Teaching Inclusivity at Graland
Younger students got a lesson in appreciating our similarities and differences this week with help from Oscar Gonzalez, director of equity and inclusivity, and Kathy Riley, counselor. In a demonstration called Venn with Friends, they discussed topics like music, movies, food and family to determine what types of things they have in common and what they can learn from the other. To rousing applause, they showed off their favorite dance move, The Sprinkler. Following that, students learned about the latest Hidden Hero, Ella Baker (2) from her teacher, Carrie VonderHaar: "Our hidden hero is someone who makes a significant contribution to our classroom and the second-grade community. This person practices inclusion by always being open to play with everyone on recess and partner up with anyone during class time." Over in the Middle School, sixth graders met with counselor Tara Lavizzo and Mr. Gonzalez to discuss ways to cultivate compassion and what upstander behavior looks like.
Younger students got a lesson in appreciating our similarities and differences this week with help from Oscar Gonzalez, director of equity and inclusivity, and Kathy Riley, counselor. In a demonstration called Venn with Friends, they discussed topics like music, movies, food and family to determine what types of things they have in common and what they can learn from the other. To rousing applause, they showed off their favorite dance move, The Sprinkler. Following that, students learned about the latest Hidden Hero, Ella Baker (2) from her teacher, Carrie VonderHaar: "Our hidden hero is someone who makes a significant contribution to our classroom and the second-grade community. This person practices inclusion by always being open to play with everyone on recess and partner up with anyone during class time." Over in the Middle School, sixth graders met with counselor Tara Lavizzo and Mr. Gonzalez to discuss ways to cultivate compassion and what upstander behavior looks like.
More about Ella from Ms. VonderHaar
"Our hidden hero is someone who makes a significant contribution to our classroom and the second-grade community. This person practices inclusion by always being open to play with everyone on recess and partner up with anyone during class time.
"This person preserveres when math is challenging, by remaining calm and asking questions. She is optimistic, tries her best and never gives up. When it is time to listen to others’ words she does so with her eyes kindly engaged towards the speaker. Her follow-up responses are endearing and respectful.
"Our hidden hero also practices mindfulness. Her ability to softly observe and listen to her surroundings and make a positive choice, is exemplar. She has a gentle soul, which means that if something doesn’t feel right, she is thoughtful in her approach which takes a lot of courage. Her smile is sweet. Her laugh contagious. Her heart is bright! The words on your shirt are alive within you and all around you. Ella we love you. You help us all glow. You remind us that it is important to live in peace and to always dream! It is with great honor that today we recognize Ella Baker as our Graland Hidden Hero."
More about Ella from Ms. VonderHaar
"Our hidden hero is someone who makes a significant contribution to our classroom and the second-grade community. This person practices inclusion by always being open to play with everyone on recess and partner up with anyone during class time.
"This person preserveres when math is challenging, by remaining calm and asking questions. She is optimistic, tries her best and never gives up. When it is time to listen to others’ words she does so with her eyes kindly engaged towards the speaker. Her follow-up responses are endearing and respectful.
"Our hidden hero also practices mindfulness. Her ability to softly observe and listen to her surroundings and make a positive choice, is exemplar. She has a gentle soul, which means that if something doesn’t feel right, she is thoughtful in her approach which takes a lot of courage. Her smile is sweet. Her laugh contagious. Her heart is bright! The words on your shirt are alive within you and all around you. Ella we love you. You help us all glow. You remind us that it is important to live in peace and to always dream! It is with great honor that today we recognize Ella Baker as our Graland Hidden Hero."
Graland Country Day School
Graland Country Day School is a private school in Denver, Colorado, serving students in preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school. Founded in Denver in 1927, Graland incorporates a rich, experiential learning approach in a traditional classroom setting, emphasizing the development of globally and socially conscious leaders who excel academically.
