The focus of spiritual growth at Eastern Mennonite Elementa- ry School centers on following Jesus. By reading the stories Jesus told to others and hearing about Jesus’ life, our students gain an understanding of God’s love for them, while opening their arms to others. Students meet weekly in “Gathering” to sing, reflect on Jesus’ ways, share faith stories, and to hear how others live out their faith. A weekly peacebuilding class allows students to discern ways to serve, to care for the world, and to contribute to community life. We learn to live peacefully together and to demonstrate God’s love for all people. Each classroom teacher integrates these themes into daily routines. In all classes, students are challenged to look at the world through the eyes of Jesus and find ways to serve and help those around them.
At EMES, leadership skills blossom through circle times, class meetings, event planning, public speaking and interactions across grade levels. Committees comprised of students in grades K-5 plan special spirit day events for the whole school. Reading buddies allow younger and older students to form special friendships. Students sit in multi-age groups during lunch and play at recess with those from other classes, allowing connections between students without the boundaries of grade levels. Student confidence grows as they share their talents, ideas, and beliefs with the whole community.
EMES creates a place where students are engaged academically and emotionally. Learning takes place in an experiential learning environment where students are given time to explore, create, and wonder, whether in the classroom or outdoors. Time is given for exploration, making connections, reflection and discussion. Together these activities allow for deep understanding to take place. A natural bridge between school and life is made each day as students discover the wonder of science, math, social studies, reading, writing, art, and music all around them.
These components of the EMES experience–faith development, community building, and a rich curriculum–work in tandem. Together they provide a learning community where students actively learn, grow in self-confidence, find their place in God’s world, and go beyond themselves to help others. We invite you to visit our campus at 314 Cornerstone Lane anytime to see these principles in action. You are warmly welcomed to experience the EMES distinction first hand!
