News

Last week, the East Albany Lions Club conducted a vision screening of all elementary students. Pictured below are students at Tangent Elementary School.

With parent permission, students simply sit for eye measurements taken with a device that is similar in appearance to a camera or a pair of binoculars. The screening is fast and simple and does not require students to read eye charts or look into complicated vision machines. The procedure is so quick that four Lions Club members using four devices can examine an entire class in just 10 minutes.

Results are later shared with families. The Lions Club can help needy families obtain eyeglasses if necessary.

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.