From Mr. David’s Desk
The Elementary Art Show and Poetry Slam was a huge success. Huge thanks go to Ms. Alexia, who outdid herself with the work she brought out of the students and Ms. Judy and Mr. Dan for their support of our yung potes. Thanks also to Ms. Sherla, Mr. Khalil, Ms. Dounia, and Chef Cam for all their hard work in getting everything set up for the event. Pictures appear below.
Next week is the final week of the 2025-26 school year. Thanks to everyone who attended a class celebration or a school-wide parent event; who helped with admissions, left us a review on Niche, or “liked” our social media feeds; who donated to the teacher holiday gift fund or teacher appreciation week; who chaired or served on a committee, who enrolled their child at Torit this year or reenrolled for next year; or in any other way supported Torit Montessori School. Torit is your school, and we want you to feel connected to it and proud of it. Another school year in the books!
And speaking of books, each student will receive a classroom yearbook next week. We do not have extras, but we will endeavor to put each child’s name in his or her book. The teachers deserve kudos for their photography and design skills.
As promised last week, here are recommendations for your summer reading, including some classics and some recent choices.
The Blessing Of A Skinned Knee: Raising Self-Reliant Children, by Wendy Mogel. My all-time favorite parenting book draws its wisdom from Jewish traditions but applies to people of any faith or no faith. My no-nonsense, witty grandmother Dorothy would give it her approval.
All Joy and No Fun: The Paradox of Modern Parenthood, by Jennifer Senior. The title is telling, and the book is an engaging review of studies on the impact of children on parents. As one Torit mom recently said to me, “My back hurts a lot more these days.” This book will help you understand why.
The Great Abolitionist: Charles Sumner and the Fight for a More Perfect Union, by Stephen Puleo. Gripping American history, this tells the story of Charles Sumner, a Beacon Hill resident, who changed the country. If you think politics are rough these days, Sumner’s story will give you perspective.
Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End, by Atul Gawande. This is a go-to book from one of my go-to authors. While the title might not suggest a breezy beach read, Dr. Gawande is a writer whose experiences as a son and physician form the basis of this fantastic book.
Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible Voyage, by Alfred Lansing. A book best read either under the hot sun or in the dead of winter. Shackleton was an adventurer who intended to lead the first expedition to cross Antarctica. Instead, his ship was frozen in the sea, crushed by ice, and then sank. Shackleton and his 27 men face perils that will bring chills to your summer and inspire your inner hero.
Danger Is Everywhere: A Handbook for Avoiding Danger, by David O'Doherty. A kid’s graphic guide to doing stuff that makes moms cringe and dads wince. It’s hilarious and will remind you that kids used to grow up free-range, simply with the expectation to be home by dinner time. Read it and then let your kids go play.
All are invited to the K Moving Up Ceremony at 8:30 AM on Thursday, June 11, which is also the last day of school. The 2025-2026 school year officially ends that afternoon at 3:00. There is no Extended Day to allow faculty to begin preparing for summer.
Two new summer events: Torit will be sponsoring two Myrtle Street Playground performances: one on June 25 (Little Groove) and the other on July 23 (Animal Adventures). Spread the word, come enjoy!
David Liebmann
Head of School