From the desk of our

S.T.E.A.M. Lab

This week in STEAM EC3 learned about kinetic energy, which is the energy of motion as opposed to potential energy also known as stored energy. We used a slinky to illustrate kinetic vs. potential energies. In EC15 and EC2 we began our unit on technology. Technology can be defined as the science and art of making and using things. This week we focused on simple machines and tools. We introduced a pendulum, ramps, pulleys, gears, and bridges to the students. They also got a chance to practice hammering, stamping, and scooping.The children worked on their early math skills by sorting different vehicles by color and learning all about the shape and function of wheels. They got to spin tops, build rockets, and make a cardboard box train.

International Festival

Congratulations to the 4th and 5th grade students for a successful, educational, and fun International Festival. This was the 15th annual celebration, but the first to include 4th grade.5th grade students were tasked with researching a country, building a model synagogue from the country, showcasing their research in Hebrew, and submitting a recipe honoring the heritage of the country. The students participated in a daglanut (flag) dance along with the 4th grade students. Thank you to Gveret Erlichman and Morah Esther for a wonderful festival.

Kidtropolis

2nd grade students had a blast on their trip to the Children's Museum of Houston. In addition to furthering their science unit on matter through a hands-on experience, they also brought to life their community helpers unit by becoming part of Kidtropolis.

EC Parent Schmooze

Early childhood parents enjoyed an EC educational parent discussion which began by going over the results of a parenting survey. Parents met with Lower School Counselor Stacey Laves-Khalifa, Lower School General Studies Principal Dr. Dawn McKernan, and EC Assistant Coordinator Heather Thomas.

HPD VIsit

On Friday, December 7, members of the security committee Yair Yeudai and Avi Tessler, along with Dr. Oberman, met with a representative from Homeland Security as well as a representative from the Houston Police Department to discuss the safety of our campus. The exchange of information and tour were both helpful and yet another step in ensuring the safety of our students and staff. Ensuring that we are directly connected with safety officers and establishing these relationships is also an important priority for our school . 

Library Visitors

8th grade students Daniella Schneider and Nava Teller enjoyed being guest readers to first grade traditional students during Library time. The first grade students were equally pleased to have the special visitors join them.

Birkat Yaakov

5th grade students produced collages to depict the brachot (blessings) Yaakov gave his sons, as part of PBL (project based learning). Students researched the color and symbol of each tribe, and then creatively presented them as a collage. The second part of the project was to creatively show the actual brachot each son received.

Lunch in the Principal's Office

Lower School students enjoyed eating their lunch and reading one of their Bluebonnet books with Dr. McKernan in her office.