The sky was blue, the sun warm, and smiles and hugs were bountiful at the much-anticipated annual event.
The Family School celebrated its annual Grandparents’ Day on April 1, a day after the spring performance of a condensed and musical version of J. M. Barrie’s Peter Pan, under the direction of Music and Drama teacher Aimee Carroll.
“This long-standing tradition is regularly held the day after the school’s spring musical, enabling family members who travel from near and far to attend both celebrations,” said Head of School Miki Holden. Both events include participation of the entire student body.
“I just want you to know that I came all the way across country to be here. And it was supremely worth it,” said Miriam, Aiden’s grandma. About 200 grandparents, great-grandparents, aunts and uncles, and special friends turned out to visit classrooms, tour the campus and attend a special presentation of children’s art.
“He’s really funny,” said John of his great-grandpa (also John). “He’s the healthiest out of everybody in our family,” said the younger John, taking his elder’s hand and dragging him toward his classroom. With a shrug and a smile, the two were off to share the morning.
Under the guidance of art teacher Cynthia Devine, each child from kindergarten through grade five created a portrait which was completed by pushing their own faces through the cutout. Kindergarten children created portraits of their pets, while the older children chose a favorite portrait by a celebrated artist to put themselves into.
“Well, I didn’t know they are so interested in art here. It’s a great thing for the kids to not just have lessons in drawing, but also to learn about the artists themselves,” said Walter.
“Together, these events are two of the most anticipated and appreciated celebrations at The Family School,” Holden said. “I think you see a special kind of innocence here. A special kind of interaction – very caring and compassionate – a throwback to a long time ago,” said Grandma Marlene.
For the safety and privacy of their families, the school identifies community members by first names only.