In this unusual year, we have been exploring ways to connect with each other and share our appreciation. During studio classes, children eagerly shared messages with each of the teachers and hoped for more time get to know them. The children in Classroom 4 missed their studio teachers and wanted to connect with them after studio classes ended.

Sparked by curiosity, the children began writing letters to the studio teachers. They began by sharing the messages they did not have a chance to share during class and continued with questions and drawings. This pen pal relationship with each of the studio teachers led to finding other pen pals throughout our WMS community. As they explore the various materials related to the postal service and familiarize themselves with mail-related concepts, many other classes are incorporating this exploration into their curriculum too.

Forming community has always been at the heart of WMS. Since the classrooms are in their “pods” throughout the day and Studio Teachers on the screen, the need to connect with one another was more present than ever. Classrooms and studio teachers put mailboxes around the building and soon they were being filled with letters from one another. The letters sometimes shared a message of love, or are about the work in the classroom or studio class. Sophie (Library) started reading books about writing letters and postcards. Evan (Music) wrote a new song adapted from “Mail Myself To You”. Knowing that seeing family may not be as easy as before, some classrooms sent letters to family members over Thanksgiving break. Responding to children’s needs and interests is what our teachers do best and that continues in this unique year. Feel free to send a letter to your child’s classroom too. The more connections the better.

Send your letter to:
The Washington Market School
[Name of Classroom]
134 Duane Street
NY, NY 10013