Kaleidoscope

Yesterday was the annual awards program at the school where I teach, City Academy. This program recognizes achievements and accomplishments of students and staff throughout the year in our school. I’ve mentioned before here that City Academy is a First Amendment School.

I was surprised to receive the annual Kaleidoscope Award, given to a teacher and a student each year. Here is a description of the award:

Each time you look in a kaleidoscope it is with anticipation of seeing something new and beautiful; of feeling newly inspired. The Kaleidoscope Award goes to a teacher and a stduent who continually bring that type of inspiration and energy to our school.

You are receiving the Kaleidoscope Award because you live the spirit of our “First Amendment School” and our civic orientation to education. You are an example to all of us this year of being a proactive citizen in our school community. You have done admirable work this year to build our school community and bring us all together in working toward and enjoying the common good.”

It was decided this year to get the Award to two teachers (instead of one), according to our director, because of the passion explained in the nominations given. So our geography teacher and me received the teacher award and a student who has given a tremendous amount of contributions to our school community received the student award.

All I can say is that I love City Academy, the staff and students. I feel truly blessed to have found a school where First Amendment Rights, Priveleges, and Responsiblities are not only taught but lived.