Merryhill Child Care Center students recently learned about Newtown history and drew roosters.

Students in Merryhill preschool teacher Abiane Barrett's class spent all of last week talking about Newtown and its community. Students began by talking and learning about various Newtown facts, including that Newtown was founded in 1705 and the rooster is the town's official emblem.

Students excitedly drew roosters following Barrett's step-by-step instructions, with each one adding their own personal touches.

Merryhill Child Care Center Director Karen Serke said that creating learning experiences for children their community and their community's cultural resources "is a valuable part of our curriculum, especially as a National Association for the Education of Young Children-accredited program."