Carnival Time at Horace Mann

It has become a wintertime tradition for the PTA to stage a carnival for our Horace Mann students.  Leading up to it, we emphasize that it this fun event is a reward for kids' efforts to follow our school expectations:  Be Safe, Be Respectful, Be Responsible, Be Kind.

This is one of those times when kids 💟 the simplest things!  In the gymnasium, PTA sets up tables for bead art, face painting, tattoos, sack races, ping pong ball and ring tosses, snack and, of course, balloon art (swords are the big favorite).

While the carnival has been in place for years, we added a twist this year that was very successful.  Building on the wonderful success of 5th grade/Kindergarten Book Buddies, we grouped Grades 5, 3 and K together on one session, and Grades 4, 2, 1, and PK in the other.  It was terrific to see our older students rise to the challenge of being good role models and watching out for our younger students even as they let loose a little...

We couldn't do any of this without the PTA volunteers who run the whole show.  There are too many to name, but we did get them to pose for a "before" picture this year (see below).  We were glad to see other family members drop in to enjoy the party with their kids, too!

Playing together is a very important part of a healthy school culture.  This carnival was proof positive that we are in good shape as a community, ready for adventures and learning ahead.