We had a great first week in Opal 1. These brave 5 and 6 year olds walked into kindergarten where almost everything was new for most of them: new surroundings, new teacher, new schedule and new classmates. What became clear immediately is exactly what we know about children – they are full: full of joy, curiosity, and wonder; full of energy, thoughts and ideas; full of laughter and maybe most of all, full of the desire to connect with others and create relationships. The risks they are taking a hundred times a day to try something new, share an idea or further a friendship are incredible and we are so thankful to get to be a part of it.
I could go on, but a picture really is worth a thousand words – so enjoy a window into the hard and beautiful work your children are doing at school all day long. Looks like fun!
Running down the running hill in the Arboretum!
Listening to Wodney Wat, a very funny immediate class favorite. When it was over there was impromptu class chanting, "Again, again, again!"
Investigating sunflowers – really big sunflowers.
Teamwork.
More investigating, digging in – literally.
Building with pattern blocks and finding stories.
Asking for help and being excited to help.
Being investigators and trying out experiments.
Lunch, time to eat and talk together.
Outdoor break on the playground, sharing a new way of playing dodgeball and friends being willing to try it out.
Exploring with water color.
Learning about materials and exploring all kinds of possibilities with them.
Sharing a discovery!
Siesta time!
Our first 'seat work' :), making cards to identify our mailboxes. Working so hard to write our names and having the courage to ask for support when needed.
Noticing our surroundings, being curious. What does this mint leaf smell like?!
We, the teachers of Opal 1, hope that you will come to Back to School Night, Monday, September 9th from 6:30 to 8. We look forward to opening the window wider – sharing many more images and stories of Opal 1 life. Hope to see you there!