From stage fighting to watercolour painting, students spent time learning about new hobbies available to them on Feb. 13.
E.S. Laird Middle School students stepped out of their routines for Exploratory Day. They learned new skills, met new friends, and heard from experts.
The event offered activities such as stage fighting, watercolour painting, cookie decorating, and self-defence. However, The goal was to give students hands-on experiences outside regular classes.
“School exploratories are such a great opportunity for our students to experience something new,” said principal Luke Maw. “It is also another opportunity to make new connections with new students at and outside of their grade level based on common interests.”
Furthermore, Eva Miller, an expert in stage and film combat, led a session on stage fighting. She showed students how to perform realistic moves while staying safe.
“If you’re in a stage or film setting, you have to do it in a way that’s safe,” said Miller. “Never putting anybody in danger.”
Students learned how to make fight scenes look real without actual harm.
E.S. Lair teacher Erin Claxton explained why activities like stage combat matter.
“It gives them a different voice to hear for instruction,” Claxton said. “They get to be physical without being in danger.”
Claxton noted students stayed engaged throughout the day.
“Some students choose not to be here, but I had almost full attendance today,” she said. “Clearly, they were interested in learning about stage combat.”
Additionally, many students continued discussing the new hobbies and activities after the event.
“They talk about it a little bit for days to come,” Claxton said. “Sometimes, they use it in the talent show in the future.”
Exploratory Day will return next year with more opportunities for students to discover new interests.
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