chains and continued with Forge. This trilogy is about two young people, Isabel and Curzon, who are trying to shed the chains of slavery in New York City. Laurie Halse Anderson has been commended in many reviews for her historical accuracy. Copies of the books will be available for purchase and signing by the author at the time of the event.
+ More about Ashes and Anderson’s visit
+ Pre-order the book to guarantee yours

MathCOUNTS begins on Friday Sept 30

The MathCOUNTS team would like to encourage all mathletes to join the team for their first meeting on Friday Sept 30. Practices will be held regularly on Fridays from 3:00-4:00PM in the Middle School in room 209. The team will focus on higher-level math problems (Algebra and above), so some prior experience is helpful in making this fun and positive math experience.

No Glass Bottles at School Please

Several recent accidents have caused quite a mess, which could easily be avoided. Please do not send glass bottles to school.

Emerson Loves Volunteers!

2017 Emerson School Auction

Save the Date: Friday, March 10, 2017
Thank you to all the parents who have already expressed interest in volunteering for this year’s annual auction. If you haven’t had a chance, please complete your Auction Volunteer Form (found in your first day folder). Or, stop by the Main Office and chat with Lorna Hildebrandt or Beth Anderson. It’s not too late to join the FUN! We love volunteers and want you on our team!
+ Contact Lorna Hildebrandt to learn more

Lower School Art Square 1 Fundraiser

Artwork Must Be Submitted by Oct. 18

The Lower School art classes will once again participate in the Square 1 Art fundraiser. This fundraiser is an opportunity for families to purchase mugs, greeting cards, t-shirts, phone cases, pillow cases, and key chains—just a few of huge array of items available—and many families like to use these as gifts for the holidays.. Purchasing items is completely optional, but the proceeds will offset some of the cost of buses for the Toledo and Detroit art museums trips in the spring.
+ Learn more

Free Pizza and Smiles Could Be Yours!

Volunteer to Serve ESPO Pizza Lunch on a Friday

Please sign up to help with an ESPO Pizza Lunch on a Friday! It’s fun, easy, and a very small time commitment. Choose a Friday that works for you—opportunities are available throughout the year—and enjoy the smile on your child’s face when they see you helping out at school! Volunteers also receive a complimentary slice of pizza.
+ Sign up to volunteer

Carpool to Save Time, Money, and Help Families

Participate in the Emerson Carpool Map

Transportation to and from school is an issue for many Emerson families. Car pooling makes good sense and can free up time for everyone. Please consider adding your name and address to our Emerson car pool map. It’s a great way to meet your Emerson neighbors and save time and money on gas.
+ Participate in the Carpool Map

Annual Ice Cream Social Fun

Nothing brings about pure joy, friendships, dance parties, and silliness like ice cream, which is why the annual Ice Cream Social is such a wonderful event. That and the hot fudge!
+ See more photos

Emerson Community Event: Being Bigger Than Your Triggers – Annie Zirkel

RESCHEDULED: Wednesday, Oct. 19, 7:00pm

Local relationship consultant, Annie Zirkel, will present to current and future middle school families about the impact that triggers can have on students and adults. She will discuss the physiological impact of being triggered, the neuroscience behind the triggered brain, and how we can support students when they are triggered. We may even learn more about how we can support ourselves when we are triggered. Please visit Annie Zirkel’s website for more information on this session (http://www.anniezirkel.com/)

Coffee with the Head of School Dates

By Grade, 7:30am–9:30am on the Dates Below

Parents are invited to start the school year with a cup of coffee and candid conversation with Head of School John Huber. It’s a great opportunity to meet John, and to share whatever is on your mind—the good and the bad.

To accommodate working parents, these coffees will begin at 7:30am (complimentary childcare available, reservations required). Come early and leave by 8:30am, or arrive at the normal school start time and stay through 9:30am.

8th Grade: September 16
7th Grade: September 23
6th Grade: September 29
5th Grade: October 7
4th Grade: October 21
3rd Grade: October 27
2nd Grade: November 11
1st Grade: November 18
Kindergarten: November 21

Middle School News and Info

High School Placement Information Night

RESCHEDULED: Thursday, Oct. 6

Current and future middle school families are invited to learn how Emerson will support them in the transition to high school. We will share information on the high school placement process, what local schools require (and when), and how we can support families in the high school selection process.

Community Activities

Mindful Parent Workshop: Mindful Games that Reduce Stress in Our Youth and Ourselves

Thursday, Oct. 27 in Birmingham or Saturday, Oct. 29 in Ann Arbor

Several Emerson faculty and staff will be attending the workshop for professionals, and families are encouraged to attend the parent workshop. In this talk, Susan Kaiser Greenland, renowned author and teacher of mindfulness, will offer us information about true and tested mindfulness practices we can apply to help reduce stress in our children and cultivate the essential life skills of attention (A), emotional balance (B) and compassion (C).
+ Reserve your tickets

Cyber Awareness and Internet Safety Forum: What Families Need to Know

Thursday, Oct. 20, 7:00pm at Forsythe Middle School

95% of teenagers use the internet. Understand how to use it safely. This session is intended for parents and caretakers and will address online predators, sexting, digital reputations and other relevant issues.
+ Learn more

Row Along with the Pioneer Crew Team

Saturday, October 15, 10:00am – 2:30pm

This event will feature 90 min. rowing lessons by Pioneer coaches and a row in the Huron River in a racing boat. Advance registration required. See http://www.pioneercrew.org/ for more details about age groups, cost, or to register, or contact Laura Davis at laladavis92@gmail.com.

Trimathlon Community Event

Sunday, Nov. 5 at 9:00am

Mathnasium of Dexter will host a fun math competition open to all students who are in grades 2, 3, 4 and 5.
+ Learn more

WHAT’S AHEAD

Oct. 3

LATE START: 10:00am
(Childcare available)

Oct. 3, 4:00pm

Soccer Home vs. WCA

Oct. 4, 4:00pm

Volleyball at Christ the King

Oct. 4, 4:15pm

Soccer Home vs. St. Francis

Oct. 6

Picture Day

Oct. 6, 4:00pm

Soccer at AACS

Oct. 6, 4:30pm

Volleyball Home vs. St. Mary

*Oct. 6, 7:00pm

High School Placement Information Night

Oct. 7

Band and Orchestra Solo & Ensemble Registration Due

Oct. 7

Cross Country at Emerson

Oct. 7–8, 12:00pm

Middle School Band and Orchestra Frankenmuth Retreat

Oct. 10, 4:00pm

Soccer Home vs. Steiner

Oct. 11, 4:00pm

Volleyball at SSA

Oct. 11, 4:15pm

Soccer ‘Friendly Home vs. St. Francis

Oct. 13, 3:00pm–8:00pm

Parent-Teacher Conferences
Childcare available 3:00pm–6:00pm

Oct. 13, 4:00pm

Soccer at WCA

Oct. 13, 4:15pm

Cross Country @ Honey Creek

Oct. 13, 5:00pm

Volleyball at AACS

Oct. 14

NO SCHOOL: Parent-Teacher Conferences
Childcare available 8:00am–6:00pm

Oct. 14, 8:00am–3:00pm

Parent-Teacher Conferences
Childcare available 8:00am–6:00pm

Oct. 14, 4:00pm

Soccer Tournament at Emerson

Oct. 15, 9:00am

Soccer Tournament at Emerson

* Indicates a change
+ Online calendars
+ 2016-2017 Print Calendar
(Updated 8-17-16)

EMERSON FACEBOOK

See the unique learning experiences students have every day at Emerson.
+ Emerson on Facebook

Copyright © 2016 Emerson School, All rights reserved.
5425 Scio Church Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, 734-665-5662Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list

September 29th, 2016

By Linda Lakshminarayanan, Librarian

Thursday, Oct. 6 in the Emerson Library for Grades 4–8

New York Times bestselling author Laurie Halse Anderson is coming to Emerson to share her latest book, Ashes, which completes the trilogy that began with Chains and continued with Forge. This trilogy is about two young people, Isabel and Curzon, who are trying to shed the chains of slavery in New York City. By the this third book they have survived being at Valley Forge, but are soon reported as runaways and are being pursued by people eager to take away the freedom they gained earlier. Now they are trying to make their way South to free Isabel’s little sister who has been enslaved there.

Laurie Halse Anderson has been commended in many reviews for her historical accuracy. This trilogy will bring the American Revolution into clear focus and highlights parts of our history that often go unnoticed. Copies of the books will be available for purchase and signing by the author at the time of the event.

September 27th, 2016

By Coach Lenny Dale, Soccer Coach, Athletic Director, and Phys. Ed. Teacher

Win Against Steiner Moves Emerson Record to 4–0

The Emerson Middle School soccer team made the short trip to Steiner School Thursday evening, and came away with their 4th win of the young season. Emerson kept the ball in the Steiner end for the great majority of the first half, and the relentless pressure was reflected in the 5-0 score at intermission. While the defense prevented even one shot on the Emerson goal, the Eagles’ Gabe Kellman found the back of the Steiner net four times, with an assist or two from Zack Kubisiak, who also scored ‘the other’ goal.

Steiner mounted a bit more offense in the second half, but never truly threatened, with only a couple so-so shots from poor angles. Gillian Giordano, meanwhile, added a goal for Emerson, to push the lead to 6-0, and many other teammates came close. Zack finished the scoring with two more, and the defense held tight for another shutout, this time 8-0.

The Eagles will next host Spiritus Sanctus Plymouth on Thursday, 9/29.

September 27th, 2016

By Coach Bryan Seymour, Cross Country Coach and Language Arts Teacher

Boys Team Finishes with Perfect Score, Girls in Top 2

Emerson’s Cross Country Team ran a meet at Greenhills last Thursday, Sep. 22, against both Greenhills and Hillel Day School. They performed extremely well on a difficult two-mile course. As described by a few of the runners, it is very green, and very hilly. Nonetheless, Emerson’s boys team was able to place the first 5 runners (1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th place—a perfect score and a rare cross country feat) as well as 8 of the first 10 finishers. Ralph Dixon, Luka Hecht, and Anthony VanOyen led the way for the Eagles. The girls team also performed well, with Lucy Mehraban finishing second and Cate Weiser crushing her time from the same course last season. The team looks forward to continuing its success this upcoming Thursday at County Farm Park.

September 23rd, 2016

Lower School & Middle School Dates

Thursday, October 13, 3:00pm – 8:00pm
Child care available 2:45-6:00pm. Child care ends promptly at 6:00pm and the normal late fee of $4/minute applies. No child care available 6:00pm – 8:00pm.
Friday, October 14, 8:00am – 3:00pm
Full-day and drop-in child care available 8:00am – 6:00pm, email Carly Meloche to register.

Instructions for Scheduling Parent-Teacher Conferences:

Online scheduler will be open Sunday, Sep. 25 at 9:00pm – Oct. 11 at 9:00pm

Go to http://emerson-school.ptcwizard.com.
Sign up under “Returning Parents” or, if new, sign up under “First Time? Register Here.”
Follow the prompts to select your teacher(s) and choose available conference times. If you run into trouble, please see the PTC Wizard Parent Guide for assistance.
Confirm your conference schedule and print a copy for your reference (a copy will also be emailed to the address you provided).

General Notes:

While scheduling is open (Sept. 25 – Oct. 11), you can make as many changes as you like to your schedule.
Please do not schedule more than one time block with each teacher.
All teachers’ rooms will be listed on your conference schedule.

Lower School Notes:

Schedule homeroom teacher only
Specials teachers available for drop-in conferences
Lower School specials teachers (i.e. Science, Art, Music, Computers, Library, Physical Education, and World Languages) will be available for drop-in conferences on Thursday and Friday.

Middle School Notes

Schedule only one grade level teacher: A, B, C, or D, it doesn’t matter which
Families will rotate through all four academic class teachers (Math, Language Arts, Science, Social Studies) during the 40-minute conference—10 minutes per subject.
Schedule world language teacher
Families with Latin students won’t schedule a world language conference. Feedback from Latin teachers will be shared during your grade level conference.
Enrichment and elective teachers available for drop-in conferences
Middle School enrichment rotation (Art, Drama, PE) teachers and elective (Band, Orchestra, Musical, Ceramics, etc.) teachers will be available for drop-in conferences on both Thursday and Friday during conference hours.

Child Care is Available

Thursday

Regular child care is available from 2:45 – 6:00pm at the normal rates.
All students in the building must sign into the after school program in the library while parents attend conferences.
Child care ends at 6:00pm on Thursday, even though conferences run until 8:00pm. Normal late fees of $4/minute apply.

Friday

Full day child care is available from 8:00am – 3:00pm at $55/day.
After care is available from 3:00pm – 6:00pm at $6/hour.
Hourly child care during conferences is available at $10/hour. Reservations required.
All students in the building must sign into the after care program in the library while parents attend conferences.
Send your child with a lunch if he/she will be with us from 12:00pm – 12:30pm.
Reserve your space: Carly Meloche

Questions?

Please call the main number, 734-665-5662, or email:

Lower School: Office Manager Joan Gregorka or Lower School Coordinator Kelly Vohland
Middle School: Office Manager Beth Muszkiewicz or Kelly Vohland
Child Care: After School Program Assistant Carly Meloche

September 22nd, 2016

By Jennifer Tanau, Lower School Art Teacher

The Lower School art classes will once again participate in the Square 1 Art fundraiser. This fundraiser is an opportunity for families to purchase mugs, greeting cards, t-shirts, phone cases, pillow cases, and key chains—just a few of huge array of items available—and many families like to use these as gifts for the holidays.. Purchasing items is completely optional, but the proceeds will offset some of the cost of buses for the Toledo and Detroit art museums trips in the spring.

How It Works:

Students create a drawing of their choice in the art room.
Drawings are sent to Square 1 by October 18 and they send back a free page of stickers with your child’s artwork on them. At that time, they will also provide each child with an ordering packet.
Items are shipped back to us by the first week in December.

Although the Middle School doesn’t participate in this as a school, if your child is interested in doing it on their own, you can visit Jennifer Tanau in the Lower School art room before or after school to get supplies. All work must be back to her by October 18. Other family members can participate as well. Students could send more than one image if you wanted them to create a specific type of image for a special purpose. If you have something in mind, discuss it with your child and have them talk to Jennifer, who is happy to help.

You can check out the items using the link to the company’s website below, or check out some of the items in the small showcase outside the Middle School office entrance.
https://www.square1art.com

September 22nd, 2016

First K-2 Sing-Along Unleashed the Wiggles and Voices!

The first K-2 sing of the year, where students get to sing, move, and have a little fun together. Students are working out their wiggles in this picture, but you can click on the link below to see their animated, enthusiastic singing of BINGO.
+ Watch the sing-along

Letter from the Head of School

Blindspots

Dear Parents,

This summer, I picked up a fascinating book titled Blindspot: Hidden Biases of Good People by Mahzarin Banaji and Anthony Greenwald. At its heart, the authors posit the following about our hidden biases:

These bits of knowledge [about social groups] are stored in our brains because we encounter them so frequently in our cultural environments. Once lodged in our minds, hidden biases can influence our behavior toward members of particular social groups, but we remain oblivious to their influence. Most people find it unbelievable that their behavior can be guided by mental content of which they are unaware.

I appreciate the authors’ approach—namely, to acknowledge that we all have biases, and that it requires effort to recognize and address them. And if you’re not convinced that you have hidden biases, I encourage you to go to Project Implicit’s website to try one of their quick tests. Trust me, it’s worth the 10 minutes—the results may surprise you.

This year, we begin a schoolwide focus on the themes of diversity, equity, and justice. As part of this work, our faculty Diversity Team has led discussion groups with our teachers and administrators, shown videos addressing race consciousness, and developed a list of resources for all educators to use. Members of our faculty are attending key conferences and workshops, and they will be bringing back this knowledge to the Emerson community. We are doing important and good work – and we’ve only just begun. We will need the support and effort of our entire community to grow, and we look for your help to do so.

One of the most significant things we can do in our work in diversity, equity, and justice, is to open ourselves to change. To that end, I would highly recommend Bryan Stevenson’s book Just Mercy.

So—where are our blindspots?

John Huber

All School News and Info

Middle School Curriculum Night

Tuesday, Sep. 27 at 6:45pm, No Childcare

Current middle school families are invited to learn more about their child’s experience in middle school. Families will follow a typical middle school schedule and learn about grade level academics, our enrichment courses, the electives their child has selected, and how we will support the social and emotional growth of their child through advisory.

Conferences Sign Up Form Opens Sunday

Conferences are October 13-14, No Childcare

The online scheduler for fall Parent-Teacher Conferences opens Sunday, Sep. 25 at 9:00pm. Detailed instructions for online scheduling will be emailed on Friday, Sep. 23.

Parent-Teacher Conferences will be held Thursday, October 13, 3:00pm – 8:00pm and Friday, October 14, 8:00am – 3:00pm.

Emerson Loves Volunteers!

2017 Emerson School Auction

Save the Date: Friday, March 10, 2017
Thank you to all the parents who have already expressed interest in volunteering for this year’s annual auction. If you haven’t had a chance, please complete your Auction Volunteer Form (found in your first day folder). Or, stop by the Main Office and chat with Lorna Hildebrandt or Beth Anderson. It’s not too late to join the FUN! We love volunteers and want you on our team!
+ Contact Lorna Hildebrandt to learn more

Lower School Art Square 1 Fundraiser

Artwork Must Be Submitted by Oct. 18

The Lower School art classes will once again participate in theSquare 1 Art fundraiser. This fundraiser is an opportunity for families to purchase mugs, greeting cards, t-shirts, phone cases, pillow cases, and key chains—just a few of huge array of items available—and many families like to use these as gifts for the holidays.. Purchasing items is completely optional, but the proceeds will offset some of the cost of buses for the Toledo and Detroit art museums trips in the spring.
+ Learn more

Free Pizza and Smiles Could Be Yours!

Volunteer to Serve ESPO Pizza Lunch on a Friday

Please sign up to help with an ESPO Pizza Lunch on a Friday! It’s fun, easy, and a very small time commitment. Choose a Friday that works for you—opportunities are available throughout the year—and enjoy the smile on your child’s face when they see you helping out at school! Volunteers also receive a complimentary slice of pizza.
+ Sign up to volunteer

Carpool to Save Time, Money, and Help Families

Participate in the Emerson Carpool Map

Transportation to and from school is an issue for many Emerson families. Car pooling makes good sense and can free up time for everyone. Please consider adding your name and address to our Emerson car pool map. It’s a great way to meet your Emerson neighbors and save time and money on gas.
+ Participate in the Carpool Map

Shop and Earn Thousands for Emerson

Arbor Farms, Busch’s, and Kroger Give to Emerson

Last year parents, faculty, and staff earned more than $4,784 for Emerson School just for doing their normal shopping at Arbor Farms, Busch’s, and Kroger. See how easy it is to join in, and contact Beth Anderson with any questions.
+ Learn more

Parent Community Event: Being Bigger Than Your Triggers – Annie Zirkel

Thursday, Oct. 6, 7:00pm

Local relationship consultant, Annie Zirkel, will present to current and future middle school families about the impact that triggers can have on students and adults. She will discuss the physiological impact of being triggered, the neuroscience behind the triggered brain, and how we can support students when they are triggered. We may even learn more about how we can support ourselves when we are triggered. Please visit Annie Zirkel’s website for more information on this session (http://www.anniezirkel.com/)

Coffee with the Head of School Dates

By Grade, 7:30am–9:30am on the Dates Below

Parents are invited to start the school year with a cup of coffee and candid conversation with Head of School John Huber. It’s a great opportunity to meet John, and to share whatever is on your mind—the good and the bad.

To accommodate working parents, these coffees will begin at 7:30am (complimentary childcare available, reservations required). Come early and leave by 8:30am, or arrive at the normal school start time and stay through 9:30am.

8th Grade: September 16
7th Grade: September 23
6th Grade: September 29
5th Grade: October 7
4th Grade: October 21
3rd Grade: October 27
2nd Grade: November 11
1st Grade: November 18
Kindergarten: November 21

Middle School News and Info

High School Placement Information Night

Tuesday, Oct. 4

Current and future middle school families are invited to learn how Emerson will support them in the transition to high school. We will share information on the high school placement process, what local schools require (and when), and how we can support families in the high school selection process.

Community Activities

Trimathlon Community Event

Sunday, Nov. 5 at 9:00am

Mathnasium of Dexter will host a fun math competition open to all students who are in grades 2, 3, 4 and 5.
+ Learn more

Free Haircut with Blood Donation

Make a Red Cross blood donation during the month of September, and you’ll not only save a life, but receive a free haircut from SportsClips
+ Learn more

September 21st, 2016

By Coach Lenny Dale, Soccer Coach, Athletic Director, and Phys. Ed. Teacher

Emerson Eagles Defeat AACS 7–4

Emerson’s middle school soccer team hosted Ann Arbor Christian Tuesday. Before the game, as they approached their bench, a couple AACS players told Emerson coach Lenny Dale ‘You’re going down’. Emerson’s Eagles, 4-time defending AAIAA champs, seem to have a target on their collective back.

Emerson got off to a nice start, scoring 5 minutes in. AACS was not without offense of their own, however, countering Emerson attacks with pressure of their own. AACS tied the score midway through the first stanza, on the skill of their fast and skilled center-mid, who split the Emerson defense and placed a strong, accurate shot in off the post to keeper Michael Needham’s right. As the half grew late, the same attacker created separation with his speed at the top of the box and again fired a strong shot into the side panel, and Emerson found themselves behind for the first time this season. Maybe those AACS players, with their ‘You’re going down’, knew something. Emerson came back to tie the game just before the half, and then went about trying to find a way to slow down AACS and their center-mid.

Luka Hecht came up with part of the solution – moving from striker to sweeper, Luka took responsibility for AACS’ primary offensive threat, at the same time giving backs Alexander Bauer, Julian Skiftstad, and Kieran Heung a chance to rotate and rest, with Gillian Giordano joining the back-line corps. The change worked, though the same opponent was able to finish his hat-trick in the second half. Emerson gradually pulled ahead, as Gabe Kellman and Zack Kubisiak brought too much finesse for AACS to handle. Gabe tallied 4 goals on the day, 2 directly off assists from Zack, and Zack showed his own ball control and scoring touch with 2 goals of his own. Emerson came away with a 7-4 win. Going down? Not today.

Finding a way to counter the AACS game plan was a good sign. Giving up 4 goals, 3 off defensive mistakes, is a big concern. Scoring 7, particularly those 6 after falling behind 2-1 late in the first half, was nice. Playing such capable competition should give the kids a better idea of the work that needs to be done to improve, and the contribution each Emerson player is best suited to make in the effort to make this the best team it can be.

The adventure continues Thursday, when Emerson visits Steiner School, which should be no pushover.

September 15th, 2016

Band and Orchestra Starts Next Week

It’s Not Too Late For Your Child to Join!

Be a part of an amazing team, make music with friends, build your skills and your love of music! Participate in fun concerts and trips! Visit the website for complete details and registration. Lower school continuing Band and Orchestra classes start next week and the beginning classes start the week of October 3.
+ Learn more at www.emerson– school.org\bandandorchestra

Letter from the Head of School

How I Spent My Week Without a Smartphone (almost…)

Dear Parents,

This past Saturday, I broke my iPhone. It happened for the most clichéd of reasons—I dropped it when I was taking a selfie. When I picked it up, the touchscreen was mostly dead, and I was no longer able to enter my passcode. As my phone was fairly old, I decided to wait until Friday to pick up a new one.

And thus began my week without a functioning smartphone.

Not long ago I read in a survey that adults check their phones more than 200 times a day. And soon after I broke mine, I realized how true this was for me. Want to check the weather in the morning? I’ll look on my phone—oh, wait, it’s broken. Hanging out at a coffee shop? Dang, no phone. Needing directions?Hm, do they still sell paper maps at gas stations? After four days, I was still so habituated that I would reach for my phone at any quiet moment in the day, then pause, and remember that it wasn’t working.

So what have I learned from my week without a smartphone?

There is time for stillness (but also boredom). As I sat in the coffee shop, waiting for a colleague to join me, I realized that without a phone, I could take a moment to absorb my environment. But, after a few minutes of this, I started to grow bored—and as I hadn’t brought anything with me, I needed to be patient and wait.
There is time for contemplation (but also disconnect). Without a phone, I was much more likely to reach for a book and catch up on my reading stack. But I also started to miss texts from my family members, including messages from my two sons in college.
There is time for simplicity (but also complexity). It felt immensely freeing not to be tethered to an electronic device that was always tugging at my attention. But then I found myself having to think about how to make calls and get directions while on the road—and having to ask for help at stops along the way.

So as with most new technologies, for all we gain (novelty, connectivity, utility), we also give up something in return.

As we begin our new school year, I encourage you to talk with your children about these trade-offs, and consider how they impact our day-to-day interactions. For my part, when I get my new phone at the end of this week, I’ll try to retain some of what I learned, and find time for stillness, contemplation, and simplicity.

Happy September,

John Huber

All School News and Info

Lower School Curriculum Night

Sep. 22, 6:30pm – 7:35pm, Students Attend

Lower School parents and students are invited to Lower School Curriculum Night. This year will have a slightly revised format, with a combination of teacher presentations and student-led sharing of their daily experiences in homeroom and specials classes.

Schedule

6:25 – Students dropped off in the Arts and Innovation Center, parents proceed to the homeroom classrooms
6:30 – Homeroom teachers present curricular information to parents
6:50 – Students escorted to homeroom classrooms to meet up with parents and begin the student-led portion of the evening (according to the guidelines below). ug
7:35 – Evening wraps up so students, teachers, and parents can head home for a good night’s sleep

No Childcare – Students Come With Parents

Students will be with parents for most of the evening, so childcare will be unavailable during Curriculum Night. Younger siblings should stay at home.

Conferences are Oct. 13 – 14

Curriculum Night is a chance for you to become familiar with your child’s teachers and classrooms, but you will have an opportunity to discuss his/her individual performance at Parent-Teacher Conferences in just three weeks. Conference sign-ups will open on Sunday, Sept. 26, and an email with instructions will be sent soon.

Shop and Earn Thousands for Emerson

Arbor Farms, Busch’s, and Kroger Give to Emerson

Last year parents, faculty, and staff earned more than $4,784 for Emerson School just for doing their normal shopping at Arbor Farms, Busch’s, and Kroger. See how easy it is to join in, and contact Beth Anderson with any questions.
+ Learn more

After School Classes Begin Next Week

Space Still Available for Several Classes

There is still space in Off the Wall Art on Mondays for K-3rd graders, 3:30pm-4:30pm
Wednesday Storytelling with LEGO has opened to 3rd graders, 3:30pm-4:30pm
Capoeira Martial Arts is going to run and has space available Thursdays, 3:30pm-4:30pm

+ Email Rose Hacker to sign up
+ Fall Enrichment Classes (new additions)
+ Fall Music Lesson

First ESPO Meeting This Tuesday

Tuesday, Sep. 20, 8:30am in the AIC Presentation Space

Join other parents at the first Emerson School Parent Organization meeting of the year. You’ll hear an update from Head of School John Huber and have an opportunity to be involved in the events, activities, and initiatives spearheaded by ESPO—all benefitting your students. New this year, parents are asked to please bring their own beverages in lid-covered containers, as refreshments will not be provided.

ESPO Pizza Lunch Needs Volunteers

Fridays Throughout the Year

Please sign up to help with an ESPO Pizza Lunch on a Friday! It’s fun, easy, and a very small time commitment. Choose a Friday that works for you—opportunities are available throughout the year—and enjoy the smile on your child’s face when they see you helping out at school!
+ Sign up to volunteer

Coffee with the Head of School Dates

By Grade, 7:30am–9:30am on the Dates Below

Parents are invited to start the school year with a cup of coffee and candid conversation with Head of School John Huber. It’s a great opportunity to meet John, and to share whatever is on your mind—the good and the bad.

To accommodate working parents, these coffees will begin at 7:30am (complimentary childcare available, reservations required). Come early and leave by 8:30am, or arrive at the normal school start time and stay through 9:30am.

8th Grade: September 16
7th Grade: September 23
6th Grade: September 29
5th Grade: October 7
4th Grade: October 21
3rd Grade: October 27
2nd Grade: November 11
1st Grade: November 18
Kindergarten: November 21

Lunch Orders Starting Up

Milk began Monday, Sept. 12
Pizza lunch begins Friday, Sept. 16
What’s Cooking! hot lunch begins Monday, Sept. 19
Last-minute orders still being accepted.
+ Order What’s Cooking! lunch

Health and Safety Reminder: Allergies

Whenever possible, please avoid bringing in known allergens to school, particularly if they can be easily avoided. For example, we have a number of community members with allergies to air fresheners and perfumes, and we kindly ask that these not be brought in to school.

Family-Friendly Open Mic Nights

Wednesday, Sep. 21 at 6:00pm

A stage for students, parents, and teachers to perform—not compete—and share their talents and passions. Sing, play, read, dance, joke, act, etc. in front of a laid-back and supportive audience of families from schools throughout the greater-Ann Arbor area.

Sep. 21, 2016
Nov. 30, 2016
Jan. 25, 2017
Mar. 22, 2017
May 31, 2017

Sign up to perform

Middle School News and Info

Middle School Curriculum Night

Tuesday, Sep. 27 at 6:45pm

Current middle school families are invited to learn more about their child’s experience in middle school. Families will follow a typical middle school schedule and learn about grade level academics, our enrichment courses, the electives their child has selected, and how we will support the social and emotional growth of their child through advisory.

High School Placement Information Night

Tuesday, Oct. 4

Current and future middle school families are invited to learn how Emerson will support them in the transition to high school. We will share information on the high school placement process, what local schools require (and when), and how we can support families in the high school selection process.

Parent Community Event: Being Bigger Than Your Triggers – Annie Zirkel

Thursday, Oct. 6

Local relationship consultant, Annie Zirkel, will present to current and future middle school families about the impact that triggers can have on students and adults. She will discuss the physiological impact of being triggered, the neuroscience behind the triggered brain, and how we can support students when they are triggered. We may even learn more about how we can support ourselves when we are triggered. Please visit Annie Zirkel’s website for more information on this session (http://www.anniezirkel.com/)

Girls’ Friendships & Drama: How to Support Your Daughter – Dr. Tim Jordan

Tues. Nov. 1

In this webinar, parents will become aware of the pressures on girls today and the hidden culture of girls’ relationship aggressions. Parents will take away new skills to help girls handle conflicts directly and effectively; know and express their emotions in healthy ways; handle teasing and “mean words”; speak with authority, be unafraid of making mistakes; and become strong leaders. This session is for parents of girls ages K-12.

Parent Community Event: Technology and Your Child – Washtenaw Area Council for Children

Thurs. Dec. 1

The Washtenaw Area Council for Children will lead current and future middle school families through an exploration of the world of technology at our students’ fingertips. They will share data on current trends and challenges, as well as provide strategies for helping your child handle this unprecedented access to information. The WACC will also share information on cybersafety, strategies for protecting your child in this age of access, and what concerning behaviors adults should watch out for in their children.

ISACS Webinar Presentation – Untangled: Guiding Teenage Girls Through the Seven Transitions Into Adulthood – Lisa Damour

Mon. Dec. 12

From ISACS website: Damour will hit the highlights of her New York Times best-selling book to help girls’ parents, educators, and advocates understand why teenage girls sometimes confusing and dramatic behavior is actually predictable and normal. Damour will explain the seven developmental transitions that turn girls into grown-ups and help the adults form happier, healthier relationships with the teenagers in their care. This webinar is for parents and all who work with girls ages 10-19.

Community Activities

Lexington Bach Festical Featuring Mrs. C

The Lexington Bach Festival is this weekend in Lexington, Michigan. Located north of Port Huron, this beautiful lakeside town is host to a great festival of classical music. Ms. Capozzoli enjoys playing in the festival orchestra and having the opportunity to work with the outstanding guest artists!
+ Learn more

Free Haircut with Blood Donation

Make a Red Cross blood donation during the month of September, and you’ll not only save a life, but receive a free haircut from SportsClips
+ Learn more

September 15th, 2016

By Coach Lenny Dale, Soccer Coach, Athletic Director, and Phys. Ed. Teacher

Eagles Soar Over Mustangs 8–0

Emerson’s middle school soccer team hosted the Mustangs of St. Francis Thursday evening. Emerson didn’t get off to as blazing a start as in their opening game, though the Eagles certainly had the better of the play early on. This time around it took seven minutes to get on the board, rather than 12 seconds, and it was Kieran Heung who did the honors. The Mustang keeper came up big time after time, but had no answer for Zack Kubisiak, who tuned him up for a hat trick over a 15-minute stretch of the first half. Gabe Kellman finished the first half scoring, and then started it again for the second stanza, growing the Emerson lead to 6-0. Zack got his fourth of the game midway through the half, and Michael Needham put the icing on the cake late, bringing the final score to 8-0.

Michael had a couple nice saves in goal in the first half, and Ian Lewis stopped a number of Mustang shots in the second to preserve the shutout.

Emerson travels to Ann Arbor Christian on Tuesday, 9/20, for what is likely to be the toughest contest of the season, and a bit of a grudge match.

September 13th, 2016

By Coach Lenny Dale, Soccer Coach, Athletic Director, and Phys. Ed. Teacher

Emerson Kicks Season Off With 8–1 Win Over Spiritus Sanctus Plymouth

The Emerson Middle School soccer team got off to a fast start, with Gabe Kellman scoring 12 seconds after the opening whistle, and the team scoring 5 goals in the first 10 minutes of their opener at Spiritus Sanctus Plymouth. It took the rest of the first half to get the kids on the same page of ‘no more scoring allowed,’ and by that time the Eagle lead was 8-0. Spiritus Sanctus managed a goal in the second half, but other than that Emerson was able to play a pretty good game of ‘possession’, working on moving the ball and getting everyone involved, which should come into play when the competition gets tougher this season.

September 8th, 2016

An EPIC Day in the Middle School

Emerson. Perseverance. Integrity. Compassion.

A two-day EPIC Adventure kicked off in the Middle School today. Challenging activities and community service projects are bringing students together and teaching them what it means to be a middle school student at Emerson.
+ More photos

Letter from the Head of School

Dear Parents,

Welcome back! It’s such a joy to begin the new school year, as we celebrate Emerson’s 43rd year of operations

My first question – how did you do you on your summer homework? (I’m guessing that there may be a few panicked gasps of, “What summer homework?“) Back in June, I assigned a list of 10 summer activities, and encouraged everyone (students and families alike) to complete at least 7 of the activities. So in the spirit of full disclosure, I’ll grade myself:

Completed: (6 points +2 bonus points)

Make breakfast for everyone in the house. Extra points for cooking from scratch. I made waffles for the family, from scratch. Separating the egg whites is crucial for fluffy waffles!
Do something kind for your neighbor. We provided them with produce from our garden and tended their yards while they were away on vacation.
Attend an outdoor music concert. Mo Pop Festival 2016. Matt & Kim were wildly entertaining!
Ride a bicycle. Extra points for riding farther in one trip than you ever have before. AABTS One Helluva Ride, metric century.
Build something useful. I built a few garden beds for plants and flowers.
Care for an outdoor plant, and keep it alive for the entire summer. I tended a small vegetable garden of tomatoes, broccoli, peppers, peas, and herbs.

Not completed: (4 points)

Climb a tree.
Go “screen-free” for longer than 24 hours straight. This means no TVs, phones, tablets, laptops, etc.
Visit your local library, check out a book, and read it from start to finish.
Discover a new favorite healthful food. Candy and sweets do not count.

So here’s a little secret: it’s not too late to complete this “summer” homework! And while I wouldn’t recommend an outdoor music concert in January, you can complete most of these activities at any point this school year.

I particularly encourage all of us to try to achieve more “screen-free” time this coming year. I received an important reminder of this from Screenagers, the documentary we showed this past month. The more we as parents interrupt our evenings with laptops and phones, the more we demonstrate attention to screens as a positive behavior.

So, what are your new goals for the new school year?

Have a most joyful start to school,

John Huber

All School News and Info

Last Chance to Order Lunches and Milk

Friday, Sept. 9 is Final Day to Order

Tomorrow is the final day to place all lunch and milk orders—all optional. Pizza lunch is ESPO’s biggest fundraiser for the school, and wildly popular with students.

Ordering Pizza Lunch and Milk
Please place your orders in RenWeb for Friday Pizza Lunch and/or Washtenaw Dairy milk for lunch. Here’s how to order:

Log into RenWeb (Parent Login button on top right of www.emerson-school.org)
Click Student Information tab on left
Click “Lunch”
Click “Create Web Order” and make your selections for each student
• For milk, click “Lunch Items for Thursday” for options
• For Pizza Lunch, click “Lunch Items for Friday” for options
Click “Submit Order” to complete your order

Ordering Lunches From What’s Cooking!
Hot lunches are available from What’s Cooking!, which will be delivered to students Monday to Thursday (with some exceptions).
+ See ordering instructions at www.emerson-school.org/lunch

No yearbook orders at this time. Look for more information on ordering yearbooks in January, which will include color pages, new design, and custom pages.

Lunch Orders Starting Soon

Milk begins Monday, Sept. 12
What’s Cooking! hot lunch begins Monday, Sept. 19
Pizza lunch begins Friday, Sept. 16

Lower School Curriculum Night

Sep. 22, 6:30pm – 7:50pm, Students Attend

Curriculum night will have a combination of teacher presentations and the opportunity for students to take the lead and sharing their daily experiences. You will spend time together with your child in homeroom classrooms, tour specials classes, and see student work on display in the hallways. More info will be forthcoming.

ESPO Pizza Lunch Needs Volunteers

Fridays Throughout the Year

Please sign up to help with an ESPO Pizza Lunch on a Friday! It’s fun, easy, and a very small time commitment. Choose a Friday that works for you—opportunities are available throughout the year—and enjoy the smile on your child’s face when they see you helping out at school!
+ Sign up to volunteer

Health and Safety Reminder: Allergies

Whenever possible, please avoid bringing in known allergens to school, particularly if they can be easily avoided. For example, we have a number of community members with allergies to air fresheners and perfumes, and we kindly ask that these not be brought in to school.

Back-to-School Picnic

Sunday, Sept. 11, 4:30pm – 7:00pm at Emerson

Please join us for the annual Back-to-School picnic, hosted by ESPO (Emerson School Parent Organization). There will be food, games for the kids, and a chance to mingle with old and new friends. Email espo@emerson-school.org with any questions.

Coffee with the Head of School Dates

By Grade, 7:30am–9:30am on the Dates Below

Parents are invited to start the school year with a cup of coffee and candid conversation with Head of School John Huber. It’s a great opportunity to meet John, and to share whatever is on your mind—the good and the bad.

To accommodate working parents, these coffees will begin at 7:30am (complimentary childcare available, reservations required). Come early and leave by 8:30am, or arrive at the normal school start time and stay through 9:30am.

8th Grade: September 16
7th Grade: September 23
6th Grade: September 29
5th Grade: October 7
4th Grade: October 21
3rd Grade: October 27
2nd Grade: November 11
1st Grade: November 18
Kindergarten: November 21

New After School Classes Available

New Math Classes, Music Lessons

There is still time to sign up for after school enrichment classes and music lessons, which begin the week of September 19.
+ Fall Enrichment Classes (new additions)
+ Fall Music Lesson

First ESPO Meeting Coming Up

Tuesday, Sep. 20, 8:30am in the AIC Presentation Space

Join other parents at the first Emerson School Parent Organization meeting of the year. You’ll hear an update from Head of School John Huber and have an opportunity to be involved in the events, activities, and initiatives spearheaded by ESPO—all benefitting your students. New this year, parents are asked to please bring their own beverages in lid-covered containers, as refreshments will not be provided.

Medication: Return Forms and Drop Off

Required if Students Regularly Take Meds at School

If your student takes any prescription or non-prescription (over-the-counter) medications, please return the appropriate form linked below to the office with their medication. All medications must be stored in the office and can only be administered under the supervision of faculty or staff.
+ Prescription Medication Form
+ Non-Prescription Medication Form

Bus Riders Must Register

Register if Your Student Will Ride the AAPS Bus

Due to changes in the AAPS bell times, Emerson’s bus routes have been substantially cut. Only one morning and one afternoon stop will be available. If your child will ride the bus, you must complete the contact information form below and on the Emerson Website, and they must ride on a regular basis.
+ Register at www.emerson-school.org/bus

Emerson Bus Schedule

Morning Bus (#104) – Departs at 7:15am from Bach School (600 W Jefferson St, Ann Arbor) with pick-up on 5th Street side of the school, arriving at Emerson at 7:30am (Childcare will be provided to bus riders).
Afternoon Bus (#55) – Departs from Emerson at 3:10pm with drop off at Burns Park Elementary (1414 Wells St, Ann Arbor) at 3:30pm (Childcare will be provided while waiting for bus).

We are trying to add a second afternoon drop off but they are unable to accommodate us at this time. Please contact Durham Bus Services directly if this impacts your child getting to Emerson on time (Durham Bus Service 734-994-2330).

Carpooling is Available at Emerson

Opt In to Participate in the Carpool Map

Find families who live nearby and are interested in carpooling. Only families who voluntarily opt in to participate are visible on the map, and only those who participate can view it. Of course, you can also opt out at any time.
+ Participate in the Carpool Map

Sports Physicals for Grades 4-8

Required to Play on an Emerson Sports Team

Please return your child’s sports physical to the office if they plan on playing on an Emerson sports team. Students will not be allowed to participate in team practices or games until these are received. Please email yours to Joan Gregorka, or drop them off in the Lower School office ASAP.

Most Likely to Succeed Screening

Wednesday, Sept. 14, 6:30pm in the AIC at Emerson

How do we best prepare our students for their future? The award-winning documentary Most Likely to Succeed explores this question, and you’re invited to join fellow parents, educators, and community members for a special screening at Emerson.

MLTS looks at the impact of learning environments, building on passion and expertise, giving students a voice, and leveraging partnerships with parents and school community. This film reaffirms some of the great things we are doing in our schools, and raises questions about what else can be done to provide our students with the best education.

Get MLTS tickets

Family-Friendly Open Mic Nights

6:00pm on the Wednesdays Listed Below

A stage for students, parents, and teachers to perform—not compete—and share their talents and passions. Sing, play, read, dance, joke, act, etc. in front of a laid-back and supportive audience of families from schools throughout the greater-Ann Arbor area.

Sep. 21, 2016
Nov. 30, 2016
Jan. 25, 2017
Mar. 22, 2017
May 31, 2017

Sign up to perform

Pick-Up and Drop-Off 101

A Curbside How-To Guide for Families

If you’ve never picked up or dropped off a child at Emerson, or if you just need a refresher, this video will give you an overview of the process and etiquette.
+ Watch the video

Middle School News and Info

Elective Add/Drop Deadline is Sept. 14

The last day for Middle School students to complete an Add/Drop request is Wednesday, September 14. Students should visit Beth Muszkiewicz in the Middle School Office if they are interested in changing their schedule.

Middle School Book Orders

Free Shipping Aug. 22–24

If you have not already ordered your books, please do so using the link below. MBS Direct is offering free shipping on orders over $99 Aug. 22–24.
+ Order Middle School books online

September 1st, 2016

Welcoming New Students on Their First Day of School

Top Tips From Veteran Students

Being new is often intimidating, which is why these Emerson students are sharing their best tips and suggestions for starting the school year off right. It includes helpful advice, like how to respond to yogurt sword fight requests.
+ Watch the welcome video

Letter from the Head of School

Dear Parents,

It’s Thursday afternoon on the last week before the start of school, and I have just returned to my office after walking around the hallways. The classrooms look beautiful, the grounds look fantastic, and everything is in its proper place. There’s a certain stillness of the campus, a feeling of something big about to begin. It’s like the moment of nervous silence as runners take their mark on the starting line, as they wait for the starting pistol to fire.

We’re ready.

We are ready! Our faculty and staff have taken part in a rich, engaging week of professional development in preparation for our students’ return. We have learned how to use technology to best support all our students through universal design. We have talked about how to be brave in our words and our deeds on topics of diversity, equity, and justice. We have reviewed our obligations as mandated reporters in ensuring that all students are safe. And most importantly, we have met to discuss your children, our students, so that we may best educate our many students and hit the ground running.

I hope that you all enjoy this long Labor Day weekend. Rest up—school is starting soon!

Be well,

John Huber

All School News and Info

First Day of School is Tuesday, Sept. 6

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Full day of school on Sept. 6, except kindergarten (half days with dismissal at 11:45am until Monday, Sept. 19), and 1st grade (half days with noon dismissal until Monday, Sept. 12).

Pick-Up and Drop-Off 101

A Curbside How-To Guide for Families

If you’ve never picked up or dropped off a child at Emerson, or if you just need a refresher, this video will give you an overview of the process and etiquette.
+ Watch the video

RSVP to Attend

Medication: Return Forms and Drop Off

Required if Students Regularly Take Meds at School

If your student takes any prescription or non-prescription (over-the-counter) medications, please return the appropriate form linked below to the office with their medication. All medications must be stored in the office and can only be administered under the supervision of faculty or staff.
+ Prescription Medication Form
+ Non-Prescription Medication Form

Bus Riders Must Register ASAP

Register if Your Student Will Ride the AAPS Bus

Due to changes in the AAPS bell times, Emerson’s bus routes have been substantially cut. Only one morning and one afternoon stop will be available. If your child will ride the bus, you must complete the contact information form below and on the Emerson Website, and they must ride on a regular basis.
+ Register at www.emerson-school.org/bus

Emerson Bus Schedule

Morning Bus (#104) – Departs at 7:15am from Bach School (600 W Jefferson St, Ann Arbor) with pick-up on 5th Street side of the school, arriving at Emerson at 7:30am (Childcare will be provided to bus riders).
Afternoon Bus (#55) – Departs from Emerson at 3:10pm with drop off at Burns Park Elementary (1414 Wells St, Ann Arbor) at 3:30pm (Childcare will be provided while waiting for bus).

We are trying to add a second afternoon drop off but they are unable to accommodate us at this time. Please contact Durham Bus Services directly if this impacts your child getting to Emerson on time (Durham Bus Service 734-994-2330).

Carpooling is Available at Emerson

Opt In to Participate in the Carpool Map

Find families who live nearby and are interested in carpooling. Only families who voluntarily opt in to participate are visible on the map, and only those who participate can view it. Of course, you can also opt out at any time.
+ Participate in the Carpool Map

After School Program Info

Drop-In Childcare; Music Lessons; Classes

Students can drop into the After School Program before or after school—no registration or pre-payment required. There’s also enrichment classes and music lessons available for all students.
+ More After School Program info and news
+ Fall Music Lesson
+ Fall Enrichment Classes

Family Handbook Now Available Online

New Families Will Receive Printed Copy

The 2016-2017 Family Handbook is now available for download. Families can also find it on the Emerson website at any time, and all new families will receive a printed copy at the New Family Welcome.
+ Download the 2016-2017 Family Handbook

ESPO Welcome Back Coffee

Tuesday, Sept. 6, 7:30am–9:00am. Near the Entrance

After dropping off the kids on the first day of school, parents and caregivers are invited to come together, share some summer stories, and celebrate the new school year in style with complimentary Mighty Good coffee and Washtenaw Dairy donuts! Stay and chill a bit, or grab a donut and run—it’s all about the WELCOME BACK!

Coffee with the Head of School Dates

By Grade, 7:30am–9:30am on the Dates Below

Parents are invited to start the school year with a cup of coffee and candid conversation with Head of School John Huber. It’s a great opportunity to meet John, and to share whatever is on your mind—the good and the bad.

To accommodate working parents, these coffees will begin at 7:30am (complimentary childcare available, reservations required). Come early and leave by 8:30am, or arrive at the normal school start time and stay through 9:30am.

8th Grade: September 16
7th Grade: September 23
6th Grade: September 29
5th Grade: October 7
4th Grade: October 21
3rd Grade: October 27
2nd Grade: November 11
1st Grade: November 18
Kindergarten: November 21

2016-2017 Events Calendar

You can now download the calendar with all of this year’s events, breaks, and happenings, or subscribe to the online calendars and always be up to date.
+ Download the 2016-2017 School Events Calendar
+ See and Subscribe to the Online Calendars

Sports Physicals for Grades 4-8

Required to Play on an Emerson Sports Team

Please return your child’s sports physical to the office if they plan on playing on an Emerson sports team. Students will not be allowed to participate in team practices or games until these are received. Please email yours to Joan Gregorka, or drop them off in the Lower School office ASAP.

7th Grade Immunization Records

Required of All 7th Grade Students

The State requires all schools to collect immunization records for 7th grade students before they can start school. Please email yours to Joan Gregorka, or drop them off in the Lower School office ASAP.

Back-to-School Picnic

Sunday, Sept. 11, 4:30pm – 7:00pm at Emerson

Please join us for the annual Back-to-School picnic, hosted by ESPO (Emerson School Parent Organization). There will be food, games for the kids, and a chance to mingle with old and new friends. Please RSVP to attend ASAP—it really helps with ordering food. Email espo@emerson-school.org with any questions.

Lower School Band and Orchestra

Students in Grades 2–5 Invited to Participate

Everyone is welcome to join the band and orchestra program—no previous experience required. All students will be taught basic concepts to help them learn how to play their new instruments. This year will have new opportunities for our continuing students to build skills and to play exciting music with friends at Emerson!
+ Learn more

Family-Friendly Open Mic Nights

6:00pm on the Wednesdays Listed Below

A stage for students, parents, and teachers to perform—not compete—and share their talents and passions. Sing, play, read, dance, joke, act, etc. in front of a laid-back and supportive audience of families from schools throughout the greater-Ann Arbor area.

Sep. 21, 2016
Nov. 30, 2016
Jan. 25, 2017
Mar. 22, 2017
May 31, 2017

Sign up to perform

Order Pizza Lunch and Milk on RenWeb

Place Order by Monday, Sept. 6

Please place your orders in RenWeb for Friday Pizza Lunch and/or milk for lunch—all optional—by Sept. 6. Here’s how:

Log into RenWeb (Parent Login button on top right of www.emerson-school.org)
Click Student Information tab on left
Click “Lunch”
Click “Create Web Order” and make your selections for each student
• For milk, click “Lunch Items for Thursday” for options
• For Pizza Lunch, click “Lunch Items for Friday” for options
Click “Submit Order” to complete your order

Orders will be billed as they are placed. Last week’s newsletter incorrectly stated parents would be billed in October, as they had been in previous years.

Order Lunches From What’s Cooking!

Orders Must Be Received by Sept. 6

Lunches will once again be provided by What’s Cooking!. These lunches are an optional service delivered to students Monday to Thursday (with some exceptions).
+ See ordering instructions at www.emerson-school.org/lunch

New Student Health Appraisal Form

All students new to Emerson need to complete a Health Appraisal Form, available below or from most doctors’ offices. Please email yours to Joan Gregorka, or drop them off in the Lower School office ASAP.
+ Health Appraisal Form

Most Likely to Succeed Screening

Wednesday, Sept. 14, 6:30pm in the AIC at Emerson

How do we best prepare our students for their future? The award-winning documentary Most Likely to Succeed explores this question, and you’re invited to join fellow parents, educators, and community members for a special screening at Emerson.

MLTS looks at the impact of learning environments, building on passion and expertise, giving students a voice, and leveraging partnerships with parents and school community. This film reaffirms some of the great things we are doing in our schools, and raises questions about what else can be done to provide our students with the best education.

Get MLTS tickets

Middle School News and Info

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2016 Middle School Musical Auditions

Sept. 7 and 8, 3:00pm–6:00pm in AIC

Middle School students are invited to audition for the 2016 musical, The Little Mermaid Jr. A sign-up sheet will be posted for each audition day outside of the Arts and Innovation Center. More information is linked below, or you can contact Musical Director Julie Moon at jmoon@emerson-school.org with questions.
+ Learn more

Meet the Teams

Lear more about the compassionate, innovative, and creative educators working with your students this year.
*A couple inaccuracies were corrected after these were emailed earlier this week.
+ Meet the 6th grade team
+ Meet the 7th grade team
+ Meet the 8th grade team
+ Meet the World Language team, Enrichment team, Learning Support team, and Admin

Middle School Book Orders

Free Shipping Aug. 22–24

If you have not already ordered your books, please do so using the link below. MBS Direct is offering free shipping on orders over $99 Aug. 22–24.
+ Order Middle School books online

Technology @ Emerson

Complete the Tutorial by Friday September 9

All Middle School students must complete the online tutorial linked below by the end of the first week of school (Sept. 9). Doing so will demonstrate their understanding of the rights and responsibilities of using technology at Emerson, as outlined in the Acceptable Use Policy.
+ Review the Acceptable Use Policy
+ Complete the online tutorial

Middle School Class Supply Lists

Please review the list of supplies suggested for each grade level.
+ See the school supply lists

August 19th, 2016

Register to Attend the ESPO Back-to-School Picnic

Sunday, Sept. 11, 4:30pm – 7:00pm on the Emerson Playground

Please join us for the annual Back-to-School picnic, hosted by ESPO (Emerson School Parent Organization). There will be food, games for the kids, and a chance to mingle with old and new friends.Please RSVP to attend by Monday, August 29—it really helps with ordering food. Emailespo@emerson-school.org with any questions.

RSVP to Attend

Letter from the Head of School

Dear Parents,

Please welcome our newest member of the Emerson learning community, Brittney Papadopoulos, who will be Emerson’s new K-2 Learning Specialist. She comes with a B.A. in Early Childhood Education and an M.Ed. in Reading, both from Harding University.

Brittney is making the move from Tennessee, where she has been serving as Director of the Donald F. Andrews Reading and Writing Center & Student Athlete Academic Success Program at Chattanooga State Technical Community College (try saying that title three times fast). Prior to serving as Director, she was an elementary school teacher in both Tennessee and Arkansas, as well as Lead Reading Assistant Professor at Chattanooga State.

Welcome, Brittney!

John Huber

All School News and Info

Family Handbook Now Available Online

New Families Will Receive Printed Copy

The 2016-2017 Family Handbook is now available for download. Families can also find it on the Emerson website at any time, and all new families will receive a printed copy at the New Family Welcome.
+ Download the 2016-2017 Family Handbook

First Day of School is Tuesday, Sept. 6

Only 12 Days Left of Summer Break!

Full day of school on Sept. 6, except kindergarten (half days with dismissal at 11:45am until Monday, Sept. 19), and 1st grade (half days with noon dismissal until Monday, Sept. 12).

ESPO Welcome Back Coffee

Tuesday, Sept. 6, 7:30am–9:00am. Near the Entrance

After dropping off the kids on the first day of school, parents and caregivers are invited to come together, share some summer stories, and celebrate the new school year in style with complimentary Mighty Good coffee and Washtenaw Dairy donuts! Stay and chill a bit, or grab a donut and run—it’s all about the WELCOME BACK!

Coffee with the Head of School Dates

By Grade, 7:30am–9:30am on the Dates Below

Parents are invited to start the school year with a cup of coffee and candid conversation with Head of School John Huber. It’s a great opportunity to meet John, and to share whatever is on your mind—the good and the bad.

To accommodate working parents, these coffees will begin at 7:30am (complimentary childcare available, reservations required). Come early and leave by 8:30am, or arrive at the normal school start time and stay through 9:30am.

8th Grade: September 16
7th Grade: September 23
6th Grade: September 29
5th Grade: October 7
4th Grade: October 21
3rd Grade: October 27
2nd Grade: November 11
1st Grade: November 18
Kindergarten: November 21

2016-2017 Events Calendar

You can now download the calendar with all of this year’s events, breaks, and happenings, or subscribe to the online calendars and always be up to date.
+ Download the 2016-2017 School Events Calendar
+ See and Subscribe to the Online Calendars

Filter By Date

Filter By Tag

News & Blog: Recent

February 21st, 2019

New Preschool Summer Camp, in Partnership with Allen Creek Preschool

February 21st, 2019

December 6th, 2018

EAGLES Robotics Team is 10th in Nation After 1st Place Tournament Finish

December 6th, 2018

ONE OF 96 TEAMS ADVANCING TO STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

October 30th, 2018

Emerson Soccer Earns 7th Straight Season Championship, Wins Tournament

October 30th, 2018

September 26th, 2018

Soccer Update: Emerson Wins First 3 Games of Season

September 26th, 2018

September 14th, 2018

7 Emerson Alums Named 2018 National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists

September 14th, 2018

April 26th, 2018

17 Students Earn Awards in National French Contest

April 26th, 2018

December 21st, 2017

Rising Robots Team Wins Strategy and Innovation Award at State Tournament

December 21st, 2017

December 13th, 2017

E.A.G.L.E.S. Middle School Robotics Team Earns Honors in Rookie Season

December 13th, 2017

February 21st, 2019

New Preschool Summer Camp, in Partnership with Allen Creek Preschool

February 21st, 2019

December 6th, 2018

EAGLES Robotics Team is 10th in Nation After 1st Place Tournament Finish

December 6th, 2018

ONE OF 96 TEAMS ADVANCING TO STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

October 30th, 2018

Emerson Soccer Earns 7th Straight Season Championship, Wins Tournament

October 30th, 2018

September 26th, 2018

Soccer Update: Emerson Wins First 3 Games of Season

September 26th, 2018

September 14th, 2018

7 Emerson Alums Named 2018 National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists

September 14th, 2018

April 26th, 2018

17 Students Earn Awards in National French Contest

April 26th, 2018

December 21st, 2017

Rising Robots Team Wins Strategy and Innovation Award at State Tournament

December 21st, 2017

December 13th, 2017

E.A.G.L.E.S. Middle School Robotics Team Earns Honors in Rookie Season

December 13th, 2017

October 26th, 2017

Emerson Soccer Wins Tournament and Season Championship

October 26th, 2017

October 19th, 2017

2017 SHAR Strings Scholarship Winners Announced

October 19th, 2017

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE SHAR SCHOLARSHIP APPLICANTS AND WINNERS!

June 8th, 2017

82 Lower School Students Participate in Science Olympiad, 24 Teams Earn Medals

June 8th, 2017

Congratulations to our terrific Science Olympians:

Emerson took home medals in 24 events this year:

May 24th, 2017

Ann Arbor’s SHAR Music Makes $20K Gift of Instruments, Support, and Scholarships for Students

May 24th, 2017

EMERSON SCHOOL RECEIVES 10 INSTRUMENTS, LONG-TERM SUPPORT

May 11th, 2017

Magnifique Performance by Students in National French Contest

May 11th, 2017

May 1st, 2017

20 Emerson Students Awarded for 2017 National Spanish Examinations

May 1st, 2017

Students Earn 13 Medals and 7 Honorable Mentions

LEVEL 01

LEVEL 1

April 27th, 2017

Track Team Earns 1st Place at Meet