In the science room, 2nd through 5th graders began the year by brainstorming—not just about science, but about ways to create a classroom where everyone can thrive. Students shared insightful ideas about listening to and showing respect for each other. These conversations will continue as students help shape the learning environments in each science class.
Students also took on their first engineering challenge of the school year; their mission: build a tower using index cards and tape that would allow a stuffy to escape a hungry stuffed tiger. Towers had to be 10 
inches tall and support the weight of a small stuffed animal. Students put plenty of thought and focus into saving the stuffies and came up with some unique and interesting ideas!
In the coming weeks, science classes will spend quite a bit of time practicing routines and building community. Alongside these social goals, students will take on bubble engineering. They’ll explore what bubbles can and can’t do and design wands with specific types of bubbles in mind. Later this month, 2nd and 3rd graders will begin studying the moon and Earth’s seasons. 4th and 5th graders will investigate the forces and motion of flight.
As for me, it’s great to be back in the science room with your enthusiastic, curious children. I’m already hearing lots of thoughtful questions and intriguing ideas for exploration. The year is off to a great start!