Edna Louise Spear Elementary School honored Patriot Day with meaningful activities and reflections. The school invited everyone to join in the observance by wearing red, white, and blue in support of the day.

“Patriot Day is a time for reflection and honoring the values that bind us together,” said Edna Louise Spear Principal Amy Laverty. “Through these engaging and thoughtful activities, our students gained a deeper understanding of heroism and resilience while contributing to a collective remembrance.”

This year, each grade level engaged in various classroom lessons and activities that highlighted the themes of heroism, resilience, and hope. For example, first-grade students channeled their creativity into crafting projects that celebrated the spirit of Patriot Day. Second grade students wrote about their heroes and transformed their stories into a quilt. The collaborative quilt symbolized the diverse and inspiring acts of heroism that resonated within the community. Third grade students read This Very Tree by Sean Rubin, a poignant story of a Callery pear tree that survived the events of September 11 and became a symbol of resilience and hope. Following the reading, students created watercolor paintings inspired by the themes of recovery and growth found in the story. Fifth grade students composed essays about their heroes as part of their reflection on Patriot Day. They explored the qualities and impacts of these influential figures.

Date Added: 9/16/2024

Edna Louise Spear Elementary School is thrilled to announce the successful conclusion of its Extended School Year (ESY) program. This year's ESY, which served students in grades K-8, was an enriching experience filled with engaging, hands-on learning opportunities that extended beyond the traditional classroom setting.

Throughout the summer, students participated in many lessons, including animal life, undersea creatures, the 2024 Paris Olympics, and life in the circus. These themes provided a vibrant backdrop for students to explore new concepts and develop skills through interactive and creative activities.

In addition to classroom learning, students attended captivating in-school assemblies. A special thank you goes to SEPTA for sponsoring a memorable visit from Jester Jim, whose performance delighted and entertained students. Another highlight was the session with Cornell Cooperative, which provided valuable educational experiences and insights.

Additionally, students enjoyed weekly visits from Love on a Leash therapy dogs, who brought joy and comfort to the classrooms, contributing to a positive and supportive learning environment. The ESY program featured several exciting field trips, including a visit to the Holtsville Ecology Center, where students explored nature and wildlife, and a fun-filled outing to Port Jeff Bowl, offering recreational and social experiences.

At the end of the program, students and staff participated in a festive field day to celebrate students’ achievements and the program’s success.

Date Added: 8/21/2024