Koen's Special Week

In preschool, each week of the school year is dedicated to a particular student. It is called their 'special week'. We learn a little about the child, and also the country/state from which their family originated.

Koen's special week happened right after Thanksgiving break (yes, I'm playing catch-up). There are many events that take place throughout the week and weekend, one of which is to take, Margaurite, the class mouse (stuffed animal), home for the weekend prior. She brings her backpack full of dress-up clothes and accessories. We had Margaurite with us for the entire extended weekend of Thanksgiving. Upon return, Teacher Sandi read to the class the excerpt from Margaurite's journal telling of her adventures with Koen.

Because Grandpa was born in Alberta, we chose to learn about Canada at school. What a cool place (I had no idea!). Did you know that the zipper was invented there? And that the sport of basketball was invented by a Canadian? They also eat poutine, a strange combination of french fries, gravy, melted cheese curds and hot sauce? We have yet to try it, but I hear it's surprisingly tasty.

Poutine.

Scrumptious looking, right?

Anyway, here are two photos of Koen wearing his special crown and posing in front of his mini-museum, a collection of items from Canada that remained on display throughout the week.

It just so happened that Koen's special week coincided with Potlatch, the annual celebration dinner hosted by our class during which we invite members of the local Tlingit community to come dance and eat with us.

All week long we learned about First Nations people from the Pacific Northwest (and Canada), practiced dances and songs taught to us by their leaders, heard stories of the Orca whale people, tried our hand at making different types of Native American art, and constructed special button blankets for the kids to wear as regalia during Potlatch. What a beautiful culture, and what a fabulous week!

Clay and I were quite surprised when Koen willingly jumped right in with his peers for the ceremonial dances and songs. He wouldn't crack a smile for anyone, but he stayed with the group through the whole performance. Later, he told us how much he enjoyed the dances! Way to go, buddy!

Koen in his regalia, dancing with his group.

Finnie had a regular blast. He loves marching and drums.

Did I mention that he loves marching?

Koen, showcasing his button blanket regalia.

He refused to take it off all evening.