It was a wonderful ceremony for the students at West Side Elementary School on June 22 at the PAC. Each and every West Side graduate had a turn to speak and reflect upon their journey at West Side, a long-standing tradition that speaks volumes about the history of West Side pride. Principal, Alison Hazut, addressed the 6th grade class marveling at all they have accomplished over the past five years at West Side, the many friends they have made, all that they have learned and the special traditions they have continued even during the trials of a pandemic.
The Exemplary Service Award was presented Margaret Diehl, at the June 14 Board of Education meeting. Every year, at this time, the Board wishes to honor an employee who supports, with great distinction, our school community. The criteria for eligibility established in order to be considered for the award includes having worked in the district for at least five years, have the unanimous recommendation of the administration and the Board, and exemplify leadership and excellent character among others.
West Side School was thrilled to announce that a team of 6th graders, under the guidance of Ms. Piña, were chosen as semi-finalists in the I Am EM-powered Public Service Announcement Contest sponsored by PSEG. The West Side video submissions mostly centered around the topic of energy efficiency and environmental conservation; many offering up alternatives and thoughtful slogans to make their statement to the community more aware of these issues.
Students at West Side taught us that it truly is “a small world after all.” As they marched into the gym, flags in hand and speeches prepared, the kids taught so much about the many countries and continents in our world. Donning official costumes and shouting out their country name, each paid homage to their social studies curriculum at this annual celebration. Fun facts and even jokes were shared with guests.
uperintendent, Jill M. Gierasch, hosted the annual Parent Leader Breakfast “al fresco” the morning of June 8. She articulated how important the parent community is to a school district, and that the level of involvement in CSH is extraordinary. She shared that when she became Superintendent, and saw the list of parent run committees, it was a degree of volunteerism she had never quite witnessed. Not only do these parent groups support so many programs, but they seamlessly run themselves!
Congratulations to Coleman Cornish, prize winner from the AATSP Poster Contest! Coleman received a certificate, a medal, and monetary donation. His poster will be on the cover of the FLES folder next year for the district. Great job Coleman!
The fifth grade students at West Side and Lloyd Harbor are studying POP ART (popular imagery) inspired by the American artist, Roy Lichtenstein. They learned about triptychs (3 panels that tell a story) and students were placed in groups of three. Using Lichtenstein's paintings, the students brainstormed to come up with a theme for their triptych as well as a positive message to incorporate into their image.
Music teacher, Marc Beja, took a special field trip with his High School Theatre Workshop class on June 6. Students went on tour to Goosehill Primary School, Lloyd Harbor School, and West Side School to perform Gran’s Guide to Stop an Ogre (Also Works for Witches and Bullies) to the kindergarten through third graders in all three schools.
