Each week through December a different Mount Madonna School (MMS) first grade student is honored as the “Star of the Week” by his or her classmates.
This practice is one way that teacher Cassia Laffin works to build community within the classroom.
“Students are really enthusiastic when it’s their turn to be Star of the Week,” said Laffin. “Students gather in a circle to listen to the ‘star’ share each day. Star students are offered the opportunity to use some of my ‘teacher toys,’ such as my pointer stick, and as a result seem to feel empowered to be leading our class.”
As part of this special recognition, on the first day, the chosen student brings in a poster made at home to share filled with photos of significance to them. The student is interviewed by classmates and answers some standard get to know you better questions. On another day, they bring in a collection of their choice to share with the class. During the week they will also have the opportunity to bring in an art project or something they’ve made to share.
And lastly, with the help of a parent, the star student decides what they want to do for their special Star of the Week share. Most often, the student chooses to have the class meet a special pet. This year, first grader Sterling had his mom come and bring his pet rat, Diamond! Classmate Jules brought his mom, dad and younger brother, and fresh berries to taste test with classmates. Students voted on their favorites, and Jules recorded the data by making a tally mark for each child’s vote. Another weekly “star,” Jasper, invited his Grandma Elaine to come share her love – and his love – of quilting and sewing. She showed examples of beautiful quilts she had made; taught the class about various parts of her sewing machine and how it functions, followed by questions and answers. After her demonstration, each child selected a stitch of their choice, and assisted in sewing the stitch down a bookmark that they got to take home. A perfect keepsake for these budding readers!
“During my 10 years teaching at Mount Madonna, I have had chickens, cats, snakes, pigs, a pony, and of course many doggy visitors,” commented Laffin. “I have had students showcase special talents like a drum or violin solo; and had parents lead the class in an art project, dance, or share a meaningful religious practice or family tradition. The star shares are varied according to the interests and enthusiasm of the child.”
Laffin explained that she wants each child to understand early on that their voices, thoughts and feelings matter.
“Being the star makes them feel valued among their peers, develops positive self-esteem and provides great opportunities to practice public speaking skills as they showcase their poster, a collection and something they’ve made. It also prepares them for special presentations they do later in the year, like their native animal reports.”
At the conclusion of each child’s Star week, they receive a gift – a handmade book – collectively made by their classmates and teacher. Each student creates a page sharing what they like about the star student, and teacher Laffin creates the last page – a hand-drawn portrait of the honored student.
“At the conclusion of a child’s ‘Star of the Week’ share, it is my hope,” said Laffin, “that each child feels affirmed of the special qualities that make them unique, as well as their first-grade friendships.”
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Contact: Leigh Ann Clifton, director of marketing & communications,
Nestled among the redwoods on 375 acres, Mount Madonna School (MMS) is a community of learners dedicated to creative, intellectual, and ethical growth. MMS supports its students in becoming caring, self-aware, discerning and articulate individuals; and believe a fulfilling life includes personal accomplishments, meaningful relationships and service to society. The CAIS and WASC accredited program emphasizes academic excellence, creative self-expression and positive character development. Located on Summit Road between Gilroy and Watsonville. Founded in 1979.