A Reflection on the Value of the Arts: Lucy Kuhn, 4th Grade teacher
March is upon us and it feels like spring in Seattle, a time of renewal, energy and growth. One place I see a lot of energy and growth at Hope is in our active arts program. This was shown abundantly by our middle school students during L.E.S.T. through our music, drama, writing, and visual arts participants. Currently, our hallways and classrooms are filled with the creative energies of our students of all age levels: paintings, collages, fanciful fish, abstract gardens, visions of themselves in the future, and eye catching instructional posters. We have a vibrant drama program, many promising writers, and enthusiastic musicians who are guided to explore their talents by teachers who are passionate about the arts.
As a teacher, and as a parent, it is both exciting and important to me that students are exposed to a variety of different types of art at a young age because I personally believe that this exposure helps children grow into more healthy, well balanced, and creative individuals. At a time when many schools are cutting back on teaching art, Hope’s students are participating in our PTH sponsored Artists in Residence program where they recently created unique pottery pieces guided and inspired by skilled artists. I am quite certain that years from now Hope’s current first through fourth grade students will remember the creative challenge of working with clay in our Fellowship Hall “art studio” with Mrs. Tornow and Mrs. Pepper. Some may even develop a passion for this art form as a result of their experience.
Hope’s preschool embraces the idea that, when it comes to art, it is the process rather than the product that is primarily important for students. Engaging in an artistic process requires that the artist make choices and solve problems to achieve an aesthetically pleasing product to that particular person. What is pleasing to an artist is entirely unique to that individual which is why the process of art is so special. The artist decides when his/her work is complete and feels a sense of satisfaction in the act of creation. Students smile and say “I made that!” with a sense of accomplishment. It feels good to be presented with a goal, to watch your creation evolve, and to decide when it is complete. Art is one way in which we can all shine our lights here at Hope.
My fourth grade students routinely state that they “love art” and engage in each class project with eagerness and effort. They compliment each other on their creations and make positive suggestions as to how to achieve a desired product. We also talk about being respectful of the artistic efforts of others which I feel is an important core value in our culture. Students take the time to notice the work of others as we pass down our hallways each day, and our lives are further enriched by the creative energy that we are able to share with each other. The arts add great joy and connection to our learning community, and I am grateful for this positive energy each day.
Calendar of Events
Wed. 3/11: 8:40 AM Chapel w/Gr. 6
Thurs. 3/12: No School: Parent-Teacher Conf. / ESC Open
Fri. 3/13: No School: PS Parent-Teacher Conf., K-8 Teacher Training / ESC Open
Wed. 3/18: 8:40 AM Chapel w/Gr. 5
Fri. 3/20: Free Dress Day
St. Patrick’s Day Green
Next Tuesday, March 17, we will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Students are allowed to wear green/jeans/St. Patrick’s Day-wear (or uniforms if not dressing up).
Health and Sickness Update
Hope School continues to report cases of stomach flu and pneumonia. Students should remain home for a minimum of 24 hours after symptoms such as vomiting pass and fever. Monitor your child closely if they are showing signs of illness such as a fever, stomachache, severe runny nose, coughing, tiredness, and irritability, and keep them home as needed. Feel free to reference our health and sickness policy in the parent handbook for more detailed information.
March Box Tops
Congrats to Lucas P., Charlie K., Gavin Z., & Travis L. who received their own pot ‘o gold chocolate coins! We still have 6 more to give away so bring in your “pot ‘o gold” box top form. Thank you for your continued support of this program.
Head Track Coach and Field Assistants Wanted
We are looking for a head coach and individuals to assist with our track team this year. Practices are held during the week 2 to 3 days after school with Track meets usually on Saturdays. If you are interested or would like more information please contact Mr. Kapels at Bkapels@hopeseattle.org. Your time does count towards your PIP hours!
Open Taco Bar to Support WADC Trip
Invite your friends and family to this scrumptious evening of Mexican cuisine on Tuesday, March 24th from 5-8pm at Pecado Bueno. Pay at the door or turn in the pre-order form found here. All proceeds benefit the 7th/8th grade Washington, DC trip. Thank you for your continued support!
Hope Spring Drama Club
Hope’s Drama Club will be starting up again on Friday, March 20th. Our 4th through 8th grade students are welcome to sign up. Flyers are coming home in today’s Tuesday envelope and are due by March 17th to the school office. Drama Club will meet every Friday from 3:00 to 5:00 pm, culminating with our talent showcase on June 7th. Drama club is led by Sandra Scragg and Mary Norton.
Seattle Lutheran Basketball State Competition
Seattle Lutheran High School’s Men’s basketball team competed last weekend at the state tournament in Spokane and placed third, beating our West Seattle neighbor Shorewood High School in their final game. We are so proud of the players and head coach Brett Kapels!
Hope Lutheran Summer Camp
This summer, Hope is pleased to offer six & ½ weeks of summer camp for students ages 3 through age 12. Our younger preschool camp is intended for students who have finished preschool 3s (age 4 by August 31st) or finished preschool 4s, and our older camp is for students who have finished kindergarten through age 12. With weekly themes and field trips and lots of fun activities including art, water day, and science, kids will have a great time together. Families can choose from 2-5 days per week. Register here or stop by the office for more information. Our camp does fill up quickly so don’t delay. We take registrations on a first come first serve basis.
VBS Registration Now Available
Join us for Vacation Bible School (VBS) July 20-24, 9:00-Noon for children age four (by September 1st) – those entering 5th grade. Older children are encouraged to serve as volunteers. Our theme this year is “Everest – Conquering Challenges with God’s Mighty Power”. Cost is $25 by May 1st and $30 after May 1st. Register online at the church website here. Questions, contact patramueller@hopeseattle.org.
Junction Flats Project – Demo to start 3/18
The Junction Flats project demolition is to begin Wednesday, March 18th at 4433 42nd Ave SW across the street from Hope School. Our concerns are the safety of our students and the impact of this project with our drop off/pick up on 42nd Ave. Please be aware there may be congestion during these times and to be patient. Thank you.
Hope Church Membership Class
Are you interested in becoming a member of Hope Lutheran Church? Hope 101 classes begin on Wednesday, April 22- Wednesday, June 3 from 7:00-8:30 pm. Please contact patramueller@hopeseattle.org if you have any questions or would like to sign up.
Lost and Found
Our lost and found bin, located in the school lobby, will be emptied after this week. Please take time as you attend your parent/teacher conferences to check for any of your children’s missing items. Anything left by Monday, March 16th will be donated.
Thank you!
Afterschool Activities – Click Here
Parent Involvement Program Opportunities – Click Here
