2nd Graders Vow to Change the World!

As you walk down the vibrant halls of Aurora Quest I warn you to keep focused on your destination. If your eyes venture to the left or the right, something may just catch your eye and hold you captive for a while- you may even forget where you were going! I saw the wonderful campaign posters on the hallway near the primary pod and these words caught me... "I will make the world a better place."

Every day I am reminded of the potential that our students carry with them- they have extreme awareness of the world around them. They are saddened by the plight of dogs at the Dumb Friend's League- or the child soldiers in northern Uganda. We believe the students at Quest have what it takes to make a difference in the world around them...

Young Tolkien, Young Lewis

There are two authors that produced endless hours of adventure me as a young boy. I loved the Lord of the Rings trilogy and to this day cannot help but show lots of excitement when the Chronicles of Narnia are mentioned (see post in December).

So today I saw something that Mia and Abbie were working on in 4th grade and it blew me away. I saw them construct a map of the world they created and it was awesome! Here is a picture of their work. Their story includes some vicious fire ants- and an evil queen black widow (who is really gray). The mountains separate the two kingdoms and there is plenty of conflict. I really appreciated the key on the side.

Throughout the school students are creating stories that are full of creativity and wonder. Ask them- what are you working on these days...

It is wonderful.

Spring Weather

It was great last night seeing parents and students at the Barnes & Nobles book fair. We had entertainment from music to drama... we had crafts... and we had our fabulous librarian! In addition, I was greeted this morning with a tree outside my window that is awesome! There are bees on it right now going from flower to flower- I am posting it with the flags in the background (I love our flags).

Students and Parents- we are winding up this school year. I want you to squeeze as much out of each day we have together- cherish the day- seize the day- and take opportunities to express appreciation for those who have worked hard all year.

Life is precious.

Mark Ludy, Author and Friend to Quest

Thanks to the hard work of one of our teachers, Dr. Bass, we had a special guest visit Quest- he spoke to our students and captivated them with inspiring messages like, "It is not good to be redundant." Once again what he said was, "It is not good to be redundant."

He said that we are all communicators- and that artists start from the inside out... His words were encouraging and funny.

The thing I liked the most was his hairstyle. It was like having a long lost brother show up on campus. He had an enthusiastic passion for what's best for kids. I was inspired.

He has created several books. Learn more at his website. http://markludy.com/The_Loodalicious_Cafe/Welcome.html