DONALD STEWART School No. 51

2024-2025

Mrs. LeFever & Mrs. Llorente Room 134

Ms. Villar and Mrs. Londono Room 138

"Read Across America Week"

In the month of March, the students from rooms 134 & 138 celebrated Read Across America Week in the most excellent way! They participated in various events and activities to accelerate their love for reading and making rhymes. They read many Dr. Suess stories and found the rhymes that helped them create their own inside the classroom. They read Cat In The Hat, Fox In Socks, and Green Eggs and Ham! At the end of the week, they participated in Reading Under The Stars, a school-wide activity, where parents were invited to read and sing rhyming lullabies to show their parents how much they have learned and how much they love to read together. 

Mrs. Smith & Mrs. Remelgado  Room 118

"Rosa Parks"

Throughout the month of February, the children read various books in honor of Black History Month. We celebrated with different authors, artists, musicians, inventors, civil rights activists, etc. The children engaged in open-ended discussions about the great impact made by these individuals. In Mrs. Smith’s class the students learned about Rosa Parks and her contribution to history. Furthermore, they created their own work depicting a time when they were brave. The students also learned about Martin Luther King Jr. and engaged in a home-school connection project, creating posters with their families about their dreams for the future. This artwork is illustrated on our bulletin board for everyone to appreciate.

Mrs. Regalo & Mrs. Trivino  Room 122

"African Necklaces"

African necklaces have existed for centuries and are deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of the continent. These beautifully crafted pieces not only symbolize social status but also express respect, joy, and love through their unique designs and symbolic meanings. During the month of February, in celebration of Black History Month, students created their own African-inspired necklaces using three vibrant colors, following a specific pattern to reflect the rich artistic heritage of Africa. In Africa, jewelry is used as a symbol of strength and skill.

Ms. Feliciano & Mrs. Nunez Room 125

'"All About Martin Luther King Jr."

During the week of January 20, 2025, the teachers from room 125 read the story "All About Martin Luther King Jr."  The students listened to snippets of "I Have a Dream" speech and the teachers taught the students a new song called "Dr. King Had a Dream" utilizing the "Old McDonald" song tune.  They ended their weeklong celebration by creating collaborative art pieces. The collaborative artwork was based on the concept that, when many colors come together, it is more beautiful than just one color.  They began the activity by examining their fingerprints and discussing how every fingerprint is unique to everyone. They also showed the students examples of solid color-shaped hearts and peace doves and alluded to the idea that they would fill their shape with many colors. The teachers guided each student to choose one color to represent their fingerprint. They later took turns filling in the shapes with their fingerprints. When the shapes were filled completely, the students were proud and marveled at them!

Mrs. Kokoszka & Mrs. Torres Room 124

'Exploratory Play'

During the month of December 2024, the students in room 124 were actively engaged during work time.  They were little scientists at work in the Science Area sorting bugs. Some students built the White House in the Block Area using a variety of wooden blocks and accessories.  The teachers reinforced math skills through play by using a scale and pattern cards. The students also explored their creative side in the Art Area by creating amazing artwork to display on their classroom walls.

Mrs. Aleixo & Mrs. Trivino Room 123

'What I Want to Be When I Grow Up'

During the week of November 18th – 22nd, our school celebrated American Education Week. Parents were invited to work with their child to create a unique poster showcasing what their child wanted to be when he/she grows up. After the students talked about their projects, the students were invited to dress up during work-time as the professionals that they would like to be in the future. 

Mr. Acebo & Mrs. Zetino Room 135

'Counting'

Throughout the school day in October, the teachers in room 135 work with the students on counting and how it applies to everyday life. In addition to singing and dancing to songs about numbers and counting, the students are invited to work on counting using a variety of toys of choice during work time. They are invited to count one-to-one and recognize numbers during their play exploration. 

Ms. Sader & Mrs. Marques Room 131

'Introduction to the Classroom'

The teachers in Room 131 welcomed the students in September to a fun-filled school year by introducing them to the different learning areas in the classroom.   The children have started familiarizing themselves with the classroom and the daily routine. The teachers look forward to the students exploring the literacy, math and science areas among other learning areas throughout the entire year.  In addition,  during work time, students use Legos to work on building their fine motor skills, identifying colors, counting, and engaging in meaningful conversations with peers. 

2023-2024

Ms. Sader & Mrs. Marques Room 131

'Multicultural Celebration'

Our school celebrated Multiculturalism during May 13^th – May 24^th to recognize our diverse school community.  Students and staff members participated in various activities and performances that increased children’s awareness and appreciation for different cultures. In addition to an array of activities that included, International Music and Dance Day, Multicultural Dishes/Meals, Multicultural Flags/Art, Travel Around the World, a Multicultural Show and Tell, Multicultural Stories, and a Multicultural Fashion Day, the students in Ms. Sader's class shared their Multicultural Paper Dolls: (Home & School Connection Activity). Parents worked with their children to create a multicultural paper doll that represented their country and the students later showed great enthusiasm when sharing their project with their peers. 

Mrs. Regalo & Mrs. Escobar Room 141

‘Week of the Young Child’

The students from Room 141 had a fantastic time getting creative during the fun-filled week of April 8th, in celebration of ‘The Week of the Young Child’.  They made musical instruments such as colorful maracas that made the room dance rhythmically. They also built xylophones, putting together notes to create unique melodies. These activities fostered a love of learning through music and movement. 

Mrs. LeFever & Mrs. Llorente   Room 134

Ms. Villar & Mrs. Llano    Room 138

‘Read Across America Week’

During the week of March 4^th, the students in rooms 134 & 138 celebrated Read Across America Week by listening to the wonderful stories written by Dr. Suess! Their favorite books were The Cat in the Hat, and Green Eggs and Ham. But their absolute favorite activity was Reading Under the Stars.  The students welcomed parents and read together in a magically transformed multipurpose room. It was a wonderful event to culminate a week dedicated to their love of reading.  

Mrs. Smith & Mrs. Remelgado  Room 118

Mrs. Cardenas & Mrs. Renjifo   Room 122

'Celebrating Black History Month'

 Throughout the month of February 2024, the children in rooms 118 & 122 will be reading various books in honor of Black History Month. They will be celebrating different authors, artists, musicians, inventors, civil rights activists, etc. The children will be engaged in open-ended discussions about the great impact made by these individuals. In Mrs. Smith’s class the students learned about Rosa Parks and her contribution to history. Furthermore, they created their own work depicting a time when they were brave. In Mrs. In Carden's class learned about Garret Morgan and his invention of the traffic light. They created their own traffic lights during small group time. This artwork is illustrated on their bulletin boards for everyone to appreciate.

Mrs. Feliciano & Mrs. Ocasio   Room 125

Mrs. Liquori & Mrs. Vazquez    Room 129

'Celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'

The teachers in rooms 125 & 129 focused on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. throughout the week of January 8^th in commemoration of his birthday by reading the story "All About Martin Luther King Jr."  The students listened to snippets of his “I Have a Dream" speech. Teachers taught the students a new song throughout the week called "Dr. King Had a Dream" utilizing the "Old McDonald" song tune.  At the end of their weeklong celebration, the students were invited to work together to create a collaborative art piece. The collaborative artwork was based on the following concept: When many colors come together, it is more beautiful than just one color.  They began the activity by examining their fingerprints and learning how every fingerprint is unique to everyone. Teachers showed the students examples of solid-colored shaped hearts and peace doves and alluded to the idea that they would fill a shape with many colors. They guided each student to choose one color to represent their fingerprint. The students took turns filling in the shapes with their fingerprints. When the shapes were completed, the students were proud and marveled at their masterpieces.   

Mrs. Kokoszka & Mrs. Torres Room 124

'Alphabet Under Construction'

During the first week of December, Mrs. Kokoszka's three-year-old class read the story, “Alphabet Under Construction."  Students were encouraged to identify the first letter of their name and its corresponding sound. Then, during small group time, they decorated their letter for the bulletin board in the main office. If you are in the school building, be sure to stop by and see their beautiful work displayed! 

Mrs. LeFever & Mrs. Llorente Room 134

‘Making Patterns’

During the first few weeks in November, the students in room 134 practiced making patterns during work time.  They began by using different colored fall leaves from the Science Area.  Later, they culminated making their own patterns using different colored fruit in the House Area.

Ms. Sader & Mrs. Marques Room 131

Home & School Connection Activity

'Autumn Scavenger Hunt'

During the first few weeks of October, the students in room 131 noticed the changes in the leaves falling from the trees outside the classroom window.   As a result, the teacher began reading stories about the different seasons.  Parents were invited to join in their child’s learning by working on an Autumn Scavenger Hunt with the children.  Projects were displayed throughout the classroom and the students were invited to share their experiences and discuss what they had learned about the changes in the different seasons.

Mrs. Aleixo & Mrs. Escobar Room 123 

'Handwashing'

The students learned why handwashing is important to keep germs away during a sensory play activity in Room 123.  The students explored how germs can stick to their hands and make them sick.  Students explored the materials and were encouraged to predict, investigate and explore how and why handwashing is essential for keeping them from getting sick.      

2022-2023

Mrs. Burnett Room 139

Mrs. Gallardo & Mrs. Gomez

‘Sensory Play’

During the month of June, the students in Room 139 revisit working on sensory activities.  They especially enjoy exploring with shaving cream. Students enjoy how shaving cream feels on their hands and arms.   

Mrs. LeFever & Mrs. Llorente    Room 134

Mrs. Villar & Mrs. Llano     Room 138

Creating Structures to Explore Shapes, Spatial Concepts, and Teamwork!

March 2023

The students in rooms 134 and 138 have been using different materials to create structures in the classroom. During worktime, they drew blueprints to design what they would like to build. Then they worked together with their friends to bring their ideas to life. They used problem solving techniques and teamwork when their buildings were not sturdy enough or when other problems arose during construction. 

Mrs. Cardenas & Mrs. Renjifo  Room 122

Black History Month

February 2023

For Black History Month, the students in Room 122 honored Garrett Morgan who invented an important technology we use today.   One of his very important inventions is the traffic light.  The teachers began commemorating him by introducing the students to different safety signs in their environment and a dialogue on why we should follow safety signs such as the STOP sign, Yield signal and the traffic light.  After doing so, the students were invited to create their own traffic lights.

Miss Feliciano & Mrs. Ocasio Room 125

Mrs. Liquori & Mrs. Vazquez Room 129

Exploring Winter

January 2023

During the month of December and beginning weeks of January our classrooms have been exploring the theme of Winter.  We have read books, conducted experiments, incorporated the theme into our play areas as well as during our small group instructional groups.  We ended our theme with the book “Snowmen All Year” written by: Caralyn Buehner.  After reading the book for the week the students made their own “puffy” paint using glue and white paint.  They then painted their melted snowmen and thought of reasons why their snowmen could have melted.  Our students all loved making their own painting!  

Miss Paniagua & Mrs. Rodriguez  Room 128

Hot Cocoa Math

December 2022

During small group, the students in room 128 had the opportunity to count and glue marshmallows into their hot cocoa mugs. First, they ripped brown paper to glue on the mug. Next, they grabbed as many marshmallows as they wanted and counted how many they had as they glued it on top of the "chocolate". After counting their marshmallows, they completed the sentence by writing the quantity. "I have ___ marshmallows." Students were challenged to add and take away marshmallows as well while they were gluing them on the chocolate.

Mrs. Kokoszka & Mrs. Torres  Room 124

STEM Activity

December 2022

After reading the story, 'Goldilocks and the Three Bears' and discussing it at great length, the students in room 124 conducted a STEM activity in the class allowing students to work in teams to solve a problem.  In the story, Goldilocks sat on a chair that broke. As a class, they discussed ways that they could build a chair that is sturdy and could keep Goldilocks safe. First, students drew a plan of what their ideal chair. Next, they were placed in teams allowing them to create one chair for each of the story characters. The challenge was to ensure that each chair was sturdy and didn't fall. The students had so much fun working together for a common cause!

Mr. Kong & Mrs. DeLaRoca Room 119

Mrs. Aleixo & Mrs. Aliaga Room 123

'Pumpkin Exploration'

November 2022

During work time, students were invited to explore pumpkins. The teachers invited the students to look at the pumpkin and talk about the different colors, shapes, sizes, and weight of the pumpkins and compare their findings.  They were encouraged to classify them and/or experiment with their weight by holding them to investigate and report their findings.  

Ms. Sader & Mrs. Marques Room 131 

'Importance of Play in Preschool'

October 2022

During work time, students are encouraged to engage in meaningful play experiences with their peers.  Teachers model language and invite the students to ask each other questions about their play to foster language as well as build friendships.  Additional benefits of playing in preschool include building listening, comprising and negotiation skills.  

2021-2022

Ms. Sader & Mrs. Faltas  Rooms 131/135

'Week of Respect' 

October 4, 2021

The students in room 135 are celebrating the Week of Respect by reading the story 'Kindness Makes Us Strong'. On October 5^th, after retelling the events of the story, the students practiced using keywords to show kindness to others. Words included ‘Please’ 'Thank You', 'You’re Welcome', 'Excuse Me’, and 'I Love You!'  They also discussed when they should use these kind words and why they are important.  During their ongoing conversation, a student said, 'We say thank you for the food.'  As a result, the teacher and students decided to write a Thank You letter to the school's kitchen manager for working hard every day to make sure they have delicious food for breakfast and lunch.  The students later signed the letter.  Afterwards, Ana the kitchen manager visited the classroom and was presented with this Act of Kindness.

2019-2020

Mrs. LeFever & Mr. Marroquin  Room 134

Mrs. Villar & Mrs. Llano  Room 138

'Winter'

Winter is here and the students from room 134 & 138 are learning about snow and ice.  They have been experimenting in the science area and the sensory tables with different materials that will help them understand how snow and ice can change to water and then form back again into ice in very cold temperatures. This is called reversible change and the students are loving the experiments that help them investigate winter topics. They have also been learning about artic animals, icebergs, glaciers, and climate change. They continue to recycle and reuse materials to help save the habitats that they are learning about.   

February 2020

 ‘Our Gingerbread City’

Home and School Connection Activity

Ms. Sader & Mrs. Faltas  Room 131

During the month of December, the students from rooms 131 read different versions of ‘The Gingerbread Man’.  Parents were invited to take part in their child’s learning by creating a Gingerbread House. They were encouraged to use recycled materials as we continue our school wide initiative to ‘Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.’     The houses were later used to create a Gingerbread City in the classroom.  Students created 3D art to enhance the Gingerbread City.  Students were invited to talk about their projects with their peers to foster language development and to check for understanding.   

Exploring and Learning about Nocturnal Animals

Mrs. Wilkes & Mrs. Ocasio Room 125

Mrs. Liquori & Mrs. Rodriguez Room 129

 During the month of December, the students from rooms 125 and 129 were exploring and learning about nocturnal animals.  After reading “The Kissing Hand” by Audrey Penn, the students were questioning why the main character was attending school at night.  They began a thematic unit on nocturnal animals based on the student’s interest. They read and learned facts about many nocturnal animals including bats, racoons, owls, skunks, and spiders.  The theme was carried out throughout the various areas of the classroom and into small group instruction for math, language arts, and science. 

Mrs. Kokoszka & Mrs. Torres  Room 124

Pumpkin Carving

During the week of October 28, we read the book, ‘Pumpkin Pumpkin’ by Jeanne Titherington which sparked some conversations about pumpkins. Children learned that pumpkins come in a variety of shapes and sizes.  We brought some real-life pumpkins in the classroom for students to weigh, measure and compare.  Lastly, children were curious about what we might find inside a pumpkin, so we decided to carve one and find out!  We created a prediction chart where students contributed ideas of what they thought might be inside the pumpkin.  We then carved the pumpkin. Every student had the opportunity to look inside and touch the pumpkin.  We learned new vocabulary words such as pulp, seeds and sprout.  Once we finished carving, we compared students’ predictions to the outcome.

Mrs. Aleixo and Mrs. Nuñez  Room 128

Autumn Exploration

During the week of October 28th., the students from room 128 were invited to participate in a science/math activity to determine which items would sink or float.  They began by predicting if a pumpkin and/or apple would sink or float. Afterwards, they were invited to report their findings.  Students also explored the fruits utilizing their five senses.  They also measured and compared the weight of two of the apples.  Almost immediately a child showed interest in placing the big pumpkin on a scale, and the scale collapsed!  She replied:   "The pumpkin is huge! It doesn't fit, that is just for the apples."  Several other students showed interest in adding food coloring.   Throughout the activity, the teacher invited children to say more to encourage language development. 

Mrs. Wegner, Mr. Ramirez & Mrs. Williams  Room 117

Fine Motor Development

The students in room 117 are having fun identifying colors.  During the week of October 15^th., the students worked with green Playdough which also aids in strengthening their hand muscles.  This activity will assist students in developing fine motor strength as they work toward being able to hold crayons and pencils for writing and drawing.

Mrs. Smith & Mrs. Remelgado Room 118

Mrs. Cardenas & Mrs. Renjifo Room 122

Fall Harvest Hunt

Throughout the month of October, the children are using Math, Science and Literacy to learn about the harvest. We began by doing a home connection activity where the students and their families were encouraged to go on a Harvest Hunt at home. We are reading books such as “Apple Farmer Annie, Fall, A is for Autumn, Read Leaf Yellow Leaf, Apples, Let it Fall, Patty’s Pumpkin Patch, Apples and Pumpkins, Seed, Sprout, Pumpkin Pie, From Seed to Pumpkin and It’s Fall in order to learn about fall, harvest, planting, and farms. We are observing different types of leaves, apples, pumpkins, etc. We are comparing/contrasting the similarities/differences and documenting our findings in our science journals. Furthermore, we are exploring using our 5 senses as we perform science experiments by tasting apples, carving pumpkins and planting apple and pumpkin seeds in the classroom. The children are asking questions and later answering their own questions as they investigate. We completed K/W/L charts to monitor our learning and created math & literacy charts as we learned more. We drew pictures to illustrate what we comprehended from the stories and documenting our work in science journals throughout the entire process.

2018-2019

Mrs. Yuelling & Mrs. Santiago Room 147

Mrs. Torres & Mrs. Orozco Room 151

Blooming Math and Science Experiences During the Daily Routine

During the month of May, the students from rooms 147 & 151  started their Science journey by planting seeds. During this science activity, the students were very engaged by asking open ended questions and learning new vocabulary words including soil, sprout, stem and embryo. Then, it was time to observe, take notes in their journals and take care of the plants. They added a florist to the dramatic play area in which the students had many opportunities to handle money, review number value and take orders over the phone. All these different interactions facilitated a clear understanding about how plants grow around us. They students are also mastering math skills by making graphs on their own, counting and writing numbers voluntarily and classifying and sorting while having fun. For example, in the block area the structures are taking a different dimension. New structures, new learning, new possibilities that will lead to extraordinary success.

Mrs. Grahl & Mrs. Ocasio Room 142

Mrs. Millan-Berdu & Mrs. Cruz Room 146

Celebrating Diversity

In the month of April, our children have been celebrating diversity through the use of multi-ethnic dolls. Thanks to a group of kind and generous donors, our classrooms were able to acquire a set of dolls that represent all races. Our goal is to increase cultural awareness and boost the children’s self-esteem in a fun and playful way. In addition, we received crutches, leg braces, hearing aids, and glasses that fit the dolls so the children can explore everyone’s different abilities. We introduced the dolls in large group settings and encouraged the students to talk about similarities and differences. We talked about how everyone is special and unique. Then we placed the dolls in the house area for the children to use during Work Time. Our students have been demonstrating honorable traits such as empathy and compassion as they role play and interact with one another.

Amanda LeFever & Lionel Marroquin   Room 134

Think Pair Share

February 2019

The students from room 134 have been learning about pairs of objects. They started the lesson by reading the books, Missing Mittens and A Pair of Socks by Stuart J. Murphy. They later discussed the different pairs in the stories such as mittens, socks, twins, shoes, hair bows, hands, gloves, and even ears! To take the subject further they began to “Think, Pair, Share” during work time. The students each picked a shape and the student with the matching shape would be become “Pair of Friends” for work time. The students planned where they would work together, shared materials and ideas, and at the end they would tell the other students what they did together as a pair! The students enjoyed doing this activity and now “Think, Pair, Share.” is part of the classroom routine weekly!

Ms.Sader & Mrs. Faltas Room 131

Math All the Time!!!

November 2018

During work time, students learn different mathematical concepts such as counting for a purpose, identifying numbers, identifying shapes in the environment, etc. These meaningful play experiences also engage students in peer to peer discussion and fine motor development.

 Mrs. Smith & Mrs. Belit  Room 118

Mrs. Arbelo & Mrs. Renjifo  Room 122

Harvest Hunt

In October, the children used Math, Science and Literacy to learn about the Harvest. We began by doing a home connection activity where the students and their families were encouraged to go on a Harvest Hunt at home. We read books such as Apple Farmer Annie, Fall, A is for Autumn, Read Leaf Yellow Leaf, Apples, Let it Fall, Patty’s Pumpkin Patch, Apples and Pumpkins, Seed, Sprout, Pumpkin Pie, From Seed to Pumpkin and It’s Fall in order to learn about fall, harvest, planting, and farms. We observed different types of leaves, apples, pumpkins, etc. We compared/contrasted the similarities/differences and documented our findings in our science journals. Furthermore, we explored using our 5 senses as we performed science experiments by tasting apples, carving pumpkins and planting apple, pepper and pumpkin seeds in the classroom. The children asked questions and later answered their own questions as they investigated. We completed K/W/L charts to monitor our learning and created math & literacy charts as we learned more. We drew pictures to illustrate what we comprehended from the stories and documented our work in science journals throughout the entire process.

Mrs. Alvarez & Mrs. Orozco Room 123

Week of Respect

During the week of October 1^st., the students from room 123 worked on a variety of activities to celebrate the Week of Respect. Students were treated to a special reading of the story “Hands Are Not for Hitting” by guest reader Mrs. Beaty, our school Social Worker. Throughout the reading, students were invited to answer open ended questions. Afterwards, they drew an illustration of their favorite part to discuss what they use their hands for.

_{Mrs. Aleixo & Mrs. Delgado Room 128}

_{Exploring our School Garden}

_{During the week of October 1st., the students from room 128 explored our school garden.   They were excited to see what changes had occurred to the vegetables since their last visit in late June.   The students were able to see and touch some of the vegetables such as the cherry tomatoes, green peppers, egg plants, squash, regular tomatoes, and peppers.  They were excited to bring some of the vegetables and herbs grown in the garden back to the classroom. Some of the exploring with vegetables included cutting an egg plant and discovering it had no seeds. They also explored three peppers.  They have been tracking the growth of a basil plant and documenting the changes. They are excited to continue to learn about vegetables utilizing this amazing space in our school.}

2017-2018

Mrs. Yuelling & Mrs. Santiago Room 147

Mrs. Torres & Mrs. Osnayo Room 151

Exploring the Life Cycle of a Butterfly

During the month of May, rooms 147 and 151 explored insects. Children investigated using books, science tools, insects, and technology-based learning using Ipads. They created charts, webs, and drawings of what they learned about insects. Many children asked questions and made predictions during their investigations. The students were able to observe the stages of a butterfly right before their eyes!! They were encouraged to use the new vocabulary they have learned throughout the investigation and reporting process. Once the butterflies are ready, they will be released in our school garden. In the meantime, the children will continue to explore insects in the classroom as well as during outdoor play experiences.

Mrs. Grahl & Mrs. Ocasio   Room 142

Mrs. Millan & Mrs. Cruz   Room 146

Life Cycle of Birds

The students in rooms 142 and 146 have been very busy learning about the life cycle of birds during the month of April. The teachers introduced the subject by choosing to read the book, My Goose Betsy in both English and Spanish. The children learned how the main character, Betsy prepares her nest, lays her eggs, keeps them warm, and then watches them hatch. On April 10^th, the children attended a school assembly where Quiver Farms visited to teach them about chickens. They brought a hen and a rooster and then left an incubator with 12 eggs so that the students can monitor the growth of baby chicks. The students checked in on the eggs daily to observe any changes. Finally, the eggs hatched and the children were delighted to see live chicks right in their own school. The two classes also engaged in other related activities while waiting for the eggs to hatch. The teachers read many other books about birds and brainstormed a list of other animals that lay eggs. They also drew about their learning experience in their Science journals and created 3D representations.

Ms. Valente & Mrs. Remelgado Room 141

Mrs. Sanchez & Mrs. Zapata  Room 145

Read Across America Week

During the month of March, our students celebrated Dr. Seuss’s birthday by commemorating many of his books. Rooms 141 and 145 read “I Can Read with My Eyes Shut” a fun book with rhyming and silly words. The teachers reinforced a variety of concepts by working on hands on activities throughout the week. They were also invited to select a book from their Dr. Seuss library and read with their eyes shut. In the end it was unanimous, you really Can’t read with your eyes shut.

Mrs. LeFever & Mr. Marroquin  Room 134

Shadows

On February 2^nd., Groundhog’s Day, the students from room 134 & 138 did a light experiment to investigate shadow predictions. The students learned the “Groundhog Day Poem” that taught them that if the groundhog saw his shadow he would get scared and go back in his burrow and there would be six more weeks of winter. The poem also taught the students that if it was cloudy the groundhog would not see his shadow and would stay outside to play and spring would come soon. The students made predictions if the groundhog would see his shadow or not. They discussed how light makes shadows. Then, they we went on a nature walk to investigate and explore the shadows outside. They saw their shadows and the students concluded that there would be six more weeks of winter. They also traced and colored in their friend’s shadow after they reported on what they had learned in their journals.

Mrs. Villar & Mrs. Seara     Room 138

Celebrating Black History Month

As part of Black History Month, the students from Mrs. Villar’s class learned about Garrett Morgan the inventor of the Traffic Light. The students enjoyed making their own traffic lights as they learned the meaning of each color light. Red (Stop), Yellow (Slow down) and Green (Go). During work time, they utilized their new prop to engage in meaningful play experiences to enhance their learning.

Ms. Sader & Mrs. Faltas   Room 131

Measurement

(Home/School Connection Activity)

Students in Ms. Sader’s class spend a lot of time in the classroom measuring objects. Students directly compare the attributes of length, area and weight in meaningful ways during work time throughout the day. In the month of January, Ms. Sader extended their learning by encouraging parents to do similar investigations in the home. Students gather objects in the home and compare similar attributes, count, and write numbers for a purpose.

_{Mrs. Aleixo & Mrs. Delgado Room 128}

_{Exploring a Pumpkin}

_{During the month of November, the students from room 128 started a project on Pumpkins.  They began by reading numerous books and later exploring different types of pumpkins. Students explored different size pumpkins in the Math and Science Area. They also explored numerous mathematical concepts utilizing the pumpkins. They ended their project by carving a pumpkin. During this activity, the students made predictions, investigated and later reported on their inquiries.}

Fall Scavenger Hunt

(A Home/School Connection)

Mrs. Kokoszka & Mrs. Torres  Room 124

During the month of October, Mrs. Kokoszka’s class went on a Fall Scavenger Hunt. Mrs. Kokoszka sent home a Fall Scavenger checklist for students to collect with their families. Students and their parents were encouraged to spend some time at a local park to gather materials from nature to bring to school. Students then presented their findings one by one to the class. One student even completed a nature book ensuring that all materials were labeled in English and in Spanish.  We organized all the materials such as twigs, acorns, leaves, flowers, rocks and bark into separate bins and placed them in our Science Area for students to explore and enjoy throughout the year. Thank you to all our parents who participated and helped their children with this project. In addition to sharing all their findings, students also shared some fun memories they made with their families.

Exlporing Pumpkins

Mr. Kong  & Mrs. DeLaRoca  Room 119

Mrs. Alvarez & Mrs. Orozco  Room 123

During large group time, students from room 119 and room 123 explored the different parts of a pumpkin. They worked on a K/W/L chart, explaining what they know, what they want to know, and what they learned about the pumpkin. Students used their 5 senses for this activity as they dissected the pumpkin. Students cleaned out the pumpkin to get it ready for carving. They washed and dried the seeds to get them ready for planting. While working with the pumpkin, the students were exposed to the concepts of sorting, counting, colors, size, and shapes.

Math All the Time!

Ms. Sader & Mrs. Faltas   Room 131

During work time, the students from room 131 were encouraged to explore the different areas of the classroom.  During these experiences, the students learned different mathematical concepts such as counting for a purpose, identifying numbers, identifying shapes in the environment, etc. These meaningful play experiences also engaged students in peer to peer discussions and addressed fine motor development.  Teachers asked to be part of the students play experiences to extend language development and build on students' strengths so that optimal learning could take place.

2016-2017

Exploring the Life Cycle of a Butterfly

Mrs. Yuelling & Mrs. Santiago Room 147

Mrs. Torres &  Mrs. Osnayo  Room 151

During the month of May, the students from rooms 147 and 151 explored insects. They investigated using books, science tools, insects, and Ipads. They created charts, webs, and drawings of what they knew about insects. Many of the students asked questions and made predictions during their investigations. The students were able to observe the stages of a butterfly right in front of their eyes.  They used many new vocabulary words learned throughout the month. During their investigation, the students documented new information in their Science Journals. Once the butterflies were ready, they were released. This investigation sparked new interests in exploring insects inside and outside of the classroom.

Robots

Mrs. Grahl & Mrs. Ocasio  Room 142

Mrs. Millan-Berdu & Mrs. Cruz   Room 146

Students from rooms 142 and 146 have been very busy learning about robots over the last several months.  Some students showed an interest in the topic while playing in the block area during work time.  The teachers noticed that they enjoyed constructing robots with many different types of blocks.  Mrs. Millan and Mrs. Grahl discussed what they had observed and asked the children if they would be interested in learning more about robots.  As to their expectations, they were and launched the “Robot Project Approach”. 

   They began a research project by filling in a KWL chart. First, the children discussed everything they already knew about robots.  Next, they shared what they wanted to know more about. The teachers found fictional and non-fictional books about robots at the public library and shared them with the class.  The teachers also led the children in a large group research activity using the internet to find more answers to their questions.  The teachers documented the responses to their questions utilizing the information found in the books and internet and later completed the chart.

     The students were involved in many hands-on activities during the robot project.  The children designed personal robots out of 2D shapes on paper while others chose to build 3D robots utilizing materials from the beautiful junk collection in the art areas.  Many children continued to construct robots using blocks in the block area or at the small toy table with smaller pieces.  In addition, the students enjoyed dancing and moving like robots during large group activities.  The teachers and students are looking forward to one last upcoming activity which will be a visit from an “expert” in the subject who will be bringing in a robot vacuum cleaner and demonstrating how it works.

The Little Red Hen

Ms. Valente & Mrs. Remelgado  Room 141

Mrs. Sanchez & Mrs. Zapata   Room 145

During the third week in March, students from Room 141 and 145 read the book; “The Little Red Hen” by Paul Galdone. The Little Red Hen is a book about a little red hen, a cat, a dog and a mouse who live together. While the mouse, the dog and the cat slept the little red hen did all the work around the house including baking a cake. This book teaches the importance of working together and helping each other. As a result, we decided to bake a cake and work together to measure, add the ingredients and mix the cake. In the end, we all enjoyed a delicious cake made by everyone.

Winter Animals Habitats

Mrs. LeFever & Mr. Marroquin   Room 134

Mrs. Villar & Mrs. Seara    Room 138

In February the students in rooms 134 and 138 began learning about animal habitats and what animals do in the winter. We read the book Animals in Winter and were introduced to the words migrate, hibernate, hunt and gather. With each new vocabulary word, we associated it with the animals that do these different things in the winter. The parents were asked to use different items from around their homes to create a place for an animal to live in winter. Some students made igloos, bird houses, caves, and barns. All of the projects were shared with their classmates during large group time where we come together to discuss what we are learning in the classroom. The projects were a huge success and the students were photographed with their work and it was proudly displayed in the school’s rotunda.

Shadows

Mrs. LeFever & Mr. Marroquin   Room 134

Mrs. Villar & Mrs. Seara    Room 138

In Quad 3 the students celebrated Groundhog’s Day with a special shadow experiment. We learned a special Groundhog’s Day poem, made predictions if we thought spring was coming or if there would be more winter, we made burrows for our animals, and then made our own groundhogs. On February 2 we observed the weather forecast and each of our groundhogs saw their shadows which meant six more weeks of winter. The students extended the activity on the playground making their own shadows dance in the sun.

Graphing

 Ms. Sader & Mrs. Faltas  Room 131

 Throughout the school day, the students in room 131 work on a variety of mathematical concepts during meaningful play experiences.  The teachers support their learning by reinforcing the concept of counting throughout their exploratory play in the different areas of the classroom.  In particular, graphing is a great way to collect and visually organize information.  During small group time on January 6th, the children utilized mini cars and raceway mats to sort, count and help children develop this critical math skill.   

 Saying “Good-Bye” to Fall and

 “Hello” to Winter with the

 Gingerbread Man!

 Mrs. Wilkes & Mrs. Clayton Room 125

 Mrs. Liquori & Mrs. Rodriguez Room 129

 In preparation for the season’s change to Winter, rooms 125 and 129 began discussing weather changes, holidays/events to come, and reading books themed around Winter time.  One topic in particular peaked our students’ interests…Gingerbread Men! We began by reading “The Gingerbread Man” retold by Catherin McCafferty.  Our students enjoyed the story so much that we continued with this theme throughout our daily routine.  Students had the opportunity to make their own gingerbread cookies and had a blast decorating them! For math, students identified numbers, quantity, and used that to determine how many buttons to glue onto their gingerbread men. They also took on the role as mini authors and took turns creating alternate endings to the classic Gingerbread Man story.  The students especially enjoyed reading the different variations of the story, for example, “The Gingerbread Boy Goes to School” and “The Gingerbread Girl”.   

  Mixing Ingredients

 Mrs. Aleixo & Mrs. Delgado   Room 128

  On November 21^st., Mrs. Aleixo prepared a large salad for our yearly “Friendsgiving Luncheon.” As she mixed the ingredients, a student, who was the lunch helper asked if she could assist.  As she began to pour the dressing she asked, "What is inside the bottle?"  The teacher responded, "Olive oil and vinegar.”  The student soon became intrigued on the changes that occurred when mixing the ingredients.  The student said, "Look, now is not red and green like before, now is all green". Her interest sparked a Science lesson on what happens temporarily when you mix the two and how they eventually separate into two layers.  

 All About Pumpkins

 Mrs. Smith & Mrs. Belit Room 118

 Mrs. Arbelo & Mrs. Renjifo  Room 122

  In October, the children used Math, Science and Literacy to learn about pumpkins. We read books such as Patty’s Pumpkin Patch, Apples and Pumpkins, Seed, Sprout, Pumpkin Pie, From Seed to Pumpkin and 5 Little Pumpkins in order to learn about fall, harvest, planting, and farms. We observed different types of pumpkins, compared and contrasted them and documented our findings in our science journals. Furthermore, we explored using our 5 senses as we performed science experiments by carving pumpkins and planting pumpkin seeds in the classroom. The children asked questions and later answered their own questions as they investigated pumpkins. We then counted and created addition equations using the seeds. We completed a K/W/L chart to monitor our learning and created math & literacy charts as we learned more. We continued to use our 5 senses to observe, investigate and report on pumpkins. We drew pictures to illustrate what we comprehended from the stories and documented our work in science journals throughout the entire process.

 Scientific Exploration

 Mr. Kong & Mrs. DeLaRoca  Room 119

 During the week of October 17^th., the students in room 119 learned how to make playdough with soap and flour during a small group science activity.  During the experimental process students observed, predicted and reported on what they saw.  They had the opportunity to use their senses to experience the texture and smell of flour and soap, and both mixed together. Finally, they played with their freshly made playdough, making shapes and working on their fine motor skills.

 Make time for Play

 Ms. Sader & Mrs. Faltas   Room 131

 Play in preschool provides young children with valuable learning opportunities.  Offering opportunities to explore, investigate and analyze in a warm, safe, caring environment that embraces diversity while exposed to many developmentally appropriate practices ensures that the needs of all the students’ are met and optimal learning occurs.  Students and teachers gather together to discuss their play experiences during recall time.  Teachers scaffold their learning by asking open ended questions to encourage them to think deeper as well as foster language development. September 2016