MAY 2023

For many, springtime means planting and weeding and getting outdoor spaces looking their best. Recent beautification efforts by Furnace Woods students are not only improving the school's exterior spaces, they are also helping to nurture a strong sense of pride and community.

All fourth and fifth graders took part in two days of weeding and planting in honor of Earth Day. The activities were led by PTA volunteer Julia Wang, fourth-grade teacher Dana Duffy, and head custodian Scott Gilbert. FWS parent Lou Scozzafava donated his time preparing for the day and helped the students with all of their efforts. SRO Briann Hurley even joined in on the fun.

The students learned a variety of gardening strategies that can be used both at home and at school. 

"During the activity, students discussed collaboration, pride, and ownership of our school community," said Principal Josh Cohen.

This spring, Marilyne Strang’s first graders turned items bound for the trash into something beneficial for the area's feathered friends. The students took empty plastic jugs and milk cartons and transformed them into usable bird feeders that will attract sparrows, blue jays and cardinals.

First the students researched and shared ideas about designs for different types of bird feeders, particularly the kind that would attract birds common to our area. The students made sure their feeders had holes for the birds’ beaks and something to stand on as they ate. They also considered which areas would be best for situating the feeders, ideally somewhere quiet and near plenty of trees.

The students then gathered a variety of materials for their creations, including construction paper, spoons, Popsicle sticks, tape and glue, and then they got to work. 

"The bird feeder was fun to make,” said Henry, “but it was challenging to come up with a cool design.”

Strang said her students enjoyed the Earth Day/STEM project and felt proud to repurpose a recyclable item into something useful.

"I liked that we created something helpful for the birds around our school," said Rebeca.

Students at Buchanan-Verplanck recently read the book, “The Chocolate Touch,” by Patrick Catling. Reminiscent of the Greek legend of King Midas, who turned all he touched to gold, the story reminds readers to be careful of what they wish for and that it’s possible to have too much of a good thing.  

Celebrating the schoolwide read, the school’s lobby was decorated with a candy theme, and during a recent assembly, not only was the book discussed, but students were even treated to a visit from Willy Wonka.

Last week, as spring weather arrived in full force, B-V students enjoyed a schoolwide breakfast outdoors, during which they had the opportunity to mingle and discuss the story with one another. 

“Our students learned that being greedy and putting your needs first doesn’t lead to success,” said Principal Donna Torrisi. 

#onehenhud

Frank G. Lindsey Elementary School (Pre-K through 1st Grade)

Buchanan-Verplanck Elementary School (2nd and 3rd Grade)

Furnace Woods Elementary School (4th and 5th Grade)