Second graders performing an allegory of the Holocaust?  That sounds extremely deep.  Although it is deep, our talented Lower School drama teacher, Melinda Moore, was able to make it relevant to 2nd grade children as well as have them perform a play that they thoroughly enjoyed.  It all starts with a book by the name of “The Terrible Things”  which is a story about animals living harmoniously in a forest……until the terrible things arrive.  First, they are looking for animals with feathers and all the birds are whisked away.  Then they look for animals that have bushy tails and the squirrels disappear.  Each time a group of animals is taken away, the survivors are so relieved it wasn’t them who were taken that they make excuses and then go on with life.  This continues until one lone rabbit is left and says, “If only we had stuck together, things could have been different.”

After reading the story to the children, Melinda discussed how similar this was to the Holocaust.  Then to bring the lesson down to the children’s level, she talked about the playground and how it is important to speak up for what is right, whether or not the wrong is done to you or others.  If you stick together and stick up for what is right, things can be different and harmony can exist.

The experience did not end here; it had just begun.  Children had to audition for parts in the play (though everyone had about the same number of lines), and then they had to learn not only their lines but also their blocking.  Perhaps most important was how to stay in character for the entire play.  Knowing how the animal they were portraying moves was essential to staying in character, and it became obvious that children were aware of this particular facet of acting.

Meanwhile, in their music class the children were busy composing pieces that represented the forest, the rabbits, the fish, and most importantly, the Terrible Things.  When they were not on stage acting, they were in the orchestra playing music.  It was very impressive to see such young children handle all of this so competently.  When potential families ask why our older students are so composed, I am quite quick to let them know that it all starts in Lower School.

Tomorrow is our $13 million dollar pancake breakfast!  Come join us in the cafeteria for pancakes and a well-earned celebration.

December 18th is our December duty-free lunch.  I always appreciate your help not only for lunch but also on recess I look forward to seeing you on the 18th.  Wear your warm clothing.

January 15th and 16th is the Winter Used Uniform Sale for Lower School.  It is about the time of year that kids start to outgrow their clothing and we certainly have bargains for sale.  We could still use some help on almost all the shifts so if you are willing to volunteer, please contact Renee Wright at school as she is organizing the event.

Nansee Greeley

Lower School Director