School district embraces lesson in ‘Orange Frog’

By: 
Garrett Rogowski
Superintendent of the Wittenberg-Birnamwood School District.

By now many of you have probably heard about a parable we use in our district called “The Orange Frog.”

What is “The Orange Frog,” and how does it fit into what we’re striving to do at Wittenberg-Birnamwood School District? “The Orange Frog” is a short, simple to read book (45-60 minutes) that describes the life journey of a small but impactful frog named Spark.

When Spark looks at situations with positivity, he gets orange spots instead of green. Another well-known frog that goes by the name of Kermit once said, “It’s not easy being green!” Spark teaches us through his experiences on his “Pond 4” that it actually is quite easy to be green; it’s being orange that is difficult.

Orange in our district is a metaphor for someone who is a positive outlier, who chooses happiness, who celebrates the success of others, who expresses gratitude for those things he is fortunate to have and who understands the value of kindness and generosity.

In the book, Spark is left with a difficult decision: Be normal, be average and allow others to bring him to that place, or continue to do the things that make him happier, more productive and more orange. “The Orange Frog” is applicable to our school, family and life experiences regardless of age. We feel that the lessons taught in the parable are transferable to all populations and in all settings.

If you’re interested in learning more about Spark, feel free to ask your child, your child’s teacher or any staff member. Happiness is a choice, happiness is an advantage and happiness is contagious. Have a great month of November.