Spring Branch ISD Featured News

Make Your Mark on International Dot Day

 

For some, a dot is a simple mark. For others, a dot represents creativity and the potential inside every person to make a mark and shape the larger world.

Inspired by the well-known picture book, The Dot, by Peter H. Reynolds, millions of children and adults have joined an annual celebration of creativity, courage, and collaboration known as International Dot Day.

This year, International Dot Day officially falls on Saturday, Sept. 15. In SBISD, teachers have been using the upcoming event as a way to engage in a conversation about the power of creativity and grit during the week leading up to the global celebration.
 
These educators are part of a movement of more than a million teachers and students in thousands of classrooms worldwide. And the number keeps increasing.
 
Why? Educators recognize the power of thinking differently and promoting lessons that support the message that success in life is as much about character as academic skill. Educators are transforming their classrooms, school campuses, and even their clothing as a means to illustrate this message.
 
“This type of thinking encourages students to relate visual knowledge to other core subjects (such as science and math) and respond with appreciation, flexibility, and imagination,” said Memorial Drive Elementary Art Teacher Naz Kaya-Erdal. “Teaching students about visual awareness and art appreciation is a critical key to intellectual growth and creative self-expression.”
 
 
 

 

In the book, the main character becomes upset when she thinks she can’t draw. Her teacher encourages her to simply make a mark and see where it leads.

Just as the book’s character is encouraged to try something new, so was Kaya-Erdal. This school year is Kaya-Erdal's first year teaching elementary art, having previously taught at the college level.
 
The simple beauty and message of Dot Day is something she and her colleagues see as a benefit well beyond the day’s celebration. “It’s all about how one simple act can snowball into something important,” said Kyay-Erdal. “It’s also just a fun day to celebrate with kids and to spread the message to try your best and never give up.”
 

Interested in joining the celebration?

Whether on Dot Day or anytime during the year, you can embrace creativity and inspire your child to make their mark!
 
Paint a picture together. Write a poem. Or mark the day by spending time reading The Dot. No matter what activity you choose, it’s sure to create a learning moment for adults and children alike.
 
There are all sorts of ways to be creative and to share the value of #LimitlessCuriosity. So, get creative and choose a way to inspire your mind and shape your future. You never know where your creativity will take you! Happy International Dot Day!
 
Find additional activities and resources on the Dot Day website: http://www.thedotclub.org/dotday/
 
Share your International Dot Day selfies with us in SBISD’s Instagram @SBRANCHISD. 
 

Submitted by Melissa Wiland, SBISD Communications, melissa.wiland@springbranchisd.com.

 
 
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