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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!

English - 12/19/2024 - Anthony Ramirez Diaz

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.

English - 12/19/2024 - Anthony Ramirez Diaz

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!

English - 12/04/2024 - Anthony Ramirez Diaz

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.

English - 12/02/2024 - Anthony Ramirez Diaz

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.

English - 10/21/2024 - Anthony Ramirez Diaz

Nurturing Dance and Music in Education: Highlighting Dance Clubs at Partner Sites

Programming at Arete Education’s 3 partner school sites redefines the learning landscape by integrating dance clubs into the afterschool curriculum. These clubs offer students a unique opportunity to receive dance training within the school environment. By fostering creativity, confidence, and community, Arete Education’s dance programming ignites a passion for the arts and enriches students' educational experiences!

At PS 59: The Dawn Best School and The Laboratory School of Finance and Technology, SNS Artistry emphasizes the importance of dance and music in education. Their mission is clear and compelling: to provide students with the opportunity to receive quality training in dance and music within the school system. By doing so, they aim to ignite a lifelong passion for dance and music in young minds.

SNS Artistry's approach to teaching is as diverse as their student body. Catering to all grades and groups, they understand that each student is unique. The structure of their programs depends on the attention level, ambition, and enthusiasm of each group. Whether it's hip-hop, salsa, or bachata, the dance styles taught are chosen based on the students' ability to comprehend and understand timing, rhythm, and retention.

One of the significant incentives for students is the love for dance and music that SNS Artistry fosters through their sessions. This passion is showcased through end-of-season performances. These performances are a way for students to exhibit the skills they have learned in front of an audience, boosting their confidence and sense of achievement. Additionally, these performances are more than just a showcase of talent; they are a celebration of hard work, dedication, and community.

The success stories emerging from SNS Artistry's programs are numerous. Many students remain in the program throughout their school years, eventually joining dance companies outside the classroom. The program's impact goes beyond teaching dance moves; it builds confidence, emotional intelligence, and perseverance. Students learn to push through challenges, influencing a growth mindset that serves them well, not just in dance but with academic and social development.

Moreover, the program promotes the development of lifelong friendships. Students from different age ranges and with varied interests come together through dance. This community helps them develop essential interpersonal skills.

For the instructors, Steven and Steffani, the most rewarding part of their work is watching the students grow. There is immense joy in seeing young, bright minds evolve into confident individuals. The journey doesn't end when students leave the school; many keep in touch, and teachers witness their progress as they grow older.

“It's a blessing to see these young individuals become who they were meant to be!” - Steffani

Through these programs dedicated to dance, students gain more than just artistic skills. They learn about determination, build friendships, and develop a love for the arts that lasts a lifetime!

English - 07/18/2024 - Anthony Ramirez Diaz

A Colorful June Celebration at P.S. 59: Welcoming Summer and Honoring Hard Work

In June, Arete proudly celebrated the students of P.S. 59 with two joyous events: the Celebration of Colors and a vibrant carnival. These events were not just a way to honor the students' dedication and perseverance throughout the academic year but also to mark the beginning of summer!

Celebration of Colors

On June 20th, the Celebration of Colors was a lively and heartwarming event designed to acknowledge the students' hard work in preparing for and completing major assessments and exams, celebrate the accomplishments of graduating students, and welcome the summer season. The event was filled with vibrant colors, symbolizing the diverse and dynamic community of P.S. 59. It was a time for students to unwind and enjoy the festive atmosphere after the rigors of their academic endeavors!

Carnival Fun

On June 10th, the carnival brought a wave of excitement and joy to P.S. 59. Students had a blast jumping inside the bouncy house, getting their faces painted with colorful designs, roller skating, and engaging in fun carnival games!The carnival also featured a variety of differently-shaped balloons, adding to the fun and playful environment. The school grounds echoed with laughter and cheer as students enjoyed the numerous activities and celebrated the end of a challenging yet rewarding academic year!

As the academic school year came to an end, P.S. 59 was transformed into a haven of joy and companionship, filled with smiles and laughter, as the school community came together to celebrate the end of the school year and the beginning of summer. These events highlighted the importance of taking time to appreciate and celebrate achievements, fostering a sense of unity and pride within the school!

English - 07/12/2024 - Anthony Ramirez Diaz

Celebrating Student Success: Films by Sebanyah Buckmire and Audrey Taveras Shine at NYC Public School Film Festival

We are thrilled to announce the remarkable achievements of two of our talented students, Sebanyah Buckmire and Audrey Taveras, whose films were selected for the prestigious NYC Public School Film Festival! Sebanyah's "In My Head" and Audrey's "It Girl" received unanimous acclaim from the festival judges and have been awarded the highest honors. These outstanding films were showcased at the NYC Public School Film Festival, an event that honors diverse student voices, hosted by The Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment.

About the Films

"In My Head" by Sebanyah Buckmire

Sebanyah Buckmire's film delves into the complexities of mental health, exploring the anxieties and depression of youth. The film's poignant narrative and evocative visuals demonstrate how mental illnesses can be overlooked by anyone.

"It Girl" by Audrey Taveras

Audrey Taveras' "It Girl" presents a sharp and insightful commentary on how oftentimes people tend to conceal their internal struggles based on social pressures, leading one to spiral into depression and loneliness.

In addition to their films being recognized at the festival, Sebanyah Buckmire and Audrey Taveras were featured in an interview on CBS Mornings on May 13th. They joined Patricia Kaufman, the Commissioner of the Mayor’s Office for Media and Entertainment, to discuss their films and the impact of this achievement!

The selection of these films for the NYC Public School Film Festival and being featured on CBS is a testament to the hard work, talent, and vision of Sebanyah and Audrey. It also highlights the supportive and nurturing environment at The High School for Media and Communications, where students are encouraged to pursue their artistic passions and develop their storytelling abilities! We also appreciate the invaluable support and contributions of La Sala Talks to the success of these students.

English - 07/11/2024 - Anthony Ramirez Diaz

Empowering Youth through the Voices Unfiltered Podcast Network

The Media Performing Arts Division at The High School for Media and Communication (HSMC), alongside Spanglish Voces, is proud to inaugurate their latest project - the Voices Unfiltered Podcast Network! This innovative platform aims to empower youth by providing them with an outlet to express themselves freely while honing their critical thinking, writing, and research skills.

The mission of the Voices Unfiltered Podcast Network is to give power to youth voices by fostering confidence and providing opportunities for self-expression. Supported by Artistic Director and Teaching Artist Zulaika Valezquez, students will share their diverse and personal stories, ideas, and perspectives. By encouraging them to pursue their passions and create high-quality content, the initiative aims to instill a sense of agency and advocacy in these young adults.

One of the primary goals of the Voices Unfiltered Podcast Network is to amplify marginalized voices and narratives. In collaboration with HSMC students, the new podcast, “Black Voices Unfiltered," seeks to shine a light on the experiences Black youth. This initiative aims to provide a space for understanding, empathy, and solidarity within the broader community.

Through the creation of their own podcasts, students involved in this project will gain valuable hands-on experience and improve their abilities in media and communications. Furthermore, the Voices Unfiltered Podcast Network serves as a catalyst for meaningful conversations and community engagement, ultimately, being a powerful platform for youth empowerment and social change!

Check out the podcast here: Black Voices Unfiltered Podcast

English - 03/27/2024 - Anthony Ramirez Diaz

Celebrating Black History Month at PS 59: Honoring Inventors, Icons, and Activists

At PS 59, thanks to Alejandra Figueroa’s design and planning of these experiences, teachers engaged students in a diverse array of programming aimed at educating, inspiring, and celebrating Black identity and history!

The Phoenix Explorers students are delving into the realm of STEM through the lens of African American inventors. From groundbreaking discoveries to revolutionary inventions, students are learning about the various contributions made by African Americans.

Each grade level at PS 59 has been assigned a specific theme, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of black excellence across various domains.

In the 3K and PreK classes, young learners are immersing themselves in the world of politics as they study prominent Black politicians. Through this, students gained insight into the power of advocacy and leadership!

For 3rd graders, the focus shifts to the realm of dance, with students exploring the lives and legacies of iconic Black dancers. Students celebrated the artistry and cultural significance of dance as a form of expression and resistance!

4th graders focused on the world of athletics, exploring the achievements of African American sports figures who have shattered barriers and redefined the meaning of excellence on the field, court, and track!

In the 5th grade classrooms, students learned about civil rights pioneers and contemporary advocates. They were inspired from activists who have dedicated their lives to fighting for justice, equality, and human rights. These young students are learning valuable lessons about the power of activism and the importance of speaking out against injustice!

One of the highlights of the programming for Black History Month is the Wax Museum, an interactive and educational experience where students bring historical figures to life.

The Black History Month programming at P.S. 59 is committed to fostering an inclusive and empowering learning environment where every student feels seen, heard, and valued. By highlighting the achievements and contributions of African Americans, the school is not only honoring the past but also motivating the future generations to fight for a better and more equitable future!

English - 03/22/2024 - Anthony Ramirez Diaz

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