History came alive for Gurney Elementary's first-grade students during their immersive "Now and Then" unit, which transformed young learners into time travelers exploring daily life across different eras...
First-Graders Travel Back in Time
History came alive for Gurney Elementary’s first-grade students during their immersive “Now and Then” unit, which transformed young learners into time travelers exploring daily life across different eras. The innovative program culminated in the creation of their very own classroom museum, showcasing students’ understanding of how everyday life has evolved over time.
The educational journey began with a field trip to Burton Century Village, where first-graders encountered authentic historical artifacts and gained first-hand exposure to life in earlier times. Students examined historical tools, household items, and clothing, learning how families of the past addressed their basic needs.
“These tangible connections to local history make learning meaningful and memorable for our young students,” said first-grade teacher Vicky Pelsozy. “At Burton Century Village, we visit a one-room schoolhouse and reenact what a daily lesson would have looked like in the past. We visit a log cabin and learn about daily life tasks that would have been performed.”
Back in their classroom, students applied their newfound historical knowledge by curating their own museum exhibits. The hands-on project allowed them to compare modern conveniences with historical counterparts, highlighting technological progress and social changes over time.
“Our classroom museum project helps students develop critical thinking skills as they consider how and why things have changed,” explained Principal Rachel Jones. “They’re not just memorizing facts – they’re building essential skills in historical thinking and cultural awareness.”
The unit covered various aspects of daily life, including: historical cooking methods and food preservation; changes in clothing and textile production; evolution of housing and home life; transportation developments; and communication technologies through time.
The “Now and Then” unit exemplifies Gurney Elementary’s commitment to experiential learning that builds fundamental academic skills while fostering curiosity and cultural understanding. Through this engaging approach to history education, first-graders are developing the foundations for lifelong learning and appreciation of their heritage.
Earth Science at Holden Arboretum
Chagrin Falls Intermediate School fourth-graders stepped out of their textbooks and into nature last week for an immersive earth science lesson at Holden Arboretum. The field trip transformed the arboretum’s grounds into a living laboratory where students explored the forces that shape the local landscape.
Using topographic maps, the young geologists-in-training learned to decode the stories hidden in contour lines and elevation changes. They discovered how natural forces like weathering and erosion have sculpted Northeast Ohio’s terrain over thousands of years.
“Reading about erosion in a textbook is one thing, but seeing its effects firsthand helps students understand these concepts on a deeper level,” explained fourth-grade science teacher Heather Reeder.
The hands-on experience allowed students to witness the practical applications of their classroom studies. By analyzing topographic maps of the arboretum’s terrain, students developed crucial map-reading skills while gaining a new perspective on the region’s geographical features.
Fourth-grader Maddie Bond said, “My favorite parts of the field trip were counting all of the stairs and learning about the No Deer zone.” Fourth-grader Henry Erdman commented, “ I liked seeing the view of the lake and all of the living things. It was a huge area with tons of nature.”
The field trip aligned with the fourth-grade earth science curriculum, which focuses on understanding how natural processes continue to shape our planet. Through this experiential learning opportunity, students not only enhanced their scientific knowledge but also developed a greater appreciation for the natural world in their own backyard.
“It’s amazing to see how engaged students become when they can connect classroom concepts to the real world,” noted Principal Curtis Howell. “These kinds of experiences often spark a lifelong interest in science and nature.”
The successful outing exemplifies Chagrin Falls Schools’ commitment to providing engaging, hands-on learning experiences that bring curriculum to life beyond classroom walls.
CFMS Students of the Month
Chagrin Falls Middle School has announced its October 2024 Students of the Month, recognizing four outstanding students who exemplify the school’s Tiger Techniques: Think, Integrity, Grit, Effort and Responsibility. The monthly awards program, supported by the PTO, celebrates seventh and eighth-grade students who demonstrate exceptional performance both in and out of the classroom.
In the seventh-grade, Emma Uehlinger and Cooper Williams earned the prestigious recognition. Emma was praised by teachers for her exceptional organizational skills and quiet leadership style. As the middle school’s sole oboe player, she demonstrates dedication to musical excellence while maintaining meticulous standards in her Project Lead the Way (PLTW) coursework. Teachers highlighted her conscientious nature and willingness to help others, noting that classmates often rely on her attention to detail and follow-through.
Cooper Williams, the other seventh-grade honoree, earned recognition for his comprehensive commitment to excellence. Teachers praised his consistent 100% effort in all endeavors, from academic challenges to athletics. His problem-solving abilities in PLTW and leadership on the football field, combined with his inclusive attitude toward classmates, exemplify the well-rounded student athlete.
The eighth-grade honorees, Mae Livingston and Roan Murphy, were recognized for their positive impacts on the school community. Mae earned praise for her consistently upbeat demeanor and willingness to embrace new challenges. Her self-advocacy skills and strong work ethic have made her particularly successful in Project Lead the Way classes.
Roan Murphy stands out for his infectious enthusiasm and ability to balance academics with athletics, participating in both basketball and lacrosse. Teachers commended his reliable presence, noting his consistent greetings in hallways and classrooms, and his readiness to assist both teachers and peers.
Each honoree received a Tiger water bottle from the PTO in recognition of their achievements. This monthly recognition program reinforces CFMS’s commitment to acknowledging students who go above and beyond in demonstrating the core values of the Tiger Techniques.
Annual Thanksgiving Gift Card Drive
Chagrin Falls High School’s Interact Club is spearheading their annual Thanksgiving gift card collection drive to support families in need through the Geauga County Sponsor-a-Family Program. Running Nov. 11-15, the initiative aims to provide holiday meal assistance to local families facing food insecurity.
“This annual tradition demonstrates our community’s commitment to ensuring everyone can enjoy a proper Thanksgiving meal,” said Karen Sindelar, who is coordinating the collection efforts. “By collecting gift cards rather than traditional food items, we’re giving families the dignity of choosing their own holiday groceries.”
The drive is accepting gift cards from Giant Eagle and Aldi, as well as monetary donations. Students can submit their donations to their first-period teachers throughout the collection week. Community members can participate by either dropping off donations at the high school’s main office or mailing them to the high school at 400 East Washington St., Chagrin Falls, Ohio 44022.
To encourage student participation, the school has organized a friendly competition among first-period classrooms. The homeroom that raises the highest donation amount will be rewarded with a donut party, while their teacher will receive a coveted prime parking spot.
For those wanting to contribute by check, donations should be made payable to “Special Services of Geauga Co” with “food for the holidays” noted in the memo line. All contributions will directly support the Geauga County Jobs and Family Services Holiday Food Drive.
This collaborative effort between Chagrin Falls High School and Geauga County Jobs and Family Services exemplifies the community’s dedication to supporting neighbors in need during the holiday season.
Kindergartners Fine Tune Motor Skills Through Creative Play
In Claire Trump’s kindergarten classroom at Gurney Elementary School, learning and development go hand in hand as students engage in activities designed to strengthen their fine motor skills while having fun.
Through a variety of hands-on activities, students are developing the crucial muscle control and coordination needed for writing, drawing, and other important academic skills. Using Q-tips as painting tools, students create colorful artwork while strengthening their pincer grasp—a fundamental skill for proper pencil holding.
“Engaging activities like these help build the foundation for successful writing and drawing,” explains Trump. “When children shape letters with Play-Doh, they’re not just playing—they’re developing muscle memory and hand strength that will help them when they write those letters on paper.”
The classroom buzzes with focused energy as students practice essential skills like cutting with scissors, an activity that enhances hand-eye coordination and bilateral coordination. These seemingly simple tasks are carefully designed to support children’s physical development alongside their academic growth.
“We make learning developmental skills fun and purposeful,” says Trump. “When students are able to practice and learn in ways they enjoy, they’re more likely to persist in tasks that challenge their developing abilities.”
