Teachers are always seeking new ways to make learning more engaging and meaningful for students. One powerful strategy is integrating subjects that might not seem connected at first glance—such as physical education and math. By merging these two areas, students not only get to move and stay active, but they also develop important math skills, such as collecting data, finding measures of central tendency, and creating line plots

Mardi Gras is a time of joy, festivity, and artistic expression, and few traditions are as iconic as the elaborate masks worn during the celebrations. This year, the Grade 7 French students collaborated with the Montessori Owls, a group of enthusiastic 4-year-olds, to create vibrant Mardi Gras masks using the traditional technique of papier-mâché. 

Grade 8 students are currently reading novels that they have selected as part of their book clubs unit. This year, groups have chosen to read either William Golding’s, Lord of the Flies, or Alexander Dumas’, The Count of Monte Cristo. As part of this autonomous unit, students decide amongst themselves how many pages they will read between their book club meetings, and assign jobs to each other to complete and bring to discussions. Jobs require students to analyze different elements of literature present in their novels including conflict, point of view, and plot.

With Valentine’s Day, what better way to pay tribute to those we care for other than a thoughtful and detailed writing? Not to mention a beautiful pop art heart creation! The students were asked to think about what it means to admire someone. After many students shared their interpretation of the word admire, we landed on the following: To admire someone is to look at him/her with respect and warm regards.

While it may not feel like learning, advisory time focuses on preparing students for the challenges that lie ahead both academically, socially, and emotionally. In 5th grade advisory, we tailor our time to empower, educate, guide, and support this amazing group of young individuals

In Science, students recently explored the fascinating world of negative charges and static electricity through an engaging hands-on experiment. Using balloons and pepper, they learned how static electricity can attract and repel objects. The experiment allowed them to observe firsthand how rubbing a balloon on their hair or clothing could create a charge, causing the balloon to attract or move small particles like pepper.

During the month of February, our Grade 2 students are stepping into the world of authors and illustrators! The adventure began in art class, where students created their own imaginary sea creatures. They got creative, painting colorful backgrounds and using unconventional tools to experiment with textures. Then, they thought about where their creatures would live and used textured paper to shape and arrange their creatures against the painted sea backdrop.

January was an exciting and eventful month in Grade 1! We started the new year with a discussion about goals and writing our New Year’s resolutions. The students thoughtfully reflected on what they wanted to achieve in 2025. Resolutions included improving their reading skills and learning how to play a new instrument.

When most people hear the word “research,” an image of a scientist in a white lab coat with a clipboard in hand may come to mind. We might also think of complex experiments, microscopes, and other scientific tools, as well as stacks of books and expansive library collections.

A child’s ability to learn and thrive in school is deeply connected to their emotional and physical well-being. When children feel loved, happy, and safe, their brains are more open to absorbing new information, solving problems, and developing critical thinking skills. Creating a secure and joyful learning environment is essential for fostering their growth, curiosity, and confidence.

While summer is supposed to be a time for relaxation and a slower pace, it can be hard to find that peacefulness when you’re overscheduled with swimming and diving, camps, and inconsistent schedules. We all know it’s important to limit screen time, in general, but trying to do so during summer months can be hard. Here are a few benefits of reading this summer vs. consuming digital medi

In today's digital age, where screens dominate and schedules often seem overstuffed with academic pursuits, the significance of outdoor play for young children cannot be overstated. Beyond simple recreation, outdoor play serves as a cornerstone for development, fostering physical, cognitive, social, and emotional well-being in young minds. At The Woods Academy, we know the importance of educating the whole child. That includes preparing them for the everchanging 21st century world, but also making sure we are educating our students to be well-rounded individuals.