This month, our character trait of the month is PERSEVERANCE. Mrs. Wui and I have tried to get into every classroom to share an amazing story of perseverance
in
Emmanuel’s Dream
. This true story details the life of Emmanuel Ofosu Yeboah, growing up in Ghana, West Africa. Emmanuel was born with one strong leg and one that was only partially formed. Rather give up or be full of self pity, Emmanuel’s mother taught him to believe in himself. Emmanuel pushed himself to fetch water, to climb trees, and to go to school, even when it meant he had to hop with a walking stick over two miles each way. All throughout this story, Emmanuel demonstrated resilience and perseverance. At one point, he wanted the people of Ghana to see that those with physical disabilities could do anything they put their mind to. To prove this, he rode a bike around his country, 400 miles in 10 days.
After reading with the kids, we have shared what WE are working on...and what is hard. For some of us it’s reading. For others it is doing a cartwheel. When I was in the TK and K classes, the littles shared how they are trying to tie their shoes, or make their breakfast, or ride a bike. It warmed my heart to hear the children share what they are working on, because each time they said, “...and I won’t give up.” I have to tell you that our Montair students are wonderful and I am excited to see all that they can achieve if they don’t give up.
During our raining day lunches, we have been showing portions of the documentary on Emmanuel’s life in the movie,
Emmanuel’s Gift
. There are some disturbing images of the hardship for disabled people in Ghana, but we are filtering these and focusing on Emmanuel’s journey. Ask your kids about this and what they are learning.
I hope to see you at the Festival Around the World this Thursday at MT! It is going to be a blast!
Here’s to another great week of learning together!
Ondi Tricaso
Principal
