One of our school goals last year was to seek out ways to add to our Science program. We are pleased to announce that our application was chosen to receive an Energy Curricula and Learning Kit that focuses on Solar Matter for Elementary schools.
This hands on kit will be used in all classrooms this year. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services made this opportunity available for select schools this year. Two of our fourth graders were there to receive and open the kit.
We look forward to sharing our science explorations with you this year.
Educational Horizons showed learning gains with students bringing up their grade up from a “B” for the last two years to an “A” for the ending year. Based on the percentage of total points earned, they are ranked 80th in the state of Florida. Based on possible points earned by school type, they rank 35th in the state.
These scores reflect 100% attendance for the state testing in grades 3-6, and gains made by these students compared to their the previous scores. The score is reflective of the hard work of the students, staff, faculty, and families involved in this school year.
River won the European Union Young Scientists award, which comes with an all-expenses-paid trip to Belgium for a science conference; the Intel ISEF Best of Show Award, which includes a $5,000 prize; and the first place award in animal sciences with its $3,000 prize.
“I think science has fascinated me for as long as I can remember, because I think it is just so beautiful,” he said.
River said one of the best things about science is the way it can be used “to make the world work,” and the way it helps him understand the “personal questions” that spark his curiosity.
River Grace, former Educational Horizons student, using a laser scanning microscope at Florida Tech while working on his science project the nervous system of the Brahminy blindsnake. He is the winner of three prizes given at the Intel International Science & Engineering Fair this May in Arizona.
(Photo: MALCOLM DENEMARK/FLORIDA TODAY)
River’s science project at the Intel science fair focused on the nervous system of a tiny invasive snake species called the brahminy blindsnake, which has one of the smallest brains of any animal. River used microscopes and behavioral experiments to test the capacity and mechanics of that snake’s brain.
“It has one of the smallest brains of any vertebrate animal, so I figured if I studied their brains, it would give people some insight into how our brains work,” River said.
River was able to show that the blindsnake, which scientists previously thought was blind, actually has vision, and that the snake instinctively avoids light. This finding has important implications for how and why the blindsnake, which eats organisms that are important for soil quality, is so hardy and difficult to kill, and why it is able to invade ecosystems where it causes harm, such as in Florida.
His project, River said, was also inspired by the fact that he loves snakes, and he was fascinated by the brahminy blindsnake when he discovered one in his yard.
River’s father, Michael Grace, is a biology professor at the Florida Institute of Technology and the dean of the university’s college of science, and his mother, Tanya, is a global training manager for General Electric, so River has grown up in a household where science is highly valued.
Michael Grace said his son River has always had a “passion for science” and an interest in academic challenges, and that River won his first science fair when he was 8 years old. “He likes taking on big things and deep things,” Michael Grace said.
One hundred students from five different Brevard County locations including, Codecraft Lab in historic Eau Gallie, Gemini Elementary, Indialantic Elementary, Surfside Elementary, and Sabal Elementary, have participated in a 32 lesson Intro to Computer Science & Programming.
They were celebrated with their work and the work of other Codecraft Lab members at the 1st Annual Codecraft Lab Computer Science & Programing Competition. Thanks to the AMAZING event sponsorship from Satcom Direct, Privicee, Ready. Set. Game!, Rockwell Collins, Rapid Prototyping Services, Power DMS, and Jaycon Systems.
The sponsors are providing Codecraft Lab workshops and summer camp gift certificates for each category winner, fun giveaways, and maker prizes, our award celebration food and drinks, as well as a one-year after-school membership to Codecraft Lab!
One of our third graders, Noah, won 2nd place in Game Design using SCRATCH. His work is entitled Dragon Quest Adventure. He has been attending computer classes every week since October. Congratulations!
Congratulations to our track team that participated in the All City Track Meet at Eau Gallie High School on Saturday.
Our 7 students did a great Job! They each competed in three events. Coach Rick was very pleased with the results. Nicky earned 1st place in long jump. Megan got a 5th place in long jump. Jenna received 5th place in both softball throw and the 50 yard dash. Lilyana earned a 5th place in the 200 yard dash.
You made our school proud!
Congratulations to our track team that participated in the All City Track Meet at Eau Gallie High School on Saturday. …
We had a fabulous time at our 2nd annual Appreciation Dinner and Talent Night.
Our PTO and chairs treated guests to an endless taco bar, signature cupcakes, Incredible Pets donated pets and habitats for our raffle, Rick Lorraine was honored as volunteer of the year, and our students entertained us with their talents.
The final act was the “Three Amigos” showing off their dance moves in baby style!
Volunteer of the Year
Congratulations to our new “Volunteer of the Year”, Rick Lorraine. He has worked tirelessly on our Morning Mile program, Health and Wellness Day, and coaching our track athletes at the local City Track Meet.
With over 100 hours of time donated this year, Rick continues to give in a friendly and positive way. We appreciate all he does for our students!
We had a fabulous time at our 2nd annual Appreciation Dinner and Talent Night. Our PTO and chairs treated guests to an…
