Think of this to the tune of the chorus and verses of “Oh Tannenbaum” as the rhythm applies.
Oh Interest Groups, Oh Interest Groups
The best of times at Spectrum School
Kids doing projects all day long
And loving working, really cool
On Day One, lots of brainstorming
And planning out and researching
It starts to seem overwhelming
To teachers and those volunteering
Day Two there is a bit of time
To pull together everything
Get ready for the field trips
The transport and the chaperoning
Still there must be “learning” too
Integrate the Math and Reading, do
And project stuff is spreading through
Every space and table full of glue
Day Three the teachers start to think
“I hope their projects don’t really stink”
The grown ups are tired and wondering why
We even give this another try
We are so worn out, the energy
Of student driven synergy
Is feeling a bit like anarchy
But we continue, relentlessly
Then there is the joy of the final day
When everyone is focused in their own way
They know their projects and want to work
The atmosphere is less berserk
The children really love the this week
They feel so free they love the fun
Day Four the projects getting done
They feel accomplished, every one
It’s amazing how it comes together
All this work and all the fun
Oh Spectrum Interest Groups We Know
You are the best for everyone!
Even so, when a student asked me yesterday why we couldn’t learn like this all the time, the reality is letting students plan and own learning, work, and projects at this level is a LOT more work and planning for the teachers! Thank you Jacque, Shawnna, Ms. Sue, Heather, Staci, and Lindsay for this amazing week. We are all exhausted but I am so proud of you and our students.
Thanks to the families who came to Interest Group sharing last night. Your support means a lot to your children and to us.
Dr. Mary Beth Cunat
Principal – Spectrum Progressive School of Rockford
