Students’ eyes sparkled with delight during Team Zest’s Expo of Learning. They were the experts, and their parents were the ones solving algebraic equations and proofreading paragraphs which were riddled with errors … created just for them!
The Expo was an interactive showcase of students’ work across math, science, social studies and English language arts, with teachers Mary Dillon, Audrey Faulkner and Sean Murphy. It was set up science-fair style in the school library; each sixth grader stood at a table and shared five pieces of work with visiting family and faculty.
“The honey sinks,” said Greta, pointing to the bottom of the 6-layer density column she and a partner created in science. “There is always a bright side to change,” Ion read from his personal essay. “In Ancient Egypt’s social pyramid, the slaves were at the bottom and the pharaoh at the top,” said Kristian.
The Expo of Learning closed with students sharing a practice the whole school has been engaged in this year: community-building circles. Students and their visitors sat in circles of about 20 people each. Two student leaders in each circle reviewed the norms, which included speaking honestly from the heart, and only speaking when you have the talking piece.
One circle passed around a squishy gorilla, another a fluffy ball, and students and parents reflected on what they appreciated about the Expo, and their wishes for the future.
“I love that my daughter can correct my math problems.”
“I liked learning how hot air balloons work.”
“I hope for smiles and fun for all students.”
“I wish for more time to run bases at recess.”
“My son loves community circles,” said one parent at the close of Team Zest’s Expo of Learning. “He wishes they’d happen each day!” “I loved seeing what you’ve worked on all year!” said another parent.