The 6^th grade students took part in a live simulation in which they worked in groups to make decisions for the people of the island of Montserrat as a volcano was beginning to erupt and a hurricane brewed offshore.

e-Missions™ are simulated, problem-based, learning adventures delivered right into the classroom via distance learning technology. With the use of the Internet and video conferencing equipment, these “live” scenarios are conducted in the classroom by a Flight Director at Mission Control from the Challenger Learning Center at Wheeling Jesuit University.

This was the culminating activity to Mrs. Darr’s meteorological unit. The students not only had to understand the science behind volcanoes and hurricanes but they also had to work as a team and make decisions about how to best evacuate people who were in the path of these storms. The simulation lasted two hours and we are proud to say that the 6^th grade were able to save everyone on the island.

5th and 6th grade students recently had the great opportunity of visiting the “Geekbus” and learning about 3D printing.  The “Geekbus” is a mobile makerspace committed to educating K-12 students about  science, technology, engineering, and math.  Inside the “Geekbus” are LCD screens, a 3D printer, and other high tech gadgets and computers.

The “Geekbus” staff taught the 5th and 6th graders all about computer-aided design software and how to use it to create prototype products.  The student’s creations will be printed on 3D printers and then donated to local charities.  The kids had a lot of fun planning and creating their products.