Reflections of Self and Community: Waverly Elementary’s Annual Portrait Tradition

In Waverly’s Elementary School, every year begins with a powerful Responsive Classroom tradition: the self-portrait.

Starting with the question “Who am I?” and growing into “Who are we?”, students reflect on identity, belonging, and community through art and storytelling.

From preschool through 6th grade, these portraits evolve as our students do, capturing not just artistic growth, but also deepening self-understanding. Each portrait is a celebration of individuality and a thread in the larger fabric of the classroom community.

Year after year, the walls fill with stories of curiosity, confidence, and connection – reminders of how we learn and grow together.

The Waverly School, 67 W. Bellevue Drive, Pasadena, (626) 792-5940 or visit thewaverlyschool.org.