School News Blast
Gladstone District • Growing Great People • 2.25.21
First graders tackle hands-on science projects
First grade teachers have planned a series of science lessons, providing kits so their at-home learners can benefit from a hands-on experience. The school's instructional assistants helped assemble each kit for distribution.
The first grade science kits included 4 different simple science activities for the week for kids to complete on zoom with their teacher. The kits included supplies to create toothpick and marshmallow structures, tin foil boats, and fake snow. Sensory bottle kits provided at a discount by Shauntel Staunton of Craft Cafe provided each child with a self-calming tool they could make themselves.
"The science kits this week provided students an opportunity to experience hands-on science through Zoom," said teacher Laura Vierra. "Our students were excited to share successes and challenges with each activity. We made connections on how scientists make many attempts before they reach success and how they show perseverance."
"My favorite part was how to build snow," said first grader Oliver Chu. "It's been exciting. I really like it because I get to hang out with my friends and it's been really fun."
Kraxberger robotics teams build tech skills and independence
Though they cannot have competitions as usual, Kraxberger Middle School’s Gearheads robotics teams are hard at work building their technology skills -- and independence! -- at home.
The students are working on a five-part series called Concept to Reality. The project challenges students to upcycle or upgrade a part of their choice.
“Students are now in phase two of the project -- Mock Up,” said mentor Shawn Price. “By the end of the project each student will have a 3D printed part. Then members will have to sell their part to a panel of judges.”
Important Dates
Every Saturday: Gladstone Clothes Closet off Nelson Rd. @ Gladstone High: 10 a.m. to noon
March 22-26: Spring Break -- No School
March 29-30: No School -- Report Card Prep & Teacher Planning
May 13 auction planned to raise funds for Gladstone kids
May 13 is the date for the Gladstone Education Foundation [GEF] online auction to raise funds for students in our community. Silent auction bidding will take place May 9 to16.
Since 2000, the Gladstone Education Foundation has raised over $1 million to support schools.
Past projects funded by the GEF ranged from John Wetten library renovations, GCCF's dental clinic, and local restaurant gift cards for struggling families to ukuleles, Clothes Closet support, and distance learning technology.
"As students return to class-rooms, we want to ensure our Gladstone students have the best possible education," said GEF President Terry Marsh.
More news about the live stream event will be shared on the district Facebook page and the weekly news blast in coming weeks.
Sign up now for spring recreation classes
Ready to get in shape, decrease your stress level, learn a new language, or build a new skill? Gladstone’s Community Schools program offers spring classes for a variety of interests.
Registration for spring online classes is available by calling 5-3.650.2570 or online at https://apm.activecommunities.com/gladstonesdcommed/Home
Spring courses include Memoir Writing, Beginning Spanish, How to Travel Free & Safely, Zumba, Pilates, and Yoga.