In Science the 8th graders have been learning the scientific method and the importance of brainstorming, troubleshooting, and teamwork. To practice these skills, they worked in teams of three to build a spaghetti tower. Using uncooked spaghetti (steel girders), mini-marshmallows (mortar), and 2.5 cm pieces of masking tape, the challenge was to build the tallest spaghetti tower for the least expensive cost per centimeter. Each piece of “equipment” cost $1.00 each.

Congratulations to the team of Mark Gorski, Chris Dietz, and Jacob Chimera who built a 65 cm tower for $.52 per cm. There were some engineering marvels and signs of future architects.

Sr. Mary, CDS

Grade 3A loves to read and to be read to! First we heard Jackie Robinson and his show of courage. Next, ONE SMILE highlighted a young girl who saw a man who had no smile so she gave him one. He in turn helped a lady with a flat tire. One by one, the smile is passed on. Do you realize the power of ONE SMILE? Thirdly, we delighted in MICHAEL’S GOLDEN RULES. Written by the mother and sister of Michael Jordan, this book (with an introduction by M.J.) recalls a younger Michael enjoying his first love – baseball. His uncle shares his “10 Golden Rules” not just for sports, but for life: winning attitude; do your best; learn from mistakes; pay attention to the coach at ALL times; practice, practice, practice; have fun… We can apply these too. Finally, Sister Colette sent us a BIG BOOK – it is FILLED with stories – we can’t wait to get into it!!!

Sr. Rita, CDS

The students of Grade 4 are excited as we begin this new school year. As a class, they will be experiencing many “firsts” together. This is the first year that they are allowed to use a pen for all subjects (except for Math), and this is their first year using notebooks to take down their own notes.

Throughout the year, the students will be encouraged to become more independent, and will learn the study skills necessary to be successful as they approach middle school. We look forward to a year of learning, growing, and experiencing many successes together!

Mrs. Brennan

Grade 6 is off to a good start this year. The students have entered their first year of Middle School and the bar has been raised. Students have been asked to become more responsible and independent in the learning process.

On the first day of school, the students wrote in their journals about why I should be happy to have them as students. I apparently have a class of good listeners, readers, and students who love to learn. Hopefully the students will remember these wonderful qualities about themselves all year long.

We are also beginning to learn a little Spanish (un poco Espanol) this year. So far we have mastered greeting each other, and how to say the Sign of the Cross and the Pledge to the Flag.

Hopefully we will all have a very enjoyable and productive year.

Mrs. Pacinelli