At the beginning of the school year, Pieter B. teachers Ms. Olmeda, Ms. Villa, Ms. Emerick, and Ms. Rice wanted to create an inclusive atmosphere as they united their second and third grade multi-age classrooms. They hung up a beautiful display (see below) that uses the rainbow to represent unity, working together, and becoming a family between the two rooms. The design was completed with each teacher's initials coming together to spell out O.V.E.R the rainbow.
Their goal of creating a community based on unity and friendship has continued to be a theme throughout the year. In celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., they tied this theme into their discussion of the book they read in class, The Other Side by Jaqueline Woodson.
“This was a fantastic opportunity for us as a class to discuss the importance of understanding and celebrating differences, communication, and friendships,” said multi-age teacher Ms. Villa. “The students learned about segregation and the important work done against it by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and other prominent figures.”
After reading and discussing the book, the students got creative and put together artwork that emphasized the core of the story and their classroom – we are a rainbow of beautiful colors. It stands as an engaging and powerful reminder for all that walk the Pieter B. halls.
The projects came out great! Here are some photos of the display and students work:
