Fifth graders get 'middle schooled'

MAY 2008—Fifth graders at Mechanicstown Elementary School got a taste of what middle school is all about on May 21. Students visited their designated middle school to be, either Twin Towers or Monhagen, and spent time touring the buildings, learning about school policies and expectations, and the programs available to them.

"The transition from elementary school to middle school often brings about feelings of  anxiety in children.  These feelings are typical of most children as they prepare for a new life experience.  Our middle school orientation program provides  children information and answers their questions about what their middle school experience will be like.  It helps the children to understand that they will be in a safe, nurturing environment, be challenged academically, and have a variety of opportunities to participate in extra-curricular activities," said Gordon Dean, TTMS principal.

Students learned about the academic program, arts and after-school programs, music electives, and schedules along with the usage of lockers. Students were also introduced to team teachers and counselors and introduced to Positive Behavior Intervention and Support(PBIS) services, which promotes positive student behavior in our schools.

Students create art and promote awareness

APRIL 2008—Students at Mechanicstown participated in the annual poster contest sponsored by the Orange County Alcohol and Substance Abuse Council again this year.

Students created art around the theme “Being Alcohol and Drug Free is My Responsibility,” and were asked to think about their choices with drugs, alcohol, and tobacco and to use posters to communicate those choices to other children at school and across the county.

Winners were announced at the Paramount Theater on Tuesday, April 1, and included: