Principal highlights cultural passport program, student council plans and new senior walking club

Kensington Elementary School Principal Becky reported to the board on several school programs, including the school's long-running Cultural Passport program, student council activities and a new walking club for local seniors.

Becky described the Cultural Passport program's 21st year, noting the school's recent focus on Brazil and that local families with Brazilian heritage helped share customs during closing ceremonies before vacation. Students in kindergarten receive a passport that is stamped annually and collect pins; by fifth grade many students have several stamps and pins marking countries they've studied. "It's a really lovely tradition," Becky said, and she noted the flags displayed in the multipurpose room represent countries KES students have visited through the program over 21 years.

Under "meaningful learning," Becky said student council will work to revive the school follies and is exploring reopening the school store after student requests. She said student council members will be busy in the next months organizing fundraisers and activities.

On health and well-being, Becky described a partnership between KES kindergarteners and Kensington seniors and reported the school opened its gym for a walking club for seniors on Mondays and Thursdays from 10:15 to 11 a.m. The principal said the gym hours respond to senior interest and scheduling and that staff member Mr. Schimmel does not have a class at that time.

Ending: Becky encouraged board members to attend upcoming small-group strategic-plan workshops open to the community and said she would post details in local community channels. The principal said the Cultural Passport program remains a memorable element of KES's elementary experience.