Third grade students have been diving into the study of Native American tribes, exploring their cultures, histories, traditions, and lasting impact. One of the most meaningful themes students noticed as we compared and contrasted the different tribes was the deep value many Native communities place on community itself: gathering together, sharing stories, supporting one another, and making time to connect.

Inspired by this important idea, we will be spending the final blocks of Social Studies creating our own version of “Community Time” with the Unquowa community! Our Community.

During these blocks, students will have opportunities to connect with others across campus through shared activities, conversations, collaborative projects, and community-building experiences. The hope is that students not only continue learning about community, but also experience the joy and responsibility of being active, caring members of one themselves.

This past Monday we hosted our Makerspace teacher Mr. Casey, who read one of his favorite childhood books. We discussed his upbringing in Kentucky, and were able to ask him what brought him to Connecticut. He shared stories, and we made tissue paper butterflies. Yesterday we hosted the first grade class. We buddied up and asked “get to know you” questions. Third graders read a book of the first graders choosing to them, and we finished by hearing what everyone learned from one another. I learned the rainbow sherbert seems to be the fan fav Unquowa dessert.

We are excited to continue this meaningful way to close out our Social Studies work, and to help students strengthen connections throughout the Unquowa community.