If we build a welcoming environment, they will come...

Congratulations to Diane Mullin and her students for developing their wonder window and attracting a hub of visiting birds.  Much to her disappointment, the window remained void of any life until the one day she happened to be away from her classroom.  Upon her return, the excited chirps of young students telling her about a visit from one solitary bird could be heard from those beyond the classroom.  Since that day, the wonder window has been a gathering place for other birds hoping to enjoy the seeds available to them in the feeder.  Students now have reason to visit the window, while observing the hub of birds against the cold white background of the snow filled school yard.  Purpose for writing is evident as students communicate their observations by drawing birds, describing them through story writing and math talk can be heard as they compare the size and quantity of birds visiting at any given time.  This window has truly become a collaborative project by teacher and students who are anxious to show visitors the life beyond the cold glass of the wonder window.