Students in Union Middle School’s Executive Functioning elective applied creativity and critical thinking to a hands-on project called Build Your Own Neuron to understand the brain’s communication system.
Using candy, snacks, and craft materials, students designed and assembled model neurons to visualize how the brain’s communication system works. The engaging activity also strengthened key skills such as planning, organization, and problem-solving – making learning both meaningful and memorable.
As part of a powerful unit on Holocaust literature, seventh-grade students recently completed an impactful poetry project inspired by Pavel Friedmann’s poem “The Butterfly,” which he wrote while imprisoned in the Terezin concentration camp.
After studying Friedmann’s work and discussing the historical and emotional context of the Holocaust, students were challenged to write original poems. Each student chose to focus on a specific person, place, or group affected by the Holocaust—or to explore more abstract themes such as loss, hope, courage, or remembrance.
To deepen their connection with their writing, students brought their poems to life using a butterfly template, symbolizing both the fragility and resilience of life. These visual representations ranged from literal depictions to symbolic interpretations, blending language and art to honor the memory of those who suffered and perished. The final pieces, both thoughtful and deeply personal, served as a meaningful reflection on history, empathy, and creative expression.
UMS students transformed the hallways into a vibrant gallery, showcasing projects from the studio art and 3D design classes.
The artwork highlighted the incredible creativity of the students, as they explored new ideas, materials and techniques to bring their visions to life. Families and community members were invited to see the artistic talents flourishing within our schools.