Stewart Manor School’s fifth grade scholars recently enhanced their research skills during a project-based assignment, Bottle Buddy Biographies.

They selected and focused on a well-known individual who inspired them the most. Throughout April, the scholars researched their inspirational figure by reading biography books from the school library, public library and their classroom library. Equipped with their newfound knowledge, they created lap books to showcase the person’s life, education, challenges and achievements, legacy and interesting facts, and inspiration. Utilizing nonfiction text features, the scholars also displayed major events and character traits on their lap books. As this project taught them how to effectively research, they also learned how to properly cite their sources.

The fifth graders brought their projects to life with creativity, crafting imaginative bottle-head replicas of their chosen historical figures. Blending art and public speaking, they showcased their artistic creations alongside their lap books and presented their work using expressive speech and storytelling to bring their figures' stories to life.

Date Added: 5/6/2025

Covert Avenue School scholars in grades K-2 celebrated Autism Acceptance Month with a special visit from local author Amy McCoy on April 28. McCoy, a disability educator and autism parent, recently published her third book, “Katie Finds Her Voice: A Story about Autism.” The children’s book is about first grader Katie and her older brother, Mikey, who is autistic.

During the assembly, McCoy spoke about her journey as a mother of an autistic child and how that experience motivated her to become an author. She discussed what autism is and the ways it can influence a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others. Additionally, McCoy shared her writing process and how an idea can eventually turn into a story. Along with sharing some pages from “Katie Finds Her Voice: A Story about Autism,” McCoy inspired the students to be kind, especially to those who might be different. The assembly concluded with a Q&A, where the scholars were able to ask McCoy questions about her family, books and writing. 

Each scholar received a copy of McCoy’s book from Principal Mary Natoli.

Date Added: 5/5/2025

Alden Terrace School’s second grade scholars became arcade game designers and developers during a STEAM program, “Game On,” presented by the Long Island Children’s Museum on April 25. This in-school field trip introduced scholars to video and arcade games, as well as game development.  

After learning about Caine’s Arcade, a cardboard arcade created by 9-year-old Caine Monroy, the second graders were challenged to create their own arcade game. Using cardboard trays, straws, paper cups, marbles, LED lights and paper, the scholars crafted their own games. As they were tasked with only using the supplies given to them, they utilized problem-solving, creativity and innovation to design their games.  

At the conclusion of the outreach program, the scholars excitedly played their new games, which they were able to take home.  

Click here to view the Elmont’s Alden Terrace School students participate in ‘Game On’ STEAM program slideshow.

Date Added: 5/2/2025

Clara H. Carlson School sixth graders hosted their own Olympics on April 11 as a culmination to their history unit on Ancient Greece.

Through the unit, the sixth grade scholars utilized the G.R.A.P.E.S. method to learn about key components of the Ancient Greece city-states Athens and Sparta, including geography, religion, achievements, politics, economics and society. They studied the Olympics, learning how the athletic and religious festival honored the Greek God Zeus and served as a unifying event for the city-states.

Dressed in their respective team colors, the sixth graders applied their newfound knowledge of the Olympic games in the gymnasium. Separated into teams, the scholars participated in events based upon the Olympic games, including the javelin throw, discus throw, chariot racing and relay racing. The games, which are an annual tradition at the school, were organized by physical education teachers Mary Delahanty and Glenn Saenz.

Following the spring break, the sixth graders will reconvene and review what they’ve learned through a fun rap battle activity, in which they will compare Athens and Sparta through lyrics. Additionally, Ancient Greece continues to be a theme in their ELA lessons, as they will begin reading the “Percy Jackson” series this spring.

Date Added: 4/28/2025