On September 15th, Collège Champittet marked a significant milestone with the official inauguration of The Village, the school's newest building dedicated to its Early Years Centre. The event welcomed parents of preschool, Grade 1, and Grade 2 students for a community breakfast and a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony. This specially designed environment aims to nurture the learning and development of the school's youngest learners, providing a foundation for their educational journey. The inauguration coincided with the global celebration of International Dot Day, inspired by Peter H. Reynolds' children's book, The Dot. This thematic connection infused the day with a spirit of la créativité, courage, and collaboration, as both children and parents participated in the festivities. The dual celebration underscored the school's commitment to fostering a strong, connected community where families are integral partners in the educational process. The event provided a tangible demonstration of the school's investment in creating optimal learning spaces that inspire young minds from the very start of their academic path.
International Dot Day served as a powerful thematic core for the inauguration, offering profound lessons aligned with the school's educational philosophy. The story of The Dot follows a girl named Vashti who, believing she lacks artistic talent, is encouraged by her teacher to 'make a mark.' Her simple act of drawing a dot, which her teacher then frames and displays, unlocks a journey of creative discovery and self-confidence. At Collège Champittet, this narrative was brought to life through dot-themed treats, creative attire, and guided artistic activities for the early years students. The day provided an opportunity to reflect on key Learner Ambitions, which include nurturing creativity, building meaningful connections, and having the courage to embark on new journeys. These qualities are intrinsically linked to the school's overarching theme for the academic year: compassion. The celebration was more than a festive occasion; it was a pedagogical experience reinforcing the idea that every child possesses the potential to make their unique mark on the world, supported by a compassionate and encouraging educational environment. The school expressed gratitude to its students and families for their participation, looking forward to supporting each child as they begin their own creative and academic explorations.
