Wednesday, September 30, 2015

During the 2-week push of our Foundation's Check it Off Campaign, we will be highlighting some background stories of past Foundation projects.

StemlabThe concept of the STEM Lab began in 2011 when Sope Creek brought in a STEM rotation (once every 8 days) in a "regular classroom" taught by a dedicated STEM teacher, Kerry Lance.

Ms. Lance and members of the administration consulted outside experts and STEM schools from around the country were consulted to see how to expand the program to touch students more often than every 8 days. A special classroom space would be necessary that would simplify and encourage "hands on learning". The desire was for every teacher to be able to take learning outside of the textbook by providing a larger dedicated space with access to technology, experimental materials, and much needed "elbow room" for imaginations to soar (hence the name "Imagination Station").

The budget estimate for the renovated classroom and expanded Imagination Station space was determined to be $60,000. The Foundation began a Capital Campaign, and as a result of both contributions and the profits from the Sope Creek Spring Fever 5K/1mile, the needed funds were raised and the spaces were configured before the 2012 school year.

Special tables and stools were brought in for group work, 3 new smart boards,a refrigerator, freezer, storage cabinets, grade level equipment, and Verneer labquest testing equipment. In addition, Imagination Station was created by installing technology drops and opening up two classrooms with a dedicated storage space for teachers.

The Sope Creek STEM lab was the first elementary school STEM LAB in Cobb County. As of this year there are two STEM rotations for all grades at Sope Creek.

It is our hope that the Check it Off campaign will allow many more projects that enhance and enrich the academic experience for ALL Sope Creek students. We are hoping we can count on your support to make a suggested donation of $75 per child, if you haven't done so already. If you have, we thank you!

We need your help to reach our goal of having 100% of our families participate in this campaign. Click here to donate now!

Wednesday, September 16, 2015

Reflections_Logo_2Looking for something fun to do over Fall Break?  Why not get a head start on the 2015 PTA Reflections Program!

This year's theme is "Let Your Imagination Fly."

Students may enter in any of the following categories and may submit entries in more than one category:

  • Dance
  • Music Competition
  • Photography
  • Visual Arts
  • Film
  • Literature

Click  http://www.georgiapta.org/for-pta-leaders/committee-chairs/reflections-leadership/ to read the rules particular to each category and for entry forms. More information can be found on the website.

Reflect on the theme.  Create an original work.  Be recognized. 

Deb Papenhagen papenhagendeb@yahoo.com

Marlene Green marlene@ascotdiamonds.com

PTA Reflections Committee

Friday, September 11, 2015

In Memory of Emery Funkhouser

Please join Sope Creek in celebrating #CapeDayATL in remembrance of Emery!

This event is a way that Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta shows support for their superhero patients.  #CapeDayATL is scheduled to be Tuesday, September 15th.  We couldn’t get over the remarkable timing, and thought this would be a wonderful way to remember and honor Emery.

Details:

  • Tuesday, September 15th
  • With at least a $1.00 donation, students and staff can wear a cape.
  • All money collected will be sent to CHOA Cardiac Services in memory of Emery.
  • Please be sure to tag #CapeDayATL and #SopeCreekHasHeart in all your posts!

More information about #CapeDayATL can be found at http://www.choa.org/capedayatl

Directions to make a cape: Download How-to-make-a-cape

 

Newsletter September 11

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6ooHh7JIBH5VE5JQl92dWtXNzg/view?usp=sharing

Homework Week 4

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6ooHh7JIBH5SzhOMUliSGRuQU0/view?usp=sharing

Wednesday, September 9, 2015

Place Value Games, Snow, and Rain Gauges

The students had a blast learning this week. Since we've been learning about weather we decided to make snow! It was really fun. To make snow at home all you need is one full packet of corn starch and one can of shaving cream. Mix together and have fun!