Celebrating Courage, Creativity and Collaboration

International Dot Day was inspired by a teacher, Terry Shay, who introduced his classroom to Peter H. Reynolds' book The Dot on September 15, 2009.  Since then, it has influenced other classrooms around the globe and plays a central role in the celebration of International Dot Day.

This month, our lower school Art Specialist, Mrs. Most introduced the Dot Day unit. International Dot Day (September 15th) is celebrated by adults and children for boosting courage so that their creative potential is released. It is a great day to connect and collaborate, and also to celebrate self-expression. Here at CDS, Mrs. Most wanted to capture this theme as it represents how our students are building their character by connecting with their inner creativity.

The Dot tells the story of an encouraging teacher and a student who does not believe in her own abilities. The teacher encourages the student to start small, believe in herself, and just see where it goes. What begins as just one small dot on a piece of paper, develops into a work of art and leads the student on a journey of confidence, bravery, and self-discovery. The story in The Dot has been an inspiration to children and adults all over the world.

Throughout the month of September, Mrs. Most introduced the book and began projects with students from kindergarten to fifth grade. Students used different techniques and mediums to create their dots.

1st grade - Color blending on coffee filters

2nd grade - Abstract paintings

3rd grade - Printmaking 

4th grade - Sculpture relief with foil

5th grade - Stitching

Each grade was able to experience the journey of tapping into their inner creativity to make a beautiful piece of art that represents them, their confidence and what represents them throughout the process!

Check out this video to watch each grade create their dots!