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Stories are interwoven into every fiber of our beings and culture and inform everything we, as humans, believe and do. Stories -
Photos posted to DRC social media and in this blog are probably the most effective way for us to tell the incredible stories of our kiddos and their personal journeys in self-directed education. Every single picture we share has a backstory. Sometimes, it is obvious, and other times a bit more obscure. They are all consequential and have meaning to the individuals in the photo and the entire DRC community. Some show personal growth, others are a way for us to define the concept of self-directed learning, and more than a few indicate the deep connection and affection our kiddos share for each other and their chosen community. I am using this series of photos taken on Friday at DRC-Canton to tell a very cool story - as a perfect example. (Note: Photo credits to H.F. because my hands were covered in pizza dough.)  K was our cook for the day. Pizza was on the menu. He made the dough early in the day and was about to start the pizza-making process when D wandered in and asked, "Can I help? Then E, who was not far behind, came into the kitchen and said, "Me too." The answer was, of course, "Yes!" The important part of this tale is that up until early this week, D had never volunteered to join the Cooking Crew. On Tuesday, we were making French Toast bake, he was at loose ends so I asked him if he would like to crack the eggs into the bowl. He said sure in a less than enthusiastic manner - but did it - gaining confidence with each successful "cracking."  Therefore, I was happy to see him volunteering to become part of the Cooking Crew on Friday. He had a great time spreading the dough, smoothing out the sauce, and very precisely dividing up the cheese. E was insistent on grating the cheddar - that has been his long-standing "job." Then, as the pizzas headed to the oven, it was time for the weekly "cooks meeting" to create the menu for next week - D happily joined the crew. I had to step away to take a phone call, so H. F., our junior apprentice, led the meeting. After I hung up, I noticed that D was looking upset. I asked what the issue was - he had suggested an appetizer day on the menu for Thursday, and another kid shot his idea down. We all worked it out by switching a few things around based on what we had in the cupboards and freezer so that D could have his appetizer day. This kid went from total disinterest and ambivalence about joining the cooking crew to taking ownership in three days! Just one more of many stories and milestones to celebrate! P.S. The younger child, in the top photo collage, who was watching them spread the out dough is hopefully our next volunteer cook. He has shown interest over the past week as his buddies successfully took on more responsibility making our lunches. You will likely see his story documented as it evolves. DRC News Thank You!
We are grateful to Paul Hetzler a long-time friend and former DRC Board member for donating ten copies of his latest book to DRC for a fundraiser. If you have been wanting to expand your Paul Hetzler library or generally appreciate Paul's hilariously told nature-based tales, a copy can be yours for $20/ea. We have several copies still available. By purchasing from us - you directly support DRC and our kiddos. Find the payment link here.
An Opportunity  We have a ton of Magic the Gathering cards at both Centers - none of our current kiddos know how to play. We are looking for folks who do and would be excited to come in to either Center to help sort the cards with the kids into decks and teach them the basic concepts of the game. Alternatively, we are also looking for volunteers who could facilitate a Dungeons & Dragons club. And finally our week in photos - from both Centers
1 Comment
Linette
1/21/2024 08:58:55 am
DRC thank you for bringing the interested in learning back into D. He isn’t one for many words but when he does it has given me for affirmation that DRC is right where he belongs. Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
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