Building an "Ir Shalom": A Kindergarten Journey Towards a Peaceful City

Our Kindergarten students have embarked on an incredible journey over the past few months. The classroom transformed into a hub of learning, creativity, collaboration, and most importantly, community. Through our Ir Sharlom project-based learning initiative, Kindergarten students were asked to ponder this question: What makes a peaceful city (Ir shalom)? 

The common core curriculum sets standards about what Kindergarten students should know by the end of the academic year. Concepts such as courage, self-control, justice, leadership, deliberation, and individual responsibility are introduced. Historical empathy for people who lived long ago and those who live now reinforces the concept of civic behavior. This teaches Kindergarteners how we interact respectfully with each other, follow rules, and respect the rights of others. 

Field Trips: Exploration Beyond the Classroom 

From the outset of this school year, Kindergarten students delved into these concepts in a way that resonated deeply with their young minds. Our adventure began with field trips to peaceful and important spots in our community—Urban Adamah, a community-based farm and education center in Berkeley; the Palo Alto Junior History Museum & Zoo which offered students a firsthand experience of what our neighborhood and community have to offer; the Palo Alto Library where we explored resources offered to our immediate community. These experiences laid the foundation for our understanding of what peace and community look like in our world.

Guest Speakers: First-Hand Experiences 

But we didn't stop there. We invited guest speakers – community leaders, parents, and even some of our very own neighbors – to share their perspectives on their important roles in this community. We welcomed Jeff Rosen, Santa Clara County’s District Attorney and former Hausner parent, to discuss his job and how he contributes to creating a peaceful city. We also welcomed Zack Bodner, CEO of the Oshmann Family JCC and current Hausner parent, who spoke about his job at the JCC and other important components of a peaceful city. We were delighted to have a diverse group of parent volunteers for our Kindergarten class, bringing valuable expertise from professions such as dentistry, solar engineering, science, baseball coaching, and construction. John Hart (Teacher Andrea’s husband) brought his dump truck and excavator to school for students to explore and see up close. Students were overjoyed, as they had the opportunity to “drive” the excavator and explore the machine up close. 

Each story, each insight, added a new layer to our understanding. It was heartwarming to see the children's curiosity ignite as they absorbed these diverse viewpoints and professions. 

Implementing Knowledge Through Hands-On Projects  

Students gathered the knowledge they gained from the guest speakers and field trips to determine what they themselves could contribute to a peaceful community. Students brainstormed and contemplated what they envisioned as essential for a peaceful city. Some students chose to work independently, while others collaborated with peers, each child deciding what they deemed meaningful to build for our city. Once students decided what they wanted to contribute to the city, they were tasked with the next challenge… actually creating the city. 

In collaboration with Teacher Sarrie in the Creativity Lab, students were able to channel their ideas and creativity into tangible creations. Armed with cardboard boxes and recycled materials, they set out to build their own version of a peaceful city. It was truly remarkable to witness their ingenuity as they worked together, each contributing their unique vision to our shared project. 

Incorporating Writing Into Ir Shalom 

Not only were Kindergarten students asked to create a peaceful city, but in the days leading up to the presentation, students wrote about their special contribution. Kindergarten students, using all of their writing tools and skills that they have learned thus far, wrote what they built and why it is important. 

Students, brainstorming their ideas together, wrote deep and meaningful sentences about the importance of their building to an Ir Shalom. Students then practiced “presenting” their writing and building to be better prepared for the final presentation day. 

The Final Product: Our Ir Shalom  

After months of hard work, the day arrived! The city Kindergarten students created was a testament to their collective imagination – vibrant murals adorned the buildings, parks dotted with sculptures promoting harmony, and a central square where residents could come together in unity. But beyond the physical structures, what truly made Ir Shalom special was the spirit of cooperation and empathy that permeated every corner.

As we reflect on this journey, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to witness the transformative power of education. Through our Ir Shalom project, these kindergarteners not only learned about peace but actively participated in its creation. They have shown us that even the smallest hands can build a world of harmony and understanding.