A great strength of The Washington Market School has been our ability to adapt to changing circumstances. When the times call for it, we can be flexible and when faced with unforeseen challenges, we can reinvent how we teach and learn. This brings to mind an old saying: “in the midst of every crisis, lies great opportunity.”

Our current crisis, caused by the coronavirus pandemic, began a little over a year ago. We were on the verge of hosting Grandfriend’s Day and our 29th annual art show was about to open. A few weeks later we were stuck at home, masked up outside, and collectively grieving the family, friends, and time we were losing. It stayed that way for longer than most of us thought possible and some things will never go back to the way they were. WMS, however, has remained committed to the hopeful possibilities of early childhood education.

Throughout this crisis, our dedicated classroom and studio teachers found opportunities to reinvent their teaching practice within the parameters of health and safety. We grounded ourselves in the miracle of learning, constantly finding innovative ways to connect with children. Through screens and software, our studio teachers transformed their classes in ways once unimaginable. We experienced art, music, library, and movement and drama in ways that emphasized the creative process and renewed our sense of collaboration.

On May 25th, a little more than a year since the pandemic began, we’ll present our 30th annual art show: Making Meaning. While we’d love to gather together and celebrate this triumph of a year, it’s not yet the time. Instead, we’ve put together a multimedia online experience where each class will exhibit how they’ve “made meaning” this year. Ultimately, that’s what art is all about — making meaning.

The artists, writers, dancers, musicians, and philosophers of The Washington Market School invite you to join us on our journey through the creative process. It would mean the world to us and we hope you’ll find it meaningful too.