This is Zach's class. They were in the Tribune last week to celebrate their schools 100 year celebration. The kids were encouraged to dress up from other time periods.... I dropped the ball that morning, oops! 

http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/neighborhoodcity/53523468-135/hawthorne-students-elementary-100.html.csp

   I feel very fortunate that my children ended up at Hawthorne Elementary in the C&A program.  The truth is, when Zach started Kindergarten.... I was clueless!  We live within blocks from the school, so it really was just luck I guess.  I had no idea they offered such great programs and that people drive from all over the valley for their children to have this opportunity.   I had never heard of the C&A program until Zach's Kindergarten teacher asked me if I had gotten my application in and that this was the last day to do so.  She really encouraged me, saying that Zach would thrive in the C&A environment.  So I went home, did some quick research, and almost blindly put in his application.

   That spring I got a letter back saying that Zach did not get in, but more spots may open up before the new school year.  How it works is they draw from all different ethnicity's, and neighborhoods throughout the city, so the kid from the Hawthorne neighborhood actually stands the least chance... it's kind of a miracle that I received the second letter over the summer stating that he was in! By this time I had talked to many parents and had a lot more info so I was super excited to get the news!

   The classes are split into 1st/2nd grade, 3rd/4th, 5th/6th and into 7th/8th.  In the 1st/2nd grade level the kids work in pairs, there is a 1st grader teamed with a 2nd grader mentor.  So they work together a lot of the time to figure out problems and find answers, the 2nd grade kids get to learn on such a deeper level because in order to teach you must fully understand.  It is very cool. These kids will finish out their Elementary Years together and I'm sure become very close.  

   I think the part I love the most about C&A is that they really celebrate diversity.  The kids learn so much about each others different cultures, religious beliefs and the countries where they come from.  I grew up in an all white school as one of the very few non-mormon families.  I was so confused as a kid.  Then I moved to Oceanside, California in the 8th grade... um can you say culture shock!!  Finally, as a young adult I made it a priority to travel a lot and see much of the world.  I absolutely love to meet people from all over the world and learn about their different cultures.  

   Cam is already in for the program starting next year, younger siblings are the first drawn into the program so once your in the whole family is in.  We are looking forward to having Coach Ross for another 2 years. She has been Zach's teacher for the last 2 years... and she is amazing!!!