ABOVE: Danville District Curriculum Director MaryEllen Bunton introduces North Ridge students Nola Stroud, Brianna Perez, Lydia Perez, and Maddie Ramble; along with teacher Lori McDermott.
The Danville District 118 Board meeting Wednesday evening (April 23rd) may have been focused on bus issues, along with superintendent thoughts in the backs of many minds. But in the meantime, four North Ridge Middle School 8th graders were recognized for a recent presentation in front of school staff in the North Ridge cafeteria. Teacher Lori McDermott had taught these students as seventh graders. And after an AVID convention in Dallas, she decided to apply something to the school’s Early Out-Professional Development program.
The idea was for Nola Stroud, Brianna and Lydia Perez, and Maddie Ramble to talk about theories for more effective learning. For example, they mentioned how flexible seating and background music could make for more effective learning and production from students. McDermott says she knew these students would deliver; and they did.
Audio PlayerAUDIO: I’ve had those four students in my class. And I knew that they were very well spoken; they were very responsible. So, I just gave them the opportunity. I said “here is the topic, and I want you to present this to the staff.” And they just took it and ran with it; and they did everything they could possibly do that was amazing.
Hunter LaFave, from the “It’s In Your Head” program, addresses 118 Board on avoiding giving students processed, sugary treats; and other factors that can affect behavior.
Meanwhile, Hunter LaFave, who brings his “It’s In Your Head” program to various schools within the district, spoke to the board about how nutrition issues can effect students. He stated that he arrived at one District 118 school, and saw boxes with sugary treats stacked taller than him. LaFave said Northeast Elementary, from what he’s seen, has a different policy, which all schools should consider.
Audio PlayerAUDIO: Northeast limits and removes added sugars; so you can’t bring in cupcakes or candy, or anything like that. And I consistently see that kids that have these emotional issues are always loaded with brightly colored candies. And when they eat them you can kind of watch them change, and they lose control.
LaFave also mentioned the importance of both consistent movement, in addition to “still time,” for all students.