Thursday, April 25, 2019—Citizenship third-graders traveled to Helping Hounds Dog Rescue to learn about animal safety and how a rescue shelter works. They were very curious and open-minded when asking questions about dog breeds and the adoption process. Our atoms toured the building and learned how to approach and pet a dog safely. They were even able to meet a few new furry friends up close! Thank you, Helping Hounds, for opening your center to help build success one atom at a time!

Monday, March 25, 2019—Have you ever wondered how ice is made in an ice skating rink? During a recent visit to Meachem Ice Rink, third graders learned how ice is formed and maintained in a rink, including how it is kept smooth enough for people to skate on. Testing the ice, they put on skates. Some of the staff working at the rink also stepped onto the ice to demonstrate how to start moving slowly in rhythm on the ice. Students had the option to use skate trainers to help them learn the basics of skating. Everyone had a lot of laughs, a lot of ups and downs, and a whole lot of fun.

Tuesday, March 19, 2019—On a recent visit to Glazed & Confused donut shop, kindergartners were treated to a freshly made doughnut with sprinkles--and a success story. Owners of the award-winning shop shared their personal experience of how perseverance and hard work made their donut shop successful. After savoring sweet treats, students enjoyed a scenic walk around the city, fully appreciating the sights, sounds, and beautiful weather.

Thursday, April 25, 2019—Noelle White, Miss Rodeo New York, came to our classroom to tell us all about the rodeo and the Western way of life. She explained the different events of a rodeo and the history behind the rodeo. In keeping with her title, Miss Rodeo serves as a role model of integrity, goodwill, and leadership, while promoting professional rodeo and the importance of New York State agriculture, including how it impacts our lives. She ended her memorable visit with an inspiring story about a cowgirl who overcame struggles to achieve her goals.

On Friday, March 29, 2019, students in Ms. Montague's class celebrated the arrival of spring by working with their hands. JM Landscaping donated potting soil, compost, sand, and miracle grow for students to compare the effects of different soil types on grass growth. The Atoms are learning about the life cycle of seed in their current lessons and will be monitoring the planters throughout spring. Thank you, JM Landscaping, for the supplies! 

On Friday, March 22, 2019, local spoken word artist, Tribe, visited our 1B class to work on literacy, and the art of storytelling through music. Following class, he joined us for our school-wide P2 Assembly and read an original poem entitled, “Are You There”, that was about our character strength for the week; Forgiveness. Tribe will be visiting more grade levels as we prepare for the talent show this year to mentor groups of students interested in original writing, poetry, and rap music as well.

On Monday, March 4, 2019, Nick Padula, a solar engineer from Panasonic visited the first-grade students. He talked to the class about climate change, global warming and the role we can play to help the earth. Students are excited to recycle, use clean energy and make a difference in our community.

On Friday, March 15, 2019, the Citizenship Academy recognized excellence amongst our Atoms. This February the Citizenship Academy held it's first annual Understanding Black Excellence contest. The contest had two categories: Writing and Illustration. Atoms were allowed to enter in either category. The results of these projects were phenomenal. Each grade had a student winner in each group. Great Job to all of our students for the fantastic work they created.

On Wednesday, March 13, 2019, third-graders at the Citizenship Academy returned to the Herbert F. Johnson Museum at Cornell University to immerse themselves in Chinese history.  Our Atoms rolled up their sleeves and practiced their hand at making traditional Chinese art; painting flowers, cats, bamboo, birds and more. The Museum taught our students about a Chinese wish-granting statue and the role of calligraphy in Chinese history. Everyone had a great time and hope to return the to museum again in the future.