​Valentine's Day was a wonderful opportunity to show appreciation at P.S. 173. For many of our students, Valentine's Day first becomes important in pre-kindergarten. Our teachers encourage the students to make and decorate art projects, and teach them about sending and receiving mail. Our school spirit of appreciation of our differences really shines on Valentine’s Day.

The 5th grade students were thrilled to see the Broadway community, they enjoyed several shows. This experience was a cultivating one for our next generation of theatregoers. As we know the arts are a critical part of our student’s educational experience. This was an incredible opportunity for the students.

​Our Pre-k students did an excellent and adorable performance of the “The Grouchy Ladybug.” The Grouchy Ladybug is a multi-layered story that addresses different themes at the same time. Its triple themes of dealing with bullying, comparing sizes, and the telling of time makes this classic one great story to see our students bring to life.
As the story about bullies, our Grouchy Ladybug's actors depicted a miniature tyrant, whose actions appear more and more ridiculous as she approaches the larger animals’ actors which become larger and larger. The message of standing up to a bully is an important part of life. We thank the Pre-K team for putting on this show and applaud our young actors for doing an exceptional job.

Our first after school Paint & Sip class of the year was a success! Young artists came out with their moms and dads to get in the fall spirit as we drew a colorful pumpkin based on the text, "Big Pumpkin" by Erica Silverman, illustrated by S.D. Schindler. Children were guided step by step by Ms. Riolo using oil pastels with the help of their families and Ms. S. Everyone enjoyed conversation and laughs throughout over snacks and of course, grape juice. Can't wait to see what they create next month! ​

Every year the PS173 art expo seems to get better. This is something so many kids love to do, and they're excited there's an art day. The PS173 art expo featured many pieces of artwork by students from grades K-5. It's an exciting opportunity for our young artists to have their art displayed for everyone to see. Children have become more aware of their art and are more interested in what others are working on too. Sharing their work really elevates the experience, to bring it outside of the classroom and into the community. The event brings parents, students, and their peers together. Teachers have made their own connections at the show and created community within community. It's just sort of a really nice celebration of the arts. Students understand it's a big deal. That’ll be something they'll never forget. Congratulations to all of our amazing artists. ​