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As a primary school, Ferndale Lower Elementary is designed with the young learner in mind. Teachers use curriculum and learning techniques based on brain-research that enhance visual learning and include music and movement while taking into consideration the individual strengths and needs of each child. Additionally, the program's reputation for excellence is based on a philosophy that fosters independence, promotes self-directed learning, and provides instruction in a project-based environment. Students attending Ferndale Lower Elementary School transition to Ferndale Upper Elementary School for grades 3-5
Our Lower Elementary team has made a helpful book for our early learners, to help explain what is going on. Look through this PDF at your next story time!
On Thursday, November 30th, Mrs. Carp/Burgess 5th grade class visited Mrs. Tobin's Kindergarten class for more Buddy time. Together they listened to "The Snowy Day" be Ezra Jack Keats then worked with their buddy to create a self-portrait of their own snowy day. They ended with the visit with creating snowflakes that focused on what made them unique.
Lower Special Ed team being "Creepy Pair of Underwear" for Book Character Day!! You can enjoy a read-along of this popular Aaron Williams children's book on YouTube. The kids thought it was silly to see their teachers wearing underwear.
The Wize Owls of Ms. Wize's 1st grade class honored veterans this week! We learned all about Veterans Day and wrote letters of thanks to veterans in our own families or in our school family. We invited Sargeant Taylor, a veteran and paraprofessional at Ferndale Lower Elementary, to talk to us about his experience in the Army. We can't wait for all of our veterans to receive their letters! Thank you to all that have served...past and present!
One of FPS music teachers, Mrs. Duncanson, had the honor of presenting at the prestigious American Orff Schulwerk Association (AOSA) National Music Conference in Albuquerque, NM, last weekend. AOSA, boasting around 4,500 members, stands as one of the larger professional organizations for music educators in the United States.
Mrs. Duncanson's presentation focused on innovative ways to enhance the music classroom experience by incorporating student voice and choice through literature, movement, and instrument playing. Mrs. Duncanson's sharing is not just a reflection of her expertise but also a testament to the commitment FPS has in providing a rich and engaging musical education for our students that goes beyond the notes on a page!
This program is designed for students who:
Diana Keefe has been principal of Ferndale's Lower Elementary program since 2014. Ms. Keefe is committed to developing relationships and connecting with staff, students, parents, and the surrounding community. A high priority of hers is to forge a strong partnership with the Ferndale early childhood community, including outreach to home childcare providers, private & public preschools, and anyone involved in early childhood. She invites any parents of young children or childcare providers to contact her and set up a visit. If you are interested in meeting with Diana Keefe, please call (248) 586-8800 or email her at Diana.Keefe@ferndaleschools.org.