The Memories
Think back to elementary school. What do you remember? Do you remember every lesson your teachers taught you? Probably not. Do you remember every word your teachers said? Probably not. Do you remember how to correctly use apostrophes? Maybe. Do you remember your favorite assembly or activity that your school did? Probably. The truth is that people don't remember what you say or do; they remember how you make them feel. One way to make them feel something and experience something memorable is by conducting a whole-school activity.
A whole-school activity is something that a lot of teachers look at and think "chaos." It may be chaotic, but it is that kind of organized chaos where true learning is happening and connections are being made. Students from grades K-5 (all grades in the school) form teams (1 student from each grade level) and travel around the school to complete activities together. The activities need to be challenging enough to hold the attention of the upper elementary students, but simple enough for the primary students to complete with support. It could be centered around a certain event, like a holiday, or be centered around a specific subject, like fractions.
This is an incredible and memorable learning experience for all participants. Upper elementary students are able to be leaders as they take younger students around the building. Primary students are able to look up to their peers as role models. All students are able to make connections and feel part of the school community. It is one of those experiences that you remember for a lifetime. It takes teacher preparation. It might be chaotic. Regardless, it is worth it. This is the learning. These are the memories.
