Monday, November 1st, 2021—Earlier this week, Syracuse Academy of Science 7^th grade Project Based Learning (PBL) students soared to new heights physically and mentally during their Experiential Learning field trip to Orenda Springs.

The focus of this field trip was to allow for the students to build trust within themselves and their fellow classmates through trust exercises using both the high and low ropes courses. Both courses were not only physically challenging, but mentally as well which allowed the students to work on building trust with themselves and their fellow classmates.

In the Low Ropes courses, it tested the Atoms problem solving, organization and creative thinking skills, along with their patience, as it required the full cooperation and participation from all the PBL students.

The High Ropes course allowed for the students to step outside of their comfort zone and to overcome their fears. This course is unique in the sense that the 'high' heights vary along the challenge. In addition to working on overcoming their fears, Atoms learned the importance of supporting their teammates, enhancing their problem solving skills, trusting one another, clear communication, and the responsibility for not only their actions but others, as well.

The field trip to Orenda Springs was a great opportunity for all the students to practice their creative thinking skills, all while exploring and enhancing their leadership and problem solving skills.

Click here to visit our Facebook album title, “6^th & 7^th Grade PBL Field Trip to Orenda Springs,” to view more pictures from this Experiential Learning field trip.

Wednesday, October 27th, 2021—At Syracuse Academy of Science Charter Schools we pride ourselves in believing that college is for everyone! One of the key components of college guidance at SASCS is to expose students to the college environment through various college visits and guest speakers. College visits, hosting individual college representatives and guest speakers help our students expand their knowledge about necessary skills, requirements and available programs at local, regional and national colleges.

Just last week, Syracuse Academy of Science high school welcomed a representative from the United States Navy, a member of the United States Armed Forces, and the National Guard. During their information sessions, Juniors and Seniors had an opportunity to listen, learn and ask questions about careers in the United States Armed Forces and the National Guard.

We want to thank each representative for taking time out of their schedule to come and speak with the students, as well as, thank them for their service.

Tuesday, October 26th, 2021—Sometimes it takes only one act of kindness and caring to change a person’s life. Throughout the month of October, Syracuse Academy of Science elementary school 4^th grade students have been busy at work participating in the Kindness Challenge. 

For this challenge Atoms were tasked with recognizing and giving 20 compliments to fellow classmates over the course of the month. Upon completion, two grade level representatives proposed their celebration ideas to the Dean of Elementary, Mrs. Miller. Their celebration idea that was approved was, shaving cream slime!

We all know that kindness goes a long way, keep up the great work, Atoms!

Wednesday, October 27th, 2021—Syracuse Academy of Science middle school Project Based Learning (PBL) students welcomed guest speaker Cheryl Welles from Empower Federal Credit Union who spoke to the students about the importance of having a budget. Cheryl led the students in a breakout session where they worked in groups of three to create their own budget through a budget simulation experience.

Thank you Cheryl for taking the time to speak with the Atoms not only about the importance of having a budget, but also how to create one. Students will be able to use this information in their upcoming project (and beyond) where they will be teaching younger students about the importance of understanding spending, sharing and savings.