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Classroom Newsfrom Mary Tracy, Curriculum CoordinatorIn our mission statement we say we are guided by the Quaker values of integrity, truth, equality, peace, community and simplicity. How do we bring these values alive in our school? Read on... Integrity: In the upper elementary class, we have read wonderful novels that bring to life issues of integrity in relationships: Who do you trust? When are you a faithful friend, parent, or sibling? The class has grappled with feeling "in" or "out" and the deeper truth that we all deserve to belong. The primary children have had a similar look at the ethics of friendships through their study of the Arthur books. Truth: Lea writes of her PreK class, "I am learning more and more to let the interests of the children lead me to the next learning activity. When the upper elementary asked to use our classroom space to create an extra long ramp for their science unit, the children wanted to know, 'What is a ramp?' They were utterly fascinated by my simple demonstration of an inclined plane, using a flat block and a round tree block." Pursuing questions is one of the best ways to search for truth. Equality: In art class children have learned about the life of an early New Englander, John Brewster, Jr., who was a deaf portraitist. The students felt a connection with this artist because they are learning American Sign Language. Students of The Baxter School for the Deaf were involved in the Brewster Exhibit at the Portland Museum of Art, which the upper elementary class went out to see. John Brewster, Jr. was in one of the first classes for ASL, in his 50’s! Peace: Plans are being made to revitalize the courtyard space outside the aftercare room, thanks to Jonathan Ewell and Andrew McIntosh, among others. The idea is to create a restful and inspirational courtyard space for everyone to enjoy. Perhaps next year on warm days Quaker Meeting can happen there. When we feel peace within, we are better able to bring it to others. Older children will begin learning about the lives of peacemakers in the world – people to ponder during moments of silence. Community: Young writers in the primary class often work together. They recently drew story maps and talked over their ideas with a friend before dictating their stories. Music class has seen the students out in the community visiting the Portland Symphony, reading an orchestra score, and hunting hidden codes this spring. In physical education, a circus is in the works! We will be entertained by primary and upper elementary children juggling, hula hooping, unicycling and more! Simplicity: We are entering, gradually, back into the world of the outdoors during our aftercare time as well as class time. "This means games, plants, kites, and one last chance to cover ourselves with mud before the school day draws to a close," writes Jonathan. Well, that may not seem simple to the laundry person in the house, but we relish the simplicity of heading out for fresh air, trees, grass and mud, earth science, community service and poetry writing. We feel grateful to be part of this adventure, playing and working to fulfill a mission that speaks to the heart. |
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