Becoming Brave Young Authors: A Kinder–First Grade Story

Some of the most meaningful learning at Amistad happens quietly — tiny hands gripping pencils, sounds slowly stretched into letters, stories unfolding one brave attempt at a time. In Maestra Lucía's Kinder–First Grade classroom, writing isn't simply another part of the day. It's a practice of courage, creativity, and connection.

Kindergarten: stepping into the identity of "author"

During Writing Workshop, students say words slowly, listen carefully for each sound, and record the letters they know with growing confidence. They rely on the world around them — the word wall, their classmates' names, labels around the room, and the alphabet chart — to anchor sounds to meaning. Every child is crafting a personal story, and every mark on the page is celebrated.

"Our kindergarteners are becoming brave young authors… each child is writing their own story, celebrating every attempt to capture sounds on paper." — Maestra Lucía

Their guiding question — How do writers use sounds and letters to share their ideas? — becomes a daily invitation to explore, try, and grow.

First grade: words and pictures working together

By first grade, these early authors are expanding their storytelling. Students learn to match written words with illustrations, adding expressions, labels, and small but meaningful details that bring their stories to life. They write about favorite meals, family celebrations, friendships, and moments that matter to them.

"Their stories come alive when readers can see expressions… these details help connect their writing and pictures, making their stories meaningful and clear." — Maestra Lucía

A broader story of growth

These joyful classroom moments reflect a larger narrative unfolding across our elementary program:

• 100% DRA Español coverage across elementary grades — a rare achievement in dual-language education
• Writing proficiency rose from 43.9% to 82.9%
• First grade enrollment increased by 71%
• Mathematics, implemented with new structures this year, reached 92.4% coverage
• Overall elementary enrollment grew nearly 18%

All of this points to a program not only expanding, but thriving — while still holding onto the relationships, warmth, and creativity that make Amistad feel like home.

Thank you, Maestra Lucía, for inviting us into this beautiful work — and for helping our youngest students discover the power of their own voice.