Emerson Elementary WCS

This week, fourth graders continued their intensive study of water purification and further extended their understanding of the class novel, “A Long Walk to Water.” Their learning culminated in a powerful and meaningful day focused on the global water crisis and access to clean water.

They began with a presentation from Mr. Abe Wright, who shared about his company, Design Outreach (https://doutreach.org), and the important work they do installing LifePumps in areas in need of clean water. He taught students about the global water crisis and the broken hand-pump crisis while sharing powerful photos and videos from his work around the world. His presentation helped bring the novel to life and deepened students’ understanding of the challenges many people face every day.

To help students better understand these experiences firsthand, fourth graders participated in a Water Walk. They worked together to carry jerry cans—the containers used by women and girls around the world to collect water for their families—while walking a mile to the Westerville Water Treatment Plant. On average, women and girls in Malawi walk about two miles roundtrip for water, with some traveling even farther. It was a meaningful experience that helped students put themselves in others’ shoes.

Their exploration concluded with a field trip to the Water Treatment Plant. Carrying jerry cans along the way gave students a real sense of what it can feel like to secure water in different parts of the world. At the facility, they discovered how the city transforms the “brown muck” of Alum Creek into the clear, clean water they drink every day. It was a powerful reminder of how fortunate they are to have easy access to safe, clean water.

Big congratulations to the WCS Spring Art Show winners from Emerson today! Way to go Cass, Harlow, Eli, Oscar, & Tilly! 🎊🎉

This semester, 1st & 2nd graders have been enjoying “Creation Stations” in their classrooms. Here, students have the opportunity to engage in process art every week- a time when creative process is prioritized over the final product. These little turtles have not only grown their artistic & creative abilities, but have also solidified friendships in the creation stations these past few months! 🎨

2nd graders made a positive environmental impact on Earth Day this past week! Per tradition, students walked the Westerville Bikeway in groups with gloves & trash bags in search of litter. Thanks for working to keep the community clean, 2nd grade!

4th grade’s Flint Ridge field trip ROCKed!

We knapped flint arrowheads, threw a spear with an atlatl, and observed the ancient flint quarry pits.

We had fun and learned a lot about Ohio’s ancient Native Americans. Best field trip ever? I’d say yes!

We celebrated Administrative Professionals Day early & sent Mrs. Long and Ms. Hadden out to lunch this week while staff covered their desks. They are the best. Thanks to you both for all that you do!!!!

Spring break highlight: Bunny Hop race with Dr. Hazlett at Hoff Woods park! Amazing job, runners!

The GEM celebration before spring break was one for the books. A huge thank you to the PTA for showering our Emerson family with joy during such a special time. We’re still reminiscing about the delicious cake!!! 💚

This week, Columbus muralist & experimental portraitist, Nick Stull, joined 5th graders for the third year in a row to explore how artists play with images! Students learned three techniques: collage, sgraffito, and graphic lines. They practiced these techniques during the workshop, and applied them in pieces that will be on display during the Art Gala featuring influential Latinx individuals. Beautiful!

A huge thank you to Gourmand Croquant Bakery for the DELICIOUS linzer cookies that students and staff enjoyed yesterday at the castle in celebration of Eid! 🌙🎊