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Rex in the Classroom Archive
In this area you will find archives of Rex in the Classroom materials from past years. For each year you will be able to view an image of the Parade Bulletin, download Parade notes, and view teaching plans and student work.
2009: Spirits of Spring
The 2009 Rex Procession illustrated the universal appeal of Springtime, with beautiful images of rebirth and renewal. From Persephone to Poseidon to Eostre, ancient cultures created legends, myths, and festivals celebrating the arrival of Spring after the harsh winter. Flowers, butterflies, and bears awakening from hibernation—all are portrayed in this tribute to the renewing joys of Spring. For New Orleans, Rex's Capital City, these symbols of new beginnings have special meaning as the city continues its process of rebuilding and renewal following the floods which followed Hurricane Katrina.
2008: Royal Rivers
On every continent, and throughout history, rivers have played a central role in the growth of civilization. Ancient peoples gave them magical names, and ascribed to them god-like powers. Even the mythical underworld needed a river, the River Styx. Rivers became the earliest highways and routes for commerce, and opened the unknown world to exploration.
2007: The Lunar Realm
As long as mankind has looked into the night sky the moon has been a source of wonder and inspiration to poets, writers, artists, and storytellers. Throughout the ages each culture has developed its own interesting legends and myths to tell the story of the moon's origins and to explain its changing appearance. "The Lunar Realm" explores that rich world of stories, words, and images, and provides wonderful opportunities for students and teachers to do likewise.
2006: Beaux Arts and Letters
The 2006 Rex Parade honored the artistic heritage and legacy of the city of New Orleans. Individual floats honored artists and writers who lived, worked, and created their art in the Crescent City. The art of Mardi Gras was featured, and student work included float designs based on the 2006 theme. See these projects in the 2006 Archive
2005: Visions of Age-Old Cathay
The Rex Procession of 2005 explored "Visions of Age-Old Cathay," with floats depicting the wonders of Ancient China. Floats bore creations drawn from Chinese mythology, history, architecture, and religion, and student work included PowerPoint presentations, drawings, float designs, and pamphlets. Click here to visit the 2005 Archive.
2004: The Winged World
The Theme for the 2004 Rex Procession was "The Winged World," and featured stories and images of mythological winged figures from many ancient civilizations. From the Phoenix to Pegasus to Quetzalcoatl, this was a beautiful parade, and inspired wonderful work in many classrooms. Click here to visit "The Winged World" Archive.