“We’re all mad here!” exclaimed Bayport Blue Point High School teacher Stacie Pintar as her senior English language arts students entered the school’s library on Oct. 6. Ms. Pintar was dressed as Alice from the literary classic “Alice in Wonderland” for the school’s annual Mad Hatter’s Day event.
Mad Hatter’s Day takes place each year on Oct. 6, reflecting the numbers “10/6” situated in the character’s top hat. In addition to Ms. Pintar’s “Alice” attire, library assistant Heather Crisera dressed as the white rabbit and librarian Kelly Petrosino dressed as the Mad Hatter from “Alice in Wonderland.”
Activities for the day included a hat contest, working in teams to solve riddles, crafting origami teacups, creating Lego builds inspired by objects from “Alice in Wonderland” and piecing together puzzles all while the students sipped tea. The day provides students with an opportunity to not only have fun, but also to get to know one another in a different type of setting.
Two of the central themes of “Alice in Wonderland” are growing up and identity. Similar themes are studied at the senior level in English classes as they craft their personal narrative essays for college applications, so the day also centers around relevant curriculum.
For the past three years, the Bayport Blue Point High School English department and the school’s library have worked together to host the tea party for the senior classes. The day is first introduced at the ninth grade level then culminates senior year with the tea party and activities.
It's important to remind students to take a pause and have fun. This is an excellent opportunity to unplug, collaborate and work with classmates in a different capacity,” Pintar said.
