School News

In March we found out that Ms. Miller wanted to ban plastic utensils from Parkside. It made some 5-2 students feel upset, surprised, happy, and even outraged! We realized that some students thought it was a good idea and some thought it was a bad idea. So, we decided to have a debate on the topic. It just so happens that we were also learning about persuasive writing in our classroom.

When my son, Daniel, entered the Parkside brownstone seven years ago he was timid as a mouse. When introduced to Ms. Miller during his interview, he fell to the ground like a rag doll. My heart skipped a beat, but instantly Ms. Miller dropped down next him. She said something sweet to him and next they ascended the stairwell together, hand in hand. This was the first of countless days when Daniel felt supported, took a risk, and gained new skills. Parkside has helped Daniel reach his greatest potential. He is leaving his beloved school next month confident as a lion.

The month of May is a busy and exciting time at Parkside. Rehearsals are underway for our upcoming production of Les Misérables, we’re conducting parent-teacher conferences, facilitating state testing in math and science, and planning for the Family Picnic, Arts Festival, and our Summer Institute. In my classroom on the fifth floor, the Class of 2019 is preparing for graduation and thinking about when they first walked through those red doors and how far they have all come. As they plan their graduation speeches there are giggles about remembering the baby chicks they raised when they were in first grade -- this is a favorite of so many of the children.

On Tuesday, June 19 the Class of 2018 celebrated the completion of their work at The Parkside School. Alumna Pilar Muhammad, Class of 2007 gave the graduation address. Here is the transcript of her speech.