Panther Project

Mr. Myer’s Physical Science classes played with gummy bears earlier this week! The lab activity teaches students SI (scientific) measurements. They learned to calculate volume, make measurements of mass using the electronic balance, practice making liquid measurements of volume using graduated cylinders, and introduced the concept of making a hypothesis.  Basically, they  measure the gummy bear, put it in water overnight, and then measure it again and make observations of what happens (increases volume, decreases in density).

This week, students from Mrs. Abshier’s Child Development class planned and created activities for  children ages 2-5.  Students took turns being head teachers each day and were responsible for all the activities.   The “preschool teachers” have a great time along with learning what it might be like to actually work in a day care and have to plan age appropriate  activities for preschoolers.

The Senior High Life students presented their paraproffessional helpers with Awards for Excellence!

Senior High Life Kids Learning about the wind and enjoying the nice day!

Twelve students from Mrs. Steinkamp’s Advanced Placement Government class helped tie 57 blankets with students at Washington Elementary on April 3.  The blankets are to be given to children at the Wesley Center.  The project came about when students applied for a Philanthropy Council grant.  The Morning Kiwanis then picked up the request for funds, helping students to accomplish their goal.  The high school students met on weekends and evenings to prepare the two-sided blankets for their younger counterparts to tie.  They had to match fabrics, cut the blanket tops and bottoms to size and then cut the 1″ slits in the sides.  They also prepared a slide show to teach the younger students about the importance of community service in a democratic-republic.  After tying the blankets, students retired to juice and cookies.  The challenge for the high school students was to prepare all materials to be learned and completed by elementary-age students. When they went to the school, they quickly discovered difficulties with using “big” words and to better assess student skills for such a project.  They quickly adapted to working with the children, successfully completing the project and having a great time with the younger students.  Special thanks to Morning Kiwanis and the Philanthropy Council for making this project possible.  Special thanks also to Mr. Boyer and the staff and students at Washington Elementary for rearranging the schedule and accommodating our crazy idea.  WE LOVE YOU, WASHINGTON!!!!

Kirk Smalley, who’s son Ty took his own life as a result of bullying at school, was the special speaker at the High School this week.  In the wake of this unimaginable tragedy, Stand For The Silent was born, with the sole purpose of preventing any further bullying-induced loss of life.