As we dive into the stories from the WinterKids Winter Games, it’s evident that the spirit of winter is alive and well in our communities. Maine elementary schools are embracing the cold alongside innovative learning experiences, showing us how to make the most of winter.
Week 3 of the WinterKids Winter Games was filled with outdoor challenges focusing on WIND. Each day, students headed outdoors to make weather observations.
Winning Moment of the Week Submission:
Winning the Moment of the Week is the singular way to get ahead of the competition in the Winter Games. Each week, Competitive Track schools can submit a photo or video (following the guidelines in their PLAYBooks) to win one bonus point. This week, schools were to submit a windy photo.
Congratulations to Lamoine Consolidated School in Hancock County for winning with this creative photo!
Innovative Learning Through the Wind Theme
At the start of the Games, each competitive Winter Games school received a comprehensive toolkit to ensure their success. A thermometer, rain gauge, and digital hand-held anemometer were some of the weather instruments included for schools to establish a weather station in their schoolyard.
Participation Levels That Inspire
Despite snow days and temperatures that would make a penguin shiver, most schools have reported a staggering 100% student involvement. This is a testament to the power of the WinterKids Winter Games, which resonates with everyone involved. The engagement hasn’t just been limited to the schools; it has rippled out to the entire community, fostering a shared love of winter and outdoor activities.
Family Events: Creating Lasting Memories
To earn additional points this week, schools were asked to hold an outdoor family event. Parents, teachers, and students were outdoors sledding, skating, and connecting with nature and each other. Rangeley Lakes Regional School took their family skate night to the next level, offering horse-drawn carriage rides and hot cocoa by the fire, creating a magical winter wonderland experience.
“We had a blast at our family skate night where we skated, played in the snow, went on horse carriage rides. drank hot cocoa and more! Between the family night and the luncheon, it feels that we have grown our Winter Kids Winter Games outside of the school yard and expanded into the community like we always aim to do!”
-Lindsay R. Rangeley Lakes Regional School
Embracing Winter as a Time for Celebration
These stories remind us that winter is not just a season to endure but a time to celebrate and explore. Schools are showing us all how to connect with our communities and find joy in simple moments. The Winter Games encourage us to bundle up and head outside, embracing the magic of the season.
Friendship Friday-Being Friendly to Our Planet
Each Friday, the program focuses on encouraging students to be environmentally friendly. This week, students learned about renewable energy sources, like solar panels and wind turbines. Kids learned about different ways to harness the wind and then designed their own examples.
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