Our Work
Follow these five steps to bridge the home to school connection and to work in collaboration with all stakeholders. For a deeper understanding of Project Recuerdo and each of its steps, click on the following links to access video webinars:
CO-CABE 2021: Deena Gumina, Sandra Butvilofsky, Michelle Lopez, Khanh Le
01
Preparing to send the prompt home to families...
For step one, teachers share their own stories in written form and send it home with the journal prompt instructions. In other words, teachers do the same journal activity that is expected of their families. Vulnerability leads to stronger relationships. When teachers share their own stories with families, they not only lead by example but they also create an opportunity to develop connections and trust. Teachers have also shared audio and videos of the conversations they have had with their own family. Michelle Lopez shares stories with her three children who then write a summary of what they heard, and this is shared as step one of this project.
02
Delving into rich conversation...
As a homework assignment, students ask their families the same series of questions that the teacher answered in step one. Questions from the story prompt can be rooted in previous and upcoming lessons. It is an opportunity to capitalize on the oral tradition of storytelling and give families a window into the classroom. Students are encouraged to listen carefully and ask questions, an important literacy skill. Families with more than one sibling have the option of sharing once and in their native language. They are also encouraged to ask long-distance relatives to share their stories, too.
03
Documenting the story...
Students and families write an account of the conversation in the writing journal. In general, students are expected to write at least one page in their journal following the example that the teacher sent home. A family member can write for students that are not writing independently and are only expected to do this once if they have multiple students. Otherwise, students are encouraged to write the account and families can support if they feel that it's appropriate.
04
The lesson...
After teachers respond to their families to affirm and validate their contribution and openness, teachers prepare a lesson. The writing content can contribute to all subjects but lends well to literacy lessons. Examples include writing a constructed paragraph, identifying story elements, poetry writing, compare and contrast activities and writing from a different perspective.
05
Circling back to all stakeholders...
After students complete a lesson, teachers can display the work for the school community to view. Some interactive displays include map plotting and altars for Day of the Dead. Inviting families in to see the culmination of their work is also impactful. Some events have included poetry slams, Loteria game night and inviting special guests to share more about their experience. Showcasing the beautifiul knowledge and experiences of our school community changes mindsets and inspires, too!