Dear Families,
While all of our classes start the year exploring their identities and the identities of the classroom members, each class’s work looks distinct. Identity consists of the various characteristics we use to categorize and define ourselves and the various characteristics that are constructed by those around us. Classes explore aspects of their identity that are visible, such as skin color, as well as aspects that may not be easily knowable or visible, such as the language they speak at home and or their family’s beliefs. Read-alouds are also a powerful way for children to see characters who share some aspects of their identity, as well as learn about those who are different from them. Cheryl and our library’s diverse texts are valuable resources for teachers and children.
Starting from our youngest classes all the way up to our upcoming graduates, our teachers build identity work into the curriculum to not only encourage children to build their sense of self but also to break down the barriers that our society can reinforce through racism, classism, discrimination, and closed-minded views of others who seem different from us. We want children to know that they are supported and empowered by our school community to build positive self-identity and to use their power to advocate for others who may face adversities because of their identities. Allyship and kindness are important traits that are also highly emphasized in this work so our children can stay rooted in those values as they grow up in a world full of diversity. As the world continues to catch up, we are committed to showing our children that they matter and that each of their individual identities make this community the amazing place that it is.
Lauren’s Science Newsletter
Check out what’s happening in science this fall: Science Newsletter – September & October 2023
Family Income Inquiry Forms
Please complete an online Family Income Inquiry Form. This information determines funding for our school, so all families must complete one. Our zip code is 10009.
Lost and Found
Please check the lost and found in the lobby for your child’s missing articles of clothing. We plan to clean it out on November 10, launder the clothes, and donate them to families in need.
Dismissal
Agent A has asked parents/caregivers to come into the yard at dismissal time to pick up their children instead of waiting on the sidewalk. We want to make sure our kids are safe from the moment we get them until the time they leave with you.
Just a reminder that Thursday is a half-day for family conferences. Dismissal is at 11:45. There is no school next Tuesday, November 7th, because it is a professional development day for staff.
We hope you have a happy and safe Halloween,
Dyanthe and Shaquawn