In school year 2018-19, both grade 1 and grade 2 were standalone classes. This year they combined to become a 2/3 class. This is the third year that Orchard Valley has followed , and the rhythm is really taking shape in the heart of the school and the work of the faculty. Here we'll take a look at how this works in handwork class.

The first year two classes are combined merges the children into a new social group and broadens the range of academic and social strengths than those that already exist in an age-based group. This presents a wonderful learning opportunity for all, as the 2/3 handwork class shows.

Handwork Teacher Kate Camilletti began the year with the traditional grade 2 project -- a knitted rainbow ball. The project was new for the 2nd graders, but a repeat for the 3rd graders. As such, Kate worked with the second graders and students new to knitting on the basic knitted ball, while the other children created a ball that was fashioned more like a baseball, "requiring more mathematics and a deeper process," Kate said.

Working on the same project, but differently, was a great way to bring the class together. The children are now either knitting a gnome or learning to crochet, with Kate assigning students to a project based on where they are individually and not based on grade. Knitting is the foundation, she says, while crocheting is different for the mind and the hands -- and not everyone takes to it. So Kate works to meet each student where they are so that they feel a sense of "joyful challenge" in their work. The students will move back and forth between knitting and crocheting as they progress through the remaining projects this year -- string bags, potholders, and dolls.