Posts in category: Latest News

Immanuel Academy STL hosted a transformative Three-and-a-Half Day Intensive Professional Development (PDD) from February 13 to 16, led by Director Ms. Michelle Lai. This comprehensive training initiative marked a significant milestone for the school, particularly for newly joined teachers of the academic year. It was an important time for teachers to learn the method needed to teach the curriculum well and understand its educational philosophy.

The agenda for the training sessions unfolded as follows:

Day 1

 • Introduction to Charlotte Mason Philosophy and Pedagogy

 • Methodology of Lesson Planning

Day 2

 • Mastery of the Art of Narration

 • In-depth Subject-by-Subject Study

 • Efficient Lesson and Gradebook Management

Day 3

 • Practical Subject-by-Subject Demonstration Classes

 • Comprehensive Class Evaluations

Reflecting on the PDD, Ms. Michelle Lai, Director of Immanuel Academy STL, shared, “The teacher training (PDD) unfolded smoothly, offering a graceful and fruitful experience. It was heartening to witness some teachers moved to tears during the training sessions. For majority, Charlotte Mason’s educational approach was entirely new, yet transformative. I was deeply moved to hear from two new teachers who expressed how the training had profoundly altered their perspectives on children and their teaching methodologies. The newfound understanding of our school’s teaching values and spiritual aspects brought great joy to them. Teachers deeply appreciated the hands-on demonstrations and insightful feedback, which were very helpful. Now that the training is over, our school is ready to begin anew next week. We sincerely thank everyone for their prayers and support.”

As the training came to an end, the unexpected snowfall served as a reminder of a Chinese proverb that signifies a promising beginning. This moment marked a fresh start for our school, filled with optimism and excitement for the journey ahead.

On February 6, we started a new morning assembly mode. They stood in a circle first and shared public prayer topics, then read scriptures, sing hymns, take pledges to Bible and flags and do daily affirmations. Students will take turns serving as flag/bible bearers. 

The atmosphere was very graceful, peaceful and joyful. Thank God it was also Ms. Sarah’s first day at Olivet Academy. God has everything planned out in His best timing.

Grade 1 students at Immanuel Academy STL have crafted a captivating volcano bulletin board that mirrors their science lessons. The students take pride in their creation, showcasing their enthusiasm and dedication to their science studies.

Commencing in January, Immanuel Academy St. Louis starts a morning prayer session during the Bible study. Prayer jars were created containing school’s 10 Top prayer topics as well as individual prayer topics for each student. Prior to the daily Bible study, a dedicated 5-10 minutes were allocated for students to draw prayer topics from the jars and collectively engage in prayer. This daily ritual became a highly anticipated moment for students, fostering a sense of unity as they prayed for both the school’s prayer topics and the personal concerns of their peers.

On January 3, during Bible study time this morning, the older students of Immanuel Academy STL shared their yearly scripture and 10 prayer topics of 2024. They also drew the yearly verse for Mr. Samuel and Ms. Valerie from Immanuel church. Students’ prayer topics and their understanding of the yearly scripture was very touching. Ms. Michelle also shared 10 school prayer topics of 2024. Students were excited about the great changes coming to their school. 

Most of them memorized their yearly verse at home already. There are several children who can memorize their parents’ yearly scriptures.

Some prayer topics shared are:

* I want to read the Bible at least once this year. (Most students shared this.)

* This year I want to get closer to God. (Most students shared this.)

* I want to obey my parents truly, not superficially. I always just do what they want but my heart doesn’t follow. I want to change this. (Two students shared this.)

* I want to love my siblings and not be angry with them.

*I want to make peace with my brother. I don’t want to fight with him anymore.

*I want to be healthy spiritually and physically. 

*I want to lose weight and eat more healthy food. 

*I want to pray for the new teacher.

It’s a great start to the new year. Hope the whole school can read bible more, pray more and get closer to God this year.

On December 23-25, Immanuel Academy St. Louis and North American missionaries’s children enjoyed a joyful Christmas retreat together. They have services, Bible studies, Bible verse contests, and outdoor activities. Children have a warm fellowship during Christmas vacation. Together they learned about the significance of the birth of Jesus Christ and the true meaning of Christmas.

On December 24th, there were wonderful performances at the Immanuel Academy St. Louis Christmas Eve Praise Night. They performed six dances, a special choir and a piano recital. Children from kindergarten to seventh grade participated. Parents say it’s very grateful to see their children’s musical development in St. Louis.

Newly joined kindergarten teacher Ms. Yvonne Twillmann also attended the Christmas Eve worship night. Ms. Yvonne said: “The Christmas program is wonderful and touching! Merry Christmas!”

Teacher Anne and some teachers made homemade cookies as gifts for all members and children.

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” (Luke 2:14, ESV) All children enjoyed the peaceful Christmas Eve praise night.

From December 18-22, Immanuel Academy St. Louis has a fun Christmas Spirit Week. 

Monday December 18th is “Santa Clause is Coming to Town!” Dress like one of Santa’s Helpers (reindeer or elves) or like the big guy himself! 

Tuesday December 19th is “Baby, It’s Cold Outside!” Wear your Christmas-sweaters, gloves, socks, scarves…gotta keep warm! 

Wednesday December 20th is “We Wish You A Merry Christmas!” Wear red or green clothes! 

Thursday December 21st is “Twas’ the Night Before Christmas!” Wear your comfiest pajamas! 

Friday December 22nd  is “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?!” Wear white, blue, silver, or other snowy colors. Dress like a snowman or wear a snowman on your clothes. 

In addition, teachers taught Christmas Bible stories, made Christmas crafts and cakes to celebrate the special week.

Students enjoy the daily novelty towards Christmas and they look forward to each day of the week, better prepared their minds and hearts for the Christmas atmosphere and spirit.

On December 20, Immanuel Academy St. Louis received a precious gift of hoodies with the school logo from the Sunday School. Immanuel Church Chaplain Pastor Sarah Zhang and Sunday School Director Teacher Jane Gao carefully and heartily prepared the hoodies as a Christmas gift for school kids and teachers. Both students and teachers were so excited. When they received them, they were very happy to try on the hoodies. They will treasure it and wear them for the first time during the Christmas night performances.