Happening Now - Putnam County

Providing students with unique ways to learn changes how they learn and makes comprehending the content easier. Students in Putnam County are engaging in various learning opportunities that help strengthen skills such as:

• Arts and creativity
• Imagination
• Science
• Math
• Public speaking

Pitching New Ideas

Shark Tank comes to Rock Branch Elementary (RBE) in the form of fifth-grade students wrapping up their unit on inventors, inventions, and innovations with a Shark Tank-style project. Students worked in teams to create their own original innovations—complete with an advertisement, a prototype, and a persuasive pitch—to present to a panel of “sharks.” The RBE panel included Principal Mrs. Scott and teachers Ms. Hathaway, Ms. Perry, and Mr. Skiles. During the activity, the panel heard 17 creative presentations. This is a great example of allowing students to show off their creativity, problem-solving, and presentation skills.

History with Pumpkins

Rock Branch Elementary fourth graders brought history to life with pumpkins in a recent crafting project. They were tasked with researching modern and historical figures and creating pumpkins inspired by their chosen person. Once complete, students presented their projects to classmates. This project showcased the impact cross-curricular instruction can have on student learning. We are grateful for teachers who find interesting and engaging ways to teach different subjects. 

"Fall" in Love with Learning

Pre-k students at Conner Street Elementary have been learning about the life cycle of a pumpkin this fall. Students have carved pumpkins, taken home seeds to plant, and made their very own pumpkin pies from scratch. Using real pie pumpkins, students engaged in a hands-on math and science lesson and worked together to create a homemade treat. These young learners had so much fun and were excited to try their very own made-from-scratch pumpkin pie.

Hands-on Science

Students at Mountain View recently participated in an owl pellet dissection lesson. Using the scientific method, they explored what their owls had for dinner and loved every minute of this hands-on lesson.

Family Fun Meets Classroom Learning

Eastbrook Elementary had a fantastic time hosting Family Fun Night to share important information about the Third Grade Success Act. Families rotated through learning centers that highlighted key educational topics, including:

• Number Sense
• Phonemic awareness and phonics
• The West Virginia General Summative Assessment
• R.A.C.E.S. Writing Strategy
• The importance of music and movement
• Multi-Tiered System of Supports
• Social/emotional regulation