Saturday, December 20, 2014

Welcoming Winter, Celebrating Light



          Thanks to Ruth Ayres at Discover, Play, Build we celebrate our week of special moments.

Tweet at #CelebrateLu


Amazing things happen in our final week before the vacation begins: our holiday walk on Monday, two good work days on Tuesday and Wednesday, the staff party, the students' breakfast on Thursday, and the Celebration of Light.  I am also grateful for the wonderful parent support I've received from the parents of my new students. 
   There are a variety of special days that families celebrate this time of year, and some do not celebrate any holiday; however, we do know that light is important in every life. Every year, each class and group (like the trip teachers, math and music teachers, etc.) create a display of some kind that shows various ways that something or someone lights up our lives. Today is the last day of fall, and then the winter solstice, a special day to many throughout the world. Here are a few pictures of different ways some of the classes shared who or what brought light into their lives.
My students created a box home sculpture, lit them, and wrote how their homes provided light in their lives.


Ingrid's primary class built scenes with the people who light up their lives. You can see in the next picture why I'm celebrating this one.


The overnight teachers and the music teacher showed how much light comes into
our lives when we sing while camping.


Our buddy class created a gratitude tree and hung paper "leaves' of gratitude for people and things.
I thought I'd leave you with this primary class's question.


28 comments:

Carol said...

I love this Linda! What a terrific way to celebrate the end of the year!

Katherine Sokolowski said...

Linda, your school amazes me every time you share glimpses in. It is as if the school has a beautiful spirit of its own.

Carol Varsalona said...

I agree with Katherine, Linda. The spirit of light and gratitude are reflected in the photos you shared. Celebrate those who light up our lives each and every day!

Linda B said...

Thanks Carol. It is truly a lovely way for us to get ready for the break.

Linda B said...

I guess it does. We have traditions that we value for all the students to participate in as a community, that that is what's so important in our lives. Thanks, Katherine.

Linda B said...

Thanks, Carol. No matter what our beliefs, time to reflect upon those who light us up is important.

Margaret Simon said...

Love the idea of celebrating light. Beautiful creations and celebrations. Your school seems like a happy place to be. Have a wonderful holiday break!

Anonymous said...

I love this lights project. It ties in so perfectly this time of year. I have to figure out how I can use this next year!

Terje said...

Love getting part of your school celebrations. Ingrid's scene is adorable. I hope that you get to keep it.

Ramona said...

So many creative ideas - I love the box home sculptures! And now for my burning question...you have overnight teachers? How often do you have overnight events. I wish I could attend your school. You must be so happy to have Ingrid there. Hope you enjoy some lovely down time!

Linda B said...

Thanks Margaret, just returned from more shopping! Now for the wrapping!

Linda B said...

I may post more pictures next week. There were so many wonderful projects. I bet you'll be able to do something about this in books, Earl. Thank you!

Linda B said...

No-cannot keep. The blocks will move on to other uses, but I have the picture! Thanks, Terje!

Linda B said...

Yes, we have what are called experiential education teachers who plan the extended trips. Each class works with them in various ways, & except for the youngest, each one goes at least on one overnight. The older kids go for a week or more. And yes, having Ingrid at school keeps me always delighted, Ramona. Best to you for a wonderful Christmas with your family.

Julieanne said...

This tradition of light is so beautiful and perfect to honor all. Your school seems to be a light, a beacon for us all. Thank you for sharing.

Crystal said...

What wonderful traditions. I love the idea of celebrating the ones who bring light into our lives. Thank you for sharing.

Carrie Gelson said...

Linda How I love this post. And that tree! Wow. We made lanterns too and shared them at our winter concert. I will tweet you a photo. Love your granddaughter's work!

Linda B said...

You're right, Julieanne, we needed to find something that was good for everyone. Happy to share...

Linda B said...

You're welcome, Crystal-it's always fun and exciting to see what everyone will share.

Linda B said...

Thanks Carrie, will look for your lanterns. They are sometimes something that classes have done, too. Every year, a new idea.

Anonymous said...

The idea of thinking about what brings light to our life seems like a remarkable way to close out the year. Thank you. I shall ask my family that question during Sunday breakfast tomorrow.

Linda B said...

Thanks Kimberley, it will be good to hear what they say! Have a good holiday!

Loralee said...

Wow! This is incredible! What a message!

Linda B said...

Thanks, Loralee. Happy Holidays to you!

Kendra said...

This is simply amazing. I do hope you blog about it again next week. I would love to hear and see more about it. By the way, it's my Mr. that brings light into my life. :) Beautiful stuff!

Linda B said...

Thanks Kendra, will try to post more later. Great to hear about the 'light' in your life!

Michele Knott said...

I love this whole school theme and question. The answers were beautiful. Thank you for sharing!

Linda B said...

You're welcome, Michele. It's a lovely way to end our time together before break.