Parents at first didn't really know about this new language their kids were talking, recalls Jeri Kelly, whose older son graduated from PS 188 and whose daughter Madison and son Brian still attend. But through it all, Freed and other staffers from Teachers College came to PS 188, holding parent workshops and explaining the ideas and philosophy. Renovating the school's dusty and often-ignored library. For months, they examined the old books, recording those worth saving and updating the card catalogue. PTA activist Carol Chu, an administrator for the Modern Language Association, created a database for 3,000 library books.
All students have their own library cards, which are kept in color-coded binders sorted by class.
Most mornings, before school opens, Levine opens the library so book lovers like Jessica can browse for their favorites. It makes going to the library a happy and exciting experience, said Chu, the mother of two avid readers at PS 188. School for the most part feels that way as well. Geri Kelly's first-grader Madison felt queasy during class on a recent weekday, and had to excuse herself to vomit. Because it was open school week, Kelly was in class observing that day, and she promptly took her daughter home.