Expedition Express: Light and Sound Engineers!
The Bell Crew is wrapping up a mini-expedition exploring the connection between light and sound vibration as well as investigating the path of a beam of light. Students have spent the past several weeks working as scientists to observe, wonder and record their findings about light and sound. They have used mirrors to bend light, tested out materials in light boxes to determine their transparency, and made numerous discoveries about the nature of sound vibrations. Currently, they are working in engineering teams to tell a story using light and sound. In their groups, they are learning the design process that professional engineers rely upon daily — brainstorm, design, build, test, redesign, build, test… They are thrilled to be active scientists and engineers!

Questions to Ask Your Child:
• What happens when you put something in the path of a beam of light?
• How can you tell if a material absorbs, transmits, or reflects light?
• Describe the engineering design process.

Crew News
We had an exciting day of fieldwork at the Reno Discovery Museum last week. Our marvelous Ms. Landis arranged a special light lab at the museum. The children were able to further explore what happens when one places an object in the path of a beam of light. Using flashlights, projectors, colored cellophane, index cards, tape and more, the children determined whether materials were transparent, semi-transparent or opaque. It was a wonderful day!

Our School Counselor, Alaina Reichwald, has invited her friend and colleague, Shanti, to visit our crew this week. The children have completed a series of mindfulness lessons that Shanti developed. The lessons teach us to use breathing, positive self-talk and visualization to manage stressful situations. Shanti will join our crew for morning meeting to help further our mindfulness skills.

Loren McCormac, our fearless Harvest of the Month volunteer, continues to broaden our palates and challenge the first graders to use adventure to try new foods. Last week we tasted Meyer lemons (“Yum!!!” they all said.). This week is cabbage. ☺

SELS News
Progress reports go home this week. Please them read carefully and let me know if you have any questions or concerns. I am always happy to meet to discuss your child’s progress.

Goal setting conferences are just around the corner! Please remember to support your child in their work on their goals. Progress takes place with daily practice.

For a full school calendar, check our website: https://truckeecharterschool.org/calendar/

Highlights
I want to highlight the entire Bell Crew for their focus and enthusiasm during our mini science expedition this month. They have truly embodied what it is to be active learners and 21st century scientists/engineers!

Many thanks as well to the drivers/chaperones who drove us safely to and from the Reno Discovery Museum. With the wet roads and windy weather looming, you managed your volunteer job with extra responsibility and adventure, and I am grateful! Thank you: Jessica Stevens, Lorna Stucky, Sarah Biebl, Katie Hickey, Michael Penwarden, Stefanie Scapini, Saira West, Loren McCormac, Gideon Jostrand and Tim Loper. I hope I didn’t leave anyone out!