contributed by
Amy Dell
As a fairly experienced teacher (five years in Spain and five years in the U.S.), I’ve learned one overarching lesson: Students will almost always meet whatever expectations you put out for them.
Whatever we think they can or can’t achieve becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy, and this applies universally. Some students just need to hear someone say, “I believe in you. You are capable.” Whether a teacher is positive or negative, subtle or direct, students pick up on encouragement or discouragement by our body language, tone of voice, or how we address one student or group of students differently. They will rise up to any challenge, or step down to any demoralization.
Sentinel photo by ALEXIS HARPSTER
MCHS STEM Interns pose outside William Penn Nursing Home with their Valentineâs Day crafts for the residents and staff.
LEWISTOWN Mifflin County High School STEM interns were given 20% of their class time to work on a project of their choice which would positively impact their local community.
“In industry this type of project is often referred to as Genius Hour, 20% Time or as Passion Projects and the concept has been used by companies such as Google and 3M,” said Rebecca J. Conner, technology education teacher, and governor’s STEM adviser.
A few weeks ago, the STEM interns were inspired to “Spread Cheer” to local nursing home residents and nurses at William Penn nursing home in Derry Township. STEM interns brainstormed and selected several craft ideas to make for the 200-plus staff and residents for Valentine’s Day, which were delivered on Friday.