Fredericksburg Parent

18 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • Stories of Strength - One Year Stronger As Grymes Memorial School prepares to celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2022, it is certain the past two years will be an important chapter in the school's long history. e 2020- 2021 school year challenged teachers and school administra- tors every day to seek new and innovative approaches. at challenge was met by an unflinching faculty, determined to create a new year of joyful learning with students safely on campus. "ere are many pieces that we will keep when the pandemic is in the rearview mirror. Teaching tools like Google Class- room and Google Meet spring to mind. More important than these tools, however, is the understanding that when we work together, we can overcome some formidable obstacles" noted Rod McLeod, Upper School History teacher. Despite the challenges, progress continued on many fronts, with exciting developments throughout the year, such as the introduction of Singapore Math, a program designed to pre- pare students for real-world math applications and deepen their understanding of the concepts behind mathematical operations. Julie Sherman, Science teacher in the Lower School "Rad Lab," played a key role in the implementation of Singapore Math last year. "During a normal school year, the implementation would be a welcomed challenge, but during a 'pandemic' year, it was just really incredible. We are so proud of our teachers' determination! In a short time, students grew in their ability to try new and different problem-solving methods, and the confidence this inspires in their work is amazing and even more visible in the program's second year at Grymes," commented Julie Sherman. While many other schools were returning to campus in the fall for the first time in more than a year, Grymes faculty had a full school year of teaching with pandemic safety protocols in place. is afforded teachers more energy to focus on teaching strategies and classroom plans. "2020-2021 had a touch of uncertainty that loomed quietly in the background, but this year I've noticed a renewed, deeply hopeful spirit on campus which gives us a lift each day," noted Anissa Frantz, Visual Arts teacher. With 152 students enrolled in Junior Kindergarten through eighth grade, the size of Grymes has been a strength. Small class sizes have allowed teachers flexibility with their in- door teaching spaces, and teachers take full advantage of the 42-acre campus. e creation of a carefully constructed and unique outdoor classroom space was a great source of pride for fourth-grade students. Whether planting a garden, building wooden bluebird boxes, or creating sun prints from objects found in nature, opportunities to learn are limitless in and out of the classrooms. Off-campus, field trips provide extended learning opportuni- ties. "Archeology at Montpelier, picking apples at Grelen, Grymes Memorial School: Building Community & Launching Joyful Learners Building Community & Launching Joyful Learners Sponsored Material

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