The past month, we have noticed the children showing an interest in “true stories” especially biographies. A rich learning environment has emerged between children bringing in books about famous people on sharing day, a sprinkling of biographies in our library, and Julianne focusing activities inspired by African American artists. Last week, the children colored geometrical shapes mimicking Rosie Lee Tompkins quilts.

In honor of her life and passing, we read about Roberta Flack and played on a small keyboard that Safia brought in. The children were introduced to musicians like Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Nina Simone, and Ray Charles. We are compiling a playlist that will be shared with the Mariposa families toward the end of the of the year which includes these artists along with others requested by the children.

The children have learned about athletes Misty Copeland and Wilma Rudolph. This morning we ran a relay raise inspired by Wilma Rudolph’s accomplishments. The children were divided into 3 teams of four and did a baton relay race around the berm.

We celebrated Mardi Gras in Mariposa by making masks and marching around the room to Louis Armstrong! They even enjoyed catching small candy canes mimicking a parade. We danced Zydeco to New Orleans brass bands and had a ball!

Our Claremont Library field trip was a great success! We started off with story time and movement with children’s librarian, Mr. Micheal. Then, looked through the picture book section where each child got to select one book to borrow. Finally, each child got to use their library card for the first time to check out their book. We even brought back a batch of books for our classroom. Thanks to all the volunteers who helped make it happen. We couldn’t have done it without you!