Be on the lookout for apples around town starting today, Friday, May 29, as it marks the first day of the weekend-long Newtown Public Schools “At Our Core” event for the community to recognize the hard work, effort, and accomplishments of students, teachers, and caregivers in a challenging year.

Students, families, and community members are encouraged to take part by integrating “apple imagery, creations, or thoughtful messages throughout the town. We invite families and residents to decorate mailboxes, windows, yards, doors, or driveways. Town departments and local businesses are invited to participate, too. Be inventive in how you use the apple theme in your own designs,” an announcement for the event reads.

The event is the brainchild of PEAC (Parent Educator Advisory Council) and members of local PTAs. The effort is designed to celebrate the community’s spirit of resilience.

The Apple — a symbol of wisdom, teaching, and health — was purposely chosen with “core” values in mind: collaboration, creativity, caring, and support. The following YouTube video provides further details for the At Our Core event: https://youtu.be/6DcGlvjm-QQ.

Everyone is encouraged to take pictures of their own artistic designs or those spotted in their travels around Newtown. Send images to PEAC@newtown.k12.ct.us. Follow NewtownAtOurCore on Instagram and participate on Instagram using “#AtOurCore!”

A website has also been created and will display collected images and fun resources to use and enjoy. Commemorative T-Shirts are also available at sites.google.com/newtown.k12.ct.us/atourcore.