“I’m confident Grace will continue to be an example of what to do in any situation”

Today we hear from Nikki Schmidt, whose daughter started first grade at Grace this year.

Why did you choose Grace for your child?

We choose Grace for multiple reasons. I was looking for a smaller school with small classes so that each teacher can differentiate based on each child’s ability. We are members of Grace church and heard from several friends and current Grace families about how happy they were with their experience.  Grace was prepared to go back to school in-person, and they took full advantage of the time between March and August to upgrade ventilation and put plans in place for in-person, hybrid, and remote learning. They also communicated as decisions were being made so parents were aware in plenty of time to set up child care.

Describe Grace in a few words.​

Communicative, accommodating and prepared.

How was the transition for your child?​

Thankfully, Mrs. Pederson has experience with children coming from Montessori and helped my daughter adjust to a more traditional school. My daughter was fully reading but was behind on handwriting, so Mrs. Pederson sent home a second handwriting book so she could practice each exercise twice. The ability to differentiate was essential in helping her learn at a high level throughout her first semester. 

What support did you have as a parent?

The Zoom parents nights have been helpful to feel included and get to know all of the specials teachers without having to be in the building, plus the break out sessions meant parents were able to meet each other. Our class also has a text group for quick questions/announcements.

What would you say to another parent who is considering Grace for his/her child?

Take a tour and don’t wait to enroll.  We don’t know what next year will hold, but I’m confident Grace will continue to be an example of what to do in any situation.