“Sometimes, it can be the most ordinary moment that creates an extraordinary piece of art.” —Rick Rubin, The Creative Act: A Way of Being
One of the first things I loved about James River was walking through the halls and seeing the vibrant works of student art displayed throughout campus. Allowing children to express themselves creatively, whether visually or through performance, is the hallmark of a strong academic program. Through the arts, students build self-confidence, flexibility, and resilience. Developing creativity is also essential for building problem-solving and critical-thinking skills, allowing students to think in novel ways about complex challenges. It also reduces stress, calms the mind, and promotes joy. Providing opportunities to develop these skills is crucial to children’s academic, social, and emotional development. I am proud of our faculty for always fostering creativity among our students.
This time of year is full of gatherings and performances. While it is a busy time of year for many, I am grateful that we can take time for joy and creativity in this season. I look forward to seeing families at the fourth-grade music performance this evening.
Let’s Fly!
Jenn
A note about exams:
As we gear up for the Holiday Break, I want to remind our families that eighth-grade students (and some seventh graders) will be sitting for exams on December 16-18. These are full school days for the eighth-graders. Please ensure that all students are arriving at school on time to minimize disruptions in the hallways. Lower school holiday parties on those mornings will remain contained in the classrooms for the same reason. Our eighth graders have worked diligently to prepare for these exams in their high school credit courses, and we know they will shine!
Narnia Illustrations: Using their imaginations to visualize what the wardrobe into Narnia would look like, 4th graders created these fabulous watercolors to go with their reader responses to C.S. Lewis' famous The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.
Below: The trees in Narnia are full of listening ears! Look closely to find the 4th graders.
