News

Liberty Elementary School has a new Fitness Friday program to model good health habits and encourage academic improvements. One Friday each month, students and staff will wear their workout clothes to school and take regular activity “brain” breaks.

The idea came from new PE teacher Laura Bates who saw a similar program at her previous school. In addition to modeling healthy activity by wearing their exercise clothes and sharing how they stay fit, teachers will lead students in breaks that include taking a walk, running a lap, or doing some classroom jumping jacks.

“Kids need movement for processing information,” Bates said. “We get more bang for our buck if we give kids time to move.”

Third-grade teacher Kristi Marshall, who led her students in a dance video called “Banana, Banana, Meatball,” said her students love Fitness Friday. “It’s good for all of us.”

Bond forum #4 is planned for Oct. 26 at South Albany High School at 6 p.m. The meetings are open to the public and are intended to share information about possible projects for a May 2017 bond election.

Enrollment is projected to continue growing in the district, and most schools are at or near capacity. In addition, GAPS schools are aging and need improvements.

Read more about bond planning efforts.

This week, band students at North Albany Middle School performed the first of many concerts this year. The event showcased beginning and advanced student musicians.

North Albany Middle School band programs are directed by Andy Nelson. Upcoming performances at NAMS are listed on the school calendar on the website. For a list of upcoming performances at other GAPS schools, check the school websites.

Photos submitted by Andy Nelson.

Something positive for the election season. Listen to a lovely concert clip at the Calapooia Middle School choir performance on Oct. 13.

Calapooia social studies teacher Sue McGrory was named a 2016-17 Civic Scholar and will be recognized at the annual Civics Conference for Teachers at the State Capitol on Dec. 2.

McGrory was nominated by Senator Sara Gelser. The award is part of a statewide initiative to enhance high quality professional development in civic education for teachers. It includes conference registration, special recognition at the conference and follow-up classroom assistance.

The Civics Conference for Teachers is in its 10th year. It is organized by the Classroom Law Project and includes break-out sessions and a chance to network with social studies teachers from other districts.