Science is an important aspect of the program at Torit, and I was dazzled yesterday by our scientist-scholars in lower and upper elementary. I learned about magnetism, matter, simple machines, rocks, solutions, sound waves, bones, acids and bases, and refraction. I was proud of the students for displaying their curiosity, research, and presentation skills. Students chose a topic, read about it, experimented, wrote up results, and presented a poster that showcased what they had learned. It was Torit’s academic program at its best, and it wouldn’t surprise me in the least if there are a number of future MDs or PhDs in the group. Science education may start with the basics, but it’s an event like our science fair that launches a student forward.

I’m reminded that our data shows that Torit students outperform public and independent school peers in a number of ways and on a number of indicators. Perhaps that’s because students embrace their own interests and are supported by teachers who guide them in the discovery of ideas and information that they can make their own. Likewise, the extended work cycles of Montessori and a student-to-teacher ratio that’s more like a tutorial than an impersonal class augers for future achievement and excellence. I have no doubt that our students will be successful no matter where they go.

That was driven home earlier this week when 9th grader Naya visited from her high school to see Ms. Sherla and visit with some of her former teachers. Naya attributed her interest in film production to Torit, remembering the projects that got her started with a video camera just a few years ago. Now, Naya is submitting movies to film festivals and documenting both local initiatives like the McKinley/Mel King School and cremation rituals in Bali, Indonesia. Perhaps Naya will be our first Oscar winner someday. Her energy and ebullience and appreciation for what she learned at Torit may just carry her that far!