Lower School - 5/7

Dear Lower School Families,

As we move closer to the end of the school year, it is natural for students to feel an extra sense of energy, excitement, and anticipation. With a variety of special events coming up, along with warmer weather, schedule changes, and the countdown to summer, students may find it harder to stay focused, follow routines, and manage big emotions throughout the school day.

At Maranatha, we want to finish the year with joy, purpose, and consistency. One of the best ways we can support students during this season is through a strong partnership between home and school. Children thrive when expectations remain clear and consistent, even during exciting times. Continuing regular bedtime routines, arriving to school on time, talking with your child about respectful choices, and encouraging them to give their best effort each day all help students finish the year well.

As we enter these final weeks, a few simple routines at home can make a big difference during the school day. Please continue regular bedtime and morning routines so students arrive rested and ready to learn. Helping your child come prepared each day with needed materials, appropriate clothing for outdoor play or special events, and a positive attitude supports both their learning and their participation in the fun activities ahead. It is also helpful to talk with your child about what it means to finish strong, even when the calendar feels exciting and busy. Encouraging respectful choices, listening the first time, using kind words, and showing self-control when routines feel different helps students enjoy these final weeks in a safe and positive way.

At school, teachers will continue to provide clear expectations, predictable routines, and reminders that help students manage excitement in healthy ways. We will celebrate the joy of this season while also reinforcing responsibility, respectful behavior, safe choices, and care for others. With several special activities and end of year events ahead, please continue to watch classroom and school communication closely for details about times, dress expectations, supplies, volunteer needs, and any changes to the regular schedule. Your attention to these details helps events run smoothly and allows students to enjoy them fully.

Thank you for partnering with us as we guide students through these final weeks. Together, we can help students experience the joy of the season while continuing to grow in responsibility, self-control, and positive character.

In His Service,

Dr. Rachel David
Lower School Principal

This thoughtful picture book helps children understand that problems, challenges, and uncomfortable moments are not always something to avoid. Through beautiful illustrations and simple storytelling, students learn that facing a problem can help them grow in courage, perseverance, and confidence. This is a wonderful read aloud for families as children continue developing responsibility, independence, and problem-solving skills both at home and at school.

This book connects well with the reminder that God does not leave us alone when we face challenges. Scripture encourages us to be strong and courageous, trusting that the Lord is with us wherever we go. As children learn to face hard things with support, prayer, and perseverance, they grow in both character and confidence.

A fitting verse would be Joshua 1:9, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Grade Glimpse is an exciting opportunity for students to visit the classrooms of the grade they will be entering next year. During this time, students will meet teachers, explore their new learning environment, and get a feel for what’s ahead. To give you a preview of this experience, we’ve included photo links below so you can see some of the fun and learning in action.

Every student is required to have a waiver signed in order to participate in Ninja Anywhere/Field Day.

To make the day a success, we need a lot of volunteers, so if you are interested in volunteering, please click on the link below. We appreciate you partnering with us to make this day a success!

May 4–8: Spring Splash Week & Teacher Appreciation Week

• May 8: Spirit Day
• May 8: MCA Pep-Fest
• May 8: PreK Mother's Tea

May 11–15

• May 11-15: MCA Book Fair
• May 12 & 14: LS Help Sessions
• May 15: Experience Marantha

May 18-22

• May 19 & 21: LS Help Sessions
• May 21: 4th Grade Field Trip
• May 22: K-5 Field Day

May 25-29: Out of Dress Code Days

• May 25: NO SCHOOL | Memorial Day
• May 28: Half Day for PreK & K | Last Day of School
• May 28: PreK Celebration & Kindergarten Graduation
• May 28: 2nd Grade Field Trip
• May 29: Half Day for Grades 1-11 | Last Day of School

This week’s chapel was led by our amazing paraprofessional, Mrs. Kathy. She shared an encouraging message about how God equips us with everything we need. Mrs. Kathy reminded us that each of us is given different gifts, and those gifts can be used to glorify God. Even when we feel unsure or unprepared, God provides the strength, skills, and support we need. We were encouraged to trust in His plan and use our unique abilities to serve Him and others.

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for giving each of us unique gifts, talents, and purpose.

We ask that You equip us with everything we need— wisdom to learn, strength to keep going when things feel hard, and courage to do what is right.

Help us to grow not only in knowledge, but in kindness, patience, and understanding.

Guide our thoughts, our words, and our actions so that we reflect Your love in all we do.

Remind us that we are never alone, and that You are always helping us, shaping us, and preparing us for the plans You have for our lives.

Equip us, Lord, to face each challenge with faith and each opportunity with confidence.

In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen