The Rookery

This past week we asked the children to respond to the conversations we've been having about human rights.  After our brainstorming session on Thursday, students chose to create an image, poem or song to illustrate a right they felt was important.  The children worked diligently, eagerly creating and revising.  We…

Ah, the child-created game. The latest outdoor game to pop up has been dubbed "human bowling" by the kids. During PE today, the Robins begin by clearing a long patch of ice to serve as the lane. Four students stand at one end and act as pins. Then other students…

 We had a wonderful experience on Thursday afternoon as a part of our Human Rights study.  We've come back together after identifying what we feel are key human rights and the students were surprised at how many of the rights were the same, even though we were in completely separate…

I teach at Prairie Creek because I love to work closely with my colleagues.  Amy, Cathy, Elizabeth and I team teach every day — sometimes teaching together in front of a larger group, sometimes teaching each other's students.  It's an exciting way to teach.  One doesn't experience the isolation that…

Last Week, the 4/5 teachers had the opportunity to meet a number of our Honors project volunteer Mentors. During the discussion it became apparent that students and their mentors were at a variety of entry points. Some were diving in and gathering resources, others were planning trips, still others were…

With all the cold weather, we've had more indoor recess recently than I would wish.  However, it's provided an opportunity for students to develop some nice friendships across ages.  We have a crew of K-3s who have made the Herons their hangout of choice.  It's been a lot of fun.…

One thing I love about the Herons is their spirit of willingness.  Today we went skiing for gym.  As I left the building, I was hit by a barrage of tiny ice pellets.  I was just about to call us all back in when I saw that many of the…

 Today we went to Macalester College to hear their African Music Ensemble.  The group, lead by Sowah Mensah, does a beautiful job introducing the children to African music and the place that music, dance and ceremony have in the cultures of Africa, especially his home country of Ghana. As I…

We began our human rights theme today by splitting up into mixed groups (each teacher took a group of 15 or so) and setting forth this question, "What rights do humans have?"  I ran my discussion using a format called "Socrates Café" in which I can only ask questions and…

Yesterday we went cross country skiing.  It was snowing lightly and truly lovely outside.  It's always worth the effort it takes to get out the first time although, truth be told, the Herons were remarkably efficient. I'm always amazed at how willing the students are to try this sport, many…