There is a great deal of learning going
on all day at Stephen S. Wise Elementary School, and beyond the important
instruction in the classrooms there are valuable lessons being learned on our
playground. It is so interesting to watch the kids playing basketball, handball,
football, foursquare, tetherball, and all of their own imaginative and creative
games. I am amazed at the way they learn to problem solve, encourage one
another, compete, and have fun. While they are working on gross motor skills and
eye-hand coordination, they are also working on how to get along and be a part
of a team. Many of these lessons are directly taught by our fantastic PE staff
and coaches. Some of these lessons come from general ed teachers, and sometimes
the message is imparted through a Judaic lens. In the crazy business of my day I
always take at least 20 minutes to be outside with the students, get some fresh
air, and watch them play. I am guaranteed to end this time walking a little
taller and wearing a smile.
One specific story I want to share is an
observation I had on the handball court today. Two students couldn't agree on
whether one was "Out" and there wasn't an adult who saw the play to make the
call. Rather than arguing, walking away, or getting physical, they simply went
to "Rock, Paper, Scissors" and resolved their issue.
I thought this was a perfect segue as we prepare for Yom Kippur. Our
students get the message of forgiveness, redemption and "T'Shuva" by living it
through many small moments. My prayer for all of us as adults is to know when it
is time to forgive, move on and just go with "Rock,Paper, Scissors" as a ruling.
I wish for all of us a G'mar Hatima Tovah, and may we all be sealed in the Book
of Life!
Warmly,
Tami Weiser