The Lower School shone brightly on Friday, January 24, as they participated in a school-wide STEAM activity. Entitled “Kindness Constellations,” the hands-on project involved students from PK-6 constructing constellations on black plastic discs using art materials and technology to symbolize the universe and interconnectedness of stars in the night sky.

While the younger students focused on using basic materials to create star patterns, students in grades 3 to 6 used technology to research the science behind constellations and integrated what they learned into their designs.

The project also piggy-backed on a unit in the students’ technology classes, where they read and discussed the book “The Darkest Dark” by retired astronaut Chris Hadfield. The book relates Hadfield’s childhood and fear of the dark, quelled by his fascination with the night sky and the beauty of its velvety darkness punctuated by millions of points of light.

“After reading the book, we discussed how each person can be a ‘star’ by helping others,” explained Kimberly Connolly, Associate Director of Technology Innovation & Integration and Lower School Technology Teacher. “The students made constellations to symbolize kindness and the idea that many small lights together can brighten the world.”

Through the Lower School IDEAS Lab and frequent STREAM integrations like this, students learn about the interconnectedness between the subjects they are learning as well. Specifically, this project touched upon:

• Science: Students learned about stars, constellations, and light shining in darkness.
• Technology: Students used iPads and Chromebooks for constellation research or looking up famous “lights” in history.
• Engineering: The hands-on nature of the project required students to practice fine motor skills in creating a symmetrical, sturdy ornament design.
• Arts: The project fostered creativity with constellation patterns and colors.
• Math: Students explored the geometric patterns in constellations.

Kindergarten student Aldin A. ’37 astutely summed up the activity. “We are making  stars that connect with other stars, and that’s like us connecting as students,” he explained.

Classmate Violeta L. ’37 poetically added, “ Each of us has a heart in our body, and we all love each other.”

At the end of the activity, each student possessed a unique, handmade constellation that symbolized their ability to brighten others’ lives, aligning with Oak Knoll’s emphasis on service and community. Each student’s creation will contribute to a stunning display celebrating Oak Knoll’s 100 years of sharing light, gifts, and inspiration.