Second Grade Students at Northside are Global Change Makers

Economics instruction for second grade students? At Northside Elementary School, they learned the concepts of supply and demand, scarcity and sustainability, and during that unit, they became interested in exploring how economic factors impact access to water around our world. Among other crucial facts, they learned that worldwide, a child dies every 90 seconds from lack of clean water.
   
If it sounds advanced for second graders, think again. This unit became a rich integration of science, social studies and environmental justice. Through stories, virtual reality experiences and Google Earth explorations, students examined water access around the world. When they met Godi Godar of the Democratic Republic of Congo, founder of Go Conscious Earth, students decided they wanted to impact change in the world in a real way. Godar’s nonprofit funds the building of freshwater wells in villages around Lake Tumba in the DRC. By 2016 the group had provided clean water to more than 10,000 people, and the number has grown significantly since then.
   
After Godar’s initial visit with all of the second grade students at Northside, the children brainstormed ways to support Go Conscious Earth. The outcome of those discussions was a plan to collect coins in every classroom at the school by providing “change jugs,” with accompanying information about the plight of limited water access across so much of the DRC. In addition to their coin drive, the students hosted a second grade market in which they used the school’s library makerspace to create items to sell in various stores they would run.  From stress balls to beaded jewelry, the market  allowed students to use the economic principles studied to earn additional money towards this initiative. Parents and staff were invited to visit the market and purchase items that were crafted by the students.
   
On June 5, the jugs were collected, the coins counted, and when Godar returned to visit with the second grade students in the library media center, the contribution to Go Conscious Earth totaled nearly $700. The children seemed delighted to watch the smiling Godar receive the envelope, and several asked questions and made brief speeches about the importance of the fundraising they had spearheaded. This project has started what will be a lasting partnership between the students of Northside and an organization that allows students to give back in substantial and relevant ways.
   
Kathryn Cole, School Library Media Coordinator, helped shape the entire water access curriculum, and she created the publicity to share in the Northside school community, as well as organized Godar’s visits. She produced a Spark Adobe video called “Water Access: How We Can Help,” available for viewing here:   https://spark.adobe.com/video/kLT0Y0gwQdpHL
   
Before Godar said goodbye to the children, he emphasized the degree of lifesaving support their coins would provide. “We will be able to drill a well for one village, and you guys will be the heroes. We will share pictures of you guys. The people in the village will say, ‘These kids in the U.S. have raised these funds, only for you.’”
   
His final words offered inspiration and encouragement. “Plant a little seed, and it grows bigger and bigger. Don’t dream little tiny dreams - always dream big!”

read more "Second Grade Students at Northside are Global Change Makers"

Duke Energy Foundation $40,000 Grant Supports STEM Instruction

Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools and the Public School Foundation are pleased to announce a $40,000 grant from Duke Energy Foundation. The funds will go toward the development and teacher training for an Inquiry and Nature-Based STEM Program to serve elementary school students in grades 3-5, beginning with a pilot at Northside Elementary School.
   
The grant was submitted by Dan Schnitzer, CHCCS Sustainability Director, in collaboration with a team from the CHCCS Instructional Services Department, in order to raise both the level of rigor and engagement in science instruction. The Institute for the Environment at UNC will design the training and curriculum in collaboration with CHCCS teachers, ensuring that the content is aligned with College and Career Readiness standards.
   
“The vision for delivering this nature-based STEM instruction capitalizes on the natural curiosity of children, combined with their immediate environment,” said Schnitzer. “Above all, the inquiry-based approach will be more successful in engaging all students in STEM. The anticipated result is deeper student interest and excitement in STEM education and the environment, leading to increased proficiency in mastering 3rd-5th grade science concepts and a closer relationship with their environment.”
   
The measurable goal of the Inquiry and Nature-Based STEM Program is to reduce non-proficiency on the Grade 5 Science Test by half over a period of five years. Dr. Elaine Watson-Grant, Director of Elementary Education, explained how the approach of this new program will better reach every student. “One key factor in meeting the needs of all students, and in particular, students from traditionally underserved groups, is participation in immersive, interdisciplinary learning experiences that build their background knowledge, develop and deepen their interests, and connect them to life outside of school. An inquiry-based approach will lead to greater student engagement, understanding and transfer of knowledge.”

“We are proud to partner with Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools and the Public School Foundation to expand access to STEM programming for students and educators,” said Indira Everett, Duke Energy district manager. “Programs that foster a growing interest in STEM fields help our communities continue to grow and produce skilled workers who bring new thinking and ideas to the table.”

With an overarching goal of decreasing the achievement gap in the district, the program designers noted that there are statistically significant gains in achievement on challenging tasks among students who were taught with inquiry-based practices. Research on culturally relevant teaching practices supports the premise that hands-¬on, real-world learning activities are particularly critical for the achievement of students of color as well as students from economically disadvantaged households.
   
“We are grateful to Duke Energy Foundation for recognizing this need in our district and supporting our students with increased opportunities for STEM-based learning,” said Dr. Pam Baldwin, Superintendent of CHCCS. “We look forward to the enthusiasm and energy for science that will develop from this grant.”

read more "Duke Energy Foundation $40,000 Grant Supports STEM Instruction"

Food for the Summer Kicks Off at Northside Elementary

The weather couldn’t have been more perfect for the late afternoon kick off of Food for the Summer at Northside Elementary on Tuesday, June 5. Across the expansive lawn behind the school, a brightly colored Bounce House claimed the center of attention, along with art tables, corn hole stations, a farmers’ market - and a mouthwatering cookout spread from Chartwells, Inc. Families from the Northside community and beyond arrived early and stayed till “closing time” as the children played games, and adults visited with friends and new acquaintances.
   
Summer nutrition programs existed in this community before the creation of Food for the Summer, but it took the inspiration, and then countless hours dedicated to that vision, by Mayor Pam Hemminger before the rollout of the organization in the summer of 2016.
   
The Food for the Summer website (foodforthesummer.org) notes that in 2018, 27.9% or 3,432 children in the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools are food insecure. Yet that stark statistic is not widely known among many local residents. For the third year, the program comprises a collaboration among CHCCS departments, the Chapel Hill Mayor’s office, Varsity Church, a number of community non-profits like Porch and the Inter-faith Council, as well as No Kid Hungry NC and UNC Food for All.
   
During the first summer of Food for the Summer, a smaller partnership of organizations served lunches at four sites in Chapel Hill and Carrboro. This year, volunteers will provide lunches at 16 sites for any child from infant to 18 years old. A new feature that will be phased in at some sites is Lunchtime Camp, an opportunity for volunteers to extend their time with children to interact with them in a variety of enrichment activities. Food and activities will be packed in easy-to-carry bins and volunteers will pick them up at central distribution zones.
   
For some of our community’s children, the USDA-approved lunches will be the most substantial or healthy meals they receive during weekdays. The bonus ingredients of conversation and creative engagement should also provide a social-emotional boost for the children who participate. Roslyn Moffitt, CHCCS Director of Title I and Family and Community Engagement, said, “Once again, different aspects of the community came together to support our families. This speaks to the uniqueness of the Chapel Hill-Carrboro area.”
   
The need for volunteers is still high! The program begins on Monday, June 11 at all 16 sites. Employees of CHCCS and the Town of Chapel Hill do not need additional background checks; all other volunteers can link to a five minute process that will provide the clearance necessary to participate. High school students can earn service-learning hours, and many sites are on the town’s free bus service.
   
Carolyn Brandt is the director of Food for the Summer, and she welcomes your questions at foodforthesummer@ifcmailbox.org. Please visit the website or go straight to the sign-up link!
       
https://www.foodforthesummer.org/volunteer

2018 Organizations of the Partnership

Book Harvest
Town of Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill Mayor’s Office
Chapel Hill Carrboro City Schools
Chartwells, Inc.
Family Success Alliance
Inter-Faith Council for Social Service
No Kid Hungry NC
PORCH
Refugee Support Center
TABLE
UNC Chapel Hill Food for All
Varsity Church
YMCA of the Triangle

read more " Food for the Summer Kicks Off at Northside Elementary"

District Staff Receive SNAColade Awards

SNAColades 2017/18

Note from SNAC: The Special Needs Advisory Council (SNAC) created SNAColades to honor Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools' teachers, staff and administrators who, through their hard work and creativity, make our children's school experience more meaningful.  The following have been selected for this recognition based on the testimonials of the Exceptional Children community.  Below each name is a quote from an appreciative parent or CHCCS administrator.

Estes Hills Elementary School

• Ryan Grimm - Mr. Grimm has great insight into his students' needs and motivations.  He challenges them to reach their potential while recognizing the supports needed to get them to that point.  He is also a diligent communicator with parents and responsive to their concerns.

Frank Porter Graham Elementary 

• Emily Bivens - Although a Principal’s job entails a range of tasks, Dr. Bivens has gone above and beyond by supporting my daughter and our family through a rough transition into Kindergarten.  She’s met with her regularly to work on developing better friendships and social skills.  She’s given us a glimmer of hope for the future grades.
• June Pacheco - Ms. Pacheco recently relocated to CHCCS, and hit the ground running. She brought decades of experience to the EC department at FPG, and the results I've seen in my child are stunning. And I don't just mean grades or test scores.  Ms. Pacheco handles the children in the EC department with respect and holds them accountable for their actions by rewarding them with accolades.  The children are learning to deal with their emotions better through a recently adopted second-step program and Ms. Pacheco is implementing this program in the EC department.  The children have fewer outbursts and emotional meltdowns as a result.  It's a pleasure to have Ms. Pacheco at FPG, and I highly recommend her for a SNAColade. 

Northside Elementary

• Mary Naylor - Mary has been involved with my son since second grade, either as his EC teacher directly or facilitating with another EC teacher.  My son is now in 5th grade.  I can not say enough good things about her dedication and hard work.  She has gone above and beyond in so many ways and made a such a positive difference in our lives.  A huge thank you from our whole family.

Northside Pre-K

• Sarah Michels - Sarah has been working with my son for three years and the language that he has acquired over this time has been extraordinary.  He went in not speaking but only having about 15 words total and now he is one of the most talkative kids in the class.  Her hard work with him has really made a huge difference and I thank her for that.
• Ronetta Walker - She is amazingly patient.  She pushes my child to his fullest potential so that he can succeed.  She is in constant communication with me and lets me know if something is going on, if something needs to be changed.  She has been a lifesaver and making sure that he is fully ready for kindergarten this upcoming year.
• Pre-K Intervention Team - Thankful for this entire team.  They have helped me and explained everything in detail if needed.  Thanks to Ms. Wilson, Ms. Moore, and all others that have played a part in my son's educational experience.  He had made so much growth in being in the Pre-K class.  Thank you all.

Scroggs Elementary

• Crystal Epps - Ms. Epps is a world- class principal who strives to include children and families with special needs.  She listens to families, students and teachers and helps to resolve problems in a warm, logical and timely manner.  It is critical for students with special needs to have such a professional and caring leader.  She is intelligent, warm, empathetic, fun, and we are grateful each and every day that our children and others with special needs benefit from her leadership.  She listens and problem-solves and educates herself on matters big and small.  With regard to the special needs population, I've seen her attend SNAC meetings after-hours (non-mandatory and clearly indicative of her commitment).  I see her call the names of our children and others with special needs,  on a daily basis.  She greets them with warmth as they enter the building.  She knows them well and supports the teachers when they face challenges.  We are inspired by Ms. Epps and would like her to receive the recognition she deserves.  Lastly,  and importantly Ms. Epps doesn't shy away from difficult moments.  We as parents of SN children will sometimes be anxious or "freak out" about particular situations.  Ms. Epps picks up the phone and calls and reassures us in such situations and we are forever grateful for this.  Thank you Ms. Epps!!!
• Gina Pellegrini - I am giving Gina a SNAColade for her time, patience and understanding she has given my child this year.  His continued growth throughout this grade level wouldn't be possible without Ms. Pellegrini's guidance.  Thank YOU!
• Dottie Small - Ms. Small has been exemplary in the practice of inclusion, when it comes to teaching our son (who has autism) in a mainstream classroom.  She sees his progress and praises him for social improvements, which may go unrecognized by others.  We are deeply grateful for her structured teaching approach and importantly warmth and acceptance of our son.  Our son's fifth grade year has been wonderful both academically as well as socially and we believe Ms. Small plays a major role.  Ms. Small helps him to engage with his peers and to provide him positive reinforcement needed for improvement.  She recognizes his abilities and judges his success based on where he started (not where others are currently at!).  She additionally helps other children to understand our son and to provide him with needed social support.  In this age group,  it is important to also help a special needs child when they struggle with classmates or challenging peer situations.  Ms. Small has demonstrated a clear ability to go above and beyond to support such children.  We feel very lucky to have you as a teacher and appreciate all of the hard work. 

Seawell Elementary

• Julie Halpert - Ms. Halpert has several Twice Exceptional children in her classroom, and she teaches, supports, and encourages them with incredible skill, kindness, and patience.  She seems to care deeply for each individual child, and she ensures that they are thriving!

McDougle Middle School

• Kate Major - As a TA In the AC classroom Ms. Major stepped up to provide leadership and stability while the teacher is away on maternity leave.  She has worked hard to keep up communication with us and continued to provide continuity in our daughter's experience at school.  Losing a teacher is a stressful event for a special needs student, but Ms. Major has gone over and above to keep things as stable as possible.

Phillips Middle School 

• Danielle Riley - Ms. Riley is the "kid whisperer."  She has a magical touch with children in crisis, which stems from her great empathy and patience.  She is entirely non-judgemental with students and puts them at ease, which allows her to get to heart of an issue and start working on solutions.  I am forever grateful to her for the times she has helped my son work through a difficult time.  Yay, Ms. Riley!
• Sydney Ryals - Ms. Ryals is steadfast in her kindness and patience and is the rock that my son has relied upon all year.  In IEP meetings, she looks at challenges from a variety of perspectives and is a creative problem-solver.  Many of her ideas on how to help my son cope and engage have been helpful this year, and we are tremendously grateful to her for being so dedicated to his success.  Yay, Ms. Ryals!
• Kaleigh Vogan - Moving from elementary school to middle school is a big transition for any child, but can be even more difficult for a child with special needs.  From the moment Ms. Vogan reached out to us last summer for a school tour, I had a good feeling about 6th grade.  Having Ms. Vogan as part of my son’s team  has made such a positive impact.  When he needs her, she is there for him.  For our son, knowing that he has her support has been a huge comfort for him and for us.  Thank you. 

Smith Middle School 

• Gina Chapman - Ms. Chapman started at Smith in Jan 2018.  She is very patient, caring and kind to all the students and staff in the AC classroom.  She communicates well with parents and makes herself accessible.
• Danka Kulikowski - Thank you Ms. Kulikowski for encouraging our granddaughter this year. She has blossomed under your direction.  She can be shy, but to see her on stage with a speaking part, brought such joy to my heart.  Thank you!
• Chris Glasco - Mr. Glasco joined the Smith EC team in Sept 2017.  He cares deeply about the students' well being and participation in the classroom, as well as in their specials outside of the AC classroom.  His youthful demeanor and winning smile are a hit as he navigates the hallways and cafeteria with our students.
• Fred Feely - We don’t know what we would have done without your daily support of Violet.  You helped to keep her and us on track.  You are a dedicated professional! Thank you.
• Margaret Maternowski - Ms. Maternowski, we appreciate your understanding and flexibility in designing a program for our granddaughter.  We couldn’t have done it without your support!  Thank you.
• Irene Slydel - Thank you for all your help with our granddaughter this year.  It has been a stressful year, and your assistance really helped.

Carrboro High School

• Brittany Deeds - We are thankful for Ms. Deeds for providing us with the opportunity to complete real, valuable work within our school.  We are grateful that she relinquished control of the school supply closet to our students so they can gain skills with reading, counting and vocational work endurance while filling teacher supply orders.  Ms. Deeds is flexible, cheerful and gives us opportunities to be valued members of the community.
• Kelly Furr - We are grateful that Ms. Furr joined the CHS team!  She volunteered as a chaperone on multiple occasions to make our Community Based Instructional opportunities possible.  We are thankful for her positivity and interest in our activities.
• Lorrie Marro
• Ms. Marro, the transition facilitator at CHS, made a point to connect with my son from the beginning of his freshman year as an OCS student at Carrboro High.  She spent time getting to know him, beyond the assessments and evaluations. Ms. Marro identified him as a good candidate for Appalachian State University's Scholars with Diverse Abilities Program (SDAP).  By his junior year Ms. Marro had made sure we (his parents) understood the requirements of the application process, and the goals he needed to meet in order to be a competitive candidate.  She, along with the whole EC department, helped him work on self-advocacy, self-management, independence, and a raft of academic goals.  During this, his senior year, Ms. Marro worked closely with him and us to get all the pieces in place for his application to SDAP - many, many documents, assessments, evaluations, interviews, work samples, transcripts... We all were glad to have that submitted in November!  By January we knew that he was on the short list. And in late March we learned that he had gotten a spot in the program--one of five students to be accepted, as we understand it.  He is the first CHS student to achieve place in the SDAP. He and we are thrilled!  He has worked very hard - and of all his excellent school support, it is the support of Lorrie Marro that made the biggest difference.  Our son has attended CHCCS schools from K-12 grade.  We are happy that he is ready to move on - and we are profoundly grateful to Ms. Marro, and to the dozens of other teachers and staff that have been part of his education!
• Ms. Marro is a phenomenal Transition Facilitator and going above and beyond for every student regardless of what type of transition needs they have.  Ms. Marro is incredibly creative has unbelievable energy and does not stop until she thinks the student is on the right path for a successful exit from high school.  Thanks, Ms. Marro!
• Donna McMillan - Ms. McMillan has a never ending supply of patience for our students.  She extends herself after school and on weekends to support our students' interests and activities.  Her warm smile, gentle style, and attentiveness help our students express their interests and increase their confidence with interactions.
• Katie Moorehead - Ms. Moorehead goes above and beyond to make sure that our students are embraced by their community.  She volunteers her time, makes materials for us, supports us in activities and continually brightens our day!
• Brett Stegall - Ms. Stegall creates an inclusive class environment and structures activities and lessons so students of all abilities experience success.  Because of her structures and positive attitude, students are comfortable to try new things and find true friendships in our school.
• Quianna Phillips - We appreciate Ms. Phillips for her energy, enthusiasm and support of our skills and interests.  We are thankful that Ms. Phillips volunteered her time to serve as a chaperone this year to make our Community Based Instructional opportunities possible.
• Martha Phipps - Ms. Phipps serves as our CHS bookkeeper and is one of the ultimate "Yes, and..." supporters of our students.  Always behind the scenes, Ms. Phipps helps manage funds from our grants, orders supplies, and makes it possible for magic to happen in the classroom.
• April Ross - Ms. Ross serves as the Athletic Director at Carrboro HS.  She is unwavering in her support of our students and their rights to be on the fields, courts, track and true members of our teams. 

Chapel Hill High School

• Kate Kennedy - I am so thankful that the school has supported the role of a twice exceptional expert, and I couldn't think of anyone better for the position than Kate Kennedy.  She is fantastic at bringing the perspective of both giftedness and disabilities to the table, and she has provided much guidance for our son over the years.
• Ryan McGraw - Mr. McGraw has gone out of his way to help guide our son in choosing appropriate courses each year taking his disabilities into consideration.  He truly goes above and beyond.  Thank you!

TRAC/PATHSS/PATHSS Bridge

• Su Wanamaker - For persevering with coordinating the TRAC, PATHSS and PATHSS Bridge program.  We are looking forward to her leadership next year and hope that she will stick with it!

read more "District Staff Receive SNAColade Awards"

Northside Teacher Goes NASA

Sandy Athey, a teacher at Northside Elementary, was recently invited by NASA to attend a behind-the-scenes tour of Kennedy Space Center and the launch of TESS (Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite) and Falcon 9 Rocket as a social media correspondent. The Public School Foundation generously provided a grant to cover expenses.

The News & Observer selected Sandy as their Tar Heel of the Week, and published a terrific article utilizing a question/answer format for Sandy to describe her experience. You can read the article here.

Congratulations, Sandy!

read more "Northside Teacher Goes NASA"

Northside's Amy Brande Named 2018 Lara Jane Parker Award Recipient

Congratulations to Amy Brande, a K-2 Adapted Curriculum Teacher at Northside Elementary, for being named a 2018 Lara Jane Parker Award recipient.

A graduate of East Carolina University, Amy is a talented teacher who applies evidence-based practice to her classroom instruction. She pursues additional training, and shares what she learns with colleagues. Amy also meets with parents and other professionals outside of school to ensure consistency for her students across different environments. Amy was nominated by her colleague Rena Dadolf.

The Lara Jane Parker Awards program was established to provide both reward and recognition to those outstanding teachers, therapists, parents, education and health professionals, and leaders who work daily to improve the lives of New Voices children. These individuals help improve their schools and their communities in ways that will allow these children to be fully included in all aspects of their daily lives.

Winners were honored at a ceremony on Wednesday, April 25 at The Friday Center in Chapel Hill. A $500 cash award, a special trophy, and a letter of commendation was bestowed upon the recipients at this prestigious event attended by family, peers, leaders, and the community.

Way to go, Amy!

read more "Northside's Amy Brande Named 2018 Lara Jane Parker Award Recipient"

CHCCS COMPOSTS A MILLION POUNDS OF FOOD WASTE

In our school cafeterias, every day during lunch time, students scrape and sort and dump their food waste into different bins, including the prized compost bins. Most students have adopted the quick actions as habit, and few are aware that Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools have created one of the most comprehensive and effective composting programs of any North Carolina school district. “It’s a win-win-win,” said Dan Schnitzer, Director of Sustainability (and perhaps local King of Compost!). The district is saving money, students are learning about everything from worm bins to sequestering carbons, and cafeteria scraps are being transformed into high-quality soil instead of ending up in a Sampson County landfill, releasing methane and damaging air and water quality.

“Students feel accountable for composting, and they consider it as a daily routine,” said Laura Fonseca, second-grade teacher at Carrboro Elementary. “This strategy is empowering them, the next generation, to be aware of being environmental friendly.”

Since 2015, when CHCCS began composting with Brooks Contractors in Chatham County, more than a million pounds of compostable waste have been diverted from the landfill. For a little perspective, it would require more than 21 dump trucks to haul that amount of waste, and the carbon emissions avoided by the composting equals the emissions of more than 100 cars driven for a year.

When Schnitzer began his sustainability work in the district more than three years ago, Assistant Superintendent Todd LoFrese had already laid the groundwork for establishing a composting program. Now that the town of Chapel Hill no longer has its own landfill for public use, the negative environmental impact of transporting food waste to Eastern North Carolina has further increased the motivation to compost. 

Schnitzer analyzed our district’s cafeteria waste by following garbage trucks around and checking how full each dumpster was, as well as how often they were picked up. He found plenty of excess capacity and margins to cut; district-wide, elementary and middle school cafeterias were tossing 158 bags of landfill waste a day. By decreasing the number of school dumpsters and the number of pick up times, the money saved could be applied to the composting expenses, and now the district produces only 18 bags of landfill waste a day from the cafeterias. Each elementary school has reduced its output to about one bag daily. Like he said, win-win-win!

Now that the system is set up, Schnitzer begins each school year by visiting every cafeteria to provide orientations, and to receive feedback on how the composting went the previous year - he’s always eager to hear suggestions for improving the process. 

Once the year is underway, he visits as many classrooms as he can to talk with students about how and why we compost, with slide show presentations and worm bins. He said that the youngest students are often so delighted that they can talk about “worm poop” - and, in fact, repeat the word “poop” again and again. They are transfixed. Schnitzer said he’s lost track of the number of parents who’ve emailed or spoken to him about their children advocating for home composting, setting up worm bins and creating backyard gardens.

Mindy Morton, Math/Science Specialist at Carrboro Elementary School said, “We are definitely ‘All In’. All of our classrooms participate in snack composting as well as the cafeteria composting.”

“Composting has become second nature to the kids here at Northside,” said Elizabeth Symons. “Last year, my third-graders took true ownership in composting when, during our Plants unit in Science, they were responsible for saving compostable materials for a week at home to bring in to add to the compost pile in our garden. Once they learned about the decomposition process, and saw how their ‘waste’ turned into nutrient-rich compost, I saw a noticeable change in my students' behaviors post-snack and lunch.” Symons said that now, when students occasionally eat lunch in the classroom, they'll ask her to go to the cafeteria to compost their leftovers. “The lessons they have learned through the composting process have transferred into their daily lives, as they are more conscious about trash, recyclable materials, and food waste.”    

By next year, classes may be able to take field trips out to Goldston to see where their scraps are being processed into compost. Brooks Contractors is establishing an educational building, and students would be able to view the wind rows and turning machine, as well as examine the various stages of decomposition. But for now, our students are already learning a great deal.   

In February, the district received the annual delivery of donated compost from Brooks Contractors. “Many schools use that compost to bring their gardens to life and to complete the natural cycle!” said Schnitzer. 

“Composting is a great way to teach kids to be aware of the waste they are creating,” said Arwen Carlin, third-grade teacher’s assistant at Carrboro Elementary. “Diverting waste from the landfill is so important for our future on this planet! By teaching the kids how to compost and recycle, and the reasons we need to do these things, we are giving them a chance create a more sustainable future for themselves.”

“This has truly been a community effort,” Schnitzer said, “and I especially want to thank our district custodians, cafeteria employees, teaching assistants, Amy Brooks of Brooks Contractors and everyone else who has played a hands-on role in bringing this program to life. We will use this milestone as a springboard for continued growth and success.”

Last spring, Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools received the Best of Green Schools 2017 Award in the School System category from the Center for Green Schools at the U.S Green Building Council. Nationally, CHCCS was the only “School Systems” award winner.

read more "CHCCS COMPOSTS A MILLION POUNDS OF FOOD WASTE"

Board Approves Seven Administrative Appointments

The CHCCS Board of Education approved seven administrative appointments at its meeting on Tuesday evening.

Beverly Rudolph

Beverly Rudolph was named principal of Carrboro High. Rudolph has been the principal at Culbreth Middle since 2011. Prior to that, she served as assistant principal at East Chapel Hill High from 2007-2011. She also taught English/Language Arts in Edgecombe, Buncombe and Cabarrus County Schools. Rudolph earned her Bachelor of Arts from the University of North Carolina – Asheville, her Master of School Administration from the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill, and is currently pursuing her Doctorate in School Administration and Supervision from the University of Virginia.

Drew Ware

Drew Ware was named principal of Phillips Middle. He has been the principal of Estes Hills Elementary since 2013. Prior to that, he served as a principal, assistant principal and classroom teacher in the Wake County Public School System. Ware earned his Bachelor of Arts and Master of School Administration from the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill. He is currently working toward his Doctorate of Educational Leadership.

Arrica DuBose

Arrica DuBose was named principal of Seawell Elementary. She has been the principal of Creekside Elementary in Durham Public Schools since 2012. She has also served as a school improvement specialist for Title 1 schools, parent involvement district coordinator, summer school administrator and teacher for Durham Public Schools. She also spent five years as an assistant principal in the Wake County Public School System. DuBose earned her Bachelor of Science from Winston-Salem State University, her Master of Education from the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill, and is currently pursuing her Doctorate of Educational Leadership from East Carolina University.

Two assistant principals were named. Michael Brown will serve at Morris Grove Elementary and Tomeka Ward- Satterfield will serve at Carrboro High.

Dr. Elaine Watson-Grant, currently the school district’s coordinator of dual language and world language, has been named Director of Elementary Education. David Bouldin, currently of Chatham County Schools, has been named Exceptional Children’s Compliance and Educational Programs Coordinator.

read more "Board Approves Seven Administrative Appointments"

2016-17 SNAColades

The Special Needs Advisory Council (SNAC) created SNAColades to honor Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools' teachers, staff and administrators who, through their hard work and creativity, make our children's school experience more meaningful. The following have been selected for this recognition based on the testimonials of the Exceptional Children community.

Below each name is a quote from an appreciative parent or administrator.

Carrboro High School

Melissa Barry

"She is an INCREDIBLE EC teacher. Melissa integrates EC students with school-wide events and networks with colleagues to create inclusive opportunities in electives and academic areas. She developed an effective communication system with parents via blog, text, email, conferences and classroom social opportunities."

Chapel Hill High School

Dominick (Nick) Barone

"Not only is Mr. Barone keeping tabs on my daughter during the day, he has spent many hours after school with her, and time after those meetings, discussing issues with me in addition to the emails and phone calls...And he is always smiling!"

Jennifer Michalenok
Beth Racine 
Rodney Carter 
Melissa Walton

"Miss Jennifer and all the teachers in my son’s class work hard everyday to help him learn and grow. They are invaluable to his life and his education, and have helped him make huge strides in learning to communicate and engage with the world."

Frank Smith

"Mr. Smith went above and beyond in helping our son transition to high school. He scheduled a long meeting to become familiar with our son's disabilities, coached our son through getting organized at the beginning of the year, and advocated on our son's behalf to his teachers. He has continued to support our son through the school year."

Ryan McGraw

"Mr. McGraw, our son's counselor also met with us at various times throughout the school year, counseled and supported our son and us, and was willing to consider and follow-up on plans even when they were outside the box ideas."      

East Chapel Hill High School

Vanessa Diggs

"She demonstrates her care and concern for our children - it is much appreciated!"

Karina Pascht 

"Karina supports my son directly as his Academic Strategies teacher as well as in collaborative English and Science classes. Furthermore, she has guided the transition during a Civics class change and math class. We would have been lost without her this year."

Northside Elementary

Deandra Hill

"Deandra not only provides students with strong academic support in their areas of need, but she also addresses their social/emotional needs. She has a way of making all students feel welcomed, loved and successful. Deandra has been a saving grace for my son this year by tapping into his interests, giving him opportunities to be a leader, and propelling him forward academically. Northside is blessed to have her!"

Ronetta Walker

"She is an amazingly, caring, loving, and patient teacher. She goes above and beyond to make sure that my son has a good day and that his needs are met. She is always willing to try new things to get him where he needs to be."

Pre-K

Sarah Michaels - PreK

"The growth that my son has made since she has worked with him is amazing. I cannot describe and thank her enough for the hard work she has put in."

Morris Grove Elementary

Jordan Lupton

"Jordan has introduced Peer Mediated Instruction and Intervention (PMII) to the school for many of her students and their peers! Here is an article that she wrote about it."

Phillips Middle

Christine Ewing

"Christine has been a quiet force for good at Phillips in her first year here in the school district. She has helped my son have a smooth year and advocated for his appropriate placement in his transition to high school."

Scroggs Elementary

Sandy Scheuermann

"Sandy never complained when I asked for yet another meeting to discuss goals or my concerns. She willingly shared the small milestones that make up seemingly unnoticeable progress for kids like my son. She sent updates and pictures of my son working. She shared pride with me over writing milestones and even the smallest improvements. As my son moves into middle school, I know I have Sandy Scheuermann to thank for pointing out to him each day how capable and smart he really is and for providing excellent EC support."

Jasmine Johnson
Cindy Greenert
James Nohe
Dottie Small

"Thank you for your patience and your perseverance in support of my son. Thank you for your willingness to try new things even when I know you already had many other things to juggle. And thank you for encouraging him, and for giving him something to think about each day that recognized his capability."

read more "2016-17 SNAColades"

Former Governor Bev Perdue Visits Northside Elementary

Former North Carolina Governor Bev Perdue stopped by Northside Elementary earlier this week to meet with students and share a story. In addition to reading with them, she explained various aspects of being Governor and helped prepare them for an upcoming trip to Raleigh.

In addition to being the first female governor in North Carolina, Perdue is also a former elementary teacher, Governor Perdue really enjoyed her time with the students, and they found her captivating. They were able to ask her very specific questions and received truthful, detailed answers.

The staff also enjoyed their time with her. It was a great visit. Thank you to everyone who worked to make this happen.

read more "Former Governor Bev Perdue Visits Northside Elementary"

Northside Elementary Media Specialist, Kathryn Cole, Wins National American Library Association Award

The American Library Association (ALA) presented Northside Elementary School’s Media Specialist, Kathryn Cole, with its prestigious 2016 “I Love My Librarian Award” at a ceremony in New York City on November 30.  The award recognizes “the public service of exceptional public, school, college, community college or university librarians who have transformed lives and communities through educational opportunities and lifelong learning.” Kat Cole was nominated by Nancy Zeman, program services manager at the Chapel Hill-Carrboro Public School Foundation.

The ALA selected nine librarians nationwide, from the almost 1,100 nominations, to receive the award in 2016.  Only three recipients represented elementary school libraries – including Ms. Cole.  Each honoree received a $5,000 cash award, a plaque and a travel stipend to attend the “I Love My Librarian Award” ceremony and reception in NYC, hosted by the award sponsor, Carnegie Corporation of New York.

“Kat Cole is a shining example of an extraordinary school librarian,” said Nancy Zeman in her nomination for the award. “She helps all students in this diversely populated school build literate lives by creating opportunities to identify as readers by encouraging curiosity and exploration through literature.  I have been particularly impressed with her work with underserved students within the school community and with her dedication to encouraging those children to build a positive literacy identity. One of the things that sets her apart is that her reach goes beyond her school as she advocates for best practices in library services at not only her school but also at the school district level to ensure all students have equal access to resources and services.”

Principal of Northside Elementary, Coretta Sharpless said, “Ms. Cole’s overall mission is to keep literacy and the library a focal point in the school.  In order to do this, she ensures that staff members know and understand the critical role the library plays to equalize the playing field in education and how important it is that all children across the school have access to the library and its resources at point of need.  She shares school-wide circulation and library usage data with staff to illustrate the importance of library use and academic growth. In addition, she helps cultivate a love of literacy across the school.”

CHCCS congratulates Kat Cole on this prestigious award and thanks the Public School Foundation for nominating this outstanding media specialist.

read more "Northside Elementary Media Specialist, Kathryn Cole, Wins National American Library Association Award"

Summer Reading at Northside Elementary

This summer, the Northside Elementary School Library was open to serve students residing in the general walk zone. Public library data suggests these students do not typically access the public library summer reading program. Coordinating a partnership with the Boys and Girls Club, the Chapel Hill Public Library and UNC athletics, the school library was open three days per week from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a period of eight weeks. This initiative was made possible by a parent donor and the support of the Public School Foundation. Below is a quick snapshot of the summer.

PARTICIPATION

- 848 total books checked out from the Northside Elementary School Library this summer

- 80 total students participated in some capacity

- 45 Boys and Girls Club students

- 35 students in the walk zone (not included in B&G club)

- 15 students attended daily

- 9 students reached full goal of 20 hours and turned in completed log (others kept a log but didn't necessarily record up to 20 hours)

- 5 Northside Elementary Schools teachers volunteered time to support and engage with students

- 4 middle school students/former Northside Elementary Schools students accessed the library and participated in programs

- 3 parents participated with their children

- 3 younger siblings of Northside Elementary Schools students participated.

- 1 incredible summer with lots of student engagement.

read more "Summer Reading at Northside Elementary"

International Navigator Night

The entire Northside Navigators community came together recently to celebrate the school's beautiful cultural diversity at International Navigator Night

Students, parents, families, and staff ate, danced, sang, and traveled around the world in a joyful and loving celebration of the school's many cultures. Pre-k through 5th grade classes, as well as Northside Elementary families, created displays and cultural performances from various countries. Some of the countries represented include USA, India, Panama, Kenya, Japan, Ethiopia, Australia, Cuba, Hungary, Guatemala, Chile, Taiwan, Canada, Mexico, China, Spain, Puerto Rico, Zimbabwe, Poland, Russia, Thailand, and Colombia. 

The staff at Northside Elementary is thankful for the rich cultural diversity at their school, and the opportunity to learn from one another every day. They are also thankful to have such dedicated colleagues and families who are willing to share their cultures. They look forward to adding more cultures next year to their celebration of diversity.

read more "International Navigator Night"

CHCCS Board of Education Special Meeting Notice

CHCCS Board of Education Special Meeting Notice
Saturday, September 26

Pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes, NCGS § 143-318.12, the CHAPEL HILL-CARRBORO CITY SCHOOLS BOARD of EDUCATION provides notice of the following special meeting.  A majority of the CHCCS Board of Education may attend this event making the event subject to open meetings laws.

Members of the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City School Board of Education have been invited to attend a Forum on Equity and Excellence on Saturday, September 26, 2015.  The event will start at 1:00 p.m. at Northside Elementary School (350 Caldwell Street – Chapel Hill, NC).

read more "CHCCS Board of Education Special Meeting Notice"

New Principals for Northside Elementary and McDougle Middle

Coretta Sharpless

Bob Bales

The Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools Board of Education approved two new principals at its August 13 meeting. Coretta Sharpless was named Principal of Northside Elementary and Bob Bales was named Principal of McDougle Middle.

Sharpless has been at Northside Elementary as the Assistant Principal since the school opened in 2013. Previously, she served in the same capacity at Estes Hills Elementary, and as an administrative intern at Phillips Middle. Before becoming a school administrator, Sharpless was a lead teacher, gifted education specialist and intervention specialist, working in both Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools and Alamance-Burlington City Schools. Sharpless received her Bachelor’s degree from North Carolina Central University and her Master’s degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Bales will be moving into his new role after serving as the Assistant Principal at McDougle Middle since 2012. He was also an assistant principal and interim principal at Chapel Hill High, and an administrative intern at Culbreth Middle. Prior to entering school administration, Bales worked as a middle school math teacher, department chair and basketball coach. Bales received his Bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University and his Master’s degree from Penn State University.

“We are fortunate to have an amazing pool of assistant principals who work very hard to prepare for principalships,” said Arasi Adkins, Executive Director of Human Resources. “We are confident both Ms. Sharpless and Mr. Bales will provide excellent leadership for their respective schools.”

Currently, 16 of the 20 CHCCS schools are led by principals who were hired from within the school district.

read more "New Principals for Northside Elementary and McDougle Middle"

Northside Rap Remix

So you think you can dance?

Check out the moves put on display in this video by the Northside Elementary staff.

read more "Northside Rap Remix"

Coretta Sharpless - Assistant Principal of the Year

Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools is pleased to announce that Coretta Sharpless has been named the district's Assistant Principal of the Year.

Ms. Sharpless has been with the school district since 2003, and is currently the assistant principal at Northside Elementary. Following six years of teaching in Burlington, North Carolina, Sharpless came to CHCCS as a classroom teacher. She also served as an intervention specialist, gifted education specialist, lead teacher and administrative intern. Prior to joining the team at Northside, Sharpless served as assistant principal at Estes Hills Elementary.

After graduating from Chapel Hill High, Sharpless went on to receive her Bachelor's degree from North Carolina Central University and her Master's degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Congratulations to Coretta Sharpless and all the Northside Navigators.


Back to CHCCS website

read more "Coretta Sharpless - Assistant Principal of the Year"

Northside Elementary - NC's First LEED Platinum Elementary School

Northside Elementary School in Chapel Hill, NC has earned Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEEDTM) Platinum certification with the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI). The three-story, 100,000-square-foot school opened in fall of 2013 and represents the first LEED Platinum elementary school in North Carolina. 

Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools partnered with Moseley Architects to design a new school to support 585 students. Located in the heart of the Northside neighborhood, the site was originally home to the all African-American Orange County Training School. Since 1924 this site has functioned as a site of education, and the school’s design embraces the rich history of the community and the alumni. A display along the lower level corridor shows a timeline for the students to appreciate the history of the site, as well as a large display case that houses the school’s original cornerstone.

“We are thrilled to learn of Northside Elementary’s LEED Platinum designation,” said Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools Superintendent Tom Forcella. “Moseley Architects, and the entire planning team, worked extremely hard to create such an amazing learning facility. It will benefit our students and our community for decades to come.”

The design integrates many sustainable features, and embodies a truly sustainable approach to a small site. The district’s Policy 9040 for high performance design criteria set the stage for the school to pursue LEED Gold. However, through a collaborative effort between the design team and the school district, that goal was surpassed, while still remaining on schedule and within budget.

The design incorporates a garden roof area connected to the adjacent science classroom, a comprehensive stormwater management plan that includes an underground rainwater cistern that supplies water to the toilet fixtures and cooling tower, pervious pavers, porous playground surfaces, carefully designed windows, tubular skylights, and light shelves to both maximize daylight in classrooms and reduce the energy spent for lighting.
                                                             
The building also places a special emphasis on functioning as a teaching tool for the students, staff and community. Early in the design process, the idea of using the school building to actively support the curriculum was discussed with key staff members. Through continued staff input and a healthy collaboration, this idea was not only realized but expanded. Discreetly placed interior and exterior signage provides brief descriptions of several sustainable design features utilized at Northside. Each sign directs the reader to the school’s Building Dashboard for more information concerning the building’s sustainable features, which provides media center book suggestions and internet websites where the subject can be explored further.  The school’s teachers also collaborate with one another on integrating these features into customized lesson plans and project-based learning efforts.

Jim Copeland, managing principal for the project with Moseley Architects is proud of what Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools achieved.

“I am particularly pleased that our team was able to achieve their vision,” said Copeland. “Northside Elementary is one of only 20 LEED Platinum public schools in the entire country, and one of only four elementary schools.”

Back to CHCCS website

read more "Northside Elementary - NC's First LEED Platinum Elementary School"

Twelve CHCCS Teachers Earn National Board Certification!

North Carolina leads the nation in the number of National Board Certified Teachers. We are pleased to announce the following educators recently earned their national certification.

Susan Azzu - ESL teacher at Rashkis Elementary
Holly Loranger - social studies teacher at Chapel Hill High
Melissa Nicholson-Clark - Intervention Specialist at Morris Grove Elementary
Samantha Howard - classroom teacher at Morris Grove Elementary
Christine Cohn - classroom teacher at Estes Hills Elementary
Jenny Marie Smith - English teacher at East Chapel Hill High
Agnes Bernasconi - classroom teacher at Rashkis Elementary
Ashley Laver - classroom teacher at Rashkis Elementary
Miles Chappell - social studies teacher at Phillips Middle
Jennifer Pedersen - Intervention Specialist at Northside Elementary
Lisa Myles - Gifted Specialist at McDougle Elementary
Beth Kinney - EC Resource teacher at McDougle Middle


Additionally, the following six educators have renewed their national certification. We appreciate their ongoing commitment to excellence.

Susanna Breeden, social studies teacher at Phillips Middle
Annie Cramer, art teacher at Seawell Elementary
Toni DeMarco, classroom teacher at Morris Grove Elementary
Jessica Harris, counselor at East Chapel Hill High
Bradey McDaniel, classroom teacher at Rashkis Elementary
John Montavon, Spanish teacher at McDougle Middle

Congratulations and thank you to all of our nationally certified educators.

Back to CHCCS website

read more "Twelve CHCCS Teachers Earn National Board Certification!"

District Dedicates Newest Elementary School

September 21 was another historic moment in Chapel Hill as the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools dedicated Northside Elementary, its eleventh elementary school.

While the building is new, the spirit of Northside is not.  There was another school from another era that used to sit on the site.  In 1924, Orange County Training School was originally built on the lot.  A Rosenwald School, funds were raised by the African-American community in conjunction with a grant from Julius Rosenwald to build the school.  Through the years, classrooms were added and in 1951, the school took on the name Northside Elementary.  When the district became desegregated in the 1960s, Northside was closed as students went to other district elementary schools.

As the new Northside Elementary opens, it continues the proud tradition in education, combining its rich history with 21st Century technology.  Northside Elementary is a place where every student can think, learn and grow with purpose, persistence and pride.

The dedication was attended by former Northside alumni, community members and new Northside Elementary students and staff.

Northside accommodates 585 students and has art, science and music rooms.  The school also has a memory hallway, which has pictures from the original schools, as well as the school's 1924 cornerstone.  The building is over 97,000 square feet and is LEED Green Certified through the US Green Building Council.  Sustainable design includes:

• stormwater management plan to reduce runoff and a rainwater cistern;
• vegetated "green" roof area, which is also used for science classes;
• rooftop solar thermal panels to generate hot water for the building's kitchen and space heating needs; and
• windows and clerestories to maximize daylight in classrooms.

Original steps built in 1924 still lead to Northside Elementary

For more pictures from the dedication, visit our Facebook page.

Back to CHCCS website

read more "District Dedicates Newest Elementary School"