Dutch Day Concludes Third Graders’ Study of New Amsterdam

In explaining Dutch Day, held in the Cafeteria on June 7 and hosted by the third grade boys, teacher Susan Kehoe said, “The boys have learned about New Amsterdam and Colonial America in class. On Dutch Day, dressed as individuals who lived in New Amsterdam, they talked about their characters, including a ferry man, lawyer and farmer, to name but a few. The letters that they wrote, along with their writing samples from a recent unit, were available for parents and faculty to read. They were great! The boys have been working hard on their own picture books using Chris Van Allsburg as a mentor author.” Mr. Van Allsburg, a Caldecott Medal winner, is a writer and illustrator of such children’s books as “The Polar Express” and “Jumanji.”

Head of Lower School Laurie Gruhn, who spoke to attendees as Dutch Day concluded, said, “This particular event is one of the most important in the school year. We thank the teachers and parents for their encouragement and support as the boys completed their impressive projects.”