Region In Review
March 11, 2022
Project Lead The Way Ignites Curiosity
Project Lead The Way launch is an engaging science experience in which students learn through exploration and discovery. Each module begins with an engaging ebook story featuring the characters Mylo, Suzi, and Angelina, who introduce the problem that students will work together to solve. Then, in a series of activities and projects that build upon each other, students are challenged to become confident in trying new things, to learn from mistakes, and to apply what they know to find solutions to the problem.
Currently, fourth-grade engineers are learning all about energy. Students discovered a variety of ways potential energy can be stored and released as kinetic energy. They are working hard to demonstrate and explain the relationship between the speed of an object and the energy of that object, as well as to predict the transfer of energy as a result of a collision between two objects. From there, as students solve the problem of keeping an egg passenger safe, they will develop a vehicle restraint system to provide safety.
Project Lead The Way ignites students to be designers, engineers, and innovators. It encourages students to keep discovering and exploring in a playful way. Real-world problems are presented and students engage in hands-on activities in computer science, engineering, and biomedical science. They become creative, collaborative problem-solvers ready to take on any challenge.
A West Point Cadet
Shepaug owes a special thank you to Class of 2020 Shepaug alum Lily Schur, who returned to discuss her experience as a cadet at The United States Military Academy at West Point.
Senior Project Spotlight
James Wise - Writing my Album
For James Wise’s senior project, he is writing and producing an album he will be releasing in the upcoming months. He intends to make it 30 to 40 minutes in length with around 10 songs in total. Along with this, he plans to create digital media to advertise for his album, such as videos, graphic designs, etc. He wants to use the opportunity of the senior project to give him the motivation he needs to achieve this goal and to share it with the school in the process.
Harmful Effects of Empty Calorie Drinks
Energy drinks that contain a lot of caffeine can cause heart, kidney, stomach, liver, and nervous system problems such as increased heart rate, chest pain, restlessness, seizures, “pins, and needles” feeling to the skin, and not being able to sleep.
Regular soda usage weakens teeth and bones. The craving for more soda can cause good nutrients to not remain in the body as well as weight gain and obesity.
Diet soda with large amounts of artificial sweeteners such as aspartame can cause headaches, fatigue, skin breakouts and dryness of skin, mood swings such as depression, inability to concentrate, and anxiety. Increased usage of these products can weaken the bones and teeth, cause blood sugars to become abnormal, and may cause diabetes, heart problems, along with weakening the kidneys and attacking the hormones.
When thirsty – think and drink water first. If you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated. Water in our body helps to regulate our body temperature. Our age, activity, health status, environment, and fluids from foods determine why it is so important to stay hydrated. Bodyweight is also a factor. Approximately one ounce of water is needed for every pound of body weight.
BENEFITS OF WATER:
- Contains zero sugar/inexpensive compared to sugary drinks.
- Increases our brainpower by improving cognitive functioning and providing energy along with lubricating our joints, tissues, and spinal cord.
- Necessary when we sweat to help the kidneys get rid of toxins.
- Helps with weight management and loss and helps to improve our complexion. When you are hungry, instead of reaching for an unhealthy snack, drink a glass of water, it will help to diminish the craving.
- Helps to lubricate our joints.
- Helps to maintain our immune system, helps to prevent/lessen headaches, along with decreasing muscle cramps. Muscles/nerves need water to function efficiently.
- Is part of our saliva, which is important to aid with our digestive enzymes when food is broken down in our body. Our intestines remain healthy with water intake and help avoid constipation. Nutrients such as vitamins and minerals and electrolytes are better absorbed with water for the body to use efficiently. Water also allows for better circulation for not only nutrients but carrying oxygen throughout the body.
Monitoring water/fluid intake is critical for the body to function at its optimum in the environment. HARMFUL EMPTY CALORIE fluids can cause the body to develop illnesses and not maintain an efficient healthy status. Remember: Water is necessary for everyone to survive!
Edith M. Poidomani, RN, BSN, MS, NCSN
Shepaug Valley School Nurse
Dr. Seuss Week
Students and teachers at Booth Free School took part in Read Across America and Dr. Seuss Week by dressing up as their favorite characters and celebrating their favorite books.
Cheese Making
On Saturday, March 5, Shepaug Agriscience held its second Food Science Adult Education class. A class of 15 eager adults from the community signed up for a cheesemaking afternoon with "New Curds on the Block" owner and Roxbury native, Kate Truini.
The class made homemade butter churned by hand as well as with stand mixers to make ricotta, and mozzarella balls. We look forward to hosting additional cheesemaking courses in the future!
Fliers & Upcoming Events
Region 12 Calendar
March 14 - Burnham PTO Meeting, Burnham Schoool, 3:30pm
March 17 - Parent-Teacher Conferences, Early Dismissal for students
March 17 - Talent Show Auditions, SVS, 2:30pm
March 18 - Parent-Teacher Conferences, Early Dismissal for students
March 19 - World Affairs Forum, Judy Black Memorial Park and Gardens, 2pm
March 21 - BOE / Finance & Operations Committee Meeting, SVS Library, 10am
March 23 - SAT Grade Eleven, SVS
March 23 - FFA Parent Alumni Meeting, SVS, 7:30-9pm
March 25 - Talent Show, SVS, 6:30pm
Follow Region 12 on our social media channels for updates and information!
The Region 12 community educates, challenges, and inspires all learners to become compassionate, creative, and courageous individuals who are empowered by the knowledge, character, and perseverance to achieve their greatest potential within the global society.
Email: rir@region-12.org
Website: www.region-12.org
Location: 11A School Street, PO Box 386 Washington Depot, CT 06794
Phone: 860-868-6100
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Shepaug-Regional-School-District-12-153899298123985/
Twitter: @Region12Schools