Garden City first graders connect math and perseverance through Boston Marathon lesson
On April 20, students in Ms. Eryn Maher’s first grade class at Garden City’s Hemlock School took part in an exciting and meaningful learning experience as they followed the Boston Marathon in real time. One student’s father was running in the race, and the class tracked his progress live throughout the event.
As they followed along, students learned about the significance of the marathon distance — 26.2 miles — and discussed the determination, endurance and perseverance required to complete it. The class remained highly engaged, cheering him on from mile 10 through mile 20 and beyond. When they learned he finished in under three hours, the classroom erupted in excitement and pride.
The experience carried into recess, where students ran laps around the perimeter of the soccer field, creating their own “Hemlock Marathon” in celebration.
“It was a wonderful opportunity to connect learning with a real-life event, build community, and celebrate such an inspiring achievement,” said Ms. Maher. “We are so proud of Mr. Forlenza and his daughter, Kayla!”