Fifth graders get 'middle schooled'
MAY 2008—Fifth graders at Mechanicstown Elementary School got a taste of what middle school is all about on May 21. Students visited their designated middle school to be, either Twin Towers or Monhagen, and spent time touring the buildings, learning about school policies and expectations, and the programs available to them.

"The transition from elementary school to middle school often brings about feelings of  anxiety in children.  These feelings are typical of most children as they prepare for a new life experience.  Our middle school orientation program provides  children information and answers their questions about what their middle school experience will be like.  It helps the children to understand that they will be in a safe, nurturing environment, be challenged academically, and have a variety of opportunities to participate in extra-curricular activities," said Gordon Dean, TTMS principal.

Students learned about the academic program, arts and after-school programs, music electives, and schedules along with the usage of lockers. Students were also introduced to team teachers and counselors and introduced to Positive Behavior Intervention and Support(PBIS) services, which promotes positive student behavior in our schools.

Students create art and promote awareness
APRIL 2008—Students at Mechanicstown participated in the annual poster contest sponsored by the Orange County Alcohol and Substance Abuse Council again this year.

Students created art around the theme “Being Alcohol and Drug Free is My Responsibility,” and were asked to think about their choices with drugs, alcohol, and tobacco and to use posters to communicate those choices to other children at school and across the county. Winners were announced at the Paramount Theater on Tuesday, April 1, and included:

Students learn all about banking
WINTER 2008—Students at Mechanicstown Elementary School got a first hand look at US money and banking thanks to Orange County Trust.

Jene Ennis, of Orange County Trust, visited the school and spoke to students about the world of banking. As part of her presentation, Mechanicstown students got to take a look at US coins and bills by using magnifying glasses to inspect enlarged copies.

Sounds of music to be heard in 2008
District to launch new strings program at Maple Hill and Mechanicstown Elementary Schools

DEC.2007—Maple Hill and Mechanicstown Elementary Schools will be filled with the sounds of music come 2008, as the new strings program at both schools is launched.

Students in grades three and four (who aren't already in band) will have a choice to play the violin, viola, cello or bass. And thanks to new strings teacher Megan Creenan, students are getting the chance to learn a little bit about each instrument before they have to make such a tough decision.  Creenan, along with her four instruments, has been making the rounds at both schools doing demonstrations, and she’ll continue to do so during January. To read more click here!

Vocal and instrumental concert a hit
DEC.2007—Mechanicstown students performed live in concert on Dec. 11, 2007, for parents, grandparents, family members and friends! Both the vocal and instrumental groups performed and did a stellar job!

Mechanicstown hosts Middletown Athletes Care (MAC)
NOV.2007—Mechanicstown hosted Middletown Athletes Care (MAC) where high school athletes along with coaches visited the school to talk about their fall sports and team experiences. Special thanks to Denise Scherman, coordinator of the event. You can check out MAC Day on Channel 20 now! Go Middies!

Students discover tradition through Middle Eastern art
OCT.2007—In the months of Sept. & Oct., forth grade artists and Mrs. Rhein explored using lines to create  “Mehndi Hands.” The project focused on the ancient Middle Eastern art called Mehndi.

After exploring art-making using line, pattern, color and design, each student was given the opportunity to have his/her hand temporarily stained with Henna. Henna is a paste made from the leaves of the Henna bush, eucalyptus oil, lemon juice and water.

During  project, the students explored the Mehndi tradition and were able to apply the ideas to understanding and discovering traditions within their own families, neighborhoods and school.

Blood Drive at school a success
OCT.2007—Mechanicstown Elementary School hosted its annual Blood Drive on Tuesday, Oct. 9, 2007. The school had many donors come out for the event and  Bill Galvin, PTO President, would like to thank all those that donated.