This year’s Calais Extended School Year (ESY) program has challenged both students and staff to develop a community service project. Leading the way is our 6th-7th grade group under the direction of Mr. Femia, Ms. Deegan, and Ms. Marsh. The class as a whole decided to undertake a month-long toy drive.

Students have been collecting used toys and stuffed animals throughout the month of July. All collected items will be restored by the class and donated to a children’s assistance program in the Whippany area.

It is great to see just how the theme of Relationships and Community has been embraced by our students and staff. A conscious effort has been made to bring together political, business, educational and community leaders in an effort to address the needs of the students we serve, as we realizing the need for a proper partnership with all vested interest members of our community.

We still have a way to go to meet our goal! Please donate your used toys and stuffed animals before July 31st.

Furthermore, efforts such as these offer the opportunity to introduced Project-Based Learning into the classroom environment. Project-Based Learning is an instructional approach built upon authentic learning activities that engage student interest and motivation. These activities are designed to answer a question or solve a problem and generally reflect the types of learning and work people do in the everyday world outside the classroom.

Project-Based Learning is synonymous with learning in depth. A well-designed project provokes students to encounter (and struggle with) the central concepts and principles of a discipline. Project Based Learning teaches students 21st century skills as well as content. These skills include communication and presentation skills, organization and time management skills, research and inquiry skills, self-assessment and reflection skills, and group participation and leadership skills.

We are so proud of the initiative and compassion our students have shown throughout this project. Thank you students and generous donors!