Kite Week at Kingsolver Elementary Highlights Education and Community Spirit
Kingsolver Elementary's Kite Week soared beyond just fun and games, teaching students valuable lessons in science, collaboration, and community engagement.
From March 24-27, third and fourth grade students at Kingsolver Elementary participated in Kite Week, an event organized by PE teacher Shannon Kewin. The project united art, health, music, and PE teachers with classroom teachers, administration, student health services, and community stakeholders in a collaborative effort. Parents were also invited to join and assist as students took to the fields during their health and PE classes to fly kites.
The event aligned with national PE standards, particularly Standard 4, which emphasizes developing personal skills, recognizing the benefits of movement, and encouraging physical activity. Beyond fitness, Kite Week fostered collaboration and problem-solving among students. Specialists and grade-level teams enriched the experience by connecting kite flying to subjects like culture, weather, wind dynamics, and wind as a power source, creating a rich, cross-curricular learning opportunity.
Preparation began the week prior in PE classes, where students learned about kite components, flying techniques, and problem-solving. They practiced assembling and flying kites in the gym before disassembling them. On flight days, after a safety briefing, students grouped up, received their kites, and launched them into the sky.
Ashley Silva, a parent who attended both sessions with her daughter, remarked, "The kids did all the work and had so much fun! As a mom, I love the smiles, giggles, and interactions between the students."
The event proved a triumph, blessed with clear skies and successful flights. Students stayed safe while making educational connections and lasting memories. Kyle, a fourth-grade student, shared, "I learned that strong winds can lift things up, so I have to be strong to hold the kite."
Kite Week at Kingsolver Elementary showcases how interactive, community-driven projects can enhance education, build teamwork, and leave students with meaningful experiences that extend far beyond the classroom.
