Creasing for a Good Cause: 'Cranes for Kids'

Thousands of children were affected by the recent earthquake and tsunami in Japan and many are left with nothing. When Patricia Londono, a 6th grade Science teacher at Asa Low Jr. Intermediate, heard of a unique opportunity to offer assistance she quickly enlisted the help of her students.

The Cranes for Kids program is meant to empower children to help other kids in need by using their creativity in the art of folding paper origami cranes. Oshkosh B’Gosh has sponsored this relief effort and will donate one article of children’s clothing per paper crane (up to 50,000 cranes).

Two sixth grade teams (Orissa and Himalayas) swung into action, with a goal of folding 1,000 origami cranes for this worthy cause.

“I think sometimes we take clothing and everything we have for granted,” said sixth grader Carrigan Hudgins. “I think the people of Japan are going through a very hard time and it’s important that we do all we can to help them.”

Students studied a “How-To” video about origami and began folding as quickly as possible. After a couple of weeks, they had produced more than triple their goal amount.

“It’s amazing! We’ve folded between 3,500 and 4,000 cranes,” said Ms. Londono. “Students are still bringing handfuls of cranes to me!”

Paper cranes are considered a symbol of great prosperity in the Japanese culture. According to ancient Japanese legend, a group of 1,000 paper origami cranes has the power to grant a wish for someone.

“The students love the idea of helping other kids,” said Londono. “It is our hope that we make many wishes come true for the victims of Japan.”

The Low Intermediate flock of paper cranes will be delivered to the Oshkosh store at Grapevine Mills Mall at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 23, 2011.

Richard Dreyfuss Sparks Civics Interests

According to Richard Dreyfuss, he has only had two great loves in his life: the art of acting and the United States of America. His passion and patriotism took center stage when he visited Mr. Rabalais’ AP Government class at Mansfield Legacy High School on the morning of April 20.

Since the founding the Dreyfuss Initiative, which promotes the revival of civics education in public schools, Richard Dreyfuss travels across the nation to speak to educators, teachers, parents and students about the value of teaching civics to the future leaders of the country.  

The message Dreyfuss delivers is not motivated by any particular political party. His objective is to encourage all Americans, especially our youth, to learn and become passionate about civics and the rich political history of our nation.

After observing an interactive class lesson about politics and socialization, Dreyfuss took the floor for a brief class discussion. Legacy's student newspaper, The Rider Online, reported positive student reactions and a sparked interest in civics.

 “I was really excited to see Richard Dreyfuss because he’s one of my favorite actors. I was vaguely aware of his political activism, but after seeing him, it’s definitely made him a more interesting person and I’ll certainly stay more politically aware,” senior Ian Cook said.

Dreyfuss closed his remarks with a passionate plea for students to get involved and stand up for what they believe in.

Related news articles:
Mr. Holland's Civics Lesson - Richard Dreyfuss stresses civics at Mansfield ISD (NBCDFW)
Richard Dreyfuss pushes civic awareness in Mansfield (Mansfield News-Mirror)

Wester Student Exhibits Lone Star Leadership

Each year outstanding student leaders are nominated by their educators to participate in Lone Star Leadership Academy programs. Upon completion of these programs, students are invited to join Education in Action’s alumni organization, the Lone Star Youth Leadership Council. Council members receive a structured and guided opportunity to continue their leadership training.

Education in Action announced that the Lone Star Youth Leadership Council program had its highest rate of participation since its inception nine years ago, with 147 student leaders from 70 school districts, two charter schools, five private schools and one university.

This year’s lessons focused on identifying members’ leadership strengths and developing their communication, listening and presentation skills. These skills were honed and put into action through services projects, which members were responsible for creating and leading in their communities with the end goal being for members to improve the lives of those around them.

Among the 147 participants was Grant Williams, an 8th grader from Brooks Wester Middle School. As a first year member, Williams took on the task of developing a project called, “Take a Look at a Book.” He led a group of volunteers to collect and donate 304 books to an economically disadvantaged campus, Erma Nash Elementary.

“Working to bring people together to help others made me a better person and leader,” said Williams. “I’m sure the people who donated also feel like better people now. I want to thank everyone who helped out.”

Members that successfully complete program requirements also have the opportunity to return to the Lone Star Leadership Academy as Youth Facilitators, where they will mentor younger students and receive additional leadership training.

Mansfield ISD, along with the Education in Action Staff applaud the accomplishments Grant Williams and all members of the 2010 – 2011 Lone Star Youth Leadership Council.

Sponsor: Judy Norton, Social Students Teacher

Spring Art Celebration features Show-stopping Students

by Abby Cloud, Mansfield ISD PR Specialist

As I entered the familiar front doors of Martha Reid Elementary on the evening of April 7, I found myself in a pleasantly unexpected setting. I was greeted by a young man dressed in a clean black suit adorned with a nametag that read, “Fine Arts Docent.” The hallway was buzzing with the sound of classical music and the chatter of excited visitors, all of whom were there for one reason – to celebrate art.

I quickly realized this was no ordinary elementary school event. The students carried themselves with such impressive poise. It was plain to see they not only understood the idea of a fine arts show, they appreciated the importance of the event and behaved accordingly.

My attention was pulled toward the library, which was filled with an eclectic collection of artwork, contributed by middle and high school students of Mansfield ISD as well as local artists. Viewers of all ages studied and admired an assortment of paintings, drawings, ceramics and sculptures. I found myself forgetting I was in a school library. As I exited, another young Fine Arts Docent thanked me for coming and flashed a sincere smile.

As I walked toward the next exhibit, I enjoyed Pablo Picasso-inspired student artwork displayed throughout the hallway. Art truly was everywhere, which allowed for a seamless transition from one display to the next.

A brass and woodwind ensemble thundered throughout the gymnasium. The volunteer performers were from the Mansfield High School Tiger Band and Jazz Choir. This mini-concert showcased the level of skill cultivated by MISD’s music programs. As the Martha Reid parents in the audience admired the soloists, it seemed as though they were envisioning the musical potential of their own children.

Wigley and Lemke

The 3rd grade performance in the cafeteria drew the largest crowd of all. Several classes joined to present a series of songs entitled, “Celebration of Music!” The three musical pieces showcased a wide range of cultural influence. Students played barred xylophones and metallophones, also known as Orff instruments, named after Carl Orff, a 20th century German composer. Tubano, djembe and bongo drums were used in an Irish folk song called “Patsy Ory Ory Aye.” The students also sang a song in Latin called “Dona Nobis Pacem,” meaning “Grant Us Peace.”

Throughout the evening I was treated as a welcome and respected guest at a professional art show. The event highlighted the students and staff of Martha Reid Elementary School and demonstrated the wealth of opportunities made possible by Mansfield ISD Fine Arts programs. Special thanks to music teacher Bridgett Wigley and art teacher DeAnna Lemke, whose hard work and love of art made this extraordinary event possible.

In the end, the Spring Celebration of Arts was an evening dedicated to celebrating the students, who will always be our brightest stars.

Students Succeed at National Mathematics Pentathlon Tournament

Thirty-two students from Erma Nash Elementary competed in Division II (2nd and 3rd grade) of the National Mathematics Pentathlon Tournament in Midlothian, Texas on April 2.

This was the second year for Nash students to take part in the Pentathlon tournament, and they arrived with great expectations and a goal to do their very best.  Dozens of parents and teachers attended and volunteered at the tournament to show their support for these determined students.

The rules of a national Pentathlon tournament require each participant to be matched with a different player for each of the five games in the appropriate division. The activities test problem-solving and strategic thinking skills through creative games.

Of the 32 Nash competitors, about 50% were students from the Bilingual program. Instructors believe the Pentathlon exercises are extremely beneficial to students with language barriers.

“Pentathlon is a fun way to improve students’ critical thinking and logical reasoning skills, but it also improves our students’ communication skills,” said Christa Beebe, Nash Math Specialist. “For our Bilingual kids, this program has given them a place to practice the math vocabulary they learn in class.”

The students did a fantastic job at the tournament and most importantly, they exhibited confidence and excitement, which represented their school and Mansfield ISD in a very positive way.

Congratulations to these bright students!

Gold:
Peyton Ruder

Silver:
Xavier Myers

Bronze:
Alicia Mares
Jared Sanchez

Honorable Mention:
Abigail Garcia
Daniel Gomez
Jesus Mancha
Alex Ramirez
Daniel Ramirez

Cross Timbers Students Show Kindness through Competition

When the Student Government students at Cross Timbers Intermediate School came up with the idea of having a school-wide Penny War to raise money for relief efforts in Japan, they never imagined they would receive such an overwhelming response. 

The school was split into teams according to their advisory rooms. For seven days, students opened up their wallets and hearts to donate every bit they could to help the victims in Japan. 

“What I think is so amazing is that about 50% of our student population is economically disadvantaged, yet so many still chose to donate,” said Assistant Principal Jamie Norwood. “We know it was a real sacrifice for some of them and I think that’s what makes it so special.”

In the middle of the fundraiser, the Student Government advisor Dawn Greathouse learned that all of the collection jugs were overflowing, which prompted an emergency trip to the grocery store to cash in the first batch of coins. 

“At that point we had about $1,400 and the money was still pouring in,” said Greathouse. “Even now, days after the event, students are still bringing their donations to me.”

The seven-day fundraiser produced over $2,500, which was presented to a representative from the American Red Cross at a special assembly on April 8, 2011. Mansfield Chamber of Commerce President Lucretia Mills also attended the assembly to show her support to Cross Timbers and Mansfield ISD.

“It’s because of the generous donations from Cross Timbers Intermediate School and so many other gracious individuals across the country that we are able to provide support for Japan,” said Tammy Ripple, Director of Volunteer and Corporate Programs for the American Red Cross. 

Learn more about donating funds to the American Red Cross.

Check out more photos from the Penny War program.

Groups Sponsor Special Olympics Area Track Meet

The Mansfield ISD Athletics Department and the Mansfield ISD All Stars teamed up to sponsor the first invitational track meet for Special Olympics groups throughout the Greater Fort Worth Area.

The event was held on Saturday, April 2 at Timberview High School. Of the 113 competitors, 23 were Mansfield ISD students. Over 85 volunteer athletes from all four Mansfield ISD  high schools and several middle schools assisted by running with the competitors and offering encouragement. 

The event was also supported by Kirk Thor, MISD Assistant Athletic Director, Coach Mark Walker, Athletic Coordinator from Timberview High School and several other middle and high school coaches who helped make sure the event ran smoothly. 

The Special Olympics competitors and the Mansfield ISD volunteer athletes enjoyed the experience that allowed them to learn and be inspired by one another. 

Congratulations to the Mansfield ISD All Stars on a successful event!

The mission of the All Stars is to provide year-round sports training, education and athletic competition in a variety of sports for children with intellectual disabilities. The organization was started in 1986 by Harriet Kaker and Maurie James, with the help of Imogene Gideon and the MISD Director of Special Education at that time. The team has grown from having only six athletes and two coaches, to now having over 75 athletes and 20 coaches. 

If you are interested in volunteering with the Special Olympics or the Mansfield ISD All Stars, please contact Joan Hart, or visit the website.

Short Cuts - Dress 4 Success

Students from Della Icenhower Intermediate School participated in the school-wide Dress 4 Success event on March 30. This event is intended to encourage positive behavior and teach students about the importance of presenting themselves in professional manner.

The idea for this event stemmed from the 6th grade boys' Men in Training program, coordinated by Associate Principal Reginald Rhines. Rhines spends time mentoring young men and teaching them about etiquette and how to properly tie a necktie. As the Men in Training program became more popular, Rhines and Principal Duane Thurston decided to extend the program to all Icenhower students.

Dress 4 Success had an outstanding turnout this year! Students exhibited excellent classroom performance and wonderful behavior while dressed in their finest attire.




Want to see more Dress 4 Success Photos? Click here.

HOSA Students Prove the Value of a Vial

The Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) of Ben Barber Career Tech Academy (BBCTA) have launched a service project that will allow them to give back to the community while offering a potentially life-saving resource.

The Vial of L.I.F.E. (Lifesaving Information for Emergencies) is a container that stores important medical information, which can be accessed by emergency personnel in the event of a crisis in a person’s home.

Gary Welborn, the Health Science Instructor at BBCTA heard about this project from multiple sources and saw a great opportunity to reach out to the citizens of the Mansfield ISD community.

“If a paramedic needs instant access to a patient’s medical history, the vial is easy to get to,” said Welborn. “It’s also very useful in the event that a patient is unconscious or unable to quickly remember all of the prescriptions they are taking.”

With the help of donations from the Meadows Foundation and Ray’s Pharmacy, the materials for the project were obtained at no cost. A $500 donation from the Meadows Foundation covered printing expenses and Ray’s Pharmacy provided the plastic vials. Students assisted with the graphic design aspects of the project as well as the assembly of the materials.

So, what exactly is inside these vials?

The outside of each plastic vial is marked with a red and white label which reads, “Vial of Life: Look Inside Refrigerator for Complete Medical Information.” There are two additional labels inside the vial; one to be placed on the door of the individual’s home and the other (which is adhered to a magnet) to be mounted on the refrigerator. Most importantly, a medical history sheet is folded inside the vial. Keeping the vial in the fridge allows paramedics to locate it quickly.

The HOSA students will assist with the distribution of the vials, offering them to their parents, grandparents and neighbors. Their goal is to get these vials into the hands of as many people that need them as possible.

“I plan to go around my neighborhood to offer the vials to people and tell them about the program,” said HOSA student Angela Tetteh. “It can really help save a life, so I believe it’s very important.”

How can I get a Vial of L.I.F.E. for myself?

The vials can be picked up from Mrs. Mullins in the front office of BBCTA (1120 W. Debbie Lane). For additional requests, contact Gary Welborn (garywelborn@misdmail.org or 817.299.1916).

Supplies are limited, so don’t wait!

How can I return the kindness of these students?

While the HOSA students are proud to present this resource to community members at no cost, they hope people will “pay it forward” and keep the chain of kindness going by offering a donation to the American Cancer Society’s “Relay for Life.” You can donate online or drop off your contribution to the BBCTA bookkeeper.

A donation of any amount would be greatly appreciated. Donations will be accepted through June 10, 2011.