The hallways at New Hyde Park Road School have been transformed into a colorful display of hot air balloons as part of a schoolwide literacy project inspired by “The World Needs Who You Were Made to Be” by Joanna Gaines and illustrated by Julianna Swaney.
In the book, children create their own hot air balloons, each bringing unique ideas and talents to the project. Together, they fill the sky with color while learning an important lesson: the world becomes stronger and more beautiful when differences are embraced and celebrated.
After reading the story, students in pre-K through sixth grade designed and created their own hot air balloons, showcasing their creativity while honoring the themes of diversity, acceptance and teamwork.
As the first schoolwide project of the school year, this initiative kicked off the year on a positive note while reflecting the district’s Portrait of a Learner through a focus on collaboration and empathy.
