Rochester schools celebrate creativity with weeklong celebration of 'The Dot'

District Curriculum and Instruction and Assessment Coach Heidi Zollman reads "The Dot" to students at Maple Street Magnet School. (Courtesy Rochester School District)

EOCHESTER ­­- The Rochester School District recently celebrated themes of creativity and courage through a district-wide spirit week in recognition of International Dot Day.

International Dot Day aims to inspire people young and old to embrace the power of personal creativity to help make their mark on the world. It is celebrated on the original publishing date of Peter H. Reynolds' book The Dot on Sept. 15, 2003, making this year the 20th anniversary of publication.

Exploring the themes of creativity, bravery and self-expression, The Dot is a story of a perceptive and caring teacher who dares a doubtful student to trust in her own abilities by being brave enough to "make a mark."

The Rochester School District celebrated Dot Day with a district-wide spirit week held Sept. 11-15, which included a "Rochester Rocks" school spirit day, a "dress like someone who has made their mark in your life" day, and of course, polka dot day.

Guest readers from the community visited several schools, and teachers planned many dot-themed activities in their classrooms throughout the week. In addition, the district's Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) Leadership Team planned a rock-painting activity for all district students and staff. These "Rochester Rocks" will be on display at various locations and local businesses around the community.

"International Dot Day and Peter H. Reynolds' The Dot embrace and celebrate creativity and bravery to take a leap and make your mark on the world, no matter your age," said Superintendent Kyle Repucci. "The Rochester School District aims to instill these themes and encourage our students, staff, and community members to be courageous and make an impact on the world. Our district-wide spirit week was a great way for our community to embrace those ideals and express themselves."

International Dot Day was established in 2009 by Iowa teacher Terry Shay. It has grown into an international celebration with around 29 million educators and students around the world participating each year.

For more information on International Dot Day, visit internationaldotday.org.