KILLINGTON
updated
Wed, Mar 7, 2012 09:15 AM
Virtual Field Trips Extend Learning
Opportunities
By Loren M. Pepe, Principal
Fourth graders at Killington Elementary School (KES) relished
their hour-long session with new friends at Marcellus Elementary
School in Michigan. Maria Garland discovered that this fourth grade
in Michigan too was studying the solar system. At a recent
"virtual" meeting that took place through the Learning Network of
Vermont, both classes joined together to make solar system
inquiries of each other, as determined by each student.
Our students' displayed increased learning and engagement
throughout this process as they prepared for and participated in
this enriching opportunity.
Stargazing and the world beyond our own
By Daniel Whitaker, Grade 6 KES
Have you ever wondered what lies in the skies at night? Well, on
the night we went stargazing, we got a glimpse of the world beyond
our own. On Friday, Feb. 19, Tim Brennan, a teacher at Woodstock
Union High School, and Paul Otavsky, a docent, showed us how to, if
you look closely, see amazing sights such as the Seven Sisters, a
group of stars very close to each other; the Orion Nebula, found in
the Orion Constellation where his sword would be; and even planets
like Venus and Jupiter! It was a great experience for
everyone!
KES guidance update
By M. Hoag, KES Counselor
The Killington Kids Buddy Program is underway. It is a program of
peer mentorship where 6th grade students act as a "big brother" or
"big sister" to younger students, providing friendship, positive
role modeling and/or academic assistance. Buddy matches occur once
or twice a week at lunch or recess, and generally last for three to
six weeks. Most young children want a Buddy and it is our aim for
all who wish for a Buddy to have a Buddy!
In addition, Castleton State College undergrads will be joining us
beginning March 2. This has been a long awaited event and we are
excited for what CSC has to offer our students! Four undergraduate
students will be coming to KES one day per week, to act as mentors
to our students in a group format, held during the lunch/recess
hour. The topics of discussion and activity will primarily involve
strength based life and leadership skills, much like our small
social groups, but in a larger context with energetic young adults
at the helm! The topic of Tropical Storm Irene (the initial
plan/focus), will be a topic of discussion as well, but as an
initial lead into the group and with a focus on the strengths
gained from the experience, as individuals and as
communities.
Many parents have given permission for their children to
participate, therefore, no further action is necessary. If you have
not signed your child up for the experience and would like to do
so, please contact either Mrs. Pepe or myself, and we will be happy
to accommodate.
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KES, Killington Elementary School
