Celebrate The Season — Just For Fun

To the Editor:

My children attend Head O’ Meadow Elementary School. Recently, when I questioned our principal as to why the third and fourth grade classes are not allowed any type of holiday celebration, I was told that it is not part of the curriculum and that there is not enough time. All I’m looking for is one hour. Possibly, if teachers didn’t have to spend so much time trying to accommodate the standardized tests (which cannot truly measure a child’s intelligence or potential), there would be enough time.

I know some classes at the Reed School are having a party. Isn’t it a shame that the younger children can’t enjoy the same thing?

I’m not talking about any type of religious celebration. Surely, no matter what religion you are, it is winter, and a “winter” celebration to accompany the “winter” break should be harmless enough. I’m sure any teacher will tell you that the kids are so wound up before the “winter” break that there is not much learning going on those last few days.

Maybe this time could be used as an opportunity to teach about other cultures and ideas, and, if that’s not politically correct enough, perhaps the kids could just have a gingerbread cookie and do a craft — dare I say — just for fun!

Respectfully yours,

Janet McKeown

10 Hillcrest Drive, Newtown                                 December 14, 2004