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A Chinese philosopher once said, "A journey of 1,000 miles begins with one step."
The fifth grade students at Salem Southeast Elementary didn't complete 1,000 miles on Wednesday, Feb. 17 but instead marked a special day of achieving 1,000 school days in their educational career.
The graduating class of 2028, began their educational journey as small kindergarten students at Buckeye Elementary School in fall 2015. Each continual year, the students have (about) 180 scheduled school days to complete a full academic year.
When the little Quakers complete their fourth grade year at Reilly Elementary, they have been in school for 900 learning days. On the 100th day of school in fifth grade, the Quakers have accomplished 1,000 learning days in our district.
"Celebrating the 1,000th day of school is important because our students have accomplished so much even with the challenges dealing with the virus this past year," said fifth grade teacher Jennifer Woods.
"We wanted to show our students that we appreciate their determination, perseverance, and attendance both in school and online. I hope they continue to strive to learn as much as possible, never underestimating their abilities," she added.
The fifth grade hallway was transformed into "Quaker Nation" -- with school spirit covering the walls with red, black and white. The students squealed with delight during their 1,000th day awards ceremony where each of their past beloved teachers and principals at each building sent virtual video messages congratulating them on this big accomplishment.
The students took part in 1,000-second challenges that included math and reading initiatives. By the end of the day the grade level completed 1,000 math problems that are hanging on the walls of the elementary school and 1,000 memories that formed a chain.
"We wish you could have seen the students' appreciation and happiness as they made a '1,000 Memories in Salem chain' for our fifth-grade hallway," said fifth grader teacher Amy Orville.
"The names of past teachers, bus drivers, duty aides, principals, and community members filled each link. Some of our students' best memories are the simple things when we stopped our day to show kindness and make them feel important and special. This chain truly symbolizes the wonderful community members who support our Quakers each day in and out of school. It is a powerful reminder of how each of us can make a difference," she added.
The staff was not content with just celebrating the 1,000th day, but helping the students think about their next 1,000 days until their much anticipated goal of graduation from Salem City Schools.
Each student wrote a five-paragraph essay on three goals they would like to accomplish by the time they reach their last year at Salem High School. The fifth graders brainstormed on how they could achieve their goals and why it is important to continue with their education.
They coined this writing project as "We have a Bright Future Ahead." After reading their dreams and aspirations, the fifth-grade staff resonates that Salem is fortunate to have resilient and ambitious youth ready to achieve and succeed in the years ahead.
-- Submitted material