PTES Celebrates International Dot Day
On September 15, Pierce Terrace Elementary School joined millions of students worldwide in celebrating International Dot Day, a global event that encourages creativity, courage, and self-expression. The celebration was led by Ms. Larissa Pinckney, the school’s speech therapist, who guided students in activities designed to help them make their own mark and see where it takes them.
International Dot Day began in 2009 after teacher Terry Shay introduced his class to The Dot, a beloved children’s book written by Peter H. Reynolds. The story follows a young girl named Vashti, who feels she cannot draw until her teacher encourages her to “just make a mark and see where it takes you.” From one small dot, Vashti discovers her creativity, confidence, and unique artistic voice.
The annual celebration, now observed in classrooms across the globe, provides children ages 4–8 with the opportunity to explore self-expression and imagination through art, writing, music, and movement. The objective of Dot Day is to help students embrace their individuality, discover their strengths, and recognize that even the simplest actions—like drawing a dot—can spark incredible creativity and confidence.
Reflecting on the event, Ms. Pinckney shared, “International Dot Day reminds me that even the smallest step of courage—like making a simple dot—can grow into something bigger than I ever imagined.”
At Pierce Terrace, students engaged in dot-inspired activities to reflect the themes of the book. PTES emphasized that International Dot Day is more than just about drawing—it’s about encouraging students to try new things, take risks, and believe in their own potential.
By participating in International Dot Day, Pierce Terrace Elementary School underscored its commitment to nurturing creativity and celebrating each child’s unique contributions.
