Kelloggsville — Middle School math coach Heather Richards demonstrated how students use a balance beam to solve equations. At the next table down, high-school AP Biology instructor Mike Padilla showed experiments his students used to learn about the digestive system.
It was the district’s first “Travel Through KV Curriculum Night,” held at the high school recently.
Students, families and community members were invited to tour through a variety of stations that featured K-12 curriculum activities and programs, such as be. nice., mental health, technology and athletics.
“The goal was to open our district to families, giving them a chance to see and explore what’s ahead in the coming grade levels as their children progress through our schools,” said Superintendent Jim Alston. “We also made a special effort to invite community members who may not currently have students enrolled, so they could learn about the wide range of programs and opportunities we offer here at Kelloggsville.”
In fact a community member, who preferred the name “J,” said she was intrigued by the flyer sent out and decided to attend the event.
“I loved it,” J said. “The STEM items were so cool and the elementary programs were adorable. … It was just a welcoming vibe.”
After picking up a passport and map, participants moved through the hallways and stopped at stations to learn about a wide variety of academic and enrichment programs. Those included special education, foreign language, AP classes, the Great Start Readiness Program, STEM, dual enrollment, art, music and more. Visitors received a stamp, and completed passports could be turned in for a raffle.
“It’s a great way to promote and showcase our programs,” said Spanish teacher Caitlin Nelson, who with fellow teacher Diana Berlanga hosted the foreign language table.
Kelloggsville offers 10 sections of Spanish, including two sections of native Spanish, which is for students who have a strong foundation in Spanish, Berlanga said. Students also can take a biliteracy test to earn a Seal of Biliteracy for language proficiency and earn up to 16 credits at Grand Valley State University, she said.
After taking in the stations, parent Yojana Coronel said she “found everything spectacular,” adding she appreciates the dedication of the Kelloggsville team.
Alston said he was pleased with the turnout for the first-time event. The district plans to host the curriculum night again next year along with its annual fall Community Celebration.
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