Expedition Express
Expedition Name: Building STEAM
Description: We are in the final weeks of our first case study “Blowing off STEAM” in which the students are learning about matter and chemistry. The students have complete two STEM challenges. While in the Sierra Buttes, students explored the principles of buoyancy by building boats from a variety of materials to see whose could hold the most pennies. Last week the students modified the reactants and design of a rocket to build a chemical reaction rocket that reached the highest altitude. As we finish up working on the last of the chemistry labs, we will transition to our second case study “Building STEAM”. Students will begin exploring force, motion, and energy by examining various structures and tool designs. Our fieldwork will take place as a series of day trips rather than an overnight trip. We will be exploring architecture in Sacramento, and I am working on getting us into Squaw to look at lift mechanics. I am also working on visiting dams, windmills, and looking at how wells work. Sacramento will be scheduled for Wednesday, November 3. Be on the lookout for chaperoning sign-up.

Questions to Ask Your Child 
How do things work? Encourage your student to explore the mechanics behind everyday things: pens, mechanical pencils, can-openers, coffee makers, etc.

Crew News
We are moving forward in our business venture, Jungle Jars! We are finalizing our product, exploring possible donor recipients, and working on our mission statement. Hopefully, we will have everything ready shortly so you can order for Christmas!

SELS News
Fall Conferences will take place on October 24th and 25th. Please see “Fall Conferences” email for a link to the sign-up sheet.

I am attending the EL Conference in Detroit from October 26-28. I am very excited to bring back with me all the things I learn!

Important Dates: Check out our school calendar for important school events, minimum days, etc.

Calendar

Highlights
I would like to highlight Riley Thompson, Amelia Swanson, and Johan Sotelo. They showed amazing leadership skills last week when they gave Site Seminar participants tours of the SELS campus. The participants had so many wonderful things to say about all the 8th graders. They were impressed by their eloquence and maturity.

I would also like to highlight volunteers Kimmie Bullock, Heidi Link, and Katie Pruski. We encountered some challenges during our hike up to the SIerra Buttes fire lookout, and because of their flexibility and great attitudes, we all made it safely back to our campsite!