Exploring Culinary Creativity: Cooking Club at the High School for Media and Communications
At the High School for Media and Communications, students are cooking up more than just great food—they’re building confidence, learning new skills, and sharing delicious creations together. The Cooking Club offers a space to learn to make their favorite foods, improve their culinary skills, and of course, enjoy the results of their hard work!
Since the club kicked off, students have tried their hands at making a variety of tasty treats, from refreshing smoothies and parfaits to sweet brownies and warm cinnamon rolls. Each session brings new flavors and techniques. In one meeting, students learned to create guacamole, perfecting the balance of avocado, lime, and other condiments to make this crowd-favorite dip. Another time, they prepared quesadillas, learning how to melt the cheese to perfection in a crisp, golden tortilla.
More than just a place to cook, the club is about connection and growth. Students support each other in learning new skills and gain confidence in the kitchen. They’re discovering that cooking isn’t just about following recipes – it’s a creative outlet and a way to share their efforts with friends.
As the semester continues, there’s plenty more on the menu for the Cooking Club. Whether it’s a complex dish or a simple snack, students are excited to keep exploring the world of food together!
P.S. 59 Celebrates October with Pink, Blue, and Spooky Fun!
October was a month of vibrant community spirit, important causes, and festive celebrations at P.S. 59: The Dawn Best School! From raising awareness for breast cancer and promoting kindness to enjoying Halloween treats, students, staff, and families came together for memorable moments.
Going Pink for a Cause
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, P.S. 59 proudly “Went Pink for a Cure!” Students, staff, and parents wore pink attire and joined in a spirited walk around the school block. The walk symbolized solidarity and raised awareness about breast cancer prevention and early detection. Families also had the opportunity to contribute $1.00 to support breast cancer research, emphasizing the school’s commitment to making a difference.
Red Ribbon Week: Life Is a Movie, Film Drug-Free!
Red Ribbon Week, spearheaded by the SAPIS Department (Substance Abuse Prevention and Intervention Services), encouraged students to make healthy, drug-free choices. This year’s theme, Life Is a Movie, Film Drug-Free!, inspired a variety of engaging activities surrounding the idea of staying drug-free. On October 25, there was a specific focus on bullying.
Stomping Out Bullying in Blue
On Anti-Bullying Day, we saw the school "Go Blue" to support the fight against bullying. Each grade participated in meaningful activities:
- Kindergarten: Colored "Kindness Matters" sheets.
- 1st & 2nd Grades: Designed "Stomp Out Bullying" sheets.
- 3rd-5th Grades: Engaged in discussions on bullying and the importance of kindness, followed by creative activities.
These moments fostered understanding, empathy, and the importance of a positive school culture.
Halloween Fun for Everyone!
The month wrapped up with a spooky yet joyful Halloween celebration. Students kicked off the day in the gym with games like Mummy Wrap and Bobbing for Apples, plus arts and crafts where they created bats from handprints. A pizza party in the cafeteria followed, accompanied with chips, candy, and juice. The day concluded with laughter-filled photos in front of a themed backdrop, using silly props to capture the Halloween spirit.
October was full of education, awareness, and fun! By uniting for causes like breast cancer awareness and anti-bullying efforts, while also celebrating with creative holidays, we continue to foster a sense of community and belonging.
Launch of Programming at our 3 Partner Schools!
This year, we are offering a wide variety of enriching after-school clubs aimed at fostering student creativity, social-emotional learning (SEL), and academic success at our three partner schools - The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology, PS 59: The Dawn Best School, and High School for Media and Communications. From middle school creative clubs to high school career-focused courses, these schools are providing a diverse range of activities aimed at nurturing students' creativity, physical health, and social-emotional development.
The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology
At The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology, which started its after-school programming on September 9th, students have access to a robust selection of activities, ranging from creative arts to physical wellness.
For middle schoolers, the available programs include:
- Anime/Manga Club
- Arts & Crafts
- Band
- BioQuest
- Creative EQ
- Dance
- Game Theory
- HLAX Boys and Girls
- Musical
- Strength & Stretching
- Table Tennis
- Team Sports
- Visual Arts
This month in chef academy, students dove into an exciting culinary adventure, starting with an introduction to the program during their first lesson. They explored the question, “What will we do in Chef Academy?” and kicked off their cooking journey by preparing a delicious pasta dish. In the following lessons, they focused on building foundational skills, including following safety procedures and understanding cooking terms. Students then transitioned into breakfast dishes, mastering skills like reading recipes and learning techniques such as flipping and beating while preparing vegetable omelets. They continued expanding their breakfast repertoire by making waffles using a waffle iron, and healthy muffins, where they learned how to bake.
As the month progressed, students tackled lunch and dinner meals, gradually developing more complex skills like altering recipes, using different kitchen equipment such as skewers and blenders, and learning cooking styles like grilling and chopping. They explored various cultural dishes, including Hawaiian BBQ chicken skewers, Mexican-style sliders, and mini deep-dish pizzas. Each lesson was filled with teamwork and hands-on learning, providing students with a diverse and enriching experience in the kitchen.
In the Strength, Stretching, and Flexibility club, students focused on building both strength and flexibility. Participants engaged in workouts like push-ups and sit-ups to develop core strength, followed by a variety of body stretches. The benefits of stretching are numerous, including injury prevention, improved muscle coordination, better posture, enhanced sports performance, and overall physical and mental well-being. This club helps foster a balanced approach to fitness, supporting students in achieving greater health and resilience.
For high schoolers, programming includes:
- Blackity
- Creative Writing
- Health
- Journalism
- Graphic Design
- Bridgeology/Salvadori/Game Theory
- Studio Art
In Creative Writing, students have started to engage in self-expression and thinking imaginatively through various methods such as poetry, short stories, comic books, songs, and scripts. In this class, free-writing will be used as a way to brainstorm, reflect, and discuss ideas. Students will also look at art to inspire their writing, followed by creating their own art through words, rhyming schemes, and visuals.
In Bridgeology, students will become exposed to the fascinating world of bridge engineering, highlighting bridges as symbols of connection and resilience. Students will explore the structural uniqueness of different bridge types, studying key components like trusses, arches, and suspension systems while learning how forces such as tension and compression support heavy loads. Through lessons on iconic bridges, participants will apply geometric principles like symmetry, load distribution, and the Pythagorean theorem to design their own efficient structures. The program emphasizes real-world problem-solving, culminating in a collaborative final project where students will build a scale model of a truss bridge, merging creativity and engineering to address community challenges. This club offers an exciting blend of teamwork, geometry, and hands-on learning.
P.S. 59: The Dawn Best School
PS 59 began its programming on September 30th, offering a wide range of day and after school activities that aim to strengthen both academic and social-emotional skills. Some of the key offerings include:
- Arts & Crafts: This course helps students develop a relationship with art, using various materials to create projects that reflect themes such as community and self-expression. The program culminates in a student art exhibition.
- SEL (Social Emotional Learning): Students partake in a social emotional learning club, part of the daytime lunch program. Anchored in the Niroga Institute's Transformative Life Skills (TLS) curriculum, this course helps students practice centering, breathing, and reflection to increase focus and develop empathy. This program aligns with CASEL’s SEL framework, supporting students in building self-awareness, self-management, and relationship skills.
- Dance: Through hip-hop and Latin dance styles, students gain physical coordination, self-discipline, and cultural knowledge while working together to create choreography.
- Sports and Wellness: This program encourages physical activity through sports like soccer and pickleball, while also emphasizing the importance of cardiovascular health.
- Phoenix Choice & Voice: A board game club that teaches critical thinking, problem-solving, and social skills through strategic gameplay.
- Phoenix Explorers: A STEM program where students engage in hands-on science and engineering projects, fostering creativity and innovation.
- Phoenix Futures: A career exploration program that introduces students to various professions and helps them think critically about their future career paths.
- Phoenix Voices: A music club that builds confidence and social connection through singing and exploring different genres of music.
- Phoenix Steppers: A unique club that teaches students how to use body movements and rhythms to communicate and tell stories through stepping.
- I Am Beauty Social Club: Focused on self-care and self-love, this club teaches students about different hair textures, skin tones, and hygiene routines while fostering a sense of sisterhood.
- Phoenix Spelling Bees: A competitive club that enhances students' spelling, vocabulary, and language skills while promoting teamwork and confidence through Spelling Bee competitions.
High School for Media and Communications
High School for Media and Communications will start its programming on October 15th. Students here can explore a variety of creative, media-driven, and technology-focused activities that allow them to express themselves and prepare for future careers in communications. The programming includes sports broadcasting, media news, edge tech, set design, and more, ensuring that students are well-equipped with the tools they need to thrive in the world of media and beyond. In sports broadcasting, students will channel their inner ESPN to report on local sports for their classmates. Students involved in edge tech will learn about resourcefulness by creating high-quality content using everyday technology found in the average American home. In media news, students will curate, write, and present breaking stories, while set design offers hands-on experience in building the theatrical environments that bring productions to life. In addition, students can explore various clubs such as dance, art, ping pong, dominoes, guitar, and improv, ensuring a well-rounded experience that blends both artistic and technical talents.
With such a wide array of programs, students at The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology, PS 59: The Dawn Best School, and the High School for Media and Communications are being offered enriching experiences that will shape their future. These schools are investing in creativity, academic success, social-emotional growth, and physical well-being, ensuring that students thrive both in the classroom and beyond.
Celebrating Creativity and Community: The Summer Rising Showcase
On August 7th, the Summer Rising program hosted a memorable Showcase event, bringing together students, families, and staff from grades Kindergarten through 5th. The event was a celebration of the creativity, learning, and community spirit that flourished throughout the summer, offering a glimpse into the enriching experiences the students had enjoyed.
As families arrived at the event, they were treated to a delicious breakfast, providing a chance to relax and connect with other families before the activities began. To add to the excitement, families were invited to participate in a raffle for gift cards. Additionally, parents were encouraged to complete a family survey, offering valuable feedback on their experiences with the program and helping to shape future initiatives.
One of the highlights of the showcase was the Gallery Walk, where families were taken on a visual journey through the summer. The gallery featured a collection of photographs capturing the joy and learning that had taken place over the past few weeks. Parents were able to see their children engaged in various activities, from art projects to science experiments. In addition to the photographs, the gallery showcased the students’ artwork, allowing families to appreciate the creativity and effort their children had put into their projects. The exhibit displayed diverse talents of the students and the supportive environment that encouraged them to explore their artistic side. As they walked through the gallery, parents also had the opportunity to speak directly with their children’s enrichment instructors. These conversations provided insights into the learning processes behind the artwork and activities, further deepening the connection between the school and families.
The showcase concluded with a series of dance performances by the students. Each grade performed a dance routine that lasted 2-3 minutes. The performances were a way of showcasing their rhythm, coordination, and enthusiasm in front of their families. The dances demonstrated their teamwork and dedication, as they had spent weeks preparing for this moment. For many parents, seeing their children perform on stage was the highlight of the event. The pride and joy were palpable as the audience cheered on each performance, creating an atmosphere of celebration and community.
Summer Rising's Trips Galore
This summer, students in the Summer Rising program embarked on a series of exciting field trips, each offering a unique blend of education and adventure. These trips provided students with hands-on learning experiences that were both fun and enriching. Here’s a look at the incredible places that students visited during their summer program.
Intrepid Museum
One of the standout trips was to the Intrepid Museum. Here, students delved into the fascinating world of American military and maritime history. The museum’s interactive exhibits allowed students to get up close with historic aircraft. This trip not only expanded their knowledge of history but also ignited a sense of curiosity and admiration for the advances in sea, air, and space exploration.
UNO Pizzeria & Grill
For a tasty and educational experience, students visited UNO Pizzeria & Grill. During this trip, they got the chance to become chefs for the day, wearing aprons and creating their own pizzas. They learned about the importance of fresh ingredients and the basics of culinary arts. The fun didn’t stop there – students were also given a behind-the-scenes tour of the kitchen. They learned valuable lessons about nutrition, safe food handling, and the daily operations of a busy restaurant. This hands-on experience provided students with a new appreciation for the art of cooking and the hard work that goes into preparing a delicious meal.
American Museum of Natural History
During the trip to the American Museum of Natural History, students explored a wide array of exhibits, from the towering dinosaur skeletons to the dioramas of wildlife from around the world. The museum’s vast collection gave students a chance to learn about the diversity of life on Earth, the complexities of human cultures, and the mysteries of the universe. This trip was a perfect blend of education and imagination, sparking students' interest in science and history.
Bronx Zoo
At the Bronx Zoo, students celebrated the zoo's 125th anniversary by immersing themselves in the animal kingdom. They explored various exhibits, encountering over 11,000 animals and 640 species from around the world. From the majestic lions to the playful monkeys, each animal encounter offered a unique learning opportunity. Students gained a deeper understanding of wildlife conservation and the importance of protecting endangered species.
AMC Theater: Inside Out 2
The journey continued to the AMC Theater, where students enjoyed a screening of Inside Out 2. This trip was not just about watching a movie – it was an extension of the program’s Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculum. The film, which explores the complexities of emotions, provided a platform for students to discuss their feelings and experiences in a safe and supportive environment. By connecting the movie’s themes with their own lives, students gained valuable insights into emotional awareness and empathy.
New York Aquarium
At the New York Aquarium, students were given an up-close look at marine life in “the sea that never sleeps.” They observed the vibrant displays of fish, sharks, and other sea creatures, learning about the delicate ecosystems that exist beneath the waves. This trip encouraged students to think about the importance of marine conservation and the need to protect our oceans for future generations.
Rye Playland
With over 50 rides and attractions, students enjoyed the thrills of Rye Playland. From exhilarating roller coasters to refreshing water rides, students had the time of their lives. This trip was a perfect way to wrap up the summer, offering a day of laughter, excitement, and unforgettable memories.
Celebrating the Final Week of Summer Rising 2024: A Week of Fun and Learning at P.S. 004
As the Summer Rising program at P.S. 004 came to an end, students were treated to a week of joy, creativity, and unforgettable experiences. Week 7 was filled with themed events that brought smiles to students’ faces and left them with memories to cherish. These are some highlights from this special week:
Jersey Day Tuesday: August 13
The week kicked off with Jersey Day, a day where students showed off their favorite sports jerseys. The day was packed with exciting activities that combined fun with learning. One of the main events was a school-wide scavenger hunt. Each grade was assigned a specific rubber toy to find around the school: Kindergarten hunted for rubber duckies, 1st grade searched for rubber unicorns, 2nd grade looked for rubber cars, 3rd grade looked for rubber dinosaurs, and 4th and 5th grades were on the hunt for rubber chickens. The scavenger hunt not only encouraged teamwork but also sharpened students’ observation skills.
After the hunt, students engaged in hands-on science experiments. Kindergarten and 1st-grade students participated in the colorful Skittles experiment, exploring the science of colors and sugar dissolution. Meanwhile, 2nd to 5th graders explored the world of polymers, conducting an experiment that showcased the fascinating properties of these long-chain molecules.
The fun didn’t stop there. In the cafeteria, students participated in a Marshmallow Tower Challenge, where they used spaghetti noodles and marshmallows to create the tallest and most stable structures they could. There was also a Stacking Cups challenge, where students competed to see who could stack and unstack cups the fastest. For those who wanted a more relaxing activity, a coloring station offered a variety of sheets for students to express their creativity.
Splish Splash Wednesday: August 14
Midweek, the excitement continued with Splish Splash Wednesday. The day began with an arts and crafts session where students designed their own T-shirts, allowing them to showcase their unique styles. The highlight of the day was a series of water-based activities that left everyone laughing and soaked. Students played Twister Splash, a wet twist on the classic game, and danced around a Cactus Sprinkler that kept everyone cool. Over 500 water balloons were on hand for water balloon tosses and battles, and sensory bins filled with sand and Orbeez offered a tactile experience for the students. It was a day of endless fun, and a perfect way to beat the summer heat!
Wacky Tacky Carnival: The Grand Finale
The final day of Summer Rising was marked by the Wacky Tacky Carnival, a carnival-themed celebration that brought the program to a close on a high note. The school was transformed into a festive carnival, complete with classic games like the potato sack race, 3-legged race, egg and spoon race, ring toss, and bean bag throw. Each game was designed to test students' agility, balance, and coordination, all while ensuring they had a blast.
Adding to the fun was a karaoke section, where students could sing favorite tunes and cheer each other on. Students indulged in various snacks and refreshments, including popcorn, cotton candy, water, and juice. Before heading home, each student received a goodie bag filled with treats.
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Programming at P.S. 004: Summer Rising with Arete Education
The Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculum at P.S. 004, implemented as part of the Summer Rising program with Arete Education, aims to foster emotional intelligence and well-being among students. This program is designed to teach students the eight basic emotions, as well as various mindfulness and relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises and TLS (Total Life System) exercises like the Warrior Pose. Additionally, students connect classroom activities with characters and scenes from the movies Inside Out 1 and 2. Art projects related to SEL, along with lessons on self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making, are integral parts of the curriculum.
The SEL program caters to students in grades K-5, ages 5-11 years. The curriculum is thoughtfully divided into two sections to match the developmental stages of different age groups. For grades K-2, the projects and activities are simplified, while for grades 3-5, the projects are more advanced, ensuring that the content is age-appropriate and engaging for all students.
The core SEL competencies focused on in the program include self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. These competencies are crucial for the holistic development of the students, equipping them with essential life skills.
SEL is seamlessly integrated with other after-school activities and subjects. Each enrichment activity begins and ends with an SEL check-in, warm-up, or exercise. On Fridays, before going on trips, students practice TLS exercises while waiting for the bus. This consistent integration ensures that SEL principles are reinforced throughout the students' daily routines.
Engaging students and making SEL lessons relatable and meaningful is achieved through various strategies. Real-life examples and scenarios are presented to students, prompting them to consider their reactions and the most reasonable ways to act. Connections to the movies Inside Out 1 and 2 are made, including a trip to the movie theater to watch Inside Out 2 to learn more about different emotions. Activities such as SEL Bingo and discussions about self-care activities like getting enough sleep, nature walks, and eating well further engage students.
One notable success story involves students mastering the Walking in a Rectangle exercise. Initially, many students struggled with this centering exercise, but with regular practice throughout the program, they gradually improved. By the end of the program, students were performing the exercise perfectly, demonstrating their growth and mastery of the skill.
The positive changes observed in students participating in the SEL program are profound. Students become more self-aware of their emotions, learn to manage their emotions and situations effectively, develop social awareness, build strong relationship skills with their peers, and make responsible decisions. These skills contribute significantly to their overall development and well-being.
Shakira Peralta Villano, an SEL instructor, finds the most rewarding aspect of teaching SEL in this summer program to be the opportunity to teach students about empathy, self-care practices, kindness, respect, and TLS techniques. She finds immense joy in seeing students learn and apply these skills independently, witnessing their growth in self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.
Edith “Millye” Rodriguez, another SEL instructor, shares that the most rewarding aspect of teaching SEL is witnessing the transformation in students as they become empathetic, resilient, and empowered individuals.
The SEL program is making a significant impact on students' lives. By equipping students with essential emotional and social skills, the program not only enhances their academic performance but also prepares them for the challenges of life. The success stories and positive changes observed in students highlight the importance and effectiveness of SEL in fostering well-rounded, emotionally intelligent individuals.
Celebrating the Class of 2024's Heroic Literacy Achievements at MS/HS 223: The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology
In a district where literacy rates present a significant challenge, the accomplishments of the Class of 2024 at The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology are significant. In District 7, only about 30% of students achieve proficiency in English Language Arts (ELA) tests across various grades, according to the New York State Education Department. Despite these statistics, the students at 223 have made remarkable strides, setting themselves up for success as they transition from middle school to high school. In 2023, across all grade levels, 55% of students at MS 223 achieved proficiency in English Language Arts. This significant achievement highlights the school's efforts in overcoming the broader literacy challenges in the district.
Overcoming Literacy Challenges
Ms. Emily Haines, an educator at 223, has witnessed firsthand the incredible progress made by this year's graduating class. "When students arrive in the 6th grade without the ability to decode, there's a real risk they won't reach grade-level reading proficiency by graduation," she explains. "At 223, we take pride in teaching from the ground up, ensuring that no student is left behind."
This bottom-up approach has yielded significant results, with students like Emily Uribe and Gianni Villano, demonstrating notable improvements in decoding, reading comprehension, and fluency. Their success stories highlight the effectiveness of 223’s commitment to tailored instruction and support.
Building Critical Skills for the Future
Preparing students for the rigors of high school is a multifaceted process at 223. The middle school curriculum is designed to build critical thinking and essential skill sets needed to meet high school graduation requirements. One unique aspect of the preparation involves pre-Performance Based Assessment Tasks (prePBATs), which help students develop the analytical and problem-solving abilities that will be crucial in their high school years.
Ms. Haines notes, "Although middle school and high school are different, being part of a Consortium allows us to align our curriculum with the expectations of high school. This way, our students are not just meeting but exceeding the standards set for them."
The heroic literacy gains of the Class of 2024 are a testament to the dedication of the teachers and the resilience of the students at 223. As students move on to high school, they carry with them the skills, confidence, and determination to continue their academic journey successfully!
Middle Schoolers Take Charge: Financial Literacy and Health Awareness in District 7
At the start of 2024, the D7 Superintendent announced that a W!SE Financial Literacy Program would be open to middle school students and families across the district. Eighth graders from across District 7 were invited to apply. MS/HS223 Principal Eric Lincoln invited Arete Education to provide a career connected learning internship experience modeled on the successful 10th Grade Week Without Walls partnership with RTW Charitable Foundation in January 2024. Both MS 224 and MS 343 sent middle school students to participate with MS/HS 223 students in the internship experience on Saturdays throughout March and April.
A total of 25 students successfully completed 4 financial literacy classes held at PS 5 on Saturdays in March and completed 20 hours of internship experiences with Arete Education and RTW on Saturday afternoons in March and all-day Saturday sessions in April. MS/HS223 faculty Quanell Lopez, Sean Robinson, and Trinese Davis worked alongside Arete consultant Sarah Benis Scheier-Dolberg to facilitate the cross-school partnership for D7 W!SE participants. In the final weeks of the internship, Industry Scholar Program (ISP) Interns with Arete’s Communications team joined the students to provide peer mentoring as the D7 W!SE students completed their social media campaigns to inform their communities in the Bronx about common diseases in their neighborhoods like asthma, diabetes, breast cancer, lupus, hypertension, and strokes.
On April 19th, the cohort of 25 students from MS/HS223, MS 224, and MS 343 presented what they learned through a Financial Literacy Expo held at Metropolitan College of NY - Bronx. They were supported by their high school mentors in the ISP program with Arete, 10th graders in Mr. Robinson’s finance class at MS/HS223, and the teaching team.
During the Expo, Arete ISP Interns had the chance to interview some participants. Essence, a MS/HS223 eighth grader participating in the D7 W!SE Financial Literacy Program, shared her insights on what she has learned through the internship portion of the program with Arete Education and RTW. When asked what she learned about strokes, she said “I learned that it affects your brain and the way it works, and if it's really serious, one part of your brain dies. I didn’t know that.” Through this internship experience, students learned about diseases that greatly affect the Bronx, and perhaps more importantly, how and why it is important to prevent them. This knowledge allowed the students to create incredible social media campaigns to spread awareness, but also to be more cautious of their own habits and prevent themselves from getting these diseases. Prevention starts with education!
Mr. Robinson, a finance and D7 W!SE instructor at MS/HS223, expressed the growth he has seen in the students since they started the program. “There were some young people who didn't necessarily think they were able to do this, they didn't have confidence in themselves or their ability to present, but they really did an amazing job today. I believe that it will carry on moving forward in the rest of their classes.” He highlights the benefits of this program beyond the information the students learned about common diseases in the Bronx. The students also honed in their soft skills and built habits that will help them in school.
Lisbeth Turbides Baez and Ariana Rianos, 2 Arete ISP Interns who attended the event, offered their perspectives on the program as mentors and observers of the students’ work. Ariana said, “When I saw how all the students were working together, I knew I would have loved working with my classmates and being able to be proud of our project. I would have enjoyed learning about these diseases and being able to help others be aware.” Lisbeth echoed this sentiment, “I would have loved to experience something like this while I was in middle school. A lot of the skills these students develop are skills that I developed in highschool.”
The D7 W!SE Program has been incredibly transformative for the students who participated. The students learned about common diseases in the Bronx, ways to prevent and spread awareness of them, Canva skills, teamwork skills, financial literacy, and so much more. As the students continue their academic journeys, they will be able to harness these skills and advance their learning.
Nurturing Dance and Music in Education: Highlighting Dance Clubs at Partner Sites
Programming at Arete Education’s 3 partner school sites redefines the learning landscape by integrating dance clubs into the afterschool curriculum. These clubs offer students a unique opportunity to receive dance training within the school environment. By fostering creativity, confidence, and community, Arete Education’s dance programming ignites a passion for the arts and enriches students' educational experiences!
At PS 59: The Dawn Best School and The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology, SNS Artistry emphasizes the importance of dance and music in education. Their mission is clear and compelling: to provide students with the opportunity to receive quality training in dance and music within the school system. By doing so, they aim to ignite a lifelong passion for dance and music in young minds.
SNS Artistry's approach to teaching is as diverse as their student body. Catering to all grades and groups, they understand that each student is unique. The structure of their programs depends on the attention level, ambition, and enthusiasm of each group. Whether it's hip-hop, salsa, or bachata, the dance styles taught are chosen based on the students' ability to comprehend and understand timing, rhythm, and retention.
One of the significant incentives for students is the love for dance and music that SNS Artistry fosters through their sessions. This passion is showcased through end-of-season performances. These performances are a way for students to exhibit the skills they have learned in front of an audience, boosting their confidence and sense of achievement. Additionally, these performances are more than just a showcase of talent; they are a celebration of hard work, dedication, and community.
The success stories emerging from SNS Artistry's programs are numerous. Many students remain in the program throughout their school years, eventually joining dance companies outside the classroom. The program's impact goes beyond teaching dance moves; it builds confidence, emotional intelligence, and perseverance. Students learn to push through challenges, influencing a growth mindset that serves them well, not just in dance but with academic and social development.
Moreover, the program promotes the development of lifelong friendships. Students from different age ranges and with varied interests come together through dance. This community helps them develop essential interpersonal skills.
For the instructors, Steven and Steffani, the most rewarding part of their work is watching the students grow. There is immense joy in seeing young, bright minds evolve into confident individuals. The journey doesn't end when students leave the school; many keep in touch, and teachers witness their progress as they grow older.
“It's a blessing to see these young individuals become who they were meant to be!” - Steffani
Through these programs dedicated to dance, students gain more than just artistic skills. They learn about determination, build friendships, and develop a love for the arts that lasts a lifetime!
A Colorful June Celebration at P.S. 59: Welcoming Summer and Honoring Hard Work
In June, Arete proudly celebrated the students of P.S. 59 with two joyous events: the Celebration of Colors and a vibrant carnival. These events were not just a way to honor the students' dedication and perseverance throughout the academic year but also to mark the beginning of summer!
Celebration of Colors
On June 20th, the Celebration of Colors was a lively and heartwarming event designed to acknowledge the students' hard work in preparing for and completing major assessments and exams, celebrate the accomplishments of graduating students, and welcome the summer season. The event was filled with vibrant colors, symbolizing the diverse and dynamic community of P.S. 59. It was a time for students to unwind and enjoy the festive atmosphere after the rigors of their academic endeavors!
Carnival Fun
On June 10th, the carnival brought a wave of excitement and joy to P.S. 59. Students had a blast jumping inside the bouncy house, getting their faces painted with colorful designs, roller skating, and engaging in fun carnival games!The carnival also featured a variety of differently-shaped balloons, adding to the fun and playful environment. The school grounds echoed with laughter and cheer as students enjoyed the numerous activities and celebrated the end of a challenging yet rewarding academic year!
As the academic school year came to an end, P.S. 59 was transformed into a haven of joy and companionship, filled with smiles and laughter, as the school community came together to celebrate the end of the school year and the beginning of summer. These events highlighted the importance of taking time to appreciate and celebrate achievements, fostering a sense of unity and pride within the school!
Celebrating Student Success: Films by Sebanyah Buckmire and Audrey Taveras Shine at NYC Public School Film Festival
We are thrilled to announce the remarkable achievements of two of our talented students, Sebanyah Buckmire and Audrey Taveras, whose films were selected for the prestigious NYC Public School Film Festival! Sebanyah's "In My Head" and Audrey's "It Girl" received unanimous acclaim from the festival judges and have been awarded the highest honors. These outstanding films were showcased at the NYC Public School Film Festival, an event that honors diverse student voices, hosted by The Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment.
About the Films
"In My Head" by Sebanyah Buckmire
Sebanyah Buckmire's film delves into the complexities of mental health, exploring the anxieties and depression of youth. The film's poignant narrative and evocative visuals demonstrate how mental illnesses can be overlooked by anyone.
"It Girl" by Audrey Taveras
Audrey Taveras' "It Girl" presents a sharp and insightful commentary on how oftentimes people tend to conceal their internal struggles based on social pressures, leading one to spiral into depression and loneliness.
In addition to their films being recognized at the festival, Sebanyah Buckmire and Audrey Taveras were featured in an interview on CBS Mornings on May 13th. They joined Patricia Kaufman, the Commissioner of the Mayor’s Office for Media and Entertainment, to discuss their films and the impact of this achievement!
The selection of these films for the NYC Public School Film Festival and being featured on CBS is a testament to the hard work, talent, and vision of Sebanyah and Audrey. It also highlights the supportive and nurturing environment at The High School for Media and Communications, where students are encouraged to pursue their artistic passions and develop their storytelling abilities! We also appreciate the invaluable support and contributions of La Sala Talks to the success of these students.
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