Region In Review
February 11, 2022
Drone Mapping
Agriscience students pilot a drone to take aerial photos of the school grounds as the first step in the process of planning new landscaping areas surrounding the school.
Due to the high level of accuracy the images provide, they will be beneficial in the planning and design portion of the project.
The addition of drone mapping into the landscape architect’s resources has been known to save time and reduce costs not only in the conceptual portion of landscape architecture but also when it comes to measuring and documentation.
It’s also much more fun!
Elementary Schools Value Diversity and Inclusion
“Diversity and inclusion are about giving value to every
human being no matter our differences.”
-Unknown
February is National Black History Month. Our goal at the elementary level is to discuss and celebrate all of the contributions that African Americans have made in service to this country and the world. While February is certainly a month to recognize and celebrate African Americans, it’s equally important to have ongoing discussions about diversity. America is a country known for its rich diversity, and our goal as a Region is to teach students how to celebrate and embrace all types of diversity.
Diversity is one of those BIG IDEAS that must be woven into the work of every educator. Diversity promotes a climate of inclusion and creates a sense of belonging and respect for others. It also broadens experiences that foster acceptance for others within the larger context of community.
Developing a positive school climate is foundational to promoting a culture of diversity and inclusion. At each elementary school, the staff is committed to fostering a sense of belonging for all students and their families, and makes plans to teach and reinforce social skills that promote empathy, respect, and understanding for one another.
Books can serve as a window into lives and cultures that students might not otherwise be exposed to. Picture books can often teach profound lessons about acceptance, diversity, and identity that will stick with children for years to come. Some examples include: The Colors of Us by Karen Katz, The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family by Ibithaj Muhamma, and Sulwe by Lupita Nyong'o.
Teachers purposefully integrate a wide variety of activities that reflect various individuals in history, science, sports and more to apply research skills and capture the essence of diversity. Diversity is also celebrated through the arts such as the Embracing Our Differences Organization initiative where students in fourth and fifth grade created art and artist statements to reflect their understanding of diversity in our world.
Building connections and helping students see that their understanding and contributions will have a potential impact on the world around them can help our students look outside of themselves and take action to help others with respect and empathy.
Directors of Photography
Digital Design Lab students in eighth grade are learning how to use cameras and tripods to compose a series of videos that include the rule of thirds: close-up shots, mid shots, long shots, dutch angles, pan, and tilt shots. Students are also practicing a variety of other compositional techniques.
Model UN at Harvard University
Led by advisor Chris Dennis, Shepaug students traveled as delegates to Harvard University to take part in the sixty-ninth session of the Model United Nations event as it returned to an in-person format.
This year, Shepaug represented the United States and joined 4,000 other high school delegates to engage in a diplomatic session and discuss solutions to problems impacting individuals around the world.
Shepaug Dramatics Heads to Oz
This week, the Shepaug Dramatics stage crew worked behind the scenes while performers read The Wizard of Oz for the first time. It is a thrill to be back in the auditorium for an in-person musical. The students can already feel the excitement of bringing the wonderful story by L. Frank Baum to life.
Fliers & Upcoming Events
'Sacred Cow' Screening & Discussion
If you are interested in current food issues, the environment, and how these issues are relevant in today's world, join the Shepaug community on February 26, 2022, at 2 pm to watch a screening of the documentary "The Sacred Cow." Producer James Connolly will be joining us for a discussion after the film, answer questions, and engage with the community in an honest and lively conversation about the environment, meat consumption, and food movements centered around livestock and veganism. Please RSVP to murrayr@region-12.org by February 23 as capacity will be limited. Covid protocols will be followed including mask-wearing and no eating or drinking. Screening and discussion will take place in the Shepaug auditorium. This event is free to the public.
Adult Ed - Cheesemaking - registration closed as all seats are filled
Do you enjoy eating cheese? Would you like to learn how to make cheese? If so, join Shepaug Agriscience as they host another Adult Ed program in the Food Science kitchen. On Saturday, March 5 from 1-4pm, Cheesemonger Kate Truini owner of "New Curds on the Block" in Woodbury, CT will be leading an afternoon of cheesemaking. The cost is $10 per person; make checks payable to Shepaug FFA. Attendance will be limited to 15 people and Covid protocols will be followed including mask wearing. RSVP is required by February 27. Email murrayr@region-12.org to reserve your spot.
Region 12 Calendar
February 14 - BOE Finance & Operations Committee Meeting, Virtual, 10am
February 14 - REACH Open House, 2:30pm
February 14 - BS PTO Meeting, Burnham School, 3:30pm
February 14 - BOE Long Range Planning Committee Meeting, Virtual, 4:30pm
February 15 - BOE Special Meeting, Virtual, 7pm
February 21 - President's Day - No School
February 22 - Professional Development Day - No School for Students
Follow Region 12 on our social media channels for updates and information!
The Region 12 community educates, challenges, and inspires all learners to become compassionate, creative, and courageous individuals who are empowered by the knowledge, character, and perseverance to achieve their greatest potential within the global society.
Email: rir@region-12.org
Website: www.region-12.org
Location: 11A School Street, PO Box 386 Washington Depot, CT 06794
Phone: 860-868-6100
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Shepaug-Regional-School-District-12-153899298123985/
Twitter: @Region12Schools