On Wednesday, December 19, 2018, students in 6th grade D class combined research skills and teamwork and learned how to create an escape room of their own by visiting Breakout Games. Before they entered the game room, students were separated into two groups and blindfolded. The goal, once they got in the room, was to escape using teamwork and solving various different puzzles. Neither group was able to escape their rooms in the hour given, but both teams were only a few puzzles away from freedom and victory. After the game, students interviewed the owner of Breakout Games to help them better understand how to create their own escape room in a school classroom as part of project-based learning.

On Thursday, December 20, 2018, Chartwells gifted a hat to every #SASAtom at the elementary school. Students enjoyed a brief assembly where Mrs. Toper introduced them to Ms. Pittsley from Chartwells, our dining services provider, and told them about all of the amazing things the cafeteria team does for our school. Keep warm this winter, #SASAtoms!

On Wednesday, December 19, 2018, #SASCS celebrated our students who demonstrate ongoing compassion for their peers and their teachers. These students come to school every day and are excellent examples of empathy and kindness to everyone. Way to go, #SASAtoms!

On Friday, December 14, 2018, kindergartners in Ms. Henson and Mr. Scheemaker's Class (KA) had the privilege of participating in a safety lesson taught by experts: two Syracuse City Police Officers. The officers spoke about what they do to help people in need and answered the children’s questions about various safety-related topics, such as crossing the street, driving rules, and how to detect household safety hazards. To show that safety is part of everyday life, the officers read aloud a story titled We Are All Wonders, emphasizing the importance of accepting the differences of others and being kind.

On Wednesday, December 12, 2018, students at #SASCS Middle School put on a wonderful art exhibition full of lively colors and artistic talent. Students showcased their knowledge on the 7 Elements of Art, the 7 Principles of Design, and several techniques such as Grid Art, Agamographs, and Perspective Art. A stunning school-wide collaboration drawing of Nelson Mandela was also on exhibit. The dedication to creating meaningful works of art was easy to see and amazing to experience.

Students and their families reaped many books and learning materials at the recent Scholastic Book Fair at SASMS December 7th through December 14th. The school received an added bonus--half of the $1349.00  raised from the event.

On Friday, December 14, 2018, our second graders visited @teamfivestarmartialarts in North Syracuse. #SASAtoms participated in team-building activities, and learned a few martial arts poses and moves. Everyone had a great time, and are looking forward to going back in 2019!

On Wednesday, December 12, 2018, Syracuse Academy of Science Middle School students welcomed the holiday season by performing a musical concert. The chorus sang seasonal songs of joy, while students in the Bucket Band performed their very own original piece of music! The Clarinet Ensemble stirred excitement with Feliz Navidad, and the Orchestra had some fun with Jingle Bells. More than half of the band students are new to playing musical instruments this year and all performed wonderfully. Encore!

On Wednesday, December 12, 2018, about ten #SASAtoms from the SHEHOOP Club at the high school helped out at the Food Pantry located in the back of the building. Students cleaned, organized, and learned about the valuable role the pantry plays in our community--and the invaluable role of reaching out to people in need. SHEHOOP stands for Students Helping Everyone Handle Outside Opportunities and Priorities. The goal of the club is to provide service opportunities and create mindfulness of each other inside and outside the school building. This was the club's first service opportunity outside the school. Previously, students in the club distributed candy and motivational messages to fellow students in the high school.