Our first eight weeks of LACES (Literacy Activated Citizenship Enhancing our School) have been fantastic!  LACES is anchored in critical literacy: the ability to analyze, evaluate, and act on information, as a critical member of society. LACES is an enrichment class and gives students opportunities to practice responding to literature through discussion, writing, designing, and making.  In the last two months, our students have grown as readers, writers, listeners, and speakers and they have learned about others who have used these skills to improve our world.


We learned about the 1987 garbage barge and discussed the importance of recycling. 

We discussed the power of music.  One kindergarten student created a picture of Billie Holiday and a microphone to share his learning.


We practiced collaborating with classmates and exchanging ideas, while creating artifacts about our shared learning. 

Two second graders worked together to create a “world in a box” after learning that artist Jacob Lawrence did this as a child. 

We have practiced presenting the artifacts we create to share our learning. 

A kindergarten student shared her learning about Mae Jemison with her classmates and answered their questions about the artifact she created. 

Most importantly, we have discussed that frustration is to be expected when one is designing and creating.  A primary student summarized her learning about perseverance.  As we continue to work together this year, this student’s message will lead our way and ensure our success.