We had our second-ever school meeting yesterday, which included a play by Kindergarten students, “The Little Red Hen,” based on a classic story from 1874, now a beloved children’s book. Students in Elementary sang a Spanish song they had learned with Ms. Natalia, and they also delivered an Earth Day Poem. Ms. Dounia and Ms. Chaymaa taught the basics of belly dancing with recorded Moroccan instrumental music, bringing many children and teachers to their feet and moving to the rhythms of another part of the world. And I talked about the Jewish holiday of Pesach, or Passover, which ends early next week and highlights themes of freedom, liberation, and family.

School meeting has been a fun, often playful way to bring the community together. As we gather in the gym, we literally see each other and learn from each. The school feels larger, not just one class of 8 or 18, but a diverse group of 100+ children and adults. I wrote elsewhere this week that, “Shared work builds community, and community gives everyone a sense of shared values.” At Torit, safety, respect, responsibility, honesty, and grace and courtesy are some of the values most important to us. I’d add in curiosity, drive, and an appreciation for knowledge.

With May around the corner, the pace of the school year will increase, and it’s important students are here to contribute to the work of their class and the community. There are some fun activities that will allow students to demonstrate their learning to you. I encourage you to come to the relevant events.