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.
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.
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
Emerson’s academics and caliber of faculty are by far its strongest attributes, and I frequently tell people that I learned more from my Emerson teachers than I did my High School teachers and many of my college professors.
Helena Bentley, Class of 2005
Emerson Fact
Middle school students attend world language classes five days per week.
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.
