F&T Holiday Kickoff Brings Warmth and Cheer to Families!
On Saturday, December 14, our community came together for a heartwarming and festive Holiday Kickoff at The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology! With the season of giving in mind, we distributed 250 sets of hats, gloves, and scarves to ensure our families stay warm this winter. Additionally, toys brought joy to the students, and toiletries and cosmetics provided support to our families.
The event featured a delightful buffet-style brunch followed by exciting raffles, with prizes ranging from gift cards to items like speakers, sneakers, and AirPods Max.
Throughout the day, families had the opportunity to connect with one another, capture special moments in family photos, and immerse themselves in creative arts activities. The Band Club also put on an incredible performance, adding a touch of musical magic to the celebration.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this event such a success!
P.S. 59 Celebrates the Season with Winter Wonderland Ugly Sweater Party!
On Wednesday, December 18, P.S. 59: The Dawn Best School hosted its annual Winter Wonderland Ugly Sweater Party, a festive and creative celebration that brought students and families together to get into the holiday spirit. With the theme of inclusivity and joy, the event highlighted the many holidays celebrated during this season, including Hanukkah, Christmas, and Kwanzaa!
Parents were invited to bring plain sweaters to design, using an array of fun and festive materials such as pipe cleaners, garlands, glitter glue, cotton balls, bows, and stars. Together, families turned simple sweaters into vibrant holiday garments. Beyond the crafts, the party was a time for families to bond over food and games. One of the day’s most memorable activities was a lively round of Hungry Hungry Hippo, where parents grabbed their children by the legs while the students used bowls to collect rolling balls. Laughter and cheers filled the room as families competed and cheered each other on!
Adding a touch of magic to the event was a beautiful backdrop where children could write their wishes on stars and place them on display. This thoughtful addition encouraged reflection and hope, reminding everyone of the spirit of the season.
The Winter Wonderland Ugly Sweater Party was a heartwarming celebration of creativity, community, and the diversity of holiday traditions. Families left with cherished memories, festive sweaters, and the shared joy of spending quality time together!
Hot Chocolate Snack Party Brings Holiday Cheer to P.S. 59
On Tuesday, December 17, P.S. 59: The Dawn Best School was transformed into a cozy winter wonderland as students came together for a festive Hot Chocolate Snack Party. The event, which included all students from grades 3 through 5, offered a heartwarming opportunity to celebrate the holiday season as a school community!
Parents were invited to contribute to the festivities by bringing bakery items like cookies, cakes, and pastries - treats that paired perfectly with the star of the event: the hot chocolate station. Adorned with an array of toppings, the station featured whipped cream, sprinkles, and other festive additions, ensuring each student could craft their perfect cup of hot chocolate.
Throughout the afternoon, the room was filled with laughter as students enjoyed their holiday snacks. The atmosphere was further brightened by the sounds of holiday music, creating a joyful celebration. The Hot Chocolate Snack Party was a moment for the P.S. 59 students to come together, fostering connections and spreading holiday cheer!
F&T Students Explore JLABS: A Day of Science, Teamwork, and Celebration
On December 10th, 32 students from The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology participated in an engaging and hands-on BioQuest trip to Johnson & Johnson JLABS and the New York Genome Center in Manhattan. The event provided students with an exciting opportunity to explore the world of science, engage with mentors, and celebrate their achievements in the BioQuest program.
A Day of Discovery and Hands-On Learning
Throughout the day, students participated in interactive lab-based activities, explored scientific concepts, and experienced the real-world environment of a professional lab. The trip began with a Team Pipetting Challenge at JLABS, where students learned how to use high-quality pipettes, timed one another to complete tasks, and got a glimpse of an active lab environment. Students also had the opportunity to speak with scientists, put on lab coats, and pose for fun lab-themed photos. At the Genome Center Cafe, the focus shifted to immersive experiments and teamwork. Students extracted DNA from strawberries during the Strawberry DNA Extraction activity. This experiment not only taught scientific concepts but also encouraged peer mentorship as returning students helped guide new participants.
Other exciting activities included Snow Making, where students explored the chemical reaction between baking soda and shaving cream to create artificial "snow," and Marshmallow Towers, a building challenge that sparked creativity and friendly competition as teams constructed the tallest structures using marshmallows and toothpicks. The day also featured a BioQuest Focus Group, where students reflected on their experiences in the program and shared ideas for future opportunities, such as internships and ambassador roles. The final activity, the Gingerbread Engineering Challenge, allowed students to showcase their design and teamwork skills by constructing gingerbread houses with an array of materials provided.
Building Connections and Celebrating Achievements
More than just a scientific field trip, the BioQuest JLABS & Winter Celebration provided students with an opportunity to strengthen relationships with mentors and peers. Through team-based activities, students collaborated, shared ideas, and celebrated their participation in the program. Each student received a BioQuest sweatshirt, personalized cards from their mentors, and winter-themed gifts. This incredible trip was made possible through our partnership with RTW, whose continued support helps provide these enriching experiences for our students. BioQuest continues to empower students at The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology by providing trips that ignite curiosity, build confidence, and open doors to future opportunities!
Grateful Gatherings: Thanksgiving Grab-and-Go Success!
On Saturday, November 23rd, Areté, in partnership with The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology, hosted a heartwarming Thanksgiving Grab-and-Go Family Event for our students and their families. The event aimed to ensure every family in our school community could enjoy a fulfilling and memorable holiday!
We distributed bags filled with essential Thanksgiving groceries, along with take-home hot meals to help ease the financial strain of holiday preparations. Families left equipped to host their celebrations with gratitude and joy.
A special thank-you goes out to our dedicated volunteers who helped pack groceries on Friday, November 22nd, in the MS/HS 223 basement, and to those who helped distribute the hot meals and bags the day of the event. Your efforts made this event a resounding success and exemplified the spirit of community and giving that Thanksgiving is all about.
We look forward to continuing to support our school community through events like these!
Family Thanksgiving Dinner at P.S. 59
P.S. 59: The Dawn Best School recently hosted a heartwarming Family Thanksgiving Dinner, bringing together students, families, and staff for an evening of food, fun, and gratitude. Upon arrival, families were warmly greeted by staff members and ushered to family-style tables, setting the tone for a communal and festive gathering.
The dinner menu featured a delicious array of dishes, including rice with peas, stew chicken, pepper steak, chicharrón de pollo, and fresh salad. For dessert, attendees had the opportunity to savor two vegan cake options: a zesty lemon cake and a rich cinnamon-spiced cake. As part of the evening’s activities, families were invited to reflect on their blessings by writing down what they were thankful for on paper leaves. These heartfelt messages were then added to the “Thankful Tree,” a beautiful and collaborative symbol of gratitude. Additionally, students got creative with a hands-on craft activity, decorating pumpkin-shaped picture frames with an assortment of fall-themed stickers.
The celebration concluded with a generous gift. Each family left with a bag filled with fresh produce and the option to take home either a turkey or a whole chicken, ensuring they had the means to continue the Thanksgiving spirit at home.
This event at PS 59 exemplified the true essence of Thanksgiving: community, gratitude, and sharing. It provided families with not only a memorable evening but also tangible support for their holiday celebrations.
Exploring Culinary Creativity: Cooking Club at the High School for Media and Communications
At the High School for Media and Communications, students are cooking up more than just great food—they’re building confidence, learning new skills, and sharing delicious creations together. The Cooking Club offers a space to learn to make their favorite foods, improve their culinary skills, and of course, enjoy the results of their hard work!
Since the club kicked off, students have tried their hands at making a variety of tasty treats, from refreshing smoothies and parfaits to sweet brownies and warm cinnamon rolls. Each session brings new flavors and techniques. In one meeting, students learned to create guacamole, perfecting the balance of avocado, lime, and other condiments to make this crowd-favorite dip. Another time, they prepared quesadillas, learning how to melt the cheese to perfection in a crisp, golden tortilla.
More than just a place to cook, the club is about connection and growth. Students support each other in learning new skills and gain confidence in the kitchen. They’re discovering that cooking isn’t just about following recipes – it’s a creative outlet and a way to share their efforts with friends.
As the semester continues, there’s plenty more on the menu for the Cooking Club. Whether it’s a complex dish or a simple snack, students are excited to keep exploring the world of food together!
P.S. 59 Celebrates October with Pink, Blue, and Spooky Fun!
October was a month of vibrant community spirit, important causes, and festive celebrations at P.S. 59: The Dawn Best School! From raising awareness for breast cancer and promoting kindness to enjoying Halloween treats, students, staff, and families came together for memorable moments.
Going Pink for a Cause
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, P.S. 59 proudly “Went Pink for a Cure!” Students, staff, and parents wore pink attire and joined in a spirited walk around the school block. The walk symbolized solidarity and raised awareness about breast cancer prevention and early detection. Families also had the opportunity to contribute $1.00 to support breast cancer research, emphasizing the school’s commitment to making a difference.
Red Ribbon Week: Life Is a Movie, Film Drug-Free!
Red Ribbon Week, spearheaded by the SAPIS Department (Substance Abuse Prevention and Intervention Services), encouraged students to make healthy, drug-free choices. This year’s theme, Life Is a Movie, Film Drug-Free!, inspired a variety of engaging activities surrounding the idea of staying drug-free. On October 25, there was a specific focus on bullying.
Stomping Out Bullying in Blue
On Anti-Bullying Day, we saw the school "Go Blue" to support the fight against bullying. Each grade participated in meaningful activities:
- Kindergarten: Colored "Kindness Matters" sheets.
- 1st & 2nd Grades: Designed "Stomp Out Bullying" sheets.
- 3rd-5th Grades: Engaged in discussions on bullying and the importance of kindness, followed by creative activities.
These moments fostered understanding, empathy, and the importance of a positive school culture.
Halloween Fun for Everyone!
The month wrapped up with a spooky yet joyful Halloween celebration. Students kicked off the day in the gym with games like Mummy Wrap and Bobbing for Apples, plus arts and crafts where they created bats from handprints. A pizza party in the cafeteria followed, accompanied with chips, candy, and juice. The day concluded with laughter-filled photos in front of a themed backdrop, using silly props to capture the Halloween spirit.
October was full of education, awareness, and fun! By uniting for causes like breast cancer awareness and anti-bullying efforts, while also celebrating with creative holidays, we continue to foster a sense of community and belonging.
Launch of Programming at our 3 Partner Schools!
This year, we are offering a wide variety of enriching after-school clubs aimed at fostering student creativity, social-emotional learning (SEL), and academic success at our three partner schools - The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology, PS 59: The Dawn Best School, and High School for Media and Communications. From middle school creative clubs to high school career-focused courses, these schools are providing a diverse range of activities aimed at nurturing students' creativity, physical health, and social-emotional development.
The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology
At The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology, which started its after-school programming on September 9th, students have access to a robust selection of activities, ranging from creative arts to physical wellness.
For middle schoolers, the available programs include:
- Anime/Manga Club
- Arts & Crafts
- Band
- BioQuest
- Creative EQ
- Dance
- Game Theory
- HLAX Boys and Girls
- Musical
- Strength & Stretching
- Table Tennis
- Team Sports
- Visual Arts
This month in chef academy, students dove into an exciting culinary adventure, starting with an introduction to the program during their first lesson. They explored the question, “What will we do in Chef Academy?” and kicked off their cooking journey by preparing a delicious pasta dish. In the following lessons, they focused on building foundational skills, including following safety procedures and understanding cooking terms. Students then transitioned into breakfast dishes, mastering skills like reading recipes and learning techniques such as flipping and beating while preparing vegetable omelets. They continued expanding their breakfast repertoire by making waffles using a waffle iron, and healthy muffins, where they learned how to bake.
As the month progressed, students tackled lunch and dinner meals, gradually developing more complex skills like altering recipes, using different kitchen equipment such as skewers and blenders, and learning cooking styles like grilling and chopping. They explored various cultural dishes, including Hawaiian BBQ chicken skewers, Mexican-style sliders, and mini deep-dish pizzas. Each lesson was filled with teamwork and hands-on learning, providing students with a diverse and enriching experience in the kitchen.
In the Strength, Stretching, and Flexibility club, students focused on building both strength and flexibility. Participants engaged in workouts like push-ups and sit-ups to develop core strength, followed by a variety of body stretches. The benefits of stretching are numerous, including injury prevention, improved muscle coordination, better posture, enhanced sports performance, and overall physical and mental well-being. This club helps foster a balanced approach to fitness, supporting students in achieving greater health and resilience.
For high schoolers, programming includes:
- Blackity
- Creative Writing
- Health
- Journalism
- Graphic Design
- Bridgeology/Salvadori/Game Theory
- Studio Art
In Creative Writing, students have started to engage in self-expression and thinking imaginatively through various methods such as poetry, short stories, comic books, songs, and scripts. In this class, free-writing will be used as a way to brainstorm, reflect, and discuss ideas. Students will also look at art to inspire their writing, followed by creating their own art through words, rhyming schemes, and visuals.
In Bridgeology, students will become exposed to the fascinating world of bridge engineering, highlighting bridges as symbols of connection and resilience. Students will explore the structural uniqueness of different bridge types, studying key components like trusses, arches, and suspension systems while learning how forces such as tension and compression support heavy loads. Through lessons on iconic bridges, participants will apply geometric principles like symmetry, load distribution, and the Pythagorean theorem to design their own efficient structures. The program emphasizes real-world problem-solving, culminating in a collaborative final project where students will build a scale model of a truss bridge, merging creativity and engineering to address community challenges. This club offers an exciting blend of teamwork, geometry, and hands-on learning.
P.S. 59: The Dawn Best School
PS 59 began its programming on September 30th, offering a wide range of day and after school activities that aim to strengthen both academic and social-emotional skills. Some of the key offerings include:
- Arts & Crafts: This course helps students develop a relationship with art, using various materials to create projects that reflect themes such as community and self-expression. The program culminates in a student art exhibition.
- SEL (Social Emotional Learning): Students partake in a social emotional learning club, part of the daytime lunch program. Anchored in the Niroga Institute's Transformative Life Skills (TLS) curriculum, this course helps students practice centering, breathing, and reflection to increase focus and develop empathy. This program aligns with CASEL’s SEL framework, supporting students in building self-awareness, self-management, and relationship skills.
- Dance: Through hip-hop and Latin dance styles, students gain physical coordination, self-discipline, and cultural knowledge while working together to create choreography.
- Sports and Wellness: This program encourages physical activity through sports like soccer and pickleball, while also emphasizing the importance of cardiovascular health.
- Phoenix Choice & Voice: A board game club that teaches critical thinking, problem-solving, and social skills through strategic gameplay.
- Phoenix Explorers: A STEM program where students engage in hands-on science and engineering projects, fostering creativity and innovation.
- Phoenix Futures: A career exploration program that introduces students to various professions and helps them think critically about their future career paths.
- Phoenix Voices: A music club that builds confidence and social connection through singing and exploring different genres of music.
- Phoenix Steppers: A unique club that teaches students how to use body movements and rhythms to communicate and tell stories through stepping.
- I Am Beauty Social Club: Focused on self-care and self-love, this club teaches students about different hair textures, skin tones, and hygiene routines while fostering a sense of sisterhood.
- Phoenix Spelling Bees: A competitive club that enhances students' spelling, vocabulary, and language skills while promoting teamwork and confidence through Spelling Bee competitions.
High School for Media and Communications
High School for Media and Communications will start its programming on October 15th. Students here can explore a variety of creative, media-driven, and technology-focused activities that allow them to express themselves and prepare for future careers in communications. The programming includes sports broadcasting, media news, edge tech, set design, and more, ensuring that students are well-equipped with the tools they need to thrive in the world of media and beyond. In sports broadcasting, students will channel their inner ESPN to report on local sports for their classmates. Students involved in edge tech will learn about resourcefulness by creating high-quality content using everyday technology found in the average American home. In media news, students will curate, write, and present breaking stories, while set design offers hands-on experience in building the theatrical environments that bring productions to life. In addition, students can explore various clubs such as dance, art, ping pong, dominoes, guitar, and improv, ensuring a well-rounded experience that blends both artistic and technical talents.
With such a wide array of programs, students at The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology, PS 59: The Dawn Best School, and the High School for Media and Communications are being offered enriching experiences that will shape their future. These schools are investing in creativity, academic success, social-emotional growth, and physical well-being, ensuring that students thrive both in the classroom and beyond.
Celebrating Creativity and Community: The Summer Rising Showcase
On August 7th, the Summer Rising program hosted a memorable Showcase event, bringing together students, families, and staff from grades Kindergarten through 5th. The event was a celebration of the creativity, learning, and community spirit that flourished throughout the summer, offering a glimpse into the enriching experiences the students had enjoyed.
As families arrived at the event, they were treated to a delicious breakfast, providing a chance to relax and connect with other families before the activities began. To add to the excitement, families were invited to participate in a raffle for gift cards. Additionally, parents were encouraged to complete a family survey, offering valuable feedback on their experiences with the program and helping to shape future initiatives.
One of the highlights of the showcase was the Gallery Walk, where families were taken on a visual journey through the summer. The gallery featured a collection of photographs capturing the joy and learning that had taken place over the past few weeks. Parents were able to see their children engaged in various activities, from art projects to science experiments. In addition to the photographs, the gallery showcased the students’ artwork, allowing families to appreciate the creativity and effort their children had put into their projects. The exhibit displayed diverse talents of the students and the supportive environment that encouraged them to explore their artistic side. As they walked through the gallery, parents also had the opportunity to speak directly with their children’s enrichment instructors. These conversations provided insights into the learning processes behind the artwork and activities, further deepening the connection between the school and families.
The showcase concluded with a series of dance performances by the students. Each grade performed a dance routine that lasted 2-3 minutes. The performances were a way of showcasing their rhythm, coordination, and enthusiasm in front of their families. The dances demonstrated their teamwork and dedication, as they had spent weeks preparing for this moment. For many parents, seeing their children perform on stage was the highlight of the event. The pride and joy were palpable as the audience cheered on each performance, creating an atmosphere of celebration and community.
Summer Rising's Trips Galore
This summer, students in the Summer Rising program embarked on a series of exciting field trips, each offering a unique blend of education and adventure. These trips provided students with hands-on learning experiences that were both fun and enriching. Here’s a look at the incredible places that students visited during their summer program.
Intrepid Museum
One of the standout trips was to the Intrepid Museum. Here, students delved into the fascinating world of American military and maritime history. The museum’s interactive exhibits allowed students to get up close with historic aircraft. This trip not only expanded their knowledge of history but also ignited a sense of curiosity and admiration for the advances in sea, air, and space exploration.
UNO Pizzeria & Grill
For a tasty and educational experience, students visited UNO Pizzeria & Grill. During this trip, they got the chance to become chefs for the day, wearing aprons and creating their own pizzas. They learned about the importance of fresh ingredients and the basics of culinary arts. The fun didn’t stop there – students were also given a behind-the-scenes tour of the kitchen. They learned valuable lessons about nutrition, safe food handling, and the daily operations of a busy restaurant. This hands-on experience provided students with a new appreciation for the art of cooking and the hard work that goes into preparing a delicious meal.
American Museum of Natural History
During the trip to the American Museum of Natural History, students explored a wide array of exhibits, from the towering dinosaur skeletons to the dioramas of wildlife from around the world. The museum’s vast collection gave students a chance to learn about the diversity of life on Earth, the complexities of human cultures, and the mysteries of the universe. This trip was a perfect blend of education and imagination, sparking students' interest in science and history.
Bronx Zoo
At the Bronx Zoo, students celebrated the zoo's 125th anniversary by immersing themselves in the animal kingdom. They explored various exhibits, encountering over 11,000 animals and 640 species from around the world. From the majestic lions to the playful monkeys, each animal encounter offered a unique learning opportunity. Students gained a deeper understanding of wildlife conservation and the importance of protecting endangered species.
AMC Theater: Inside Out 2
The journey continued to the AMC Theater, where students enjoyed a screening of Inside Out 2. This trip was not just about watching a movie – it was an extension of the program’s Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculum. The film, which explores the complexities of emotions, provided a platform for students to discuss their feelings and experiences in a safe and supportive environment. By connecting the movie’s themes with their own lives, students gained valuable insights into emotional awareness and empathy.
New York Aquarium
At the New York Aquarium, students were given an up-close look at marine life in “the sea that never sleeps.” They observed the vibrant displays of fish, sharks, and other sea creatures, learning about the delicate ecosystems that exist beneath the waves. This trip encouraged students to think about the importance of marine conservation and the need to protect our oceans for future generations.
Rye Playland
With over 50 rides and attractions, students enjoyed the thrills of Rye Playland. From exhilarating roller coasters to refreshing water rides, students had the time of their lives. This trip was a perfect way to wrap up the summer, offering a day of laughter, excitement, and unforgettable memories.
Celebrating the Final Week of Summer Rising 2024: A Week of Fun and Learning at P.S. 004
As the Summer Rising program at P.S. 004 came to an end, students were treated to a week of joy, creativity, and unforgettable experiences. Week 7 was filled with themed events that brought smiles to students’ faces and left them with memories to cherish. These are some highlights from this special week:
Jersey Day Tuesday: August 13
The week kicked off with Jersey Day, a day where students showed off their favorite sports jerseys. The day was packed with exciting activities that combined fun with learning. One of the main events was a school-wide scavenger hunt. Each grade was assigned a specific rubber toy to find around the school: Kindergarten hunted for rubber duckies, 1st grade searched for rubber unicorns, 2nd grade looked for rubber cars, 3rd grade looked for rubber dinosaurs, and 4th and 5th grades were on the hunt for rubber chickens. The scavenger hunt not only encouraged teamwork but also sharpened students’ observation skills.
After the hunt, students engaged in hands-on science experiments. Kindergarten and 1st-grade students participated in the colorful Skittles experiment, exploring the science of colors and sugar dissolution. Meanwhile, 2nd to 5th graders explored the world of polymers, conducting an experiment that showcased the fascinating properties of these long-chain molecules.
The fun didn’t stop there. In the cafeteria, students participated in a Marshmallow Tower Challenge, where they used spaghetti noodles and marshmallows to create the tallest and most stable structures they could. There was also a Stacking Cups challenge, where students competed to see who could stack and unstack cups the fastest. For those who wanted a more relaxing activity, a coloring station offered a variety of sheets for students to express their creativity.
Splish Splash Wednesday: August 14
Midweek, the excitement continued with Splish Splash Wednesday. The day began with an arts and crafts session where students designed their own T-shirts, allowing them to showcase their unique styles. The highlight of the day was a series of water-based activities that left everyone laughing and soaked. Students played Twister Splash, a wet twist on the classic game, and danced around a Cactus Sprinkler that kept everyone cool. Over 500 water balloons were on hand for water balloon tosses and battles, and sensory bins filled with sand and Orbeez offered a tactile experience for the students. It was a day of endless fun, and a perfect way to beat the summer heat!
Wacky Tacky Carnival: The Grand Finale
The final day of Summer Rising was marked by the Wacky Tacky Carnival, a carnival-themed celebration that brought the program to a close on a high note. The school was transformed into a festive carnival, complete with classic games like the potato sack race, 3-legged race, egg and spoon race, ring toss, and bean bag throw. Each game was designed to test students' agility, balance, and coordination, all while ensuring they had a blast.
Adding to the fun was a karaoke section, where students could sing favorite tunes and cheer each other on. Students indulged in various snacks and refreshments, including popcorn, cotton candy, water, and juice. Before heading home, each student received a goodie bag filled with treats.
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