REignite is our intensive TIER III program offering within Gifted and Talented Education.  REignite classes were initially  running on a cycle basis but we were able to change to almost a full year beginning in February.  Classes taught by Ms. Proda and Mr. Irons had to wait until they switched school locations.   Please refer to the Schedule & Contacts page for more information about when each REignite class meets and who is teaching each class.

This page will contain information about what is going on in each REignite class and will be updated as the year progresses.  Teachers created newsletters throughout the year and these will be shared here as they are released.

March 2024

REignite Grades 1 & 2 Parent Update  

I wanted to take a moment to share with you some of the activities and learning experiences that your children have been engaged in during our Thursday REignine class. 

We began our learning this school year with an exploration of the scientific method. Students experimented with bubbles, mixing their own bubble solution and testing different wand shapes. They also devised their own experiment, investigating the effects of various liquids on different materials, which they continue to observe.

Students were introduced to deductive convergent thinking. Through puzzles and problem solving activities, they have been honing their ability to piece together clues and arrive at logical conclusions. It has been rewarding to witness their growth in the area of critical thinking, as they explain how they arrived at their solutions. 

We have also been exploring cause and effect. After listening to a biography of Rube Goldberg, we discussed engineering principles, energy transfer, along with the importance of perseverance when tasked with a challenge. Students created their own diagrams on paper and online, and a goal that we have is to create  simple Rube Goldberg machines.

We look forward to continuing our quest for learning new things and exploring different subjects to uncover fascinating insights and experiences. 

Mrs. Ranieri 

ranieric@riveredgeschools.org

June 2024

Dear Families,

As we approach the end of another exciting school year, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey of learning and discovery that your children have embarked upon in our classroom each week. 

Google Sheets Artistry: Students delved into the world of digital creativity using Google Sheets. They explored a template that allowed them to modify sheets with formulas for conditional formatting. By simply typing a number into a cell, they were able to bring their artistic visions to life by selecting colors for their art. It's been wonderful to witness their creativity blossom through this innovative approach to art and technology.

codeSpark Academy: In our pursuit to introduce fundamental concepts of computer science, we incorporated the engaging coding app, codeSpark Academy. This platform has been instrumental in igniting our students' curiosity in coding and transforming programming into a playful learning experience. Through puzzles, coding challenges, and creative tools, our students have been building a strong foundation in computer science while having a blast along the way.

Bubble Solutions and Science Explorations: Our classroom has also been a hub for scientific inquiry and discovery. We revisited our bubble solutions experiment from earlier in the year, observing the water evaporation over time. By reconstituting the remaining solution we found that it worked as well as the original solution. As they explored the effects of different liquids on various objects, students have been actively engaged in the scientific process, fostering a deeper understanding of the world around them.

Exploring Engineering with Rosie Revere: Through Rosie's inspiring story, our students embarked on a journey into the world of engineering, particularly focusing on the construction of bridges. We delved into the fascinating mechanics of how bridges support the weight of countless vehicles, sparking wonder and curiosity in our young engineers. One key discovery our students made was the remarkable strength of triangles in bridge design. We learned that triangles distribute forces evenly across the span of a bridge, helping to preserve its shape without bending. This understanding of geometric principles was put to the test as we embarked on a hands-on project: building a truss bridge using craft sticks.Through experimentation and testing, we witnessed the triumph of our bridge as it successfully supported the weight placed upon it.

Enthusiasm and Growth: Each Thursday, I am greeted by our students' boundless enthusiasm, curiosity, and motivation to learn. It has been a privilege to work with such bright and talented individuals throughout this past school year. As we wrap up our time together, I am filled with confidence in their continued growth and success. I have no doubt that their futures will continue to shine brightly as they pursue their passions and embark on new adventures.

Thank You: I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to you, for your unwavering support and partnership in your child's education. Your involvement and encouragement have played a vital role in shaping the classroom community into a place of inspiration and growth.

As we bid farewell to another memorable school year, let us celebrate the remarkable achievements and endless potential of our REignite students. I am excited to see where their journeys take them next!

Warm regards,

Cindy Ranieri 

Grade 1+2 Roosevelt School REignite 

raneiric@riveredgeschools.org