Day Five: Elmhurst Academy's Olympic Games Closing Ceremony

August 12, 2016—Today, Elmhurst Academy witnessed history as every student-Olympian on The Butterfly Team, Prairie Prowlers, Woodland Warriors, and Lakeview Lizards received a gold medal at the closing ceremony of their Olympic Games.

The Olympians received their medal for full participation in the 2016 Elmhurst Academy Olympic Games, which required them to try all their healthy foods, work collaboratively with their teammates, and participate in a variety of different sports throughout the entire week.

In the closing ceremony, all four teams marched confidently into the Lakeview classroom, and exuded so much excitement and pride. Once united with their coaches, the Olympians spent a few moments recapping their week. Many talked about the events that they participated in, while others talked about their favorite days and what they learned.

This week, the Olympians partook in gymnastics, Track & Field, cycling, weightlifting, and water relay events. Not only this, but they learned how to fuel their bodies to maintain energy, work together to achieve the best outcome, as well cheer for their opponents and celebrate other’s personal achievements.

When a coach asked the Olympians which team won the relay?, a teammate from the Lakeview Lizards shouted "Both teams did!" For the coaches, this was a perfect moment that highlighted the students understanding of teamwork and sportsmanship.

After a few final words to the entire group, and a long round of applause, the teams went with their coaches and dispersed into their individual classrooms to receive their gold medals and recognition.

Each classroom had an impressive patriotic set up with three podiums for their Olympians. Each student would take their turn at the podium where they received their gold medal, certificate, as well as take a photo to document the momentous day. At the end, they all grouped together for a team photo, demonstrating how close the teams had grown just in this short week.

Overall, Elmhurst Academy students were fully immersed in their Olympic Games and learned crucial life lessons through play and personal experience--an important component of the summer’s “Growing Up Wild” program. Also, it helped them to have more excitement about being outside and active, which allows children to develop physically, socially, and emotionally.

“Throughout the week, we had parents thanking us for putting on our own Olympics here at Elmhurst Academy,” said Mrs. Lisa Dillard, Early Childhood Associate Teacher. “The Olympics really taught their students so much.”