International Women's Day Gender Role Exercise

In eighth grade design class at Virgin Islands Montessori School and Peter Gruber International Academy, students celebrated International Women's Day by completing an exercise that explored gender roles. Prior to starting the exercise, Ms. Jamie Truax, Middle Years Program Math and Design teacher, made sure not to explain the purpose of the activity beforehand. “I told each student to get out a sheet of paper and divide it into 8 sections” Truax said, adding that students were told they would have 1 minute to draw a picture in each section. Truax then instructed her class to draw a nurse, doctor, firefighter, scientist, astronaut, politician, gardener, and artist.

Afterwards, Truax explained that the purpose of the exercise was to explore gender roles in recognition of International Women's Day - a day intended to celebrate female achievements throughout history and across nations. At the conclusion of the exercise, data was tallied on the board. “We counted how many women, men, and gender neutral pictures were drawn for each occupation. We were surprised by some of our results!” said Truax.

Truax explained the results noting that she wasn’t surprised that most students drew a woman nurse and artist. They were however surprised and excited that most students drew women scientists, and were not so surprised to see that most students drew male politicians. The eighth grade class concluded that most people drew gender neutral firefighters and astronauts because they wear so much gear it's hard to tell if they're a woman or a man.

Truax added that “it's important to explore gender equality in schools and make it known that anyone has the potential to grow up and have any occupation. Doing this exercise was a fun way to explore how we stereotype without even knowing it.” One student said, "This was a fun activity to do on International Women's Day. I learned a lot about how we perceive different jobs".  

Happy International Women's Day!

Seniors Invited to 11th Annual Peter GrubEr Awards

Leah Gaskin, Kobe Potter, Ver'Nele Callwood, Vanshika Lulla, T'Leah Serieux, Nalani Figueroa. BACK ROW: Candace LaPlace, Silas Wisehart, Amoi Ottley

RED HOOK, ST. THOMAS - March 7, 2018 - Senior students from Virgin Islands Montessori School and Peter Gruber International Academy (VIMSIA) had the great privilege of attending the twelfth annual Gruber Awards of Science honoring Dr. Elinat Segev.

Each year the Gruber Foundation awards scientists in the fields of Cosmology, Genetics, and Neuroscience, whose groundbreaking work provides new models that inspire and enable fundamental shifts in knowledge and culture. Additionally, one new scientist receives the Young Scientist Award – aimed to recognize brilliant early career scientist from around the world – which is given out by the foundation and supported by personal funds donated by Peter and Patricia Gruber. The award provides vital funding for gifted scientists at the beginning of their research activities, and helps enrich their work.

The ceremony began with opening remarks from VIMSIA Head of School, Michael Bornn who thanked colleagues from the Weizmann Institute of Science in Rehovot, Israel for being the first to reach out post hurricane and spoke about the undying personal connection between the Peter Gruber International Academy and the Weizmann Institute of Science.

With the use of real-time live streaming, Marshall S. Levin, Chief Executive Officer for the American Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science, welcomed this year’s award recipient Dr. Elinat Segev. Dr. Segev completed her BSc in Biology and Geology magna cum laude (2003), followed by a MSc in Earth Science (2005), and a PhD in Microbiology (2012) all from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. She worked as a postdoctoral fellow in the Department of Microbiology and Immunobiology at Harvard Medical School from 2012 until joining the faculty of the Weizmann Institute in July 2017. Dr. Segev was accompanied by Prof. Israel Bar-Joseph, Vice President for Resource Development and Public Affairs, Weizmann Institute of Science through teleconference.

Levin highlighted the grand significance of this year’s Gruber Awards, since the original plan was not to host the awards due to hurricanes Irma and Maria. Additionally, Levin added that “although it’s the twelfth year for the award, it’s our tenth anniversary hosting the awards here” at the University of the Virgin Islands, St. Thomas.  “We talked about not doing it because the island is suffering so much" said Patricia Gruber, wife of the late Peter Gruber. Piggy-backing off of Bornn’s comments about strong relationships and continuity, Levin added that this was the ultimate sign of support to push forward with the awards, especially knowing what the entire islands sustained during two Category 5 hurricanes and mentioned "we didn't want to disrupt that continuity and connection” in spite of the devastatin impact of two Category 5 hurricanes.

The Weizmann Institute of Science is well known throughout the USA and the world; however, Levin touched upon the W.O.W’s “Wonders of Weizmann” educating guests that Weizmann has had two patents per week for the last ten years, has developed seven of the top twenty-five drugs in the world and is ranked number ten in the world (out of 750 institutions) based on citation index metrics. Levin stressed the uniqueness of the Weizmann Institute adding that "people are not told what to study or what to do... it's a research institute and graduate school where they work in teams."

Dr. Segev welcomed questions from the audience. The majority of the questions were asked by VIMSIA students, with the most significant question being “what advice do you have for females wanting to pursue a career in science?” Dr. Segev answered that there absolutely is a struggle and a significant difference between males and females in science – a male dominated field. She added that it wasn’t until her mid-forties that she realized the differences and how grateful she is to be working at an intuition that advocates for equal rights and provides various methods of support, such as forums and workshops. “Women in science do face challenges. When science is part of our identity, finding a balance is difficult. Getting advice from the right people, seeking supporters, working in an arena that provides funding and resources are all ways to find balance” said Segev, adding that it’s important to “find your mentors and do not give up. If done in the right environment, you can be very successful at science and at life.”

Patricia Gruber - a philanthropist with a forward-looking approach to improving the human condition - spoke of her late husband, Peter. Together they established the Peter and Patricia Gruber Foundation in support of scientific research and human rights efforts, providing fellowships and scholarships. The prize program now resides at Yale University. Patricia mentioned “interactions with Weizmann are magic,” adding that while “working with a crew of creative people, anything can happen!” The common theme throughout the awards was that “Weizmann hires your brain and they want you to have fun” because no one is going to tell a Weizmann scientist what to study. Patricia added that “all of this, and all of us are a testament to resilience. Endurance is one thing, recharging is another.” The Weizmann Institute family cherishes Peter’s memory and his legacy of shared vision for the benefit of all humanity. The news of Levin’s retirement was made public by Gruber, adding how significant their work relationship has been. “He connects with people …. and wants to understand what’s important to you, and reaches deeper and deeper until he connects" says Gruber.

Given the close ties with the Weizmann Institute, VIMSIA seniors were invited to the private lunch following the awards at Grand Cru. PGIA Senior students in attendance: Leah Gaskin, Kobe Potter, Ver'Nele Callwood, Vanshika Lulla, T'Leah Serieux, Nalani Figueroa, Candace LaPlace, Silas Wisehart and Amoi Ottley

Lady Volts 2018 Co-Champions

The Virgin Islands Montessori School and Peter Gruber International Academy's (VIMSIA) JV Girls Basketball team finished the season as Co-Champions of the Interscholastic Athletic Association (IAA) league this season with a final record of 5-1.  
 
"This was a historic season as this is the first title captured by a basketball team here at VIMSIA" says Matthew Stocking, Head Coach. The lady Volts team practiced hard this year and their efforts paid off with tremendous season filled with great sportsmanship.

"This is only the second year many of the girls have played and their progress has been amazing to see. They’re a competitive group and always display good sportsmanship, even when things get heated and intense during game play. They were able to keep the intense situations light and fun with their positive mindset and ability to communicate effectively with each other" added coach Stocking.
 
Special mention: Adia Thomas and Chantel Carty for good leadership skilills and for their positive spirits that kept practices fun and energetic.  
 
"I look forward to watching this team grow!" - Coach Stocking

Upper Elementary Egyptian Museum

On Friday, March 2 Virgin Islands Montessori School and Peter Gruber International Academy (VIMSIA) students, faculty and parents were invited to tour the Upper Elementary Egyptian Museum! Brought to life by students of Ms. Kate Ludick, Upper Elementary Directress, the museum featured the Nile, pyramids, a market, an art and architecture display and of course various signature people such as pharaoh, Cleopatra and King Tutankhuman. 

The Egyptian Museum was the culminating event in a Montessori three period lesson. “After various small group lessons children determine what their interests are and begin doing research” says Ludick. The third and final part is the assessment or a test –in this case the Egyptian Museum- to prove the child’s full understanding on the topic and ensure they have a firm grasp. Students were required to put together the museum and build up one section based on their likes and interest including various skills such as mathematics, writing and reading. Once students have integrated their skills with their interest, they prepare a presentation for their peer groups, parents and other adults.

11th Annual Poetry Out Loud

Under the direction of Virgin Islands Montessori and Peter Gruber International Academy (VIMSIA) Middle Years Program English Language and Literature teacher Melissa Bump, five high school students participated in the annual Poetry Out Loud competition with hopes of winning and moving on to the territory wide competition scheduled for March 10, 2018. Contestants included: Karen Gaurlioff (1st place), Caroline Gaskin (2nd place), Adia Thomas (3rd place), Tiffany Connor and Trevelle Connor.

Judged by attorney Carl Williams, also parent of a CASA student, Monife Stout, Public Relations Director for East End Medical Clinic and Barbara Young, a retired English teacher and professional photographer, students had to recite two poems for not only the judges, but their teachers, parents and peers. 

"This is the eleventh year for Poetry Out Loud in the territory" says Bump. "The competition began in 2006. I fell in love with the competition when teaching at Kean, and was very happy to take over the coordination at VIMSIA after starting to teach here."

Poetry Out Loud provides a great opportunity for students to truly connect with poetry through memorization and internalization of the poet’s message. It is also a fabulous opportunity for students to gain public speaking experience. 

The winner of the territory competition will receive an all-expense paid trip to Washington DC in April to compete in the national competition. There are numerous award levels in DC, the most impressive being the $20,000 awarded to the national champion. In addition to the financial benefit, Poetry Out Loud opens fantastic doors for that person. Some national champions have even performed at the White House. 

Library Extension Complete!

One of the most exciting developments with our libraries this year was the opening of a new extension to the Montessori Library! Our collection of books has nearly doubled since Ms. Kathy Schlesinger joined us as librarian in 2010.  The shelves had become so crowded that not all of the fiction books could be shelved at the same time.  Ever creative in looking for space, Ms. Schlesinger had her eye on an adjacent storeroom, and with the help of Ms. Tess Williams, moved everything worth keeping and cleaned out the rest.  The room was painted, and over the summer shelves were installed and books were shelved.  We now have more room for our burgeoning fiction collection, as well as a new inviting space for beginning chapter books.  The new room also provides cozy reading spaces and brings more light into the whole library.  It is so exciting to see students’ faces when they see the new space!

Amoi Ottley International Baccalaureate Learner Profile Award Winner

Amoi Ottley

International Baccalaureate Learner Profile Award Winner

Every other month, Virgin Islands Montessori School and Peter Gruber International Academy (VIMSIA) gives out the International Baccalaureate Learner Profile Award to a high school  student who best embodies the traits of the IB Learner Profile: inquirers, knowledgeable, thinkers, communicators, principled, open-minded, caring, risk-takers, balanced and reflective. Nominations are led by students and staff, and finalized with an Peter Gruber International Academy teacher vote. 

Amoi Ottley, a senior student won at yesterday's ceremony.  The award was presented to him by two of his peers creating a heart-warming scene. 

“In the last year, Amoi has become a true leader and an example for other students. He is strong willed and stands up for what he believes in while looking out for his classmates, peers and teammates and is a positive member of our community. His maintaining of a positive attitude consistently after the storms, and throughout the school year is particularly admirable especially when he was one of the hardest hit.”
–fellow PGIA classmate and teammate

“Amoi is a respectful young man that always keeps me smiling.  Although I do not have him as a student this year, when we do interact I enjoy listening to him.  I admire Amoi for the way he handled himself after the hurricanes.  I am impressed that he was able to overcome the devastation and still remain grateful and consistent in his school work and sports.  Congratulations Amoi!  I can't think of anyone else who deserves this award more than you.”
–Ms. Weichman

“Amoi has discovered this year what the growth mindset is all about.  With the knowledge that the only type of failure is in not trying, he has been working harder than ever to achieve his goals.  It has been a real pleasure to watch you grow, Amoi.  Can't wait to see how far you will go.” –Senor Gever

“Amoi is an incredible young man on so many levels. He is coachable, hard-working, determined, inspiring, and full of grit. One day, we will all be able to say, "I knew Amoi when...". Amoi is the walking example of a growth mindset with the brightest of futures ahead of him.” –Mrs. Elger

“Amoi is an excellent leader on and off the soccer field. On the field, he pushes his teammates to do the best they can and it lifts everyone's spirit. Off the field, Amoi is a hardworking student. Whenever others are off-track, he likes to remind them to get back on task.” –fellow PGIA classmate and teammate

“Amoi brings a mixture of hard work with a playful attitude to the classroom which brightens our community and also sets a good example for those around him.” –Ms. Silva

Build A Tower, Build A Team!

Under the direction of Virgin Islands Montessori and Peter Gruber International Academy middle school math teacher, Jamie Truax, the eighth grade class participated in a mini design project this week called the Marshmallow Challenge- a challenge that has been done all over the world in schools, conferences, and business meetings. "This challenge teaches the students teamwork, as well as STEM" Truax says. 

Students are given an envelope with 20 sticks of spaghetti, 1 marshmallow, 1 roll of tape, and 1 ball of string. Students were put in random groups and whoever creates the tallest structure wins. 

"I was so impressed by how the 8th graders collaborated to build a spaghetti structure." Truax says adding that students shared materials, and how wonderful it was to see each student work collaboratively towards achieving a common goal. 

The winners of the challenge were Audrianna, N'Jheri, and Sakari! Their structure stood 16.5 inches tall. 

Learn more about the marshmallow challenge by watching this TED Talk!

Celebrating Montessori Education Week

In celebration of Montessori Education Week, parents, faculty, staff and students wrote their own personal testimonies about their Montessori experience showing their support and Montessori spirit!

Caribbean and Black History Month

In celebration of African and Caribbean Black History Month, on Wednesday, February 28th Virgin Islands Montessori School and Peter Gruber International Academy students, faculty and staff welcomed back the cultural experience that has taken place at the school for over 12 years - The Echo People.  The African drumming celebration was held under the solar awning and featured a traditional dance class,  a lesson on the history of traditional musical instruments and various songs. 

Autopista College Fair

On Friday, Febryary 23rd grades ten and eleven eagerly awaited the opportunity to explore the Autopista College Fair held at Virgin Islands Montessori School & Peter Gruber International Academy (VIMSIA). Admissions representatives from various renowned schools were present ready to give out brochures and spirit gear while enlightening students about their school and available majors! Throughout the college fair, students were seen visiting schools that matched or were close to their search criteria, taking notes and collecting business cards. Participating colleges included: University of Connecticut, Embry Riddle University, University of Charleston, Tennessee Wesleyan University, Life University, Iowa State University, Keiser University, Emerson College, Johnson & Wales University, Savannah Art & Design College, Aquinas College and King University.

Thanks to our highly trained college counselors, college fair opportunities are widely available to Peter Gruber International Academy (PGIA) students - some hosted right on campus.

Here's what the Admissions Representatives had to say about PGIA students:

"This was the most prepared group of students I spoke to on the trip!"

"I got some amazing and insightful questions, I could tell the students did research!"

"Your students are very respectful and energetic!"

"We will definitely come back to this school next year!"

"We felt so welcomed!"

Well done tenth and eleventh grade!

"A Night at The Museum"

Upper Elementary Wax Museum presentations were a hit Thursday night.  Students prepared first person narratives from past to the present for family and friends. Each student dressed up in character and delivered their speeches flawlessly all while pretending to be a wax statue. Some went as far as creating a small button to press which began their animation and speech. 

As a culmination of 6 weeks work these notable personalities came to life to share their stories representing a diversity of backgrounds of social activism, education, literature, medicine, sports, NASA and the entertainment world. 

Visualization and motivation Talk by James Mapes

“We may not be able to control what happens to us, BUT we can control how we respond to it.” -James Mapes

On Wednesday, Feb 21, James Mapes a popular international public speaker who specializes in teaching skills to individuals and organizations that stimulate innovation, visited the PGIA to do a 45 min presentation on "Visualization and Motivation" for the 7th - 12th graders.  James passed out props to each student to demonstrate the power of thought.  He spoke to the kids about using positive thinking to create motivation in your life and how to avoid self-limiting beliefs that will hold you back from you want.  He did several demonstrations for the kids that left them gasping and staring in disbelief.  The room was a flutter with excitement and laughter.

Take a ways: set goals, write goals down, do not let negative beliefs hold you back, do let positivie beliefs motivate you, visualize what you want. 

James performs this Saturday night, 2/24, at the Forum at Antilles School.  This intriguing performance is $25/adults, $10/teachers and FREE for students.

Las Vegas Mayor's Cups and International Showcase Results

Starting lineup for our friendly with Preston Lodge (Scotland),

The PGIA Varsity Soccer Team had a very successful trip to to the Las Vegas Mayor's Cup and International Showcase.  Playing opposition from California, Nevada, Utah, and Scotland, the Volts hung tough despite being the youngest team in their division (U19 Boys).  They recorded their first win at a stateside tournament, qualified for the knockout stage (a first), and beat a team that otherwise went undefeated in the tournament.  Two of the Volts three losses came to teams who qualified for the final.  Goal scorers for the PGIA included David Dawson (the game-winning goal in our win), Seidon Nemeth, Nickolas Swan, and Grant Farrell.  Richie Livacz recorded a shutout in goal in our opening tournament game.  As soon as we get film from the tournament, we will be putting up highlights on the website. 

The tournament results are as follows:

PGIA 2 (David Dawson, Seidon Nemeth) Red Dragons College Prep 0 - Group Game

PGIA 1 (Nickolas Swan), San Diego Machine 3 - Group Game

PGIA 0, Carson FC Pumas Elite 5 - Quarterfinal

PGIA 1 (Grant Farrell), Las Vegas Revolution 5 - Consolation

Chris Griffith, a Volts JV soccer player, was a guest player on the Downtown Las Vegas Soccer Club U13 Academy team.  His team qualified for the quarterfinals as well, and Chris got on the scoreboard in his third match (with all of the U19 team in attendance).  Great job Chris!

Off the field, the Volts toured Las Vegas reality show sets (Pawn Stars, Tanked, Rick's Restoration and Count's Customs), explored Las Vegas, rode a zip line over the Fremont Street Experience, and visited the Grand Canyon.  They received multiple compliments on their behavior and sportsmanship, representing the school with grace and class.  

The team would like to thank all who made this trip possible.  This list includes, but is not limited to, all who bought t-shirts and water, the parents of all our players, the PGIA administration, the Downtown Las Vegas Soccer Club (for letting Chris play with them) and the Las Vegas Mayor's Cup and International Showcase (who donated registration fees and hotel accommodations).  There are already plans in the works to return next year.  Go Volts!

VIMSIA Soccer Team at the Grand Canyon

Volts with Rick Harrison of "Pawn Stars"

EPA Helps VIMSIA Monitor Air Quality

On Wednesday, the 12th grade Environmental Systems & Societies class welcomed two members of the EPA's Environmental Response Team to their classroom. Michael Hoppe and Joe Bundens spoke on a variety of topics ranging from air quality and environmental disasters, to fracking and water pollution. Having recently covered atmospheric systems, the students were well prepared to discuss sources of particulate matter, the reduction of ozone-depleting substances, and the impact of air pollutants on human health. Mr. Hoppe and Mr. Bundens spent time explaining how air quality monitors can be used to assess real-time pollution levels, particularly concentrations of particulate matter. Using a network of instruments on the East End, the EPA can monitor and address any increases in pollution that might be a result of the ongoing destruction of boats and other hurricane debris in the area. After examining a sensor placed on school grounds, the students returned to class in preparation for the next unit: Energy Usage & Climate Change.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection

Household hazardous waste is still being collected at the Bovoni Landfill facility through Saturday, February 24th. According to the EPA:  "Household hazardous waste includes aerosol cans, household cleaners and chemicals, paint, and electronic items such as computers and televisions. Household hazardous materials also include car and marine batteries, which have become a major concern due to the large volume of batteries being used by residents who are without power. Household hazardous waste should not be thrown out with regular trash as it can contaminate the land, waterways, and groundwater. "

Leading The Way With Environmental Sustainability

This week Virgin Islands Montessori School and Peter Gruber International Academy (VIMSIA) welcomed Changing Tides Foundation volunteer Sarah Brady, who was led on a campus tour by seniors Candice LaPlace, T'Leah Serieux, VerNele Callwood and Nalani Figueroa to better understand VIMSIA’s environmentally sustainable initiatives. Brady was shown why our school is considered a leader in renewable energy and shown the usage of solar panels, pit drains to catch water, retention ponds, gardening efforts, recycling systems and much more!

Originally from California, Sarah –a junior at UC Santa Cruz majoring in Cognitive Science- decided to take a quarter off to assist with relief efforts by volunteering with Changing Tides Foundation. Being that a mutual interest in renewable energy and building sustainable infrastructure existed, a partnership between Changing Tides Foundation and VIMSIA was a no-brainer.

Having learned that PGIA students often sell water bottles from coolers as a way to fundraise, the foundation generously donated four SoulR Cart solar powered coolers. In celebration of this donation, head of school Michael Bornn organized an ice-cream party for the entire school to educate students on solar energy. Students enjoyed a tasty treat chilled by the sun!

VIMSIA Soccer Team Travels to Las Vegas

The Peter Gruber International Academy (PGIA) Varsity Soccer Team is delighted to be participating in the Las Vegas Mayor's Cup and International Showcase.  There are over 600 teams from 70 countries/5 continents at the event.  In addition, over 400 college coaches will be in attendance.  The Volts will play a friendly match vs. Preston Lodge School (Scotland) on Thursday night before starting tournament play on Saturday.  They will have up to 5 games in three days against teams from across the United States and around the world.  International schools and amateur/professional clubs are represented, including a youth team from Borussia Monchengladbach, a team in the German Bundesliga.  The Volts, defending I-AA Champions, are looking forward to the opportunity for growth provided by a tournament of this caliber.  They are thankful for all the community members who bought t-shirts and water to support their fundraising efforts.

#spreadthelove

Virgin Islands Montessori and Peter Gruber International Academy students were seen throughout campus today spreading love! In celebration of Valentine's Day, students and staff members were encouraged to wear red, pink or white and #spreadthelove. Students from toddler to grade twelve were seen participating in this celebration of love and friendship by preparing crafts, singing songs, reading stories, making decorations and exchanging sweet valentine treats. Happy Valentine’s Day!

PTA Hosts Staff Appreciation Event

Thank You!

"The PTA thanks Haley Goodson for the crowd-pleasing music, Jessica Hume and the St. Thomas Restaurant group for the wonderful venue and service, and all the parents who donated the amazing food!" - VIMSIA PTA

Flu Vaccines Administered at VIMSIA

The Department of Health Immunization Division in conjunction with the Virgin Islands Montessori and Peter Gruber International Academy (VIMSIA) led a community-wide flu vaccination clinic at VIMSIA.

With the assistance of Shane Degannes, school nurse at VIMSIA, the Department of Health (DOH) was able to set up shop at VIMISA’s car deck and successfully administer flu vaccinations to over twenty-two men, women and children. Degannes explained how this idea was sparked one afternoon by staff member Ms. Diana Woods.

Ms. Woods, a Casa teacher for over 20 years, was casually conversing with parent and DOH Medical Director Dr. Tai Camille Hunte-Ceasar. Ms. Woods expressed her desire to get the flu vaccine and the difficulties scheduling an appointment with work and everyday life commitments. When Dr. Hunte-Ceasar heard Ms. Woods' story she immediately reached out to the Department of Health’s Immunization Division and sparked a community outreach initiative.

On behalf of all the VIMSIA parents, staff and community members we would like to thank the Department of Health Immunization Division, Mr. Shane Degannes, Dr. Hunte-Ceasar and Ms. Woods for reminding us how important and essential it is to prioritize our health and well-being.