David Leonard prepared a hands-on activity for the 5th-grade science students today as part of our unit on life sciences and food webs. The students conducted an owl pellet dissection, allowing them to explore the diets of owls firsthand. They carefully examined the bones and fur within the pellets, identifying the remains of small rodents and other prey. This hands-on activity helped students deepen their understanding of food webs and predator-prey relationships in ecosystems.
Our third graders had an amazing opportunity to become animal experts and share their knowledge with their peers, parents, and staff! After conducting in-depth research, they created detailed reports, eye-catching slideshows, and creative dioramas to showcase the animals they had studied. Each class presented their projects, and guests from other grades, parents, and staff came to explore the incredible displays. The students beamed with pride as they shared fascinating facts and stories about their animals. It was a thrilling and educational experience that highlighted their hard work and enthusiasm!
Mrs. Bogart transformed the classroom into a cozy "Starbooks" café, offering students an unforgettable book-tasting experience! In this inviting coffee shop-style setting, students sipped on hot chocolate and enjoyed delicious cupcakes and cake pops while exploring a variety of book genres. This unique event highlighted the importance of reading as a gateway to knowledge, creativity, and personal growth. Mrs. Bogart's passion for books inspired students to explore new stories, develop their reading skills, and appreciate the endless possibilities that come from immersing themselves in literature!
First grade just went to Armstrong Woods and had a blast. They explored the trails and learned about the giant redwoods. The students were excited to see all the wildlife and breathe in the fresh forest air. It was a memorable adventure for everyone!
Today, I had the opportunity to shadow one of our Student Interns, Dianet, and gain insight into the valuable experiences she has while working with the students. Dianet plays an essential role during lunchtime, helping to create a positive and organized environment for the students. Beyond that, she has been actively involved in supporting the students' learning and creative projects.
One of the highlights of the day was seeing the students' art project, which was part of their ongoing lessons about winter and historical survival techniques. With Dianet's guidance and support, the students worked together to build two igloos using newspaper and glue. This hands-on project helped the students learn about the history of indigenous groups, such as the Inuit, who traditionally built igloos as winter shelters. The students gained insight into how these groups used the igloos to stay warm and protected in harsh, cold environments.
Dianet not only helped facilitate the construction of the igloos but also assisted with painting and decorating them. Her hands-on approach, along with the collaborative efforts of the students and staff, made the project a success. It was clear that her support and encouragement contributed to the students' confidence and excitement as they worked together to bring their igloos to life.
Overall, shadowing Dianet today gave me a deeper understanding of the invaluable role that Student Interns play in fostering creativity, teamwork, and learning in the classroom. It was inspiring to see her build strong connections with the students while contributing to their educational experiences in such a meaningful way.
Our first grade classes have been diving into a 5-week "Our Community" unit in Wonders! As part of this exciting learning journey, Jenna Mitchem, the Events and Marketing Coordinator for the Calistoga Chamber of Commerce, visited our students to talk about her role, the community events she helps plan, and all the wonderful things Calistoga has to offer. She also led a fun activity where the students had the chance to draw what they think Calistoga might be missing and what they’d love to see in our community!
Under Ms. Farland's guidance, our junior high structured literature class had the chance to participate in a hands-on creative experience. After reading the book Hatchet, students were given time in class to use natural materials to build models of outdoor shelters. This activity allowed them to apply their insights from the book as the main character also built a shelter when he got stranded and also encouraged teamwork and enhanced their problem-solving skills.
Our students from Melissa Davis' class had the opportunity to spend an entire day at Challenge Sonoma in Jack London Park. They stepped out of their comfort zones, participating in activities like climbing trees 50 feet high, navigating a ropes course, and engaging in various team-building exercises.
Carla Surber, College and Career Coordinator and AVID Director, facilitated a lesson for our 7th grade students using the californiacolleges.edu platform. This lesson helped students identify their interests and explore related careers. After completing an assessment on the platform, each student received results detailing their interest profile, categorized into realistic, investigative, artistic, social, and conventional areas. Mrs. Surber emphasized the importance of pursuing a career that aligns with their passions.
In the US Government class, taught by Marion Villalba, students were surveyed about their preferred learning methods, and one of the top choices was presentations. As part of the syllabus for Unit 2: The Legislative Branch, students will examine the structure and processes of Congress, focusing on both the House of Representatives and the Senate. The classes will discuss the legislative process, including how bills are introduced, committee hearings, and floor debates. To support this learning, Ms.Villalba decided to have students create presentations based on bill introductions that would benefit our community, which they put together and presented for feedback to our council members and active residents. Students completed thoughtful presentations and research within a week, covering funding, related laws, amendments, and findings. The topics that the students chose to research and present on were: Enforcing No Smoking in Public Parks, Staple Store, City Card for Local Discounts, Behavioral Guidance Act, Affordable Housing, Student Transportation, Affordable Gym Membership for Locals, Hotel/Inn Discounts for Local Families, Local Startups, 24-Hour Vet Clinic, Athletic Boosters, Health Clinic, Sports Fields, and a Youth Center. The image attached shows a group of students getting feedback from our council member Lisa M Gift on their presentation on the importance of adding sports fields.
Star Spangled Social And Parade 2024
Join Us For A Community Wide Celebration
in our lovely little town of Visit Calistoga!
Thursday, July 4, 2024 - Parade 11 AM - 12 PM
😀After the parade, make your way over to Pioneer Park, where you can dance and sway as local musicians play the day away.
😀Bring your own picnic or grab refreshments from one of our food vendors, and the Celebrate! beverage station. Shop from our local maker's booths, enjoy a fun filled afternoon of face painting, lawn games, music, and a few fun surprises.
😎As the day cools down the party heats up. Stick around for our grand finale laser light show in the park after dark. A spectacular not to be missed!
Star Spangled Social After Parade Celebration
2PM-8PM
Join us in the park (and just over the bridge) and enjoy the following offers Food Court Sponsored by El Tacos Los Feliz Including cuisine by the following
El Tacos Los Feliz
Local Q
Mini Pancakes
Cheese and Crust
Pink Elephant Concessions
😁
Back by popular demand:
Bounce Houses, climbing wall, mechanical bull.
There will be 2 areas designed for maximum comfort and safety,
Kid Zone 0-12 (ish)
12 (ish) and up
If you have any doubts about your child's size/abilities, check with the Party Jump staff and they will guide you to the best experience for your child.
Carnival Style Skill games- operated by our generous volunteers and service groups.
Tickets and wristbands will be on sale during the event.
Wristbands are for bounce houses only. Carnival game tickets sold separately.*
*Proceeds from carnival games will benefit the organization operating each station and will be tracked via tickets.
Live Performances 2 PM - 10 PM
In & Around The Gazebo
Star Spangled Social Performances:
Star Spangled Social - Performance Line Up
Back by popular demand! Dance the night away under the spectacular laser light show from the creative minds at ELS Lasers
*Lineup subject to change
Upcoming CBOC meeting
The Citizens' Bond Oversight Committee Meeting Agenda for May 3, 2023 has been posted and can be viewed on the cork board outside the District office or on the Oversight Committee (CBOC) page under the agendas folder.
Upcoming Citizen's Bond Oversight Committee Meeting
The Citizens' Bond Oversight Committee Meeting Agenda for May 3, 2023 has been posted and can be viewed on the cork board outside the District office or on the Oversight Committee (CBOC) page under the agendas folder.
