Students and teachers at East Lake Elementary School had Sept. 15 circled on their calendars, a date widely known as International Dot Day. In Massapequa and across the world, it’s a chance to embrace creativity and celebrate the unique talents of every person.
International Dot Day is based on the Peter Reynolds book, “The Dot,” the story of a caring teacher who encourages a student to trust in her own abilities by being brave enough to “make her mark.” East Lake students made their mark in different ways throughout the day.
Third graders in Toni Farrell’s class participated in digital breakout room, and had to solve five puzzles all relating to dots. Supported by technology learning coach Jennifer Emberley, students worked together toward the solutions and cheered when they successfully reached the end of the challenge.
Denise Sicignano’s students were joined by Ms. Emberley to make a digital class book that featured each child’s unique dot. The project was done in Book Creator.
The fourth grade classrooms were also full of Dot Day excitement. In Lauren Ahrens’ class, students made tie-dye dots by coloring designs on coffee filters and then adding water. Allison Abbate’s fourth graders did creative drawings in frames of their choice, and also wrote about ways they could encourage others. Students in Giana DiCostanzo’s class will have a reminder of the Dot Day message throughout the year, as they colored “How will you make your mark?” bookmarks. They drew symbols that reflect their interests while making creative and unique color patterns.
Art teacher Patti Krakoff spearheaded the creation of a community dot. On a large circular piece of cardboard, students added colorful dots using an ink stamper, and parents were also invited to contribute to the project during back-to-school night.