NW Kids Magazine January 2016

L I V E • PLAY • DO

magazine

SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE GUIDE ARTS FOCUSED EDUCATION NOODLES IN PORTLAND MUSIC SCHOOLS & LESSONS

nwkidsmagazine.com

Jan

2016

2 | NW Kids Magazine

NW Kids Magazine | 3

EDITORS’

Corner

Happy 2016! We hope your year ended sweetly and you’re ready to have some fun this year. We’re already busy planning where we’ll be taking our kiddos and how we’ll be enjoying Portland in the coming months. It still may be sweater and rain gear weather, but you can always get out in the winter months here, you just need waterproof layers!

In this issue, just like every January, we feature our first of two comprehensive Open House Guides. The guide provides some valuable information on local, partnering schools. You can find out more about Immersion, Whole Child, Waldorf, Reggio and other preschool and elementary programs. The guide is a start to what may be a busy season of checking out schools in the Portland area and prepping for next Fall. For those of you gearing up for the big Kindergarten transition or thinking about a move to a new school we will be following up with our second Open House Guide in February.

Also, this month you can read up on local arts focused schools on p. 8 and on p. 16 you can find our detailed resource guide on where to send kids for music lessons of all kinds. For noodle connoisseurs and those curious about where to try noodles around the city, look no further than Found Around Town. There’s a list to get you started.

Bon appetit, friends!

Happy New Year, Kelley & Beth

Cover photography by MARIE PHAM mariephamphotography.com

4 | NW Kids Magazine

Contents JANUARY 2016

8 Music & Arts Programs in Portland Schools 12 First Notes: Getting Started with Musical Education 16 Resource Guide: Music Schools 18 School Open House Guide 32 Craft a Bright New Year 34 Best of Portland and Beyond: Our Top Picks for Getting Out This Month 38 Found Around Town: Noodles

NW Kids Magazine | 5

Listings Agia Sophia................................................................23 Ainsworth School......................................................23 All Families Surrogacy.................................................7 Aprende Con Amigos.................................................33 Art of STEM..................................................................9 Association of Northwest Steelheaders....................13 Barre3...........................................................................2 Bennett Suzuki...........................................................23 Bridges Middle School...............................................17 Burlingame Preschool................................................25 Cedarwood School.....................................................33 Childswork Learning Center.........................................9 Chinese American International School....................25 Coffee Kids.................................................................13 Cornerstone Montessori.............................................25 Engineering for Kids..................................................27 Fit4Mom....................................................................13 German International School....................................19 Glendoveer Tennis......................................................11 Global Friends Language School.................................9 Goodtime Chinese School.........................................17 Great Notion Brewing..................................................7 Hope Chinese Immersion Charter School...................7 International School..................................................17 Kati Dimoff.................................................................11 Legacy Health..............................................................3 Little Fruit Farm..........................................................33 Marylhurst School.....................................................17 MSB............................................................................29 Mt Tabor Preschool......................................................9 New Day School.........................................................25 Northwest Academy..................................................21 Northwest Chinese Academy....................................29 Oregon Children’s Theatre............................................2 Parent Child Preschools Organization........................25 Park Academy............................................................21 Peanut Gallery...........................................................25 Portland Jewish Academy.........................................33 Portland Life Consulting............................................11 Portland Montessori....................................................9 Portland Trampoline..................................................40 Riverdale School District............................................21 Saturday Academy.....................................................23 Sit Still..........................................................................7 Small Friends School.................................................27 Smockville Montessori...............................................29 Spielwerk Toys............................................................11 St. Cecilia School........................................................19 St. Gabriel Episcopal School......................................25 St. Matthew School...................................................23 Summa Academy......................................................15 Sunshine Montessori.................................................21 Sunstone Montessori.................................................27 The Kids’ Backyard Store............................................40 ThriftMouse Sale........................................................11 Trinity Lutheran..........................................................15 Tucker Maxon.............................................................27 Urban Farm Store.........................................................7 Valley Christian Preschool..........................................25 West Hills Montessori................................................25 Westside Montessori.................................................29 WeVillage...................................................................23 World of Smiles............................................................7 Zenana Spa................................................................13 6 | NW Kids Magazine

magazine

Publisher / Advertising Director Michelle Snell michelle@nwkidsmagazine.com Editorial Beth Friesenhahn beth@nwkidsmagazine.com Kelley Schaefer-Levi kelley@nwkidsmagazine.com Advertising Director Laurel Carrasco laurel@nwkidsmagazine.com

Tune in to KATU, Saturday, Jan. 9th at 8:50am for our Open House round up.

Client Services Coordinator/ Client Ad Design Karel Chan karel@nwkidsmagazine.com Graphic Designer Robyn Barbon robyn@folkloremedia.com Advertising Inquiries: 503-282-2711, ext. 1 sales@nwkidsmagazine.com Accounting & Business Services Heather Rex heather@nwkidsmagazine.com Administrative Assistant Brandi Green brandi@nwkidsmagazine.com Connect With Us: • Phone: 503.282.2711 • email: contact@nwkidsmagazine.com • Facebook: facebook.com/nwkids • Twitter: @nwkids • Pinterest: pinterest.com/nwkids NW Kids is published monthly by Miche Media, LLC. Every effort is made to ensure accuracy; sometimes we make errors. Please let us know when we do and accept our apologies.

Printed locally; Please recycle.

WHAT WE’RE LISTENING TO podcast

NW Kids Magazine | 7

Music and Arts Programs in Portland Schools by KELLEY GARDINER

Even if your child doesn’t pursue a career in the arts, it doesn’t mean that they can’t benefit from being immersed in music, dance, and visual arts from an early age. And who knows… they might just end up being the next Yo-Yo Ma or Misty Copeland.

Photographs courtesy of NORTHWEST ACADEMY

ARTS & COMMUNICATION MAGNET ACADEMY (ACMA)

BUCKMAN ARTS FOCUS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

ACMA, located in Beaverton, serves students in grades 6-12. A magnet school of Merit, ACMA offers an arts-integrated curriculum. Students are eligible to earn an Arts & Communication Magnet Academy endorsement with emphasis in an arts Career Pathway. Pathway endorsements include Performing Arts like Dance, Music and Theatre or Visual Arts including Ceramics & Sculpture, Drawing & Painting, Photography and Moving Image Arts. beaverton.k12.or.us/schools/acma/

This arts focus option school is a popular choice for parents and children in the Portland Public School District. Arts programming isn’t just available to a few students who’re interested at Buckman.

Instead, it’s available to all students, and completely integrated throughout the curriculum. Academic concepts are presented in artistic ways, and famous artists are studied in depth. Performance is also an important part of the Buckman experience, giving students the confidence they need in life. If you’re in the neighborhood, you’re in. Other interested PPS families have to take their chance at the lottery. buckmanelementary.org/home/ continued on p. 10

8 | NW Kids Magazine

NW Kids Magazine | 9

CATLIN GABEL Visual and performing arts are part and parcel with the attending at the “progressive independent day school” at Catlin Gabel, with woodshop, visual, performing, and media arts all integrated into the curriculum. Catlin Gabel strives to create well-rounded students and graduates, so creative thinking, music, and arts are a thoughtful and important part of every week’s schedule.

Current middle school students also get to take “co-curricular classes” during the school day instead of competing for precious time outside the classroom: In Fall 2015, these art classes included choir, marimba, Mexican string art, and stagecraft. Art exhibitions from students, alumni, and local artists are also on display.

Just because it’s a private school doesn’t mean that older students don’t have choices they might find elsewhere: 130 core and elective classes are listed for students in the Upper School, including music, visual arts, and theater classes. catlin.edu

DA VINCI ARTS MIDDLE SCHOOL Leonardo da Vinci was not just an artist.

He was considered a prime example of a “Renaissance Man” for his interest in (among other things) invention, architecture, science, mathematics, engineering, anatomy, geology, history, cartography. And and of course, he also happened to be a great painter and sculptor. Students at this namesake PPS school might not end up quite so wellrounded, but teachers will do their best to try. All students take six classes, four of which are academic classes, the other two of which are either arts or study skills, depending on the student’s needs.

Visual arts, dance, drama, and music are all available branches of the arts. Your

10 | NW Kids Magazine

student might have the chance to take painting, printmaking, ceramics, darkroom photography, band, choir, jazz, tap, or African drumming. pps.k12.or.us/schools/davinci/

NORTHWEST ACADEMY If you’re looking for an urban arts option, Northwest Academy is right downtown near to Portland Art Museum and other cultural institutions that lend themselves to an arts education. This middle school/high school is committed to inspiring students to discover their intellectual and artistic voices in a creative and supportive atmosphere, fueled by curiosity and constructive challenge. And preps kids to become innovative thinkers, college and beyond. nwacademy.org

OPAL SCHOOL Imagine getting to go to school every day at the Portland Children’s Museum: That’s the reality for the students of Opal School.

For K-5, Opal School operates as a public charter school in contract with the Portland Public Schools system. In addition to the amenities provided by being housed in the Children’s Museum, and at the doorstep of Washington Park and the Oregon Zoo, Opal School provides “access to the many forms of communication found in the languages of the arts and sciences including clay, painting, drawing, writing, poetry, dramatic arts, natural materials, wire, light and shadow, robotics, dance, music, and more.” portlandcm.org

Kelley Gardiner is a Portland native, a freelance writer and blogger, and the mother of one sweet toddler. To see what she’s up to, visit kelleygardiner.com

NW Kids Magazine | 11

First Notes: Getting Started with Musical Education

Article and Photographs by LAURA JOST

When I was three years old, I asked my parents for a guitar for Christmas. From what I understand, the poor thing didn’t last long.

At six, I had my very first solo in the holiday pageant. By fourth grade, I was Annie. In junior high, my music teacher had taken notice and I did my first summer musical with a local college. Through high school, I was receiving accolades for performances all over the Pacific Northwest. At seventeen, I started the music program at Portland State University. And what’s absolutely nuts is that I could barely read music. I’d had maybe a half dozen formal music lessons. It was arduous to catch up to my peers (and they were responsible for much of my learning).

All this is to say that if my parents had known then that my request for a guitar was more than a fickle desire for a new toy, my musical journey may have looked very different. It’s often difficult to perceive through the lens of parenthood what is real talent and what is just a kid growing up and having fun. Top if off with the realities of adult life (moving, finances, schedules, marriage, illness, etc.) and the idea of lessons or classes for a young 12 | NW Kids Magazine

child that isn’t begging for them might seem tedious or even frivolous. The truth is there is a very fine line between talent and fun; personal desire plays such a huge part in how far you take any gift. And not every gift has an obvious beginning.

What I absolutely know is that had I received more of a musical education, it would have positively affected my skill and confidence and would have allowed me to experience more of the joy that moved me toward music in the first place (and less of the anxiety that came with comparing myself to the technical skill of other musicians). However, I don’t know that I ever expressly asked for music lessons. So as a parent, when do you push that envelope? This has been a very difficult question for me with regard to music, sports, and other dedicated activities for my kids. If your child shows a propensity and they are not opposed to lessons, I’d suggest getting them started. If you’re not sure how interested they are, ask them outright. They might need a little space to consider it, but time will tell. continued on p. 14

NW Kids Magazine | 13

I had wrongly assumed that my kids would say one day, “Hey, Mom; I’d like to take piano lessons now.” If that has happened in your home, awesome! Any mention of lessons to my kids have been met with faces typically reserved for eating lemon wedges. As much as I feel like signing them up anyway, I know how important it is that they are personally invested. Then I read another article validating that participation in music can positively affect academics, emotional expression, and general confidence, and I get a little antsy. But I will be patient, pay close attention, continue to plant the idea of lessons, and nurture the love for song that is already present until my husband or I sense they are ready. And here’s how we’ll bide our time:

• S trike when the iron is hot. Research lesson and class availability so that when they are truly ready, you can jump right in. Check out the roundup on page 16. There are programs out there ready to help in all kinds of ways, including finances.

Your kid might be the next virtuoso…or they could just fall in love with jazz. Any way it turns out, they’ll gain a little extra education, culture, and involvement in their community while finding out.

• K eep instruments at home. I can’t tell you how many maracas to mini keyboards I see thrifting, so this doesn’t have to be expensive. Make your own with recycled containers, dry beans, and rubber bands.

Put in a special request to the family for birthdays and gifting holidays.

• P lay music. Play all kinds of music. Play all eras of music. Play it everywhere: in the car, on the record player, while washing dishes.

• T ake them to musical performances.

Whether this is a local children’s production, a coffee shop sing-a-long, the symphony, or stopping to listen to the buskers downtown, let them hear live music. Subscribe to discount ticket sites and follow local parenting groups online for money-saving and a heads up on events.

• L et them explore freely. Kids singing is really cute. But putting them on the spot or recording every note that comes out of their mouths can create anxiety.

• A ccept their personal taste; inspiration is highly individual. Even if it’s terrible music.

Create playlists for each child.

14 | NW Kids Magazine

Laura Jost still writes music at her beloved old piano. She owes so much to the talented and encouraging artists and people that she’s met in life, including friends and peers, dedicated adults and teachers, choir and bandmates, and one very special percussionist who gave her a crash course that saved her musical bacon.

NW Kids Magazine | 15

Resource Guide:

Music Schools

BENNETT SUZUKI Edie Bennett has taught Suzuki Method violin lessons for more than 35 years, and specializes in teaching young children. facebook.com/BennettViolin CATHEDRAL PARK MUSIC Private piano, violin & voice. cathedralparkmusic.com ELIASON SCHOOL OF MUSIC Suzuki and Faber and Faber method for students 4+. eliasonmusic.com ETHOS MUSIC CENTER All ages and skill levels welcome. Piano & violin group or individual instruction and a range of other instruments. ethos.org FORTE MUSIC SCHOOL Private and group instruction for ages 5-Adult. fortemusicschool.com 4/4 SCHOOL OF MUSIC Piano, voice, drum, ukulele for kids 5 +.

Beaverton and Clackamas locations.

44school.com GUITARFISH MUSIC Group and private instruction including Rock University, guitar program, piano, voice, drum and bass. Multiple locations in Portland. guitarfishmusic.com HARMONY ROAD MUSIC CENTER Piano & music education classes for tots through adults.

Clackamas & Vancouver locations. harmonyroadoregon.com 16 | NW Kids Magazine

KEYS TO LIFE Five Portland area locations teaching piano, violin and more. keystolifemusic.com LITTLE WING Little Wing teaches young children rock and music fundamentals. Portland & Lake Oswego locations. littlewing.com MUSICWERKS STUDIO Private piano, strings, guitar, voice and drum lessons for ages 5+. musicwerksstudio.com PORTLAND SCHOOL OF MUSIC Private lessons and group classes in a range of instruments including piano, violin, guitar, saxophone and clarinet. portlandmusicanddance.com SCHOOL OF ROCK Rock 101 performance program where students play together. Some locations offer weekly private lessons in guitar, piano, voice, bass, guitar, drums. Portland & Lake Oswego locations. schoolofrock.com SOUNDROOTS SCHOOL OF MUSIC Lessons of all kinds including piano, voice & ukulele. soundrootsmusic.com WESTSIDE MUSIC SCHOOL Piano and keyboard lessons in a classroom approach with the Harmony Road Curriculum. westsidemusicschool.org

NW Kids Magazine | 17

SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE GUIDE AGIA SOPHIA ACADEMY

AINSWORTH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

APRENDE CON AMIGOS

ADDRESS

14485 SW Walker Road, Beaverton

2425 SW Vista Avenue, Portland

5206 N Interstate Avenue, Portland

14695 NW West Union Road

PHONE

(503) 641.4600

(503) 916.6288

(503) 740.0304

(503) 330.8781

WEBSITE

asapdx.org

pps.k12.or.us/ schools/ ainsworth/

aprendecon amigos.com

bamboochinese school.com

DESCRIPTION

Educating the whole child by providing a rich academic and arts curriculum, grounded in Christian values, while fostering love of learning, personal responsibility and respect for each person.

A Culture of Excellence in a Community of Friends.

Research based Spanish Immersion preschool for potty-trained children aged 3-5.

Mandarin (Chinese) Immersion program. Kids learn a second language through having fun.

OPEN HOUSE

January 28, 5pm-7pm

February 3, 6pm

January 14, February 3, March 8, 5:30pm-7pm

Saturdays 10am-12pm

GRADE RANGE/ AGE RANGE

PreK-5th grade

K-5th grade

3-5-years-old

0-13-years-old

MAX ENROLLMENT

70

600

47

STUDENT 10:1 TEACHER RATIO

26:1

7.5:1

5:1

BEFORE/AFTER SCHOOL CARE

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

TUITION RANGE

$4,300 - $7,800 annually

N/A

$380-$995

See website

FINANCIAL AID

Yes

N/A

No

No

TEACHING METHOD

Montessori, Whole Child

Language ImLanguage mersion, English Immersion Community and Spanish Language Immersion

18 | NW Kids Magazine

BAMBOO CHINESE SCHOOL

Language Immersion

NW Kids Magazine | 19

SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE GUIDE BRIDGES MIDDLE SCHOOL

BURLINGAME PRESCHOOL

CEDARWOOD WALDORF SCHOOL

CHILDSWORK LEARNING CENTER

ADDRESS

716 NE Marine Drive, Portland

2401 SW Taylors Ferry Road, Portland

3030 SW 2nd Avenue, Portland

4235 SE Salmon Street, Portland

PHONE

(503) 688.2922

(503) 244.0689

(503) 245.1477

(503) 234.3611

WEBSITE

bridgesms.org

burlingame preschool.com

cedarwoodschool. org

childswork.org

DESCRIPTION

Bridges Middle School is an independent school serving 5th-8th grade students with learning differences.

Cooperative Preschool Learning Through Play.

Cedarwood School brings Waldorf education to life and strives to instill a love for learning. The curriculum weaves together the arts, academics and movement.

At Childswork we respect children’s natural capabilities and share our passion, empathy and enthusiasm in a reflective and collaborative way.

OPEN HOUSE

Private Admissions Tours throughout the year

February 6

January 23, March 5 10am-1pm

We offer tours every month.

Please call to reserve your spot on a tour.

GRADE RANGE/ AGE RANGE

5th-8th grade

2-5-years-old

PreK -8th grade

Preschool and Kindergarten

MAX ENROLLMENT

N/A

45

320

See website

STUDENT 10:1 TEACHER RATIO

Better than 10:1

15:1

Average 8:1 depending on age

BEFORE/AFTER SCHOOL CARE

No

No

Yes

Yes

TUITION RANGE

$22,000 annually

$70-$235 monthly

$6,500-$12,500 annually

See website

FINANCIAL AID

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

TEACHING METHOD

Individualized Instruction

Play-based

Waldorf

Experiential, Play-based, Reggio Emilia, Whole Child, Constructivist

20 | NW Kids Magazine

NW Kids Magazine | 21

SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE GUIDE CHINESE GERMAN AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL SCHOOL

GLOBAL FRIENDS LANGUAGE SCHOOL

GOODTIME CHINESE SCHOOL

ADDRESS

1855 South Shore Boulevard, Lake Oswego

3900 SW Murray Boulevard, Beaverton

4505 NE 82nd Avenue, Portland

15285 NW Central Drive, Portland

PHONE

(503) 348.3028

(503) 626.9089

(971) 506.3261

(503) 277.3899

WEBSITE

caisoregon.org

gspdx.org

globalfriends languageschool. com

goodtimechinese school.org

DESCRIPTION

CAIS: Learning and Thriving in a Multicultural World. CAIS offers a developmentally appropriate Chinese Immersion education and culture program.

A collaborative community with a studentcentered learning environment that encourages growth into bilingual world citizens.

GFLS is a cozy home-based preschool offering a bilingual Chinese/English program and a multicultural curriculum.

Summer Camp: Immersion Mandarin lessons, fun games and field trips.

OPEN HOUSE

Anytime, By Appointment

January 24, 10am-11:30am

Jan 11, 5-7pm, March 12, 1pm-2:30pm Jan 17, 2-4pm, Jan 23, 11am-2pm, Jan 28, 5pm-7pm

GRADE RANGE/ AGE RANGE

Preschool, Kindergarten, After School 1st grade+

Preschool 5th grade

2 1/2-5-years-old

K-6th grade

MAX ENROLLMENT

100

200

15

60

STUDENT 8:1 TEACHER RATIO

9:1

6:1

10:1

BEFORE/AFTER SCHOOL CARE

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

TUITION RANGE

$1,680-$9,020 annually

$10,774-$13,956 annually

$450 (part time)$795 (full time)

$220 weekly, $850 monthly

FINANCIAL AID

No

Yes

No

Yes

TEACHING METHOD

Language Immersion

Language Immersion, Playbased, Whole Child, International Baccalaureate

Language immersion, Playbased, Whole Child

Language Immersion, Play-based

22 | NW Kids Magazine

NW Kids Magazine | 23

SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE GUIDE HOPE CHINESE CHARTER SCHOOL

THE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

ADDRESS

9100 SW Wilshire Street, Portland

025 SW Sherman Street, Portland

16445 SW Melinda Street, Beaverton

1232 Linn Avenue, Oregon City

PHONE

(971) 226.7500

(503) 226.2496

(503) 521.8603

(503) 650.0978

WEBSITE

hopeccs.org

intlschool.org

littlefruitfarm montessori.com

themarylhurst school.org

DESCRIPTION

Educating for Global Fluency: Mandarin Immersion elementary school.

At The International School, children acquire language and culture as they learn to pursue knowledge beyond the classroom and throughout life.

Quality home preschool, experienced devoted A.M.I. teacher, low student ratio, safe wholesome learning environment, indoor/outdoor activities, ages 2-6.

Founded in 1972, Marylhurst honors the journet of each child PreK-8th grade in a progressive education community.

OPEN HOUSE

January 6, 13, 20, 27 February 3, 17 March 2, April 6, May 4, 9am

January 28, 6-8pm

Tours on first Fridays every month

January 23, 10am-1pm

GRADE RANGE/ AGE RANGE

PreK-5th grade (growing to 8th)

3-years-old-5th grade

2-10-years-old

PreK-8th grade

MAX ENROLLMENT

See website

500

16

200

STUDENT See website TEACHER RATIO

11:1

8:1

8:1

BEFORE/AFTER SCHOOL CARE

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

TUITION RANGE

See website

$9,510-$15,920 annually

$425-$1000 monthly

$1,350-$7,900 annually

FINANCIAL AID

See website

Yes

No

Yes

TEACHING METHOD

Language Immersion

Language Immersion, International Baccalaureate PYP (Inquiry-based)

Montessori

Progressive

24 | NW Kids Magazine

LITTLE FRUIT FARM MONTESSORI

THE MARYLHURST SCHOOL

NW Kids Magazine | 25

SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE GUIDE MSB

MT. TABOR PRESCHOOL

NEW DAY ANANDA MARGA SCHOOL OF PORTLAND

NORTHWEST ACADEMY

ADDRESS

11065 NW Crystal Creek Lane, Portland

9441 SE Belmont Street, Portland

1825 SE Clinton Street. Portland

1130 SW Main Street, Portland

PHONE

(503) 439.1597

(503) 914.1988

(503) 231.7425

(503) 223.3367 x104

WEBSITE

msb.org

mttabor preschool.org

newdayschool.org

nwacademy.org

DESCRIPTION

At MSB, students integrate academics with explorations in nature throughout their school day on a private campus.

A developmental, cooperative preschool providing a play-based environment for children to learn, grow, and play.

New Day School’s mission is to create a NeoHumanist learning environment and curriculum which provides for the education of body, mind, and spirit.

Northwest Academy is committed to inspiring students to discover their intellectual and artistic voices in a creative and supportive atmosphere fueled by curiosity and constructive challenge.

OPEN HOUSE

January 9, 1:30pm

January 20, 10am-12pm

January 9, February 20

Middle School: January 4, May 2, 1pm-2:30pm

GRADE RANGE/ AGE RANGE

3-12-years-old

3-4-year-olds

2.5 to 5-years-old

6th-12th grade

MAX ENROLLMENT

185

Junior class: 16 Senior class: 18

63

240

8:1

5:1

STUDENT 15:1 TEACHER RATIO BEFORE/AFTER SCHOOL CARE

No

No

Yes

No

TUITION RANGE

$6,890-$10,365 annually

Jr. $130 monthly Sr. $195 monthly

$1,076 (subject to change Fall 2016)

See website

FINANCIAL AID

No

No

Yes

Yes

TEACHING METHOD

Montessori

Play-based

Neo-Humanist Education

See website

26 | NW Kids Magazine

SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE GUIDE NORTHWEST CHINESE ACADEMY

PARK ACADEMY

THE PEANUT GALLERY PLAYSCHOOL

PORTLAND JEWISH ACADEMY

THE PORTLAND MONTESSORI SCHOOL

8565 SW BeavertonHillsdale Highway, Beaverton

1915 South Shore Boulevard

NE Portland

205 NE 50th 6651 SW Capitol Highway, Portland Avenue, Portland

(503) 546.3455

(503) 594.8800

(503) 998.7259

(503) 244.0126

(503) 688.2992

nwchinese academy.org

parkacademy.org

thepeanutgallery playschool.com

pjaproud.org

portland montessori.org

NWCA provides an outstanding educational foundation in the true immersion of Mandarin language and culture.

Park Academy empowers students with diverse learning challenges to reach their highest potential of giftedness while excelling academically and becoming responsible citizens and community leaders.

Our mission is to provide a rich environment for children to learn and grow together.

PJA provides an academically rich environment which nurtures the whole child.

We currently serve approximately 170 students; ages 2 1/2 through 12. We are AMI certified.

January 9, 10am12pm, February 20, 10am-12pm, March 5, 10am-12pm

January 21, 6:30pm-8pm

F ebruary 20, 10am-12pm

January 6, 10am

January 30, 10am-1pm

Preschool -8th grade

3-12-years-old

2-5-years-old

6 weeks-8th grade 2.5-12-years-old

150

120

16

370 as a school, 20-22 per class

180

7:1

2:1 Reading 10:1 Other Classes

8:1

9:1 average, depends on age

10:1

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

$6,570-$15,340 annually

$18,500 annually

See website

$9,000-$17,500 annually

Varies

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Language Immersion

Experiential, OrtonGillingham, MultiSensory, CollegePrep

Experiential, Reggio Emilia

Inquiry based, project oriented

Montessori

NW Kids Magazine | 27

SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE GUIDE RIVERDALE SCHOOL DISTRICT

SATURDAY ACADEMY

SMALL FRIENDS

SMOCKVILLE MONTESSORI

ADDRESS

11733 SW Breyman Avenue, Portland

Multiple locations

7475 SW Oleson Road, Portland

22444 SW Oak Street, Sherwood

PHONE

(503) 262.4840

(503) 200.5858

(503) 388.2266

(503) 625.1610

WEBSITE

riverdaleschool. com

saturdayacademy. org

smallfriends school.com

smockville.org

DESCRIPTION

The best aspects of independent schooling in a public school setting, with small classes, enthusiastic teachers and challenging academics.

Follow your curiosity in science, technology, engineering, arts and math.

At Small Friends children explore, create and collaborate to deepen their understanding of their world.

Smockville Montessori is a non-profit preschool and kindergarten located in beautiful Old Town Sherwood.

OPEN HOUSE

PreK-8th grade: January 22, 9am 9th-12th grade: Shadow days through February.

See website for more information.

February 4, 7pm

March 7-11

GRADE RANGE/ AGE RANGE

PreK-12th grade

Grades 2-12

3-5-years-old

3-years-old Kindergarten

MAX ENROLLMENT

360 (GS), 265 (HS)

Varies by class.

18 per class

35

STUDENT 13:1 TEACHER RATIO

See website.

4:1

10:1

BEFORE/AFTER SCHOOL CARE

Yes

No

No

Yes

TUITION RANGE

$10,130-11,950 annually

$79-$589 depend- $165-$205 ing on class hours monthly

See website.

FINANCIAL AID

Yes

Yes

No

No

TEACHING METHOD

Experiential

Experiential

Experiential, Playbased, Whole Child

Montessori

28 | NW Kids Magazine

SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE GUIDE SPRINGWATER ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES SCHOOL

ST. CECILIA SCHOOL

ST. GABRIEL EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

ST. MATTHEW CATHOLIC SCHOOL

SUMMA ACADEMY

16491 S Springwater Road, Oregon City

12250 SW 5th Street, Beaverton

17435 NW West Union Road

221 SE Walnut Street., Hillsboro

2510 SW 1st Avenue, Portland

(503) 631.7700

(503) 644.2619

(503) 928.1359

(503) 648.2512

(503) 287.1785

springwater school.com

stceciliaschool.us

stgabrielschool pdx.com

stmatthewschool hillsboro.org

summaacademy. org

Springwater provides approximately 200 students with the opportunity to learn through the sciences, building upon their natural love of learning, in a supportive community.

Preparing students to be responsible citizens and lifelong learners with strong Catholic values.

We provide an innovative, creative childcentered program based on the Reggio Emilia approach.

United as a community of faith, St. Matthew Catholic School nurtures the heart and mind of every student to live, learn and serve with the compassion of Christ.

Our mission is to nurture children’s natural love of learning and to cultivate academic excellence and Emotional Intelligence by building confidence, creativity, compassion and inquisitive minds.

February 18, 6pm February 20,10am

January 24, 10am-12:30pm

January 23, 10am-12pm

February 4, 1pm-7pm

January 30, 9am-12pm

K-8th grade

PreK3-8th grade

3-early 5’s

PK3, PK4, K-8th grade

K-8th grade/ 5-14-years old

198

30 per grade (K-8)

Call for more information.

300

130

22:1

16:1 (K-8)

7:1

17:1

11:1

No

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

$0

$1,890-$6,620 annually

Available on the website.

$4,950-$7,200 annually

$9,175-$13,250 annually

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Place-Based Inquiry

N/A

Reggio Emilia

Whole Child

Experiential, Play-based, Whole Child, Natural Learning Relationships NW Kids Magazine | 29

SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE GUIDE SUNSHINE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

SUNSTONE MONTESSORI SCHOOL

TRINITY LUTHERAN CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

TUCKERMAXON SCHOOL

ADDRESS

4845 SW Murray Road, Beaverton

6318 SW Corbett Avenue, Portland

5520 NE Killingsworth Street, Portland

2860 SE Holgate Boulevard, Portland

PHONE

(503) 644.1466

(503) 768.3847

(503) 288.6403

(503) 235.6551

WEBSITE

sunshinemontessori.com

sunstone montessori.org

trinityportland.org tuckermaxon.org

DESCRIPTION

Well-established preschool, with extended care serving the community since 1995.

We are a community of curious, independent, and compassionate learners.

Empowered by Christ’s love, Trinity students engage in academic rigor to be life-long learners and serve others.

Tucker Maxon School teaches deaf and hearing children to listen, talk, learn, and achieve excellence together.

OPEN HOUSE

See website.

January 12 4:30-6:30pm

February 25, 6:30pm, April 28, 6:30pm

January 20, February 24, March 30, April 27, 4pm-5:30pm

GRADE RANGE/ AGE RANGE

2-years-old Kindergarten

16-months-old6th grade

Preschool 3-8th grade

Preschool 35th grade

MAX ENROLLMENT

120

200

245

130

16-36 mo: 4:1, 3-6 years: 10:1, 6-12 years: 15:1

13:1

8:1

Yes

Yes

STUDENT 10:1 Preschool, TEACHER RATIO 5:1 Toddler BEFORE/AFTER SCHOOL CARE

Yes

TUITION RANGE

$850-$1025 monthly

$9,000-$20,000 annually

$2,500-$7,000 annually

$5,400-$17,000 annually

FINANCIAL AID

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

TEACHING METHOD

Montessori

Montessori

Traditional

Whole Child, Emotional Intelligence

30 | NW Kids Magazine

Yes

SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE GUIDE VALLEY CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL

WEST HILLS MONTESSORI

WESTSIDE MONTESSORI INTERNATIONAL

WEVILLAGE

WOODHAVEN

8060 SW Brentwood Street, Portland

Multiple Locations 1870 NW 188th Avenue, Beaverton

Portland, Happy Valley and Orenco Station

8470 SW Oleson Road, Portland

(503) 292.3537

(503) 246.5495

(503) 739.3949

(503) 935.5590

(503) 520.0807

valleychristian preschool.com

westhillsmontessori.com

wmioregon.com

wevillage.com

woodhavenschool. com

VCP-where the qualities of learning & nurturing are accomplished in a creative, playful environment.

Meeting the social, emotional and intellectual needs of children through joyful exploration and hands-on learning.

WMI upholds strong education for children based on strong faith & educational foundation, parent partnership, & community involvement.

Play-based, childdirected classes with 2 and 3 day options. For parents with children not enrolled in preschool, WeVillage offers a drop-in preschool program.

Woodhaven strives to nurture the whole child, socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually through play.

January 12, 6:30-8pm

March 6, 11am-1pm (SW Campus) and March 13, 11am-1pm (Lake Oswego Campus)

January 23, February 27 (By Appointment only)

Monday-Friday Call to schedule.

Jan 23, 10am-2pm, Feb 6, 3pm-5pm, March 12, 11am1pm, April 2, 3pm-5pm, April 16, 11am-1pm

2-5-years-old

Toddler, Preschool, 2.5-6-years-old Elementary

2-5-years-old

Preschool 3-5- years-old

See website.

Toddler: 12, Prima- 48 ry: 25, Elem: 25

10

12 per class

See website.

Toddler 4:1, Primary/ Elementary 12:1

10:1

10:1

4:1

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

See website.

$745-$1265 monthly

$620-$1,040

$304-$450 monthly; $22 per drop-in

$2,250-$3,500 annually

See website.

No

Yes

No

No

Play-based, Reggio Emilia

Montessori

Experiential, Language Immersion, Montessori, Christian School

Experiential, Playbased, Whole Child

Play-based, Whole Child, Waldorf, Outdoor NW Kids Magazine | 31

by THE CRAFT FACTORY

Craft a Bright New Year Who doesn’t love the magic of glittering snow, freshly fallen on the ground? Now you can bring the sparkles inside without worrying about that pesky melting problem. Part science experiment and part craft, this project is all fun as you make your own dazzling decorations.

SUPPLIES: Pipe Cleaners Borax Glass container String Popsicle Sticks

Optional: Pencil Food coloring

DIRECTIONS:

1

Twist your shapes! Grab those pipe cleaners and fold them into stars, snowflakes, even spell your name. Make sure to make them small, because the shapes enlarge by several sizes as the Borax adheres to it.

PRO TIP: Having trouble making shapes?

Fold your pipe cleaners around cookie cutters, or use the pencil to draw out your shapes and then trace.

2

Tie a piece of string around your shape; then tie the other end of the string to a Popsicle stick. Then put your shape into the glass container. Make sure your shape is not touching the sides or bottom of the container or else it will get stuck.

PRO TIP: Use a container with a wide mouth so your shape is easy to remove. If you use something like a Pyrex bowl, you can tie multiple shapes to dip in at one time.

3

Boil that water! Then mix 3 tablespoons of Borax for each cup of water. Pour into your glass container. Crystals begin to form after two hours, but it’s best to leave them in for up to 12 for maximum effect.

PRO TIP: If you’re using white pipe cleaners, add 1-3 drops of food coloring for each cup of water boiled to produce colored crystals!

Voila! Sparkling decorations that will last all year.

Just be careful to use gentle hands, as they can be fragile. We recommend hanging them in a window where they can catch the light and shine to their best advantage.

The Craft Factory is a drop-in craft studio and birthday party event space located in the heart of Multnomah Village in SW Portland, Oregon. We also host private parties and school workshops.

Visit us online at craftfactorypdx.com or call us at 503.577.4310 to book your party today!

32 | NW Kids Magazine

NW Kids Magazine | 33

Best of Portland and beyond OUR TOP PICKS FOR GETTING OUT THIS MONTH

Jan 2

JANUARY

THE PRINCESS WHO NEVER SMILED A twist on the classic fairy tale formula that’s sure to amuse and delight, with plenty of audience participation.

Stick around after the show for an arts and crafts class for the whole family! $1-2, pdxmetroarts.org

Jan 13-17 2016 PORTLAND BOAT SHOW Water babies unite at this 5-day extravaganza dedicated to boats, sailing vessels, and other watercraft. Features a Junior Boat Building section, where kids can design and build their own boats. $10 (download a coupon online!), kids 12 & under free, otshows.com

Jan 15-17

FAMILY FISH CAMP

A unique opportunity to learn sport fishing with the whole family in beautiful Tillamook County! A weekend full of instruction and breakout sessions that cover the basics of baiting, fishing, cleaning, and cooking your catch, for adults and kids alike! $99-139/ person, includes lodging and meals, nwsteelheaders.org

Please confirm calendar events and performances as scheduling changes may occur.

34 | NW Kids Magazine

Opens Jan 16 WORLD PREMIERE! GERONIMO STILTON: MOUSE IN SPACE The popular book series comes to the stage in this premiere production, in which scaredymouse Geronimo launches into space to save New Mouse City. $14-32, octc.org

Jan 16 SEASON 11 OPENER ROLLER DERBY BOUTS Beat the winter blues with the fast-paced world of roller derby! The season opens with a double header: Break Neck Betties vs. Guns N Rollers & Heartless Heathers vs.

High Rollers. $18-24, rosecityrollers.com

Jan 18 MLK DAY RESTORATION EVENT Honor Martin Luther King Jr. by giving back to your community! Help restore Johnson Creek either at Westmoreland City Park or Butler Creek Park. Bring a water bottle and rainproof gear; beverages and refreshments will be provided. Free, jcwc.org NW Kids Magazine | 35

Opens Jan 30 ALICE IN WONDERLAND A jazz music interpretation of the topsy turvy place that is Wonderland! An original Northwest Children’s Theater adaptation. $17-23, nwcts.org

THREE BILLY GOATS GRUFF

Jan 30-31

Tears of Joy Theatre presents an interactive version of this classic tale, in which the audience decides how scary the Troll should be and whether or not to help the billy goats. Arrive to the show early and make your own goat puppet! $11, tojt.org

JAN 31 MOCHITSUKI 2016 In its 20th year, this festival celebrates Japanese sticky rice cakes to celebrate the Lunar New Year. Take in dramatic drum and dance performances, delicious food, a poetry slam, and more activities. $4-12, kids 3 & under free, mochipdx.org Remember to check the NW Kids online calendar for dozens more outings and activities each day.

Share with friends, subscribe to the RSS, add directly to your calendar, and more features. There’s something going on you don’t want to miss!! nwkidsmagazine.com/events/month 36 | NW Kids Magazine

NW Kids Magazine | 37

6

Found around Town NOODLES

1

7

2

1

NORANEKO

1430 SE Water Street noranekoramen.com

2

BOXER RAMEN

1025 SW Stark Street boxerramen.com

3 3

UMAI - FOOD TRUCK

SE 33rd Ave & Hawthorne Blvd umaipdx.com 4

BOKE BOWL

5

SEN YAI NOODLES

3384 SE Division Street pokpoksenyai.com/home/

4 5

1200 NW 18th Avenue & 1028 SE Water Street bokebowl.com

6

MIRAKUTEI

536 E Burnside mirakuteipdx.com 7

KUIKAI RAMEN & IZAKAYA 11830 NW Cedar Falls Drive

kukai-ramen.com 38 | NW Kids Magazine

NW Kids Magazine | 39