Hands-on Environmental Lessons

Students learn how to test water quality and gain a better understanding of the local environment.

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Insights into their Future

8th grade students at North Thurston Public Schools went to work for the day at a variety of businesses. They gained insight on what life is like in the workforce and learned that some things are even "cooler" in person than on TV.

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A Fun Way to Develop Strategic Thinking

Second and third-graders in Idaho are learning how to play chess. They practice thinking ahead, and it levels the playing field for ELL students.

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Getting Kids Excited About Reading

Sanislo Elementary found a way to bring reading to life. They organized a kiting event and handed out books with kites in their story line.

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Bilingual Education at Evergreen Elementary

Students at the bilingual school, Evergreen Elementary, in Shelton learn math in English and science in Spanish. Parents are enthusiastic about their children achieving fluency in two languages.

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Mini-courses by Parents

Parents come to Marshall Middle School's alternative class to teach mini-courses on their area of expertise. Parents decide what courses to offer, and students like the variety of subjects.

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Running Start

With the end of the school year just a few months away, it is time for high school students to consider whether Running Start is a good option for their junior and senior years.

Click here to read an article about the program or visit the Running Start website.

CSI Workshops Hook Students on Science

Lower Columbia College hosted CSI Workshops for high school students. Students tested DNA and blood samples to solve a hypothetical murder case. Students find the practical application of science fascinating.

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Success in a Mixed-Ability Classroom

First-grade teacher Judy Birk at Twin City Elementary encourages kids helping kids with varying abilities in her classroom.

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Hands-on Learning - Genetic Inheritance

Science teacher Ray Nelson teaches his seventh graders at Chinook Middle School about dominant and recessive genetic traits with a hands-on activity. The kids not only understand the concepts but really enjoy the class.

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The Hundred Dresses

My April book review for the CISL e-newsletter will be on a timeless classic dealing with prejudice, teasing, bullying, classism. After choosing to do my April book review on The Hundred Dresses by Eleanor Estes, I couldn’t believe it when I saw that Seattle Children’s Theater is doing a play based on it. It is currently running and continues through April 6. I am planning a trip to Seattle to see it. You can get more information at www.sct.org. -- Sally Brownfield