Digital Discoveries is an engaging, project-based course that introduces students to essential computer science and digital literacy concepts. Aligned with Florida’s new state standards, students will explore a wide range of topics:
Digital Design & Visual Communications I
Google Slides
Canva
Data Analysis & Spreadsheet Engineering
Google Sheets
Robotics & Computational Thinking
Sphero
Programming & Software Development
Ozaria
Digital Composition & Keyboarding II
Typing.com
Through hands-on learning and real-world applications, students will develop problem-solving skills, collaborate on projects, and build a strong foundation in responsible technology use. This course prepares students for future success in school, the workplace, and an increasingly digital world.
Navigating Google Classroom and the Rainbow Doc
When you go to my Google Classroom, the first thing you will see is the Stream. Please note that assignments will not be posted on the Stream – only announcements. All assignments will be organized under the Classwork tab by topic.
One important item you’ll always find on the Stream is the Rainbow Doc – a color-coded Google Doc that is continuously updated with our classwork, homework, and reminders about upcoming tests. While the Rainbow Doc will not contain new assignments that aren’t already listed in Classwork, it will include helpful links and resources to support what we’re doing in class, as well as additional instructions.
At the start of each class, students should pull up the Rainbow Doc to review the day’s expectations and stay organized.
The Rainbow Doc serves as a working outline of what I plan to cover each day. I update it throughout the day to reflect what we actually completed in class. Sometimes we move ahead, and sometimes we need extra time to dig deeper into a project. If I see that the whole class needs more time – and they are using that time productively – I may push assignments back to ensure students have the time they need to produce quality work. I believe in promoting thoughtful, meaningful work over rushing just to finish.
The Rainbow Doc will always reflect any changes by the end of the school day to keep everyone on track.
If you purchase anything from my Wish List, you can earn P.I. Time. Please email me the receipt, and I will make sure you get credit for it!
0.8" inch round sticker magnets
A roll of "Hello, my name is..." name tags
A Bluetooth clip-on microphone for recording videos
Prizes for our prize box (no food items, or balls/toys that are a distraction)
Squishies
Bracelets
Light Pastel Erasable Highlighters
Erasable Gel Ink Pens
Any fun school supply that is practical, yet exciting to receive as a prize!
Coffee-themed decorations or prizes for our reward party at the end of the semester
To sign up for classes, go to vcs.jumbula.com
Kindergarten & 1st Grade Acro
This class introduces our youngest dancers to the exciting world of acrobatics in a fun, positive, and highly structured learning environment. Acro combines the strength and skills of gymnastics with the technique, flexibility, and artistry of dance.
Students will learn age-appropriate acrobatic skills while developing balance, coordination, flexibility, strength, and body awareness. Because safety is our top priority, dancers will practice taking turns, following directions, and listening carefully as they learn each new skill. Building these classroom habits is just as important as learning the acrobatics themselves.
Coach Em is certified through Acrobatic Arts, an internationally recognized acrobatic dance program that focuses on safe, progressive skill development. Whether your child is brand new to acro or has previous experience, this class provides a strong foundation while helping dancers build confidence, discipline, and a love for movement.
4th & 5th Grade Acro
This class is designed for dancers who are ready to build strength, flexibility, and confidence while advancing their acrobatic skills. Acro combines the athleticism of gymnastics with the technique and artistry of dance, creating strong, controlled, and expressive performers.
Students will work on age-appropriate progressions that develop balance, flexibility, core strength, coordination, and proper technique. Classes are structured and fast-paced, requiring dancers to stay focused, listen carefully, and support one another as they safely practice new skills. Each dancer will be challenged at their individual level while building a strong technical foundation.
Coach Em is certified through Acrobatic Arts, an internationally recognized acrobatic dance program that emphasizes safe, progressive skill development. Whether your dancer is refining foundational skills or working toward more advanced tricks, this class will help them grow in both ability and confidence through consistent practice and proper technique.
Middle School Acro
This class is designed for dancers who want to take their acrobatic skills to the next level. Acro combines the athleticism of gymnastics with the technique, control, and artistry of dance, helping dancers become stronger, more versatile performers.
Students will focus on flexibility, strength, balance, control, and proper progressions while working toward more advanced acrobatic skills. Each class is structured to challenge dancers in a safe, encouraging environment where correct technique is always prioritized over rushing new tricks. Dancers should be prepared to stay focused, work hard, and consistently practice skills to see progress.
Success in this class comes from consistency, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace corrections. Every correction is an opportunity to improve, and dancers will be encouraged to challenge themselves while supporting their teammates in a positive learning environment.
Coach Em is certified through Acrobatic Arts, an internationally recognized acrobatic dance program that emphasizes safe, progressive skill development. Whether your goal is to improve your dance technique, prepare for a dance team, or master new acrobatic skills, this class will help you build the strength, confidence, and discipline needed to succeed.
Middle School Leaps & Turns
Strong technique is the foundation of every great dancer! This class is designed to improve the strength, flexibility, balance, control, and coordination needed for clean turns, powerful leaps, and confident performances.
Each class will include targeted conditioning exercises, flexibility training, across-the-floor progressions, and combinations that allow dancers to apply and strengthen their technique. Dancers will focus on proper alignment, spotting, core engagement, body control, and execution while working toward greater consistency and confidence in their skills.
This is a highly structured class where dancers are encouraged to challenge themselves, embrace corrections, and trust the learning process. Success comes from consistent effort, attention to detail, and a commitment to refining technique over time.
Whether your dancer is preparing for performances, dance team, or simply looking to become a stronger, more well-rounded performer, this class will provide the tools and training to help them reach their goals.
I am thrilled to be part of the dance program at VCMS Middleton as the assistant coach. Mrs. Jayla Ponsfords is our head coach and dance elective teacher. If you have any questions about our dance program, please feel free to email her at jayla.ponsford@tvcs.org.
Contact: melissa.emschweiler@tvcs.org