November Highlights at P.S. 59: Community Spirit, History, and Service

November at P.S. 59 was filled with opportunities for students to engage with their community, reflect on important historical milestones, and put their learning into action! From environmental stewardship and holiday spirit week, to celebrating the legacy of Ruby Bridges, students participated in meaningful activities that not only enriched their minds but also helped them understand their role in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future.

HalloClean-Up: Environmental Stewardship in Action

On Saturday, November 1st, students took a hands-on approach to learning about the environment with the HalloClean-Up event at Marsha P. Johnson State Park. Prior to the trip, students had been learning about the various ways human activities impact the ecosystem, particularly in their local community. They took that knowledge to the next level by participating in a clean-up, working to remove litter from the shoreline and improve the local environment. The experience was a powerful way to connect classroom learning with real-world action. Students not only helped make a visible difference in the park, but they also deepened their understanding of the importance of environmental conservation! 

Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day: A Tribute to Courage and Change

On Friday, November 14th, P.S. 59 marked the Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day Parade, an annual event that honors the legacy of Ruby Bridges, who made history in 1960 as the first Black child to integrate an all-white elementary school in the South following the Supreme Court's decision in Brown v. Board of Education. Ruby’s courage in the face of violent opposition from those who resisted school integration serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for civil rights and equality. The Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day was a significant occasion for our students to learn about this pivotal moment in history and reflect on its relevance today. Students and staff participated in a symbolic walk to school, honoring Ruby’s bravery and the values of inclusion, kindness, and equality that she stood for. The event was a great way to bring the community together to commemorate Ruby’s legacy while encouraging a spirit of activism and unity among students!

Thanksgiving Spirit Week

To close out the month, P.S. 59 students and staff embraced the festive season with a fun and colorful Thanksgiving Spirit Week from November 24th to November 26th. Each day was a new theme that encouraged creativity and community building. Pie Monday kicked off the week with students dressing in orange or red to represent pumpkin pie or apple pie. On Turkey Tuesday, the school was filled with feathers, browns, and turkey-themed outfits as students celebrated the holiday in a playful manner. Finally, Warm & Cozy Wednesday invited everyone to bundle up in their favorite flannels, scarves, or comfy sweaters. The week was filled with laughter, school spirit, and a heartwarming sense of school pride!

November at P.S. 59 was a month full of learning, growth, and action. Students were able to make connections between their studies and the world around them, while also having fun with their fellow peers. These opportunities are a powerful way to engage our students in meaningful learning experiences that make a difference in our community and beyond.