Music Students Learn from an Army Pro

High School student-musicians had the distinct opportunity to meet and perform with Sergeant First Class John Altman of the United States Army Field Band. A decorated trumpet player, Sergeant Altman taught a master class focused on careers within the music industry and the steps and work he put in to become a successful musician. The day ended with Sergeant Altman instructing the Jazz Band ensemble.  

The student-musicians also gained valuable insight into the audition process and preparation, while learning the benefits of networking and maintaining positive interpersonal relationships have in relation to becoming assets to organizations not just as musicians, but colleagues. Sergeant Altman described his personal experiences as an aspiring musician and the desire he had to turn his passion into a career. He encouraged students to become well-rounded, test their limits and explore a variety of avenues in order to break into the business. Sergeant Altman also stressed the importance of academics and encouraged students to achieve higher levels of education.

Joining the Jazz Ensemble, Sergeant Altman performed and instructed students on different techniques and styles. He reflected on the day’s experiences, stating, “The students’ enthusiasm and musical interests were inspiring; it is a testament to the high level of instruction they receive from their music teachers and directors. Exposing them to programs such as this gives Deer Park students a competitive edge in planning and preparing their academic and career futures.”

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Science Gets Gluey and Gooey

John Quincy Adams Elementary second-grade students experienced a hands-on Science Workshop entitled "Gluey & Gooey Chemistry." Scientists from the Long Island Science Center visited the school for this interactive program in which students created glue using milk and other simple household materials.

The student scientists applied their measurement and mathematics skills to concoct the sticky substance and continued their experimentation, combining additional molecules to create new materials. Throughout the program students articulated their observations and made predictions as to the unique chemical reactions of the glue.

The Long Island Science Center, located in Riverhead, is an organization that encourages student enthusiasm and excitement for learning, and stimulates discovery and creativity through science exploration.

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Students Ring in the Year of the Tiger

The halls of May Moore Elementary School were transformed into the paths of a cultural celebration as students dressed in red, wore decorative masks and headdresses and played percussion instruments during their annual Chinese New Year celebration.

To commence the Year of the Tiger, students paraded through the halls singing out
Gung Hay Fat Choy!, the call of Happy New Year, and waved their origami umbrellas and lantern crafts. The dance of the Lion-Dragon highlighted the celebration as students dressed up as the mystical creature, hoisting the head and body in the air and marching together. Following the lively parade, students sampled Chinese cuisine and listened to ancient tales of the Chinese culture, learning their history and heritage. 
 

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Students Learn in a Winter Wonderland

Abraham Lincoln Pre-Kindergarten students recently found themselves engaged in an instructional and interactive winter workshop of educational tasks and activities. Special adults (parents, family members) were even invited to join them at various multidisciplinary stations designed to nurture a diverse range of skills.

Students practiced their mathematics skills by predicting, counting and sorting items. They played dice games to build number sequences and constructed a snowman in “Roll-a-Snowman.” They also exercised their hand-eye coordination through an “ ice fishing” activity of matching the letters and numbers they hooked.

In an effort to “warm people’s hearts,” as a literacy lesson students wrote letters of appreciation and inspiration that were delivered to local community outreach organizations, including the Family Service League and local veterans hospitals. Applying their science knowledge, students examined the human heart by measuring their fists and comparing the ruler results to the size of heart diagrams.

Throughout the day students had the opportunity to examine aspects of the winter season and create corresponding projects. 
 

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