Written by Jessica Corral, Art Teacher
Banners adorn the halls as well as the lawn of Aylesworth School. "We are Four-Star Status" is a triumph communicated to the school every day, as well as to the community. However, Aylesworth has more in store for their celebration...
Aside from the colorful and creative banners, something else shouts Aylesworth's amazing accomplishment: four large oversized stars adorn the office like statues signifying the four roles of Aylesworth that have helped pave the way. The words "Students, Teachers, Parents, and Community" are posted on each one of the stars. The stars serve as a reminder that it takes all four components to reach stardom. The huge stars attract much attention and definitely help Aylesworth shine even more.
All staff is also adorned with 'Four-star Celebration' t-shirts. The back of the shirt simply states: "We earned 'em." What a great way to express the teamwork, dedication, and passion behind their daily agenda: to help students grow.
Students have also been asked to write their own personal 'shine stories' describing their thoughts of Aylesworth. In doing so, the staff hopes to receive feedback all the while urging students to reflect on the important role of their school. Yes, at Aylesworth they find a way to merge Language Arts into their celebration!
Here are a few of the student reflections:
"I think that when kids work very hard and are respectful to all of the teachers that is how Aylesworth shines." -Brock Peele, 4th grade
“Aylesworth is an amazing school because everyone is like a big happy family. To me; we have the best principal in the entire world, and the best teachers too!” -Hailey Lundy
“Aylesworth shines because we have the best behavior and teaching methods.” –Giovanni E. Carr
The staff has also invited visitors and parents to write their own thoughts when they arrive at the office. Valuing each and every role of education, Aylesworth understands that students deserve nothing less than the utmost support, especially from parents and the community.
Aylesworth has a special celebration planned this coming week at their staff meeting. A video will be showcased, created by teachers of course, to honor such a rewarding accomplishment. The video depicts Aylesworth's dedication to teamwork, differentiated instruction, and of course a sense of humor. The intention of creating this reflection is to honor the staff’s year of hard work and showcase their moments of glory as a team.
Students at Aylesworth can also look forward to an in-school celebration to take place at the end of May in the gymnasium. This ‘commencement’ will incorporate a very symbolic presentation to thank the students for their own hard work and dedication. What will be showcased then is strictly confidential of course, but is sure to be 'out of this world'!
So let’s extend special congratulations to Aylesworth for their achievement and perhaps we too can become inspired to continue to reach for the stars towards a higher education.