The students participating in the Brush Creek Ranch program enjoyed one final science enrichment session, this time at North Park Nature Center. They were troopers, spending an hour out in the rain and mud to collect pond samples. They didn't catch any frogs, despite a valiant effort, but back in the lab, they got to see lots of little critters up close using a high-powered microscope. Next stop, Wyoming!
Eighth grade investigated what makes different colors different using a special tool called a "Phospho-Box." Inside the box is a strip of phosphorescent material, which requires a certain amount of energy to light up. After exposing the strip to various colors of light and seeing which caused the strip to glow, the students were able to determine which colors contain the most energy. From there they deduced the relative wavelengths of the colors of the rainbow. Then they extended their knowledge by exploring wavelengths of light beyond the visible light spectrum.
The sixth grade sleuths are on the case again, this time investigating the centuries old cold case surrounding the death of Julius Caesar. Were the Senators driven to action by their jealousy and rage? Did Caesar's alleged illness drive him to making rash decisions about his safety? Did Caesar's own aspirations for eternal fame and glory inflate his ego? Ask the sixth graders how they filed their charges... You'll be impressed with their evidence!
7th grade and Kindergarten had their last Buddy Activity of the year on Thursday. They started the day by researching insects on iPads, discovering information about the habitat, body, diet, and life cycle of each kind of insect. (Did you know that butterflies taste with their feet?!) They finished off the visit by enjoying some delicious munchkins. Thanks for all of the fun activities this year, Kindergarten!
The eighth grade students capped off three years of I&S with Ms. Denten with their Restorative Justice projects. Each student chose an area of study, conducted independent research, and determined the best method to achieve healing in the community. Whether constructing memorials or or awarding reparations to victims, the students learned valuable lessons about promoting justice in our global community. We are very proud of these young men and women!
To celebrate the end of the Big Shoulders Fund Economics class, our junior investors dined on delicious pizza from Jimmy's. Many thanks to Nina and Clare, our BSF Econ teachers, for helping us create and monitor our diverse stock portfolio. The eighth grade students will receive their portion of our earnings before graduation.
-There is no school on Monday, May 29! Enjoy the long weekend!
-8th grade students must meet at the main campus on Wednesday, May 31 at 9:15 AM for their class trip. Wear the class t-shirt! No backpacks needed!
-Join us on Friday, June 2 to celebrate our graduates at the Ribbon Ceremony (8:15 AM in the Church) and Graduation Mass (6:00 PM in the Church)
Happy weekend!
Ms. Denten & Ms. Scheiber