(taken during Advisory a few weeks ago – we’re loving the 20th anniversary spirit wear!)

Students in sixth grade are preparing for their first assessment, which will examine ancient history through the lens of Mesopotamia. From here, students will break into groups and begin researching the other three major river civilizations of this time period. Using their learning of Mesopotamia as a sort of template, they’ll create presentations for their peers to learn about Egypt, the Indus River Valley civilization (Harappa, Mohenjo-Daro), and the Yellow and Yangtze river valley. 

Students in seventh and eighth grade have been examining different major changes in Europe in the years around colonization. The printing press and the Reformation had significant effects on communication and power structures, and we’ve had great conversations about these topics and the after effects. When discussing the German workers’ revolt in the years after Luther’s 95 Theses, students compared this event to the current dockworkers’ strike happening along the East coast. We have also discussed literature and the use of national languages to write important texts, such as the works of Shakespeare and Cervantes, which help us to better understand our own humanity.

Students in culinary arts crafted delightful macarons with a buttercream and raspberry compote filing on Monday, demonstrating great attention to detail and hand-eye coordination skills (piping is tricky when you first start out!). On Wednesday, a student brought in all the ingredients to lead a lesson on homemade salsa and quesadillas. These were a huge hit, especially at the end of the day! Looking ahead, we’re thinking about different applications with sourdough and yeasted breads, including a personal fave: soft pretzels.