Each class is learning about the elements of art. This month students are focusing on shape. 

8th graders are using oil pastels to highlight the impact of shape in  compositions. Black silhouettes lay on top of vibrant, but softly blended backgrounds to create an illusion of shadowy figures moving through light. 

7th, 6th and 5th grade are studying famous artist Henri Matisse, who transitioned from making vibrant paintings to striking cut paper collages. 

7th is experimenting with paper collage, by using various colors of paper to create an illusion of depth using 2d shapes, layered above each other. 

6th is making Matisse inspired artworks, by using paper, shape and color to create a composition that feels balanced and abstract.

 5th graders are exploring their favorite foods and creating a whole meal out of paper collage. 

What’s Happening in 5th–8th Grade Health Class!

Our 5th through 8th graders are diving deep into what it truly means to be healthy! We recently introduced the 8 Dimensions of Health—Physical, Emotional, Social, Mental, Spiritual, Environmental, Intellectual, and Financial—which together make up our Wellness Wheel. Think of the Wellness Wheel like a pizza: for a truly balanced meal, every single slice needs to be equally delicious and important! 

Students are learning that health isn't static; it lives on a continuum between surviving and thriving. Because all eight dimensions are interconnected, positive or negative changes in one area naturally impact the rest. We have also begun introducing core health skills to help students navigate these dimensions. To put this knowledge into practice, students will be working on their Wellness Wheel Projects over the next few weeks to evaluate their personal wellness and set meaningful goals. Ask your student which dimension they feel strongest in and how they see the health continuum in their daily life!