Chemistry came alive with vibrant colors in Lisa Salyers' classroom at Chagrin Falls High School this month as students conducted atomic emission spectra and flame testing to explore atomic structure and electron behavior...
Chemistry Students Spark Curiosity with Flame Testing
Chemistry came alive with vibrant colors in Lisa Salyers’ classroom at Chagrin Falls High School this month as students conducted atomic emission spectra and flame testing to explore atomic structure and electron behavior.
The hands-on laboratory experiment allowed students to observe how different metallic compounds produce distinctive colors when heated in a flame.
“Flame testing transforms an abstract concept into tangible experience,” Salyers explained. “When students observe these color changes, they better understand how electrons absorb and release energy at specific wavelengths.”
The experiment reinforced key chemistry concepts including atomic structure, electron energy levels, and the relationship between wavelength, frequency, and energy in the electromagnetic spectrum. Students recorded their observations and analyzed the connection between each metal’s electron configuration and its characteristic flame color.
7th-Graders Reimagine Ancient Greek Innovations
History met innovation as seventh-grade students at Chagrin Falls Middle School concluded their Ancient Greece unit with a unique hands-on project combining historical knowledge with modern creativity.
Students were challenged to take ancient Greek achievements in architecture, mathematics, philosophy, athletics, and other fields—and improve upon these classical innovations for today’s world. Using materials from the school’s zero-waste cart, students designed and built prototypes of their reimagined inventions, bringing their creative solutions to life.
The collaborative project, developed by teachers Samantha Genshock and Polly Mitchell alongside makerspace instructional coach Matthew Volk, encouraged students to think critically about how ancient innovations could be enhanced with modern knowledge and technology.
“This project allows students to not just learn about ancient Greece, but to actively engage with its lasting contributions to civilization,” said Genshock. “When students have to improve upon something, they first need to deeply understand how and why it was originally created.”
Students presented their prototypes to classmates, explaining both the historical significance of their chosen Greek innovation and their modern improvements. Projects ranged from fully automated lighthouses and cranes to alarm clocks and vending machines.
The hands-on approach transformed what could have been a traditional history unit into an engaging exploration of innovation across the ages, demonstrating how ancient wisdom continues to inspire modern solutions.
This cross-disciplinary project exemplifies Chagrin Falls Middle School’s commitment to interactive learning experiences that bring historical concepts into the present day while fostering creativity and critical thinking skills.
Educators Share AI Integration Strategies
Chagrin Falls Schools demonstrated its leadership in educational innovation as several district educators participated in the Western Reserve Educational Service Center’s 4AI Summit on Oc. 18, sharing their experiences and insights on artificial intelligence integration in education.
The summit, which focused on AI’s transformative role in modern education, featured multiple Chagrin Falls educators in key speaking roles. Assistant Superintendent Mike Daugherty participated in a leadership panel, discussing strategies for implementing AI initiatives and fostering innovation within school districts.
Instructional technology coach Molly Klodor led discussions on creative applications of AI technology, particularly focusing on image generation tools and their potential in the classroom. She was joined by teachers Grace McDevitt and Abby Packard on an educator panel, where they shared practical experiences and successful strategies for incorporating AI tools into daily instruction.
“AI literacy is becoming as fundamental as digital literacy was a decade ago,” said Daugherty. “Our goal is to prepare students to work alongside these technologies effectively and ethically.”
The educators highlighted Chagrin Falls Schools’ proactive approach to AI integration, emphasizing the importance of balancing innovation with practical classroom applications. Their presentations covered topics ranging from enhancing student engagement to developing AI literacy skills essential for future success.
This participation in the 4AI Summit reflects Chagrin Falls Schools’ commitment to staying at the forefront of educational technology while ensuring thoughtful and effective implementation of AI tools in the classroom.
The summit provided a platform for the district to both share its experiences and learn from other educational leaders, furthering its mission to prepare students for an increasingly AI-integrated world.
