Read more about new teachers Ms. Santucci and Mr. McDowell, and check out the Approaches to Learning skills that help kids "learn how to learn."
We had a great turn out for Curriculum Night! I received so much feedback on how well things went, as well as some great ideas for improvement. Look for an even better night next year!
We have finally finished MAP testing. Give your student a high five because they were patient and flexible. I want to say thanks to our wonderful assistant principals for their coordination and thanks to the teachers for a smooth couple of weeks.
Allow Me to Introduce...
Ms. Santucci from our special education department, Mr. McDowell from our 7th grade science team and Ms. Alejos from our 8th grade language arts team. Read their new teacher profiles.
Approaches to Learning Skills
An important aspect of the IB curriculum is Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills. Students develop skills that have relevance across the curriculum that help them “learn how to learn.” ATL skills can be taught and learned, improved with practice and developed incrementally. They provide a solid foundation for learning independently and with others. We are hoping to develop a way to report to how students are progressing in their ATL skills by Trimester 3.
September Advisories
Advisory is a way for us to teach social-emotional skills to students so that they can be as successful as possible. These activities allow students to be more knowledgeable and reflective. This month we will cover the following topics:
- Back-to-school reflections
- Canvas Scavenger Hunt
- How well do you know the learner profile?
- Sights and Sounds of the Learner Profile
- Being a good student and embodying the learner profile
SMART Music Summer Challenge
SmartMusic is the award-winning software used by music educators around the world to enhance their programs and provides a way to dramatically improve their students’ skills. Student practice is focused because they receive immediate feedback while listening to their performance and seeing the correct and incorrect rhythms and pitches onscreen. It also allows the teacher to provide students with the individual instruction and customized feedback needed to get better faster. Below are the students that won the Smart Music Summer Challenge 2015.
Bronze Level - Ben I.
Silver Level - Dylan T.
Gold Level - Montgomery E., Simon H., Grace L., Vincent L., Rufus P., Mateo R., Cate S., and Samuel S.
OPRF Food Pantry
On Tuesday, September 15th, Brooks parent Mrs. Kristi Braun from the OPRF Food Pantry spoke with Team 7-2 about poverty and hunger in our community. During her presentation, Mrs. Braun helped students to understand what someone suffering from "food insecurity" looks like and how the community works with many local stores to help. Students responded to questions, shared stories of their own time spent at the food pantry, and asked questions about volunteering. Because of this experience, Team 7-2 teachers and students will continue to stay in touch with the OPRF Food Pantry, helping in any way needed.