Full STEAM Ahead!

It is full STEAM ahead as we make our way through the end of the school year and try to make the most of every moment! By STEAM, we mean Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math. We had a wonderful, interactive STEAM Night for our families this week. Here are just a few of the many engaging activities that were featured:

The Cub Scouts demonstrated their Pinewood Derby track, and high school students assisted us with Lego Robotics. 

 It was so fun to sink our hands into kinetic sand and make our own slime while exploring different physical properties and considering the chemistry behind it all.

Volunteers from the Arlington Heights Memorial Library took us on a Google Expedition, and a college student came to help us construct and test catapults. 

 

Cup stacking and programmable robots helped us learn about how coding works. 

Designing structures and playing games helped us think about how to balance objects and make them sturdy and tall. 

This blue print activity helped us think about what it might be like to be an architect.

Our kindergarteners are thinking ahead to first grade! They got to practice eating lunch in the cafeteria just like the big kids. It was an exciting milestone moment as they practiced eating lunch with sporks and opening their milk containers for the first time. 

 

You may have noticed that our lunch supervisors are wearing teal. Many of us wore teal this week for Allergy Awareness Week in support of our students with food allergies. We are working to build empathy and understanding among our school community so that our students with food allergies feel safe and included at school. 

Our fourth graders are thinking ahead to 5th Grade Band! They were able to get a sample of all of the band instruments that are offered in our school district from the middle school band directors this week. It's exciting to think about their possibilities for the coming school year!

As we head into the last weeks of school, we want to say THANK YOU to our PTA! Most recently they have agreed to provide our school with a portable gaga ball court, a class set of heart monitors for physical education, and banners with lyrics to our school song.  We are so grateful for the many ways they enrich the lives of our students and enhance their school experiences!

Additionally, the PTA recently honored to very special Dryden Dolphins. PE Teacher Mr. Gries was awarded a lifetime PTA membership for his outstanding leadership in so many PTA events such as Field Day, 5th Grade Shoot Out and Just Jump. Administrative Assistant Mrs. Lane was honored as she retires with a generous donation from the PTA to the Veterans Closet. 

What an AWESOME group!! Thank you for all you do!