|
by Eleanor Zucker
Please note: Otoch Paal is closed for summer vacation in July and August; classes resume August 23.
On July 2, 2010, 15 students graduated from kindergarten at Otoch Paal, their largest graduating class ever—up from five students the previous year. As part of the graduation ceremony, the younger children brought flowers which they gave to their friends and classmates. This beautiful exchange marks the mixed-age friendships that the Montessori method encourages by having children of different ages together in the same classroom. The graduating children then went into a classroom with their parents and teachers. The graduating class got to show off all they'd learned during their time at the school—letters, numbers, spelling, addition and subtraction, among other things. Most importantly of all, it was a wonderful opportunity for parents and teachers to reflect on the many ways the children have developed and are prepared for the next phase of life. The ceremony symbolically marked a very important transition in these children's lives out of early childhood.
The children and parents of the '10 graduating class were also thrilled to receive confirmation that they will be the first children to enter the Otoch Paal Montessori elementary school, beginning in August! Construction will be taking place over the summer, and hopefully be completed by early fall. As the school embarks on this newest endeavor, support is needed more than ever, particularly donations for the building construction and Montessori materials for the elementary school. If you are interested in donating, please contact the school director or principal.
How you can help. As a non-profit community-based learning center, Otoch Paal does not generate sufficient funds to pay for all necessary school improvements. Monetary donations and donations in kind are always welcome. Donations can be made directly at the school or contact the school Director, Gabriela Ortega.
Are you associated with a Montessori school that could donate used learning materials for the preschool/kindergarten classroom or support the school in some other way? Contact Graciela Avila, school principal.
Directions to Otoch Paal: The school is located near the back of Akumal Pueblo, on the northern edge of the town. It can be reached by following the Pueblo's main street (avenida) to the fourth block on the right-hand side of the street. After passing the secondary and kindergarten schools (which are on the main street), turn right at the corner where the kindergarten is located and continue to the next corner. Otoch Paal is next to the kindergarten and the entrance is at the far corner, near the town's edge.
Classmates wait to give their flowers to graduating students.
The dedicated staff of Otoch Paal, Director, Principal and Teachers
The graduating class of 2010!
Each graduating child writes out his or her name with the "mobile alphabet" letters,
as part of the graduation ceremony.
|
