MAY 16, 2024

Amy Corradi guides a student to solve a math problem during the scavenger hunt

Eighth graders at Pleasantville Middle School have been immersed in enriching and innovative learning experiences, exploring subjects ranging from literature to mathematics to social studies.

Tracy O’Sullivan’s class watch a production of “The Taming of the Shrew”

In the neighboring classroom, Amy Corradi’s math students clustered in small groups as they embarked on an algebraic journey through a scavenger hunt. Students were tasked with solving a problem before moving to the next question, as the answer to one led to the next in the game. Corradi commented that the students were particularly enthusiastic about this type of learning. “They like to get out of their seats,” she remarked, adding, “And argue about the math.”

Meanwhile, in James Carey’s social studies class, students participated in a gallery walk, as they explored various civil rights movements. The eighth graders researched the history of discrimination against various sectors and presented their findings in posters outlining the struggles and triumphs of marginalized communities. Their peers walked around the class in groups and took notes on the elements and similarities among the civil rights movements.

Students in James Carey’s class take notes on civil rights movements as part of the gallery walk

Fourth graders at Bedford Road School recently delved into the world of Revolutionary War soldiers and their families at Rev Day 2024. The event brought history to life as students and teachers participated in activities providing a glimpse into the challenges and experiences of that era.

From participating in the drum corps to constructing fortifications and pitching tents, students embraced the opportunity to step into the shoes of soldiers. They learned about the importance of caring for the injured, gaining insight into the medical practices of the time. Students also enjoyed colonial era games such as ring toss, hoop races and card games.

A new addition to the program was quill writing. Marco Rodriguez declared ink writing to be his favorite activity of the day, “It was fun, but a little hard.” Like many students, Rodriguez said the chance to spend time with friends added to the day’s enjoyment.

While other fourth graders ranked drumming as their favorite, others enjoyed the quieter activities such as making lavender sachets to “make clothes smell good,” as one student noted. There was also a station focused on the importance of medicinal herbs at a time when medicine was rudimentary. 

Faculty members, as well as Principal Rachel Hunger and Assistant Principal Michael Pinkava, joined in the day’s events. Pinkava’s musical talents were on display as he blew the bugle to signal transitions between activities. Principal Hunger said the event stands as one of the highlights of the school year for students and faculty alike. 

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