Mantua – Each year, Crestwood Primary School teachers Monica Grebb and Jennifer Gilles get together to select a special book that will be featured in the school’s annual One Book One School program. Over the following months, they work with CPS teachers from preschool through second grade to incorporate that special book into math and language arts lesson plans, as well as music and art activities.
But instead of focusing on just one book for the entire school, Grebb and Gilles decided to go a different route and choose one author for the school to celebrate. Not surprisingly, they selected Eric Carle, whose extensive collection is created using a collage technique, are both colorful and instantly recognizable. As an added benefit, the themes of many of Carle’s books are usually drawn from nature, which is an interest shared by most children. Through this special program, each grade was encouraged to select a book that would represent their particular age group. “We thought it would make the program more interesting for the kids, because each book is more catered to their level,” Grebb explained.
For Preschool, Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? was the choice, while the Kindergarten classes selected The Very Hungry Caterpillar. First grade classes picked The Tiny Seed, while grade two chose A House for Hermit Crab. Thanks to support from the PTO and Cindy Ducca’s Principal’s Fund, each student received their own copy of the book of their grade’s selection. “I appreciate Monica and Jen for heading this up, and the support we get from all the teachers — everyone loves this program for the kids!” Ducca beamed.
As in previous years, the week of creative learning culminated in a special evening program for students’ families, to let parents and siblings share in the fun, as well. That evening, 81 families, with over 300 people, visited seven stations to participate in activities inspired by Eric Carle’s books. In their travels to each activity, they saw students’ colorful, imaginative projects created during the special week of lessons. In the Kindergarten hallway, visitors could read what their student would choose to eat, if THEY were a very hungry caterpillar. In the session that featured that book, participants created a caterpillar from ink and fingerprints and selected food for their new creature. In another session, visitors met another Very Busy Spider — a live tarantula from the Akron Zoo. In another session that featured the story of The Tiny Seed, families planted marigold seeds to take home in biodegradable pots.
In yet another station, families has the chance to try yoga poses with yoga instructor Kristine Graham, who worked with the book Head to Toe. Another session participants listened to Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What do You See? while creating brown bag, brown bear puppets. In the Readers Theater, visitors were able to participate in an abbreviated version of A House For Hermit Crab, then sift through tactile boxes filled with sand to find a shell they could take home. For the cafeteria’s session, Crestwood Schools Foodservice Director (and CPS parent) Jennifer Bujak-Hirsch secured a donation of Pillsbury mini pancakes from General Mills supplier Tom McIntyre.
Families enjoyed topping their treat with whipped cream and chocolate chips while they listened to the story Pancakes, Pancakes!
The program helps CPS connect with students and their families, as well as each other. As an admission fee, each family brought an item to donate to the Kids Weekend Meals program which provides meals and snacks for the weekend to local families in need. “I’m so impressed by the number of teachers who are volunteering, and the hallways lined with wonderful artwork,” marveled CPS parent Abra Schweickert.
Almost as soon as the program ends and the materials are stored away, Grebb and Gilles will begin work on next year’s program. And if this year is any indication, you won’t want to miss it!
