Picture This Spring 2010
A student negotiates the "Burma Bridge" in Appalachian Challenge, Park's nationally recognized outdoor education program. A major component of the program is the initiative course. One of the largest in the mid-Atlantic region, it is likely the only high- and low-confidence course in the country entirely constructed, maintained, and taught by students. Successful completion of Appalachian Challenge is required of every Middle Schooler.
As part of their study of the medieval period, students in Michelle Levin's Fifth Grade Spanish class were asked to craft dragons, using any medium, and invent a story about their creatures. Tenth Grade Spanish students were invited into the classroom to see the dragons, hear the stories, and share refreshments. All of the dialogue was conducted in Spanish.
Members of the Upper School Climate Change Committee at Park (CCCP), along with science teacher Jeff Jennings, plant trees along the northern edge of Tompkins Field. History teacher Daniel Jacoby advises the Committee.
The Middle School celebrated National Poetry Month with a two-day Poetry Slam. The following week, the whole school gathered in assembly to enjoy readings from students in each division as well as from special guest Gayle Danley, slam poet extraordinaire!
Fourth Graders learn about markets in different Spanish-speaking areas of the world. After developing and practicing oral bargaining skills, they make food and crafts from all of these areas and stage a market in the classroom. Upper and Middle School Spanish students and faculty are invited to participate. This year, the students donated the proceeds to a school and animal shelter in Nicaragua where Lower School teachers Michelle Levin and Bruce Bryant have volunteered.
Upper School students from Park and Baltimore Freedom Academy took part in a student-centered dialogue with artist Carrie Mae Weems. This was a featured session at the National Art Education Association Convention at the Baltimore Convention Center, April 14-18.
