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black history month programming

Celebrating Black History Month at PS 59: Honoring Inventors, Icons, and Activists

At PS 59, thanks to Alejandra Figueroa’s design and planning of these experiences, teachers engaged students in a diverse array of programming aimed at educating, inspiring, and celebrating Black identity and history!

The Phoenix Explorers students are delving into the realm of STEM through the lens of African American inventors. From groundbreaking discoveries to revolutionary inventions, students are learning about the various contributions made by African Americans. 

Each grade level at PS 59 has been assigned a specific theme, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of black excellence across various domains.

In the 3K and PreK classes, young learners are immersing themselves in the world of politics as they study prominent Black politicians. Through this, students gained insight into the power of advocacy and leadership!

For 3rd graders, the focus shifts to the realm of dance, with students exploring the lives and legacies of iconic Black dancers. Students celebrated the artistry and cultural significance of dance as a form of expression and resistance!

4th graders focused on the world of athletics, exploring the achievements of African American sports figures who have shattered barriers and redefined the meaning of excellence on the field, court, and track!

In the 5th grade classrooms, students learned about civil rights pioneers and contemporary advocates. They were inspired from activists who have dedicated their lives to fighting for justice, equality, and human rights. These young students are learning valuable lessons about the power of activism and the importance of speaking out against injustice!

One of the highlights of the programming for Black History Month is the Wax Museum, an interactive and educational experience where students bring historical figures to life. 

The Black History Month programming at P.S. 59 is committed to fostering an inclusive and empowering learning environment where every student feels seen, heard, and valued. By highlighting the achievements and contributions of African Americans, the school is not only honoring the past but also motivating the future generations to fight for a better and more equitable future!

 - 03/22/2024 - Anthony Ramirez Diaz
job fair insta post

First Job Fair @ P.S. 59 The Dawn Best School: A Success!

Last week, P.S. 59 The Dawn Best School hosted a Job Fair, marking a significant moment in their commitment of empowering the Bed-Stuy community. In efforts of fostering career opportunities for Brooklyn families, P.S. 59 opened their doors to a variety of Career Vendors, offering on-the-spot interviews and potential employment prospects.

 

P.S. 59 welcomed excited families with the anticipation of meeting with representatives of different sectors and career backgrounds. Attendees of this job fair were eager to explore new job possibilities and learn about diverse professional aspirations. Among the highlights of the event were the success stories of two parents of Areté students who secured employment with State Security during the Job Fair!  

 

This first job fair was an amazing opportunity to bring the community together and foster an environment for networking. This event was the first of the series of monthly Job Fairs, each offering fresh opportunities for Brooklyn families to engage with potential employers. P.S. 59 plans on continuing their dedication to creating meaningful connections between families and employers in order to promote economic stability and social mobility. 

 

Thank you to all who attended and contributed to the success of the first Job Fair! 

 - 02/19/2024 - Anthony Ramirez Diaz
ps 59 disney production

P.S. 59 Presents Disney's The Lion King Kids!

On June 6th and 7th, students at P.S. 59 William Floyd Elementary School welcomed the Brooklyn community for an amazing Disney experience: The Lion King!

 

Weeks prior to the show, students worked hard to put on an amazing Disney performance in the beginning of June. They eagerly rehearsed and constructed their costumes by hand! A fellow Arete staff member, Solange, was in charge of doing the students’ makeup for the performance. On top of that, students were also taken to see the Lion King Live on Broadway to learn more about theatrical performances. 

Thanks to the implementation of the new Industry Room at P.S. 59, students become motivated to indulge in the arts and participate in various arts-based programming that will ultimately strengthen academic performance. Through performances, assemblies, and the physical space offered in the Industry room, students are able to explore different interests, hobbies, and passions. One of the special projects as a result of these opportunities is the Lion King Kids - Disney Jr. Production. With this special production, students have been granted the opportunity to learn more about set design, stage production, acting and character development, and even have the chance to exhibit their own theatrical skills. Congratulations to all the students and staff who formed part of this production - what an amazing spectacle!

 - 07/06/2023 - Anthony Ramirez Diaz
Etiquette

Feed Our Needs Etiquette Luncheon at PS 59

Every last Wednesday of the month, Arete hosts an Etiquette Luncheon at PS 59 where students are invited to go out to eat at a local restaurant and participate in an etiquette class. 

 

Students are invited through a selection process that involves observing their behavior during their daily lunch periods. If students adhere to cafeteria and playground rules during the regular school lunch periods, they are called to participate in the Etiquette Luncheon. 

 

On Wednesday, selected students are gathered together during their lunch period for an etiquette class with Alejandra Figueroa (Community School Director) and Ms. Crawford (Substance Abuse Prevention and Intervention Specialist). This class consists of basic table manners, appropriate body language, and properly greeting others. Moreover, students are prompted to have meaningful conversations and make friends - positive table talk. 

Selected students express excitement and pride when they are invited to participate for this event! After having lunch at the local restaurant, students return to school enthusiastically to discuss their experience of learning respectful mannerisms and getting the opportunity to go out to eat. Restaurants for these events also happen to be within the community, selected as part of the Arete Feed Our Needs initiative that supports and promotes local Black- and Brown-owned businesses. In essence,  these luncheons help foster an environment where students are stimulated by the process of learning new skills while also getting the chance to explore a new restaurant. This helps engage students with the local restaurants and establish a sense of community!

 - 04/07/2023 - Anthony Ramirez Diaz

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