East Lake School is Dotted With Determination

It was a day for students to channel their creativity and make their mark on Sept. 16 at East Lake Elementary School. International Dot Day reinforced a message for youngsters to believe in themselves and never give up. 

Students throughout the school contributed to projects based upon the Peter Reynolds book, “The Dot.” It is about a young girl who doubts her artistic ability, but goes on a journey of self-discovery after starting with one small dot.

Library media specialist Anna Schwen did a virtual read aloud of the book, which classroom teachers accessed throughout the day from the East Lake digital library. Kindergartners made Dot Day crowns and went outside to make drawings on the blacktop with sidewalk chalk. They also drew portraits in class that started with a single mark, made colorful dots on paper plates with watercolor paint, and sculpted dots out of Play-Doh.

Every student from kindergarten to fifth grade took part in the day. Each class contributed one-quarter of a circle for Dot Day posters that were hung throughout the hallways. Students expressed themselves in colorful and creative ways.

Kindergarten teacher Kirsten Poveromo, who brought the celebration to East Lake five years ago, said the most important aspect is for students to emerge from International Dot Day with a positive mindset.