Hi Reader,

This week’s classroom journey takes us to one of the most breathtaking places on Earth: Santorini. Known for its white-washed buildings, iconic blue-domed churches, and sunsets that look straight out of a painting, Santorini is a magical destination to bring into your classroom.

🏝️ Where Even the Land Tells a Story

Santorini wasn’t always shaped like a crescent. Thousands of years ago, a massive volcanic eruption caused the center of the island to collapse, forming a caldera, a huge, water-filled crater that the island curves around today. It’s one of the most dramatic geological features in Greece and a fun way to introduce landforms to kids.

🐴 Steps, Donkeys & Island Life

Kids love learning that Santorini is full of lots of steps! The villages are built up and down the cliffs of the caldera, which means residents and visitors are constantly climbing. And long before modern transportation, donkeys helped people carry goods up and down these steep pathways. They’re still an iconic part of the island today (though it’s important to talk about ethical tourism and respecting animals along the way!).

🏘️ Why the Buildings Are White

Santorini’s famous white-washed houses aren’t just for looks. They help keep homes cooler in the hot Mediterranean sun. Add in the pop of blue domes and doors, and you’ve got one of the most recognizable color palettes in the world.

🌅 The Sunset That Stops Everything

When the sun begins to dip, everything on the island slows. People gather in Oia and along the caldera cliffs to watch the sky turn brilliant shades of pink, orange, and gold. It’s one of the most beautiful sunsets on the planet, and the perfect inspiration for this week’s art activity.

🎨 Classroom Art Project: Santorini Sunset Skyline

Bring the magic of Santorini to life with this simple, beautiful art project:

1. Start with the skyline.​
   Students draw the outlines of white-washed buildings and domes using a black marker or crayon.
2. Add the iconic blue.​
   Use blue pastels to color in the rooftops of the blue-domed churches.
3. Create the sunset.​
   Blend pink, yellow, and orange chalks together across the sky.
   Encourage students to use circular motions for softness, just like the hazy glow of a Santorini evening.

Hang them up on display for a little taste of Santorini! This is one of those art projects that turns out stunning every time!

🎨 Don’t Forget! Crayola Creativity Week is Coming

Make sure you’re signed up so your students can participate in a global celebration of creativity in January. It’s free, it’s engaging, and your classroom will love it. I greatly appreciate you using my link to sign up.

🎄 Early Black Friday Sale: Christmas Bundle

The Passport Adventures: Christmas Bundle is officially on early Black Friday sale! Your students can visit Tivoli (where Walt Disney got his inspiration) in Copenhagen, "ride" a double decker bus looking at Christmas lights around London, get lost in a Christmas tree maze in Edinburgh, "ice skate" in Montréal, and see how New Year's Eve is celebrated in Quebec City.
Use the code JOY15 to save 15% on the bundle.

Perfect for December lessons, sub plans, or adding a little extra global cheer to your classroom. These are all Christmas-themed.

🧡 Wishing You a Warm, Grateful Thanksgiving

As we head into this season of gratitude, I’m so thankful for teachers like you who bring the world to your students in meaningful, creative ways.
Wishing you rest, joy, and a Thanksgiving full of people and moments you love.

Happy Thanksgiving!

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