Spring is like a perhaps hand (which comes carefully out of Nowhere)

arranging a window, into which people look

(while people stare arranging and changing placing carefully

there a strange thing and a known thing here)

and changing everything carefully ...

E.E. Cummings ~Spring is like a perhaps hand(excerpt)~

April is finally here, bursting with anticipation! As blossoms unfold, we embrace the beauty of spring. This month we honor Arab-American Heritage, MENA Heritage, advocate for Autism Acceptance, champion Bilingual/Multilingual Learner Advocacy, celebrate the contributions of Chaldean-Americans, raise awareness for National Child Abuse Prevention, and immerse ourselves in the power of National Poetry. And let's not forget to extend a helping hand during National Volunteer Month.

Arab-American Heritage Month: celebrates the rich cultural contributions of individuals from Arab descent. Our district honors the traditions, history, and achievements of Arab-Americans, promoting understanding and appreciation within our diverse community.

MENA (Middle Eastern and North African) Heritage Month: acknowledges the diverse cultures, languages, and histories of the MENA region. Our district celebrates the heritage and contributions of individuals from MENA backgrounds, fostering cultural awareness and unity among students, staff, and families.

Autism Acceptance Month: promotes understanding, acceptance, and inclusion for individuals of the autism community. Our district engages in activities and discussions to raise awareness, celebrate differences, and create supportive environments for autistic students, staff, and families.

Bilingual/Multilingual Learner Advocacy Month: recognizes the importance of linguistic diversity and supports students who are learning multiple languages. Our district advocates for the rights and educational needs of bilingual and multilingual learners, fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all.

Celebrate Diversity Month: established in 2004 and celebrated annually to acknowledge and highlight the diversity in our world. It's a time for us to embrace and respect our differences while recognizing the shared humanity that unites us all. Let us cultivate deeper empathy and understanding for one another and foster belonging.

Chaldean-American Month: honors the heritage and contributions of individuals of Chaldean descent. Our district celebrates the cultural richness and achievements of the Chaldean-American community, promoting cultural understanding and appreciation among students, staff, and families.

National Child Abuse Prevention Month: raises awareness about child abuse and neglect and promotes efforts to prevent it. Our district educates students, staff, and families about child safety, provides resources for support, and reinforces our commitment to creating a safe and nurturing environment for all children.

National Poetry Month: April is a time to celebrate the power and beauty of poetry in our lives. Our district encourages students, staff, and families to explore poetry through readings, writing activities, and creative expression, fostering a love for language and literature.

National Volunteer Month: recognizes the invaluable contributions of volunteers to our communities. Our district celebrates the spirit of volunteerism and encourages students, staff, and families to engage in service projects, giving back to others and making a positive impact in our community.

April 1-5: National Assistant Principal Week – honors the dedication and hard work of assistant principals in our schools. During this week, we recognize their vital role in supporting students, staff, and families and their contributions to the overall success of our educational communities.

April 7-13: National Library Week – let’s recognize and celebrate the importance of libraries and the valuable services they provide to communities; promoting literacy, lifelong learning, and access to information for all.

April 15-19: Public School Volunteer Week / National Volunteer Recognition Week – celebrates the contributions of volunteers who generously give their time and energy to support public schools, aiding in the enhancement of educational experiences and strengthening school communities.

April 22-26: National Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week – recognizes the dedication and commitment of afterschool professionals who provide enriching and supportive experiences for students outside of regular school hours.

April 24-30: National Student Leadership Week – honors the leadership skills and contributions of student leaders in our schools who go above and beyond to lead out loud and by example.

April 2 – World Autism Awareness Day: is a day dedicated to raising awareness about the autism community. On this day, we strive to educate ourselves and others about autism and celebrate the unique strengths and talents of individuals.

April 3 – Paraprofessional Appreciation Day: celebrates the invaluable contributions of paraprofessionals. These dedicated individuals provide essential support to teachers and students, helping to create inclusive and nurturing learning environments.

April 4 – National School Librarian Appreciation Day: recognizes the vital role that school librarians play in promoting literacy, fostering a love of reading, and providing resources for learning.

April 6 – Laylat al-Qadr (Muslim): also known as the Night of Power, is a significant night in the Islamic faith. It commemorates the night when the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. It's a time of reflection, prayer, and seeking blessings.

April 6 – Tartan Day: recognizes the significant contributions of Scottish Americans. Celebrating the cultural heritage and achievements of Scottish immigrants and their descendants, this day highlights their impact on various aspects of American society, from politics, literature, science, and the arts.

April 7 – World Health Day: a global observance dedicated to raising awareness about health issues and promoting healthier lifestyles. The time also stresses the importance of access to healthcare services and advocates for actions to improve health outcomes for everyone, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status.

April 8 – Solar Eclipse: a solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth, blocking all or part of the sun's rays. This year the eclipse will begin at 1:58PM and end at 4:28PM. Observing a solar eclipse can be an awe-inspiring experience, reminding us of the vastness and beauty of the universe.

April 9 – April 10 Eid-al-Fitr/End of Ramadan (Muslim): Eid-al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It's a joyous occasion celebrated with prayers, feasting, and acts of charity. Muslim communities gather to express gratitude for the blessings received during Ramadan, renewing their commitment to spiritual growth and grace.

April 12 – National Day of Silence (LGBTQIA+): is a student-led movement that raises awareness about the silencing effects of harassment and discrimination faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals in schools. Take a vow of silence for the day to symbolize the silencing of LGBTQIA+ voices and to advocate for safer and more inclusive school environments.

April 18 - Poem in Your Pocket Day: encourages people to carry a favorite poem with them and share it with others throughout the day. It's a celebration of poetry's power to inspire, encourage, and connect us with one another and sharing poetry can bring joy and reflection to our lives.

April 21 – Start of Ridvan (Baha’i): commemorates the twelve-day period when Baha'u'llah, the founder of the Baha'i Faith, declared his mission as a Manifestation of God. Ridvan is a time of joy, celebration, and spiritual renewal for Baha'is around the world; reflecting on Baha'u'llah's teachings and their significance for humanity.

April 22 – Passover begins (Jewish): is a major Jewish holiday commemorating the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. It's celebrated with rituals, feasting, and storytelling. Jewish families come together, reflect on freedom and justice, and reaffirm their commitment to their faith and heritage.

April 22 – Earth Day: a global event dedicated to raising awareness about environmental issues and promoting sustainability. Earth Day activities may include tree planting, clean-up efforts, and advocacy for policies that promote environmental protection and preservation for future generations.

April 24 – Administrative Professionals Day: recognizes the valuable contributions of administrative professionals in education, organizations, and businesses. On this day, we show appreciation for their hard work, dedication, organizational skills, and professional acumen. Administrative professionals play an invaluable role in keeping operations running smoothly in many working environments.

April 25 – Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day: this day encourages parents and guardians to share their work experiences with their children, inspiring them to explore future career paths and goals.

April 30 – Passover ends (Jewish): The end of Passover marks the conclusion of the week-long celebration of freedom and redemption. It's a time for Jewish families to reflect on the significance of Passover, express gratitude for the blessings received, and look forward to the future with hope and optimism. As Passover comes to an end, the spirit of renewal and liberation continues to inspire individuals to strive for justice and peace.

When we think about the essence of diversity, it's crucial to recognize its expansive reach, extending far beyond racial distinctions. Diversity delves into the intricacies of identity and ability, encompassing the unique ways in which individuals think, feel, and navigate the world. It celebrates a kaleidoscope of voices and expressions, embracing the variance of dress, laughter, learning, and understanding.

Diversity is a multifaceted gem that defies any notion of hierarchy or prescribed norms. It wholeheartedly embraces the richness of existence in its many forms, be it people, places, or perspectives. Within the vibrant tapestry of OneTroy, diversity not only finds a home but flourishes, inviting each member of our community to thrive authentically.

Our ASD Team celebrates Autism Acceptance in various ways; from continued learning, well-being, resources, peer to peer initiatives, to unified programming, the contributions are endless. The work and dedication of our educators is awe-inspiring and shows up daily for our students whose lives and being are positively impacted every day. Let us show them the much deserved appreciation for all that they do to elevate and celebrate diversity of thought and being this month and every month!

"Autism Acceptance Month is something that is very near and dear to our hearts. We thank you for your support in our initiative to promote acceptance and belonging." - OneTroy ASD Team

• If the day is not on the Padlet, that means there are no activities for that day.
  
• Some days may just outline the specific spirit day
  
• Some days may have an article to share with your students
  
• Some days may have a video to share with your student or just a tidbit to share out
  
• All links are attached to the Padlet
  
• For specific events like the "Autism Acceptance Walk" find your classes time/information on that days Padlet
  
• The Padlet will be updated throughout the month for future events like the autism acceptance walk, peer to peer read aloud, and whole school movie day!
  

April is Autism Acceptance Month, formerly known as Autism Awareness Month, dedicated to celebrating and fostering acceptance for the condition affecting one in every 54 children in the United States as of 2020. Autism, a developmental condition impacting interaction, communication, and growth, encompasses various subtypes. Originating in 1972 by the Autism Society, Autism Acceptance Month emphasizes the importance of raising public awareness to foster acceptance, embrace diversity, and promote inclusivity towards individuals with autism. Autism Acceptance Day is celebrated on April 2.

The Commission on Middle Eastern American Affairs (CMEAA) joined Governor Whitmer, April 1, 2023 to proclaim April as Chaldean-American month for the first time in Michigan's history. Governor Whitmer expressed in her Proclamation that, "The Chaldean/Assyrian/Syriac people are a community of rich tradition and culture who enrich Michigan's cultural tapestry and prosperity through their success in the arts, business, law, politics, education, medicine, architecture, and engineering." Michigan has the highest concentration of Chaldeans/Assyrians/Syriacs living in the United States.

Read the full Proclamation HERE

Voice, expression, storytelling, advocacy... Poetry is an art form that lives within each of us! This month, recognize the time by crafting an original piece of poetry. Use the theme, "I AM FROM" beginning each stanza with this lead in and watch your creative genius shine through!

Here is an example:

I Am From ...

A culture of many things … a people of many things

Strong Women who have been broken and sometimes never healed but triumph

Learning forward and learning different

Artists through spoken words, sounds, movement, storytelling, and being

Pain

Push and Press ...

When it comes to selecting books to share with youth/student learners, do you often consider poetry?

Poetry has a universal appeal and distinctive but diverse qualities. Many poems, with concise and melodic structures, provide a seamless way for learners to engage with language and different forms of expression. Through reciting simple nursery rhymes and/or brief poems, children absorb language effortlessly, often without realizing it. Reading poetry aloud offers opportunities for children to hone vocal skills, including volume, pitch, and voice modulation, among other aspects. Consider incorporating poetry into your classroom or home environments, while inviting in diversity of thought and different modes of expression.

1. Read the text
2. Engage in conversation about the book and explore interpretations
3. Think about the connections between modes of expression and versatility of poetry

• Discuss: what do we notice? About her language? Her gestures? Her emotion.

• Brainstorm: have students/participants make a list of topics they're passionate about, note feelings, and associations with each.
  

• Write: Time to write a poem.
  

• Perform: Enjoy a vibrant classroom/community/team poetry slam.
  

Earth Day is an annual event on April 22 to demonstrate support for environmental protection. First held on April 22, 1970, it now includes a wide range of events coordinated globally by Earthday.org and includes one billion people in more than 193 countries. We can prioritize and protect our environment by advocating for clean, accessible water, solar energy, robust recycling and most importantly, educational awareness throughout communities worldwide.

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