HOUSTON’S FIRST PUBLIC MONTESSORI EIGHTH GRADE OPENS FALL 2009: Major Fundraising Gala Planned for March 7, 2009 What: Fifth Annual Friends of Montessori at Wilson Gala and Silent Auction When: March 7, 2009, 7 to 10 p.m. Where: Treebeards on Market Square, 315 Travis Street Why: Funds a New Middle School at HISD’s Only All-Montessori Curriculum Campus The Friends of Montessori at Wilson announces its fifth annual Gala and Silent Auction, to be held Saturday, March 7, 2009. This year’s Gala comes at a turning point for Wilson Montessori and Fine Arts School, as it prepares to add eighth grade at what is already the first and only HISD campus with a completely Montessori curriculum. Wilson, located in the heart of the city at 2100 Yupon, serves approximately 435 students from throughout Houston and is also a fine arts magnet. The new middle school serves children in grades 7 and 8, and allows those who have completed elementary school at Wilson or any of the other local Montessori programs to continue their education in a complementary way. The Friends of Montessori at Wilson nonprofit organization provides the specialized teaching materials for Wilson Montessori and Fine Arts school. Katherine Arbiter, Friends of Montessori at Wilson Chapter Vice President, explains, “HISD provides the operating funds for the school; however, the Montessori method requires specialized teaching materials for each classroom. In a Montessori middle school, students work in small communities that foster growth in all areas: intellectual, social/emotional, physical, and global responsibility. The curriculum blends challenging classroom work with real-world experience as students engage in outdoor field work, internships with local businesses, community service, and participation in a class-created business.” “The Wilson program has been a tremendous success, and we’re counting on this year’s fundraiser to finalize the preparations for our eighth grade,” adds Mrs. Arbiter. “Public Montessori schools are highly successful in other major cities, and I am excited we can offer this option to the students of Houston ISD. Come help us make it happen!” The March 7 Gala takes place from 7 to 10 p.m., at Treebeards on historic Market Square, 315 Travis. The event features a buffet dinner and the opportunity to bid on fabulous auction items, including gift certificates from local businesses, unique experiences, and vacations abroad. Bidding is from 7-9:30 pm, with the live auction starting at 9:30pm. Advance tickets are $30, available by calling Kelley Slack at 713-417-3914. Tickets will be available at the door for $40, space permitting. ### Contact: Christine Soderstrom, Friends of Montessori at Wilson Gala Coordinator Email: sunnys...@yahoo.com Telephone: 713-880-2616 Web: www.allmontessori.org
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