“Now is the time to create this symbiosis between architecture, pedagogy, and the other disciplines in order to find better spaces, more appropriate spaces.We are not searching for an ‘ideal’ space, but one that is capable of generating its own change, because an ideal space, an ideal pedagogy, an ideal child or human being do not exist, but only a child, a human being, in relation with their own experiences, times, and culture.”
~Carla Rinaldi
Dear East Wing Parents,
There’s lots going on these days and it’s all pretty exciting. From the motion and movement that was sparked by the airplane investigation to the dramatic play that keeps the children interested in creating a curtain and a stage to act out their stories, the classrooms, both inside and out, are coming alive with meaningful work. To support this, the teachers have been videotaping, observing, and meeting together and with parents (thanks Eric and Alejandra) to brainstorm ideas to extend not only these interests but others that we see happening throughout the school.
Reading and understanding more about the importance of how the environment can enhance the exploration of children’s work, the teachers started looking beyond the areas that we have defined by furniture and brainstormed possibilities for “opening up” to more extended thinking. So. . .
Next Saturday (behind closed doors so we don’t disturb your fun that the Book Fair will bring) we will be moving the classroom around to open up and enhance spaces that will support and invite more powerful interactions. Children want to move out and across spaces and we have worked hard to see how we can make this happen. They’re in on the plans. They know we are listening. They know we will be moving the classroom around and that on Monday morning, things will be different.
This letter is to let you in on the conversation, too, and with that asking for volunteers to help us bolt and re-bolt shelves as well as unscrewing and replacing the documentation boards around the room. If you have any time to help, it would be greatly appreciated. Below is the beginning of a Wish List with which you might be able to help though we know you’ll have to ask for specifics in regards to sizes, colors, and shapes.
We’ll be taking photos to document our process both during and after. As we continue to observe and reflect on the children’s work, we’ll be asking ourselves:
Can we find constants in the strategies of supporting kinesthetic learning among children with similar personalities?
Will the change allow for open space along with opportunities for intimate space?
When the parents walk into the classroom, will they feel welcome?
Wish List
Overhead Projectors
Shabby Chic Shelving (preferably no taller than 4ft.)
Round Coffee Table
Area Rugs
A small cart with wheels