Enrichment Programs

A wide range of high-interest age-appropriate events are presented to students throughout the school year. These events are designed to enrich the curriculum and expose students to different cultures, perspectives, and life experiences. These events help to "bring the curriculum to life" through performances and hands-on experiences. The Stanwich School is grateful to the Parent Association for organizing and funding many of these wonderful programs. Some past events are highlighted below.

Primary House

In September, Stanwich School welcomed professional actors and musicians from TheatreWorks who performed a wonderful, warm production of the classic children's story, "Corduroy." Students from The Purchase College Dance Corps returned in October to Stanwich, having performed for the Intermediate House a year earlier. Overviews of several dance forms and the basics of 'dance language' were demonstrated. Also in October, while Primary House students were studying the value of "commitment," local veterinarian, Dr. Ruth Hiller visited Stanwich. She shared a childhood story about choosing her path to this profession.

In December, a group of Stanwich families presented "A Scandinavian Christmas" featuring songs, dance and traditions of Denmark, Sweden and Norway. After winter break, renowned author Patricia Reilly Giff visited. She told an animated 'cat' story to the kindergartners, then explained her book writing recipe to the rest of the Primary House in a participative assembly. Autographed books were presented to each student.

Guest speakers from the Red Cross visited Primary House students to discuss Emergency Preparedness. These interns from AmeriCorps talked about volunteerism and how their work related to the monthly theme of courage. In March, Primary House students were serenaded by a brass quintet from Purchase College. Just before leaving for spring break, three Greenwich police officers addressed Primary House students about safety, the special focus in March.

In April, Primary House students observed Earth Day and focused on the environment. Our visitor, New York 's best-known naturalist 'Wildman' Steve Brill made a great presentation. In May, members of the Greenwich senior community gave a "drumming" performance.

Intermediate House and Junior House

In October, students in grades 4-7 were visited by Whim 'n Rhythm, a female a cappella singing group from Yale University. After the performance, members of the group answered questions about college life.

As a special salute to United Nations Day, Intermediate and Junior House students enjoyed an introduction to the work of the United Nations and then a performance by Connecticut Ballet's "World of Dance." Dancers dancers from West Africa, East India, Japan and Peru performed classical and folk dancers from around the world. All 160 students were on their feet dancing as well.

On Halloween, Prismatic Magic brought their laser-based show with a Halloween theme to Stanwich. Students learned about lasers in the dark! In December, Stanwich families presented "A Scandinavian Christmas" featuring an authentic look at the holiday traditions and stories of Denmark, Sweden and Norway.

Acclaimed, Newbery Award-winning author Patricia Reilly Giff visited Stanwich School in January. She is the author of "All the Way Home" (a required summer read for 2003) and "Pictures of Hollis Woods" (a required summer read for 2003 and part of the grade 6 curriculum). She read from "Nory Ryan's Song" and spoke warmly about the cherished characters, her ancestors. Mrs. Giff shared her proven formula for writing a successful book. The Parent Association presented autographed books to every student.

In February, to celebrate 100 years of aviation and to perfectly illuminate the values of curiosity and courage, TheatreWorks performed "First in Flight". Grade 4 and 5 students (who previously studied or were then studying immigration) had a special assembly with Bridget, an Irish Immigrant. The actress used video and letters and voices to tell of Bridget's journey. It was an intimate performance of "The New American" brought to us by Living Voices.

In March, music teacher Nick Carter championed a brass quintet from Purchase College. The musicians discussed their careers and the differences in their instruments. They filled the room with Star Wars themes and other bold pieces.

To help older students celebrate Earth Day in April, Tom Baptist spoke on the environment. Tom is the head of the Audubon Center of Greenwich and an experienced naturalist. Additionally, Iona College basketball coach Jeff Ruland addressed Intermediate and Junior House students about his real-life decisions as a world-class athlete.

In May, Intermediate and Junior House students enjoyed a special assembly highlighting the rich and colorful culture of Taiwan.