Monthly Archives: October 2023

10.27.23
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Jade Wells-White: TNCS’s Administrative Assistant (and So Much More)!

In some ways, administrative assistants are the unsung heroes of the modern workplace—meticulously organizing, scheduling, and ensuring smooth operations. Their multitasking prowess, combined with an impeccable attention to detail, ensures that no task goes undone. Though they might not always be in the spotlight, their influence is felt nearly everywhere. And so we bring you, TNCS’s own office heroine!

Meet Jade Wells-White!

Jade Wells-White joined The New Century School in July, just 3 months after graduating college and just 2 months prior to the start of the 2022–2023 school year. “Administrative Assistant and Extracurricular Activities (ECAs) Coordinator are my official titles, but I also have many other roles,” she said. “I’m the onsite person for human resources and involved in the onboarding process. I also work with our international intern program, and I do accounts payable as well.” A testament to Ms. Wells-White’s work ethic and competence, the latter responsibilities developed as she proved herself.

Background

Ms. Wells-White is a Baltimorean, born and raised. “For middle school and high school, I went to McDonogh School, and for college I went to McDaniel College in Westminster, MD. I received my degree in business administration and marketing, and this is my first real-world job!”

She says that starting her job at TNCS in the summer allowed her to ease in and observe to help her make the transition. The start of a school year is always going to be hectic! Ms. Wells-White also attributes her relative soft landing into the “real world” to her own education pathway. She was familiar with the independent school sphere from her time at McDonogh, and her college experience familiarized her with how important a small, close-knit environment can be for optimizing learning.

(Is McDonogh ringing any bells? If you are a regular reader of Immersed, you’ll know that the TNCS Head of School Erika Johnson herself is an alumna!)

At TNCS

When asked how TNCS came to be her first job after graduating from McDaniel, Ms. Wells-White admits that she hadn’t been familiar with the school until doing research about it. She liked what she learned! “I felt it would be a great opportunity to work here because I was very close to becoming a Spanish minor when I was in college, and I thought working here would help me with my Spanish and working toward making it a second language. So I definitely saw that benefit, but also I felt it would be a great first job, and once I started, everyone was so supportive with onboarding and making sure that I was comfortable and up to speed.” The multilingual part of TNCS’s identity is something she feels sets the school apart. “A lot of schools don’t focus on that, but it’s important to be able to speak more than one language. The fact that three languages are taught here is such a great opportunity for students,” she said.

As for how it’s going now, she waxed positively poetic. “This is a great place to be, and everyone is so nice and helpful. It feels like a little family.” That family feel extends into the classroom, she has noticed. “The reason chose to go to McDaniel was because I wanted to have close relationships with my teachers. Students here are able to do that as well, and their teachers really know them as individuals and get to see them grow through their time at TNCS. The small size is definitely beneficial for students as they go through their years here.”

But there’s an additional perk, and it occurs outside her office: “I get to see the adorable little kids every day. Even though it’s a short hour out of my day, they really brighten my day—they’re always so happy and joyful!

Extracurricular Activities

“When I first got here, I looked at the data from what was going on before COVID to see what types of activities were popular here and what students were really involved in. Then I reached out to people who TNCS had already worked with and had run successful programs, like Modern Masters and Tippi Toes Dance.” Others were not pursuable for various reasons, so Ms. Wells-White embraced the opportunity to more or less “start over from scratch.” “I also reached out to families to see what kinds of things they wanted to see on campus. Through that process, I got suggestions about Soccer Shots and a jujitsu and yoga program with instructor Christy Jenkins, which have turned to be very popular this quarter. I also found a chess program that’s been going pretty well. And, I’m still trying to find more activities, like maybe horseback riding or swimming. I definitely want to hear from parents about what they want to see, but for now I just try my best to build on what was here in the past.”

Although the off-campus activities she is considering would be logistically much more challenging to implement, Ms. Wells-White has ideas how to make them work, such as contacting local colleges and high schools for students to act as chaperones, especially those interested in pursuing education careers, which would give them a rich opportunity to work with younger kids.

Speaking of younger kids, Ms. Wells-White is actively looking for more preschool ECAs, so stay tuned!

“I’m always open to suggestions. I am definitely trying to build a program that is beneficial for your students and allow them to participate in things that can help them grow, things to challenge them, and to provide something outside the regular aftercare activities. I’m always reachable by e-mail.” She also mentioned having an inside track to Ms. Johnson so can help set up meetings, ensure she’s receiving your communications, and so on.

Parents, Ms. Wells-White’s message is loud and clear: your feedback is welcome!

What is on the horizon for Ms. Wells-White? For now, she’s content to absorb all she can about this first job that she clearly enjoys—not to mention is very good at. She’s not ready to think too far down the road yet. “I wear a lot of hats here, and I have a hand in a lot of things behind the scenes. . . but I’m always open to opportunities!”

10.20.23
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Check-In with TNCS’s Admissions Director Ann Marie Simonetti!

Ann Marie Simonetti, pictured below with her children, wears several hats at The New Century School, actually.

Her full title is Director of Admissions and Marketing and Montessori Programming Advisor.

Admissions

Let’s see what she’s been up to so far this year. We’ll start with admissions and then delve into the other fun things she has on the horizon.

TNCS Open House

Saturday, October 21st will be Ms. Simonetti’s third TNCS Open House (register here!). She is spreading the word in multiple ways. She has a Facebook event that she is also asking the TNCS community to share. “Our wonderful executive assistant Jade Wells-White has been helping post to some of our local neighborhood sites, like the Canton Community Association and Fells Point Residential and some of the activities for kids websites that allow you to share your postings,” she said.

“Most of our referrals come from word of mouth anyway,” she added, “which is of course the most authentic seal of approval you can get. So, through the preschool newsletter and the Head of School newsletter, we have asked the TNCS community to share out with their families, friends, and colleagues. Some of our prospective families who are planning to attend asked me if they could invite friends with similar-aged children, which we of course encourage. We’re hoping for a big crowd. We have a good mix of prospective preschool friends and families as well as some K through 8s.”

During Ms. Simonetti’s first Open House in 2021, COVID-related concerns made having a synchronous component challenging. This year, everything returns to in person on campus. Mr. Warren has coordinated two student musical performances; those student ambassadors will also introduce themselves and speak briefly about what they like about TNCS and to showcase the Fine Arts. Although the format of the Open House will resemble prior TNCS Open Houses, one difference this year that has Ms. Simonetti particularly excited is showing off the newly refurbished primary environments. “Having everyone experience all of the wonderful work Ms. Lane has been putting in real life will be wonderful. I have been doing some virtual tours as kind of a first step for those prospective families who are sometimes more available to meet virtually, so they’re able to see the classrooms that way, but it’s not quite the same as when they can experience it in real life.”

In general at TNCS, the school year has gotten off to a very good start, which many attribute to the returning leadership team, and it looks promising from an admissions perspective as well. “The admissions cycle for preschool tends to happen on a rolling basis throughout the year as the children turn age 2,” explained Ms. Simontte. “COVID admissions data are outliers, because they were unreliable. We’re seeing a return to the times when our enrollment numbers are actually higher in the last day of school than on the first day of school. The projection for that rolling cycle is very similar and so very encouraging. Also, overall having the TNCS leadership team back this year is so helpful—together having been through this once, we’re able to reflect and move forward with purpose.”

Discover TNCS and Other Ways to Get to Know TNCS

TNCS has a host of exciting events coming up, aimed at familiarizing both prospective and current families with the unique offerings of the school.

Born out of the adaptations of 2020, these events have proven their value in terms of accessibility. They provide families with an insight into TNCS, minus the sometimes motion-sickness-inducing virtual tours. Instead, it’s a prerecorded slideshow that dives into the intricacies of what makes TNCS stand out. While the website does its part, these slides, supplemented with audio descriptions, offer a more tangible feel of the school environment. There’s an emphasis on TNCS’s extensive outdoor spaces and gardens, illustrating the school’s dedication to holistic learning.

Leadership from TNCS usually makes an appearance, offering their thoughts and insights. In some instances, current families, alumni, and even students share their experiences, providing a rounded perspective to prospective parents. A Q&A session allows attendees to get their specific queries addressed, and following the event, there’s an opportunity to schedule one-on-one meetings with the school representative. These sessions are thoughtfully capped at 45 minutes to an hour, considering attendees’ daily commitments.

In essence, Discover TNCS is more than just an event; it’s an experience, ensuring that families are well-informed and connected every step of the way.

Preschool Family Workshops and Observation Weeks

Current families get a firsthand experience of the Montessori and multilingual preschool programs at TNCS through these events. It’s a chance for parents to witness the practical implementation of the pedagogies they’ve heard about.

Kindergarten Previews

Tailored for current families with children turning 5 by September 1st of the next year, these previews are around the corner on the admissions calendar. They offer insights into the transition from preschool to kindergarten.

Customized Queries

TNCS understands that families might have specific concerns and questions about preschool, extended care, or other offerings. The school ensures that they have the right resources, be it meeting with a representative or coordinating with specific staff members, to address these tailored inquiries.

Adapting to Modern Admission Trends with a Montessori Perspective

TNCS has integrated Blackbaud as their mainstay communication and student management software, streamlining processes from admissions inquiries right through to report cards. While the software shares features with other platforms like Blackboard and Canvas, TNCS harnesses Blackbaud for its expansive capacities.

An upcoming Blackbaud Conference, set to take place in Denver, presents a golden opportunity for Ms. Simonetti. Earlier in the summer, she received an invitation to co-present after Blackbaud expressed interest in some of the proposals she was involved with. Blackbaud has combined its K-12 conference with other divisions, resulting in a grand global meet-up, both virtually and in-person.

Ms. Simonetti’s focus for the presentation is on the innovative methods TNCS has employed to elevate user experience for prospective families. The traditional admissions funnel has evolved; no longer a linear process, prospective parents often bypass preliminary stages, moving directly to applications or on-site tours. Recognizing this trend, TNCS has revamped its approach.

One significant change introduced was the self-scheduling system. Prospective parents can now schedule, modify, and manage their campus visits at their convenience. Automated yet personalized reminders ensure a smooth experience for both the school and the visitors. Such steps are pivotal in making the admission journey customer-centric.

By tapping into her previous experience and understanding of customer service, Ms. Simonetti has created a seamless and user-friendly admission process. The traditional notion of an “admissions funnel” suggests a linear path that prospective families must follow. However, as Ms. Simonetti reflected, this linear model doesn’t seem to resonate as much in today’s dynamic world, especially given the uncertainties posed by the pandemic. Instead, her Montessori-informed perspective evokes the image of a Nautilus or spiral, where families can enter, exit, and re-enter the admissions process at different stages as per their unique circumstances and preferences.

This cyclical approach mirrors the unpredictability and frequent changes families have faced, particularly during COVID. The spiral also aligns with the Montessori principle of accommodating individual needs, highlighting the adaptive and flexible nature of TNCS’s admissions process.

Regarding the upcoming presentation at the Blackbaud Conference, some content will be made available on demand. Stay tuned for a blog post in which Ms. Simonetti shares her experiences, offering a more in-depth insight into TNCS’s innovative admission strategies. This way, the larger community can benefit from the school’s pioneering approach and the ideas exchanged at the conference.

Montessori Adventures

Regarding Ms. Simonetti’s other main role at TNCS as Montessori programming advisor (from her infant and toddler Montessori background), she has been instrumental in helping Ms. Lane (primary Montessori credentials) acclimate to TNCS. “We love her; she’s awesome! Being able to share some level of institutional knowledge is helpful. We’ve spent lots of time brainstorming and having great dialogue about which materials are most appropriate to introduce not only to students but for staff to avoid too steep of a learning curve,” she said.

And here’s a little teaser about a future blog post: Ms. Lane recently orchestrated an overnight professional development trip for preschool staff to a Montessori school in Virginia.

We had a wonderful cabin; it was rustic but beautiful, with details like a claw foot tub. It was a great experience for preschool teachers to see a different Montessori school and all the things that we’ve been introducing to them and showing them. Even though we have training and observation videos to see what’s possible, seeing it in practice are two different things. It really helps bridge the gap. And, again being able to connect with Ms. Lane and share our complementary knowledge and make plans for, for example, when a preprimary student might be ready to move up to primary. What are the skill sets? What are the different developmental elements that may indicate that readiness?

TNCS Brand Awareness

Ms. Simonetti does not limit her reach to what her title describes. She helps TNCS achieve its objectives in many ways. Her background is extensive, and she weaves together its many threads to great effect. Did you know she even taught dance for 11 years? Her dance buddies and she created their own Zumba-inspired dance, and she stays in touch with those friends. But it’s her marketing experience that we’ll delve into next.

Brand awareness is crucial for any institution, and for TNCS, Ms. Simonetti is at the helm of this endeavor. When asked about her marketing expertise, she chuckled, “Maybe a bit comes naturally, but my background in hospitality, particularly sales and marketing, has certainly shaped my approach.”

Ms. Simonetti’s experience in event and wedding planning, industries renowned for their customer service-centric models, has been invaluable. “It’s all about the user experience, ensuring it’s positive,” she shared. Transitioning from a customer-oriented domain to a school setting presented its challenges, especially when operating without a full-fledged communications team or significant marketing budget.

However, her tenure in advancement roles within nonprofits honed her skills further. “I’ve taken courses and received training in digital marketing,” Ms. Simonetti explained. She emphasized the importance of leveraging available tools effectively, particularly those that don’t necessarily come with extra costs. “Staying updated is vital, as the landscape keeps changing,” she concluded, underscoring her commitment to providing TNCS with the best in brand awareness strategies.

High School Preparation

How is high school prep related to marketing? Well, when it comes to preparing high school–bound students, TNCS goes above and beyond. While Ms. Johnson hosts her annual seminar for 8th-graders, Ms. Simonetti’s main focus has been assisting students in their transitions. “It’s not so much about admissions for us at that point, but about ensuring these students are equipped with everything they need to move on,” Ms. Simonetti explained.

The school’s unique approach involves creating a comprehensive student portfolio instead of sending individual referrals and transcripts. “We work on building transcripts that are aesthetically pleasing. Instead of sending separate math teacher referrals, ELA teacher referrals, and transcripts, we compile everything into a student portfolio (abridged sample here). It provides a complete picture of the student,” Ms. Simonetti remarked.

Commenting on the difference between public and independent school processes, Ms. Simonetti observed, “You don’t get such a detailed portfolio at a public school. The portfolios we receive from public schools are not as comprehensive, and our method also aids in brand awareness.”

This unique approach not only makes TNCS students stand out but also embodies the school’s commitment to ensuring every student’s success beyond their campus.

It’s clear: Ms. Simonetti is integral to making TNCS the magical place it is, both present and future.

10.06.23
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Alexis Watson, Director of Student Support at TNCS: Building a Unified School Community

At the heart of every school lies its community—its students, educators, and families coming together for learning, growth, and collaboration. This is nowhere more true than at The New Century School, where leadership with Head of School Erika Johnson at the helm makes community-building a priority. One very important partner in this worthy endeavor is Director of Student Support Alexis Watson, whose energy and enthusiasm during the last school year may pale only in comparison to that of this year. Suffice to say, she has a lot in store!

Special Events that Bring Us Together

“It was wonderful,” began Ms. Watson, when asked about the International Peace Day assembly “seeing all the students from preschool right up to 8th grade coming together. My older students, especially the 8th-graders, were right there, supporting the younger ones. They had pinwheels, pom-poms, and posters; everyone was singing along. It felt like a festival. The atmosphere was electric, and I believe everyone truly enjoyed themselves.”

This year’s assembly theme, she explained, was “global peace.” With students representing a multitude of countries and backgrounds, it was essential to Ms. Watson that everyone felt seen and heard. “We wanted to represent different countries, ethnicities, and backgrounds,” she said. “The students could wear white or attire that held cultural significance. We saw garb from Africa, robes from China, and many other beautiful outfits.”

With the world reshaping after the pandemic, there’s a sense of renewal and nostalgia at TNCS. Ms. Watson shared, “I received feedback from various quarters—the executives, students, families—all expressing a deep desire to revive the close-knit community feel we cherished pre-pandemic.”

Taking strides towards this mission, the school recently hosted their first “Welcome Back Potluck” in years. “Getting back to such traditions and simultaneously creating new ones is my primary focus this year,” Ms. Watson elaborated. “With some families moving on and new ones joining, there’s a sense of forging a fresh space, of nurturing a renewed sense of community.”

The spirit of community extends beyond the school’s boundaries. From outings to the National Aquarium and the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, to a much-anticipated trip for apple-picking at Weber’s Cider Mill Farm, there’s an abundance of activities in store for students and their families.

“We haven’t been to the zoo as a TNCS community before,” Ms. Watson shared, excitement evident in her tone. “These trips provide families an invaluable chance to be part of their student’s educational journey, fostering deeper connections.”

Building Community at TNCS: A Vision Realized

Ms. Watson further emphasized the importance of internal community-building. Older students at TNCS are playing pivotal roles in mentoring their younger counterparts. “We have our reading buddies system,” she elaborated, “where our 8th-graders head to Building South to engage with our K/1 students, especially the newcomers. This mutual learning is a cornerstone of what TNCS stands for.”

But community service holds an equally revered place. “I’m bringing it back,” she declared, determination in her voice. “Especially for our middle school students. It’s essential they have a meaningful middle school experience, and giving back to the community is a significant part of that.”

In the conversation with Ms. Watson, one thing became abundantly clear: at TNCS, community isn’t just a word; it’s a way of life. Whether through assemblies, potlucks, outings, or mentorship programs, the school is ever-evolving, driven by an unyielding spirit of togetherness and mutual growth.

From the very first day of school, the energy at TNCS has been palpable. “We’ve been rocking and rolling,” she said, “and getting to know our students and families has been truly rewarding.”

Compared to last year, her first year at TNCS, she feels a sense of readiness, reflecting on what she has learned during that “trial by fire”: “I outlined all the activities for the year during the summer, having observed areas that needed support and enhancement. I feel like I’m ahead of the game this year, not playing catch-up.”

The emphasis, however, is not just on planning but on building a culture that resonates with everyone. “Last year was about solidifying our cultural direction. This year, it’s about being present, being ready for whatever comes, and focusing on community.”

In just a few weeks, the effect on students is evident. New students, in particular, have shown remarkable growth in understanding the essence of TNCS’s community. “They really are rallying around the idea of being good people, embodying it wholeheartedly. This yearning to be good humans and citizens is creating a positive educational atmosphere and fostering a nurturing school environment,” she added.

But it’s not all about continuity; innovation is also in the air. Remember last year’s amazing Spring Festival? While the much-loved petting zoo, moon bounce, and cupcake truck are set to return, new additions are on the horizon. “After a trial-and-error year, I have a clearer sense of what works. I aim to enhance our events, ensuring success every time.”

This year, the mission is clear: it’s not just about fun, but about rekindling the close-knit community ties. “We’re all in this together, and that’s the heart of it,” she emphasized.

Community isn’t limited to students and families alone. An essential component is the staff. “I’m focused on fostering understanding and compassion among staff members. Building a community naturally leads to the cultivation of caring, understanding, and nurturing attributes,” said Ms. Watson. These attributes are not only beneficial for the community but also enhance academic performance.

Recognizing the importance of teacher well-being, efforts are underway to provide them with the support they need. “Last year, some of us felt the burnout early on. This year, I’ve been promoting self-care, ensuring teachers get the breaks they need, providing additional support in the form of chaperones and specialists, and even giving them days off.”

And it’s not just about formal support. Little gestures, like treating them to coffee, bagels, or donuts, make a difference. “It’s a way to acknowledge their hard work and let them know they’re seen and valued,” the leader added with a smile.

At the heart of this year’s endeavors is a singular focus: building community.

Advocacy for students remains a cornerstone. Ms. Boyd shared a heartwarming initiative by the students—a monthly school newsletter, the first of its kind at TNCS. “They interviewed me for the inaugural issue, and every month, a student will be in the spotlight,” she said, her excitement evident. “They even have a comic strip!”

With such initiatives and a dedicated leader at the helm, TNCS is not just a school; it’s a thriving community where every member—student, parent, or staff—feels valued, heard, and integral to its success.