issue No. 829 vol. 4 Cobble Hill, BrooklynPOST | Winter 2015 © P.S.29 / The John M. Harrigan School SHOULD BREAKING CELL PHONES Your Top Ten NEWS Internet Out at 29! BE ALLOWED Video Games Go to IN SCHOOL? ps29brooklyn.org See page 4 of 2015. See page 12 for details! There’s PRACTICING THEIR WINNING MOVES Something Special Going on at P.S. 29 BY GUS KRUMPUS (5-500) AND NOAH SILBER (5-505)
t P.S. 29, we have an amazing year she’s back full-time, which everyone specials program which is happy about. Media literacy is a great includes Media Literacy, Art, example of how lucky our school is, Physical Education, lower and because we have computers, a big library Aupper grade Science, Music and last, but with lots of books, and an amazing not least, Drama. teacher to run the place. This issue, we are putting the spotlight What do students think? on Susannah Sperry and her Media Fifth-graders Giulia Fontaine and Literacy class. Ms. Sperry, a former Isabel Young say that they like media classroom teacher, is the media literacy literacy because it lets them explore teacher at P.S. 29. She teaches everyone the internet. They like Ms. Sperry’s from 1st grade to 5th grade. Last year class because “she takes control. For she was only at the school part-time Fourth-graders sashay down the auditorium aisle at a recent ballroom dance share. because she has two small children. This CONTINUED ON P4 Photo: Sarma Ozols. Dr. Fagin on Students Are More Silver Medal Phones and Goes to P.S.29 Than a Piece of Paper Dancers School BY ISABEL YOUNG (5-500), GIULIA FONTAINE (5-500) AND MIA PERRY (5-500) BY 29 POST STAFF The P.S. 29 principal recently sat down The ongoing stress of report cards snakes tell how clever a child is from three days with Kali Iacono (4-527) and Amelia through the school year. Both fourth and of testing? A child’s nerves may lead to Kupper (4-527). This excerpt is from fifth graders have to worry about their mistakes, and even to not finish the test P.S. 29 took home the silver medal at that conversation. See page 4 for Kali report cards for middle school. “I think because she spent half the time worrying. the Rainbow Match Ballroom Com- and Amelia’s report on phones and report cards are stressful,” says Maya Dr. Fagin, the principal of P.S. 29, petition this past December! Dancing school. Evans of 5-506. “But they are also a great recognizes the controversy that surrounds against teams from all over New York way to see how you are doing, and how the tests. “The ELA tests are a complex City, the P.S. 29 team whirled and “The Department of Education is you can improve.” topic,” Dr. Fagin said. “I understand twirled its way past far more seasoned becoming more open to cell phones. I have Report cards are more fair than state teachers need a universal tool to measure opponents. mixed feelings. There are good reasons tests: at least they look at the entire student academic growth, but it can be Congratulations to our P.S. 29 stu- for middle and high school students school year. But near to the time the unreliable at times. The ELA tests should dents who participated in the contest! to have one, but not most elementary report cards come out, students also get not be used by themselves to determine All of them learned their skills in our students. I think that kids that walk alone stressed. Maybe this stress shows on their whether you get into middle school.” ballroom dance enrichment program. to and from school should have one. But work. One thing we know for sure: That Nina Rivas, a student in 5-505, opted All 4th grade classes participated in the teachers don’t know what kids are doing work will show up on their report cards. out of the 2015 state tests. “I opted out,” Ballroom Dance program during the on their phones and it could be something The dreaded New York State tests add she said, “because teachers get graded fall, and, as our report on page three inappropriate. Equality is a part of it to the pressure. Some middle schools on state tests and my mom is a teacher. explains, the program partnership is too. Not everyone has one. I also worry look at the state tests results, and some It’s unfair.” As many as 20% percent of expanding and includes instruction in about how cell phones affect social skills. no longer do. We think state tests are a third through eighth-graders in New York as many as four different dances. If cell phones are used in school, there stupid idea. Students are so much more opted out of the state tests in 2015. Who Whatever the expert instructors are should be a lot of guidelines.” than a piece of paper. Is it possible to knows how many will opt-out this year? doing, it’s clearly working. Page 2 29POST Navigating Middle School
BY MAYA EVANS (5-506) AND see what the school’s curriculum, pro- choice for middle school and only 2.91% would have fewer options and a lottery ARCHANA VAITHILINGAM (5-505) grams, talents (if they have them), and got their third or fourth choice. system,” says Dr. Fagin. “I want my 5th other things are like. “[Tours] are fun, Although tours are helpful they can still graders to go with someone they know. Your head is crammed with information. because you get to see how the school make things difficult. “It is hard,” says Ms. Familiar faces help ease the anxiety and You’re running from school to school, works and you see what’s going on and Hana when asked about students coming takes away some of the stress.” from tour to tour, from interview to inter- how they’re learning,” says Saba Naini late from school tours. “Even though it Most kids wouldn’t believe it but the view. Your tutor is filling your brain to the Ukmar (5-506). is important for kids to get to know what middle school process has changed a brim with information for the SSAT. You Although there are a few schools that middle schools are like, it makes it hard to lot. “Many parents would agree that the think, “All of this can’t possibly be worth most PS 29 students go to that is changing plan lessons because I don’t want kids to middle school process is very different the new school that I get into.” as parents are considering more district miss important things that we’re doing.” from when we were kids,” says Dr. Fagin. You aren’t alone. Many 5th graders are schools as options. Last year PS 29 5th Saba agrees: “When you come [in] late “I went to the only middle school in the experiencing this stress. “I’ve seen kids get graders went to 12 different public middle from middle school tours you’re a little bit area, but even for parents that grew up in extremely stressed out and worried,” says schools, in addition, some went on to sev- behind. The teacher helps you catch up New York City, many of then remember 5th grade teacher Ms. Hana. “If they don’t eral private schools and others moved out but you are still a little bit behind.” going to the middle school closest to their get into a school that they want, they feel of New York City. For this year’s 5th grad- P.S. 29 Principal, Dr. Rebecca Fagin, home. The school system created a middle they aren’t smart enough.” ers worried about where they will get in, would like the process to be less of a big school choice program so families have Middle school tours are a great way to they should know that last year 90.29% of deal. “If I had it my way, there’d be a sim- more choices but with more choices comes see what schools are best for you and to PS 29 5th graders got their first or second pler system. For example, my 5th graders more complications,” says Dr. Fagin.
Students STUDENTS ENJOYING THEIR NEW BOOK FAIR PURCHASE With English as a Second Language
BY ELI GORDON (4-527)
Lots of languages are spoken at P.S. 29. Beyond English, a quick survey of students found kids who speak Spanish, German, Italian, Arabic, Dutch, French, Japanese, Danish, Swedish, Hebrew, Russian, Mandarin, Korean, Finnish and Greek. That’s a lot of languages in each class. People from all over the world are moving to Brooklyn. An estimated five new students come from another country to the school each year. This is a good thing because it makes P.S. 29 more interesting and more diverse. But it’s also a bad thing because it helps make P.S. 29 more overcrowded. P.S. 29 has a wait-list this year for the first ever. A wait-list means that some people who live in the school zone and want to go the school might not be able to get a spot to get into P.S. 29. But for A student ponders which of her many new book purchases she should read first. Photo: Vania Workman von Ussar those who do go, there is a strong ESL program, which stands for English as a Second Language. This is run by Nicole Nadeau and has kids from every grade it in, all learning to speak and read Books, Books and More Books English as they go to class with kids who BY DOMINICK BALSAMO (5-505) AND HARRY SEGAL(4-507) have been speaking it their whole lives. The twice-a-year Book Fair is one of the and Ares. They were awesome and full of Gordon she said her favorite book was THE FACTS best things about the school year. It fea- information about gods. We also liked the “Piggie and Elephant” by Mo Williams. tures a selection of children’s books from first book in the “Big Nate” series. Meanwhile, third grade teacher Ms. Leah P.S. 29 Students Speak: Fork & Pencil, a local store, including We also asked other students what said her class didn’t have a favorite book. books chosen to reflect the social-studies they liked best: Fifth grader Ian Espinosa One of the most popular books overall Spanish, German, Italian, curriculum. liked “How They Croaked, The Awful was “Alice in Wonderland,” probably Arabic, Dutch, French, Kids love it because there are so many Ends of the Awfully Famous,” by Georgia because it’s the fifth grade play this year Japanese, Danish, Swedish, good books to choose from--the selections Bragg. Fourth grader Jin Janssen liked (if you didn’t know.) are always so cool and interesting and the the “Maze Runner” by James Dashner. This Book Fair was not only fun but Hebrew, Russian, Mandarin, people who work there are really nice and Second grader Alec said his favorite book it raised a lot of money for our PTA. Korean, Finnish and Greek. helpful. Our personal favorite books in- was, “Giants Beware” by Rafael Rosado Students can’t wait for the next fair in the cluded the Olympians books on Poseidon and Jorge Aguirre. First grader Sadie spring. 29POST Page 3 Love It Or Hate It, Ballroom Dancing is Here to Stay
BY GATSBY FEATHER (4-508) AND MIA ZABORSKI (4-508).
Here at P.S. 29, Ballroom Dancing has been part of the 4th-grade curriculum for five years. Some people like the idea, others don’t. Matea Salme (4-508) doesn’t like ballroom dancing because she is embar- rassed by the fact that she she has to dance with boys. (Gatsby agrees with her a lot.) Salme is nervous also because her parents are going to come to a perfor- mance, and you know how your parents make you feel - embarrassed. Amelia Poor (4-508) likes ballroom dancing because you get to learn fun, new dances such as the Heel Toe Polka, the Tango, the Foxtrot and more. Now we’re going to tell you about each one. The first one we are going to talk about is the Heel Toe Polka. The Heel Toe Polka is from the Czech Republic. The Heel Toe Polka is a fast, fun and spunky! The Heel Toe Polka is a funny dance because it almost like it’s not even A model of trains from different time periods at the NY Historical Society. Photo: Talula Jevremov. ballroom dancing. The next dance we learned was the Tango: this is a very serious dance you have to have a serious expression on your face. The Tango is from Argentina. We also had fun with the Foxtrot.The New York City’s Foxtrot was invented in Brooklyn! This dance can be serious at times and funny and fun. The last dance we are going to talk about the Swing, which is from Harlem, New York. Unknown Museums Some of the kids at P.S. 29 even partici- pated in a ballroom dance competition at BY MADDY TAIT (4-524) AND TALULA JEVREMOV (4-508) other schools in December. Dr. Rebecca Fagin, P.S. 29’s principal, In New York City, we are lucky to be THE NEW YORK HISTORICAL room hosts its own mini show. They have is a fan of the annual Ballroom Dance surrounded by so many museums. We SOCIETY photos sculptures and video installa- Share because kids learn dances from reviewed the less popular museums, be- The Historical Society is really fun! It is tions! Its purpose is to show “the most different places. “I didn’t pick ballroom cause everybody knows the most famous great for families. It is currently showing experimental art in the world.” So you dancing, but I kept it going because I ones. The ones we visited were all great. a “Super Heroes of Gotham” exhibition. should definitely go there if you like a think that it’s a challenge for the kids,’’ (And boo to the Frick and the Neue Gal- Here you can see the original costumes mish-mash of modern art! Fagin says. It builds upon the experience erie, because they do not allow kids!) of Superman, Catwoman, Spiderman of the African Dance Share from 3rd and even the Batmobile. There is also THE NOGUCHI MUSEUM grade, she adds. COOPER HEWITT an exhibition on old-fashioned technol- Isamu Noguchi is the only artist in this There is one thing about the Ballroom Really fun! Cool for kids! It is a “must ogy. It shows the old-fashioned print- museum. He uses natural materials Dance Share that bothers her. “I don’t go.” They have a modern system that ing process that produced newspapers. for his artwork, such as wood, stone, love it, because I think it’s unfair,” Fagin connects the “plus signs” on all the They also have a show on electric trains, granite and metal. He treated different says. “It’s traditionally a boy and a girl artwork with the same signs that are where the trains are going around the materials in different ways; some stones (dance), and I think that it could be a on the special pens you get with your the room and there are little models of he glazed to get shiny surfaces, and girl and a girl or a boy and a boy.” entrance ticket. With these pens, you houses, so it looks like one entire train another stone he left plain to give it a Who would Dr. Fagin pick as a dance go to tables that have C.A.D (Computer Wonderland! rustic look. In this museum, he also has partner, if she could choose anyone on Aided Design). This lets you design a wall of rocks to show you the different the planet (alive or dead!)? “I would furniture,hats,sculptures, and more. (MOMA) P.S. 1 kinds. You can use a magnifying glass dance with Mark Antony, because I like They also have mini-models of places P.S. 1 is a very modern and unusual to see them close-up. There is also a salsa and he dances that dance!” Fagin that got produced in real life, and they place. It is a old school building in Long beautiful garden with his work displayed says. have a Pixar room where you can watch Island City, Queens, that once was an in it. You should go if you love natural Who would you pick for your dance animation. The Cooper Hewitt is a very elementary school. There are a lot of materials and you want to learn more partner if you could pick anyone? modern and cool place! different classrooms, and each class- about them and this great artist. Is Soccer King of Sports?
BY ELI GORDON (4-527) AND CIAN KIRWAN (4-508)
Over the past decade, the United States Many P.S. 29 students, both boys and has become a soccer nation. With girls, play on soccer teams, some on NYCFC, the new New York team, joining travel teams. Most younger kids play in the MLS, there are now 20 professional the AYSO program, which has games at soccer teams in the U.S. Lots of students Brooklyn Bridge Park. Other kids play for told us that they’re big fans of European travel teams like SC Gjoa and SABA NYC, soccer teams and also national soccer which is higher-level soccer for better teams, too. The USA Women’s team win- players. These are teams you try out for ning the Womens World Cup also helped while everyone who wants to play can play soccer become much more popular at P.S. in AYSO. Soccer is probably the most pop- 29, especially among girls. ular sport at P.S. 29, as well as the world. Page 4 29POST There’s Something Special Going on at P.S. 29 CONTINUED FROM P1 example, if someone’s goofing around, she her first teaching job in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. reminds them to “stay on task.” They’ve both She taught many grades as a classroom teacher learned a lot like how to type faster and how to before she taught media literacy. “I loved being a use different controls on the computer and they classroom teacher. But when the media literacy both like the programming unit, because, as Izzy job opened up, I thought it would be a fun says, “it’s like making your own cartoons, and you challenge, and it is, so it’s a good fit.” She says can do whatever you want.” coding is her favorite unit to teach. “It is my At P.S 29 we’re very lucky to be part of a newest unit, and I am still learning things as a community that can afford to supplement the coding teacher each year. It inspires the most school’s budget to buy things like computers creativity and enthusiasm among the students, so and printers. Ms. Sperry used a website called it’s fun to see them learn and explore, too!” Donor’s Choose to help her raise money for new We also asked her what her favorite thing laptops. Donor’s Choose is used by teachers about teaching is. “My favorite thing is seeing and they can identify exactly what they want kids get excited about learning something new, and how much it costs and parents donate any and THEN seeing them continue the new skill or amount until the totals are reached. Sometimes, topic on their own outside of school. For example, donations are even matched by Donor’s Choose. the first time I ever taught coding, many kids Many individual classes use Donor’s Choose too. were so interested in it that they kept coding and Ms. We also interviewed Ms. Sperry. She told us creating new programs on their own at home, Sperry. she started teaching in 2001 when she moved to long after the unit ended. When you help kids Photo: the New York City. She had just moved to the lower learn something new that they love and carry on Sperry east side of Manhattan from Michigan and got with them–that’s a great feeling!” family ADVICE COLUMN The Truth Anonymous About Should Cell Aesops Teaching Phones Be Anonymous Aesops is the 29 Post advice BY TESS CURTIS (4-521), CLARA FASS (4-507), column. This is the place to go for wise MIA GABAI (4-521) AND SASHA MEIER (4-507) ideas on how to handle any problems you may be having with your friends, family Don’t you wonder what it’s like to be a Used in School? or classmates. You can email questions to teacher, how hard it is? We were curious. [email protected] or leave So we interviewed a few P.S. 29 teach- BY KALI IACONO AND AMELIA KUPPER (4-527) them in the box in the office. ers: Ms. Ghoshhajra, Ms. Johnson, Mr. Carver, and Ms. Sophia. Dear AA, There is a boy in my class that Q: “Are there more days when you are Some people think that cell phones and Aric Kupper both feel kids should I like. Someone told him that I liked him happy with your class, or are there more should be allowed in school and some not have phones in school. “They distract and now it’s really awkward. -Anonymous days when you are frustrated?” people think otherwise. We’ve gathered you from all of the things you should Dear Anonymous, No need to be em- Ms. Ghoshhajra: “More happy usually. some information from both sides. be doing in school.” (Michelle) “They barrassed; who you like is who you like. But some days are good, some days are Some good things cell phones have don’t provide any benefit. They distract You have a choice, you can either go up bad, some days are confusing, and some done is that they’ve saved kids when they you from building friendships with your to the person who told your crush and days are all three. But you have to re- were lost, harmed, or scared like when classmates, listening to teachers, and tell them what they said really hurt your member that I wouldn’t be here if there they are being approached by a stranger. playing during your free time like lunch feelings or you can go up to your crush weren’t more happy days than sad ones!” Some people think that kids should also and recess.” (Aric) and say you like them. Or you can do both Q: “What is your favorite subject to be allowed to play or listen to music or do We also interviewed a 4th grade things. Either way, you should not be teach? And why?” whatever they want with their phones at teacher, Mr. Berns, from class 4-527. worried, we all have crushes! -Anonymous Ms. Johnson: “My favorite subject to recess or other free time. Aesops teach is Social Studies. I personally enjoy Some bad things cell phones have done Q: Do you think cell phones should be learning about history. It is very inter- is that they can stop face-to-face com- allowed in school? Dear AA, My friend is being mean to esting and exciting to learn what cool munication and hurt friendships. You’re A: Kids should be allowed to have them me,what should I do? adventures took place before you.” texting and going on Facebook instead in their backpacks shut off during school -Evil Dr. Snapping Fish Q: “What is it like to be a teacher?” of actually talking to your friend. Also, hours especially kids who walk to and Dear Evil Dr.Snapping Fish, Mr. Carver: “It is very rewarding, and when you’re on your phone all the time at from school by themselves If your friend is being mean then just very challenging. It’s a profession, and school, you don’t learn as much because tell her/him that they are hurting your gives you a chance to learn from other you’re not paying enough attention to the Q: Do you think kids should use cell feelings.If they keep on being mean, just teachers and students.” teacher. phones on their free time? ignore them. Remember: if your friend Q: “Why did you pick to teach 2nd We’ve interviewed some teachers, par- A: No, because it takes time away from is being mean to you, that doesn’t really Grade?” ents and students to see what they think being with your friends and most kids make them a good friend. -Anonymous Ms. Sofia: “I really like the age in 2nd about phones and school. already have lots of screen time outside Aesops grade, and what I can do with them is Eleni Catanzaro (4-508) does not have of school. fun. I also like the curriculum.” a cell phone. She says “she’s on both sides” and that she thinks that “fifth Q: Do you think there are exceptions? graders should be allowed to have cell A: Kids can use them for educational phones in school, but not fourth grad- purposes or extra curricular activities. ers.” Mia Gabai (4-521) has a phone and thinks that students should be able to use So there are lots of reasons why cell them during choice time and recess. phones should and shouldn’t be Parents were also on both sides. Valerie allowed at school. Now ask Iacono thinks students should be al- yourself this: Do YOU lowed to have cell phones in school think cell phones under certain circumstances. should be allowed “I think that kids that walk in school? Tell the to and from school PS 29 Post what should be allowed to you think–email have cellphones 29postnewspaper@ so that way gmail.com or leave a their parents note in the 29 Post mail- know that they box in the office–and you got to school could see your answer in the okay.” Michelle next issue! 29POST Page 5 Inside The Go Green and Save World of Lunch Clubs
The World! BY NEKO BAROCCI (5-505), JULIA BERMAN BY ANYA CHU (5-506) AND SABINE DEMOPOULOS (5-506) (5-505), ILA HOLSTEIN-ROSEN (5-506) AND AGGIE SCHNEE (5-500) You may know all about climate change. “We should step up to the plate and our other students to have their questions It is a terrible thing, you will say. Then make this world a better place, through answered. Take recycling: We do it, but Do you know about our amazing lunch you will tell me that there are electric little things,” Bianca says. “We can stop I want to explain why we recycle or sort. clubs? cars now, so there is no reason to write using fossil fuels. Little things make a Why it’s important. I want to make sure We interviewed lower-grade science about it. But actually, climate change bigger difference.” we’re explaining to students, from Pre-K teacher Ms. Tina Reres while she was still goes on. Consider the polar bears. Teachers at PS 29 are also working to to 5th grade, why we do what we do and saving the life of a dying plant. She Their homes are melting, and eventually incorporate this issue in their teaching. we’re taking the time to answer their oversees a popular lunch club. “Green they may have nothing. Same for people. Ms. Elisabeth, a fifth grade teacher told questions. I have a daughter who is in Team started in the fall of 2013” she Some countries are trying to help. us, “We do research projects in 5th grade, Pre-K, and I want her to know this stuff.” said. As we were talking to her, a Green You’ve probably heard about President so students can research global warming Dr. Fagin said she would like to have Team leader walked into the room and Obama rejecting the pipeline that was if they’d like to.” Ms. Van Duzer, a 2nd more signs around the school, as well as handed her a tube of toothpaste for a planned to go from Canada into the U.S. grade teacher, said, “I do some read- more informational materials, about our project they are doing. This showed that Oil is a big factor in climate change, alouds to the kids, to get them to think recycling program. the Green Team leaders are committed because when you heat oil, the heat gets about [global warming].” You can help too. The little things DO to their jobs even before school. trapped in the air, and stays. The more We also interviewed principal Dr. make a big difference. One thing you can There are 25 to 30 Green Team mem- this happens, the more heat is in the air. Rebecca Fagin to learn her opinion do is conserve energy. You can turn off bers, and Ms. Reres hopes to have the Our school is also helping. We have a on how schools and students can help the lights when you’re not using them. If club grow even more over the next few Green Team, a group of P.S. 29 students raise awareness about this issue. “One you don’t need them, turn off the heater years. “Now that it is a bigger and more led by the Pre-k to 2nd-Grade Science of the things we are doing is teaching or the A/C. Also, you can plant trees and serious club than before, kids know that teacher, Ms. Tina Reres. The team helps our students about it,” Dr. Fagin said, plants. Leaves create oxygen, so planting they have to show up at every meeting,” our community and environment by “so that the kids can tell their parents.” a tree can really help. Lastly, you can she said. helping P.S. 29 learn how to recycle. She noted as well the great work of Ms. give money to charities and foundations Ms. Roseann, the Peer Mediation club At our school, many students have Reres’s Green Team. “I think the things that support the campaign to fight global organizer and club leader, answered a ideas about how best to fight climate that we are doing with students are main- warming and climate change. So, with few questions as well. Peer Mediation, change. Bianca Martinez, (5-500) is ly with Green Team,” she said. But she all this in mind, let’s get together and in short, is a way that people can resolve looking to the new generation to help. added there is much work to do. “I want save the world! their conflicts. The peer mediators are fourth and fifth graders at P.S. 29. “We wanted the student community to be LORDS OF THE DANCE able to speak with their voices and be able to work out conflicts on their own,” Ms. Roseann told us. We asked if she thinks the peer media- tors mind missing recess once a week. “Well, they know that it’s part of being a mediator and they have made a commit- ment,” she said. “I think Peer Mediation Is a very important part of school com- munity and it will definitely continue.” As you might know, our wonderful music teacher, Ms. Emma Apsel, also runs chorus, a singing club at recess. Chorus started last year in the middle of October. “Leading chorus is the high- light of my week,” said Ms. Apsel. She says that most kids are doing a good job of showing up each week, but about 10% of the students in chorus need to work out their schedules, and understand the commitment they have made.” The last club we interviewed was band. Ms. Tina, the clarinet teacher, answered our questions. She said there are about 60 to 70 people in band all together, both fourth and fifth graders, and band is still growing. She also said that most people in band are dedicated. Ms. Elishia added that she thought that “most kids are very excited to be in band.” There are other clubs as well, includ- ing the very-popular running club. These are just some of the biggest. We’ll try to focus on other clubs in future articles. We are so lucky to have so many clubs at P.S. 29 and we should all be very thankful to all the people who 4th graders practicing their turns in front of admiring families at a ballroom dance share. Photo: Maddy Tait make this possible. 29POST Page 6 Meet Some of the People Who Make The School Run BY KYLE DITTERSDORF (5-506) MILLAN DEGNEMARK (5-505) AND GARRATT ROTHBERG (5-506)
Most people at P.S. 29 know the princi- a lot easier to get done. For example, we A: Yes, they are good to have because I the school. pal, Dr. Fagin. Most also know assistant now have a chorus program and a band can see everyone coming into the building A: The year my children graduated. That principals Ms. Pender and Ms. Hochman. and a Newspaper Club, none of which we from all entrances. was a long time ago! But there are a lot of important people at could have without parent involvement. the school who don’t always get the atten- Ms. Marianne Buzzetta: Supervising Ms. Cara Turnbull: Guidance Coun- tion they deserve. P.S. 29 is very lucky to Officer Carolyn Grant: School Safety School Aide, 22 years at the school; selor, 11 years at the school; have them involved in the school and we Officer, 5 years at the school; Q: How has the school changed since you Q: Why are a lot of the teachers also decided to talk to a few of them. Q: Why do schools have school safety started? parents? officers? A: It used to go through 6th grade when I A: They want their kids to go to P.S. 29 Ms Debra Bartolotti: Occupational A: To keep everybody safe and give out was first here. because it is a great school and they want Therapist, 15 years at the school; visitor passes to everyone who enters. Q: How has your job changed since you to keep track of their kids and for them to Q: What do you like most about the Q: How has the school changed since you came to this school? have great opportunities. school? came? A: The schoolyard is nicer now. But it’s Q: How has your job changed since you A: The community is so wonderful. A: It was always a good school because of basically same job, different kids. came to the school? Q: How has parent involvement changed the community. It’s gotten bigger! Q: Why do you like the school so much? A: Middle school has become a much the school? Q: Do you like having new security A: Because I like to help the children. bigger part of what I do since I came and A: With the parent’s help, everything is cameras? Q: What year was your favorite year in I’m handling fewer conflicts with kids. LEADERS OF THE PACK The Sound of (New) Music BY DECLAN HERPER (4-508), NICHOLAS NAPOLI (4-508) AND OLIVER ROACH (4-508)
This year, many 4th graders are spending their Tuesday recess learning a new instru- ment. Kids are so excited about learning music that many even play their instru- ments in the schoolyard for their friends. All 4th and 5th graders have the option to learn to play an instrument (or instruments in the case of percussion) like the trum- pet, the snare drum, the flute, trombone, sax and clarinet. It takes a lot of teachers to teach so many instruments. Clarinet teacher Ms. Martina says she loves teach- ing band because “it speaks to my soul,” and “because it brings me closer to God and to who I am. I feel like it gives back what someone gave to me a long time ago.” Saxophone teacher Ochion Jewell described how she likes to “see kids go from not know- ing anything about music, to being able to play it.” Alicia Rau, the program’s coordinator and trumpet teacher told us how much big- ger the program is growing. This year there are 124 kids in band! She also explained that we get the instruments from Music Arts. “I guess you could say they are our Above: Thanks to parent volunteers, 4th and 5th grade partner.” members of the running club spent part of Mondays All the teachers are nice and they all love this past fall sprinting around Cobble Hill's streets and teaching. It’s only been a few weeks, but so waterfront. far band looks like it’s working out well for Left: Running club leader Stephanie Manske exhorts everyone. Even though the instruments are students to "finish hard." heavy and can be difficult, the instruments are very rewarding if you have enough time Photos: Elizabeth Seay and patience to practice. It’s really exciting to learn to play an instrument. We hope younger grade students reading this try it out when they have the chance. 29POST Page 7 Your Favorite Songs of 2015, Ranked! BY RAFELA SEWARDS AND TALIA WILLSCHER (4-527)
We surveyed an assortment of students Shut Up And Dance With Me By Walk The from different grades asking each to name Moon: 4 Votes their favorite song in an attempt to find 22 By Taylor Swift: 4 Votes out the most popular song at P.S. 29. It certainly seems like Taylor Swift is the most Hello By Adele: 4 Votes Style By Taylor popular singer. Which song do you love to Swift: 4 Votes hear on the radio? Sugar By Maroon 5: 3 Votes Dear Future Husband By Meghan Trainor: Bad Blood By Taylor Swift: 9 Votes 3 Votes Shake It Off By Taylor Swift: 6 Votes You Belong With Me By Taylor Swift: 3 Votes Stitches By Shawn Mendes: 5 Votes Happy By Pharrell Williams: 2 Votes Uptown Funk By Mark Ronson and Bruno Lose You By Meghan Trainor and John Mars: 5 Votes Legend: 2 Votes Blank Space By Taylor Swift: 5 Votes Fun By Pitbull: 2 Votes Cheerleader By Omi: 4 Votes Demons By Imagine Dragons: 2 Vote I Really Like You By Carly Rae Jepsen: Million Years Ago By Adele: 1 Vote 4 Votes What did ‘Back to the Parents! We Future’ Get right? BY ELLA KAPLAN (5-506), BIANCA MARTINEZ (5-500) AND LOLA SHUB (5-500)
Have you ever watched the movie, ‘Back can go up to speeds of 6 mph. And they Need YOU at To The Future’? Well, on October 21 it was are always coming up with new ways to ‘Back To The Future’ day. In the second ride the Segway! These Segways were do- movie of the series, Marty McFly (Michael ing fine until they were banned recently J. Fox) travels to the future, which is 2015! for safety reasons. You can buy them but What actually came to the future? Some can’t legally ride them in New York City. Lunchtimes! of the things the movie predicted were Have you ever wondered if there were hoverboards and cars. In Japan they have things other than gas to fuel your car? BY 29 POST STAFF. Photo: Victoria Baluk a few hovercars and the world’s fastest In ‘Back To The Future’ - and in real train, floating above ground. This movie life - we are using things other than gas. Who doesn’t want to be a fly on their kid’s was made in 1989! We are using vegetable oil just like in the school wall? Parent volunteers help make ‘Back To The Future’ did not just pre- movie when they were using vegetables! our lunches run smoothly. Everyone should dict one thing in the future, it predicted The cars that run on vegetables are better do it at least once! It’s a great way to get SIX things! One of them is Google Glass, for climate change and the world. Like in to know some great kids. Volunteers are the incredible piece of technology that the movie, you can now put vegetables or needed most acutely during the 2nd to 5th is like an IPhone except that it’s on your vegetable oil in these new cars and they grade lunch period that runs from 12:05 eyes. You can go onto the internet and start to run! Not many people use them, to 1:05 PM each day. P.S. 29 is one of the even call people. In Japan, Goggle Glass is but we think that you should because they schools that has petitioned the Department like if you are using a tablet computer. are better for the earth! If you don’t use of Education to be allowed to serve an Have you ever wondered what it was like electric cars you should use them now alternative lunch menu, which the PTA without FaceTime? Our parents can tell because of the global warming which is helps organize and fund. The alternative us but it was predicted in ‘Back To The resulting in the deaths of many animals. menu features a daily fresh salad bar with Future 2’ when Marty McFly was an adult If you watch baseball, you know that the greens from our the P.S. 29 garden when and talking to his boss. FaceTime was cre- Chicago Cubs went to the playoffs in 2015. possible, and a full range of diverse and ated by Apple in 2010. In ‘Back To The Future 2’, Marty Mcfly healthy fare with typical dishes like a pesto Segways are also one of the amaz- gives the bad guy (Biff) a book from the chicken wrap, chicken and broccoli, baked ing predictions that the movie made. future that shows him who will win every rotini and vegetable quesadillas. There Now they are sold as a toy and a way of sports game for the next 60 years. In this are also always peanut-butter and jelly transportation. Segways, which are made book, it says that in 2015 the Cubs will go sandwiches! You can always check the menu by companies like I0 introducing the I0 to the playoffs. on the P.S. 29 website. Please email parent Hawk, are easy to ride and are hard to It is incredible predictions that no one coordinator Monica Gutierrez-Kirwan if you break. You can learn to ride them in less believed came true. It makes you think wish to volunteer at [email protected] than 10 minutes! But don’t be fooled: this that even more incredible things are going 22-pound, futuristic, two-wheel Segway, to happen. All we have to do is wait.
BAR BRUNO Serving delicious Mexican food in Cobble Hill, Brooklyn
BAR BRUNO 520 Henry Street (at Union Street) Brooklyn, NY 11231 tel: (347) 763 0850 29POST Page 8 Eat Pie and Shop Brings Pie-Lovers Together A full-day fair/pie-eating 2 fundraiser for the school featuring more than 40 local vendors, a pie contest, celebrity judges and performances by the school chorus and a group of drama students, Eat Pie and Shop is one of P.S. 29’s most beloved annual events. At the heart of the day is eating! There were hundreds of different pies and Cloud Catering, owned by 29 parents, graciously donated savory concoctions like mac & cheese, shepherd’s pie and chicken pot pie to ground all the sugar eating! 29 Post photographers were out in force documenting the day in pictures. 1
THE WINNING RECIPE: S’MORES PIE
Coco Maloney (4-507) and Connor Mitchener (3-404)
PREP: 5 MINS COOK: 30 MINS TOTAL: 35 MINS
INGREDIENTS: • 1 PRE-MADE GRAHAM PIE CRUST • 3/4 cup heavy cream • 3/4 cup milk • 10 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped • 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract • Pinch of salt • 2 eggs, whisked • 20-30 large marshmallows
DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (160 degrees C). In a medium saucepan, whisk together cream and milk. Warm over medium-low heat. Add in chocolate and stir until chocolate has completely melted and is smooth. Slowly add in vanilla and whisked eggs, and whisk until smooth. Pour chocolate filling into baked pie crust. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until chocolate filling is set and does not jiggle when pie is lightly shaken. Remove from oven. Using a kitchen shears or a knife, cut marshmallows in half. Place halves in concentric circles over the top of the pie until covered. Lower oven rack to the middle position, and set oven to the lowest broil setting. Place pie on the rack and lightly toast the marshmallows (pull them out the second you see 9 them beginning to turn slightly golden.) 1 Pie lovers buy pie. Photo: Luke Malmstrom. 2-4 There was enough pie to eat a Chill pie in the refrigerator to set for 2-3 hours. Or it can different one almost every day of the year. Photos: Julian McCaul (2 and 4), Luke also be served slightly warm. Drizzle with chocolate sauce if desired. Malmstrom (3). 5 Too many pies, but too few nutty flavors. The category was eliminated this year. Photo: Julian McCaul. 6 A lucky number 7 for this banana cream caramel pie. Photo: Lillian Gaines. 7 First-graders chillin’ at the craft table. Photo: Luke Malmstrom. 8 One of the many great vendors. Photo: Julian McCaul. 9 Mónica Gutiérrez-Kirwan, P.S. 29’s parent coordinator, and Roseann Giglio, P.S. 29’s Pre-K family worker, at the judges’ table. Photo: Julian McCaul.
8 29POST Page 9 Eat Pie and Shop Brings Pie-Lovers Together
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4 FUN FACTS
KID-JUDGED CONTEST WINNERS: 1st Nick Napoli (4-508) 2nd Aiden Wogan (1-304) 3rd Mae Benne (3-404) KIDS CHOICE AWARD WINNERS (people bought pies and then voted in the ballot boxes) 1st Coco Maloney (4-507) and Connor Mitchener (3-404 ) 2nd Ellie Meyers 3rd Amelia Leone Also: PS 29 Families donated a total of 345 pies and almost every last one sold. The class pizza party goes to K-204 (Ms. Scheldt): 18 families brought in a total of 38 pies! Kindergarten in general was amazing. The top three classes were all K and K families were responsible for 98 pies of the 345 total pies! Special thank you to Ginny Hortsman, a K par- ent, who baked 17 pies—and had a baby three weeks ago!
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7 6 29POST Page 10 COOL PARENTS’ JOBS #1 “Fire In The Hole!”
BY LAILA BALUK (4-521) AND is actually safe for the actors. I have been doing this for over How long does it take you to COCO MALONEY (4-507) For example, I make things look 8 years and now I have my own go through the process of a like fires, explosions, smoke company. special effect? Special effects are used on TV and broken glass when they are What do you say before you It depends on what it is but it and in movies to make things look on film. To do this, I use math do a special effect, like blow always takes a lot of planning. dramatic or dangerous: blowing and science almost every day something up? Can it be frustrating when something up is a special effect. to do special effects. I use math I yell really really loudly: “FIRE you are working on a special So is blowing smoke and creating to add up how many supplies IN THE HOLE!! 3! 2! 1!” effect and something does fire. But in real life, it is safe for I need to buy for the special What are the hard things not go as planned? the actors. We visited and talked effects and I also use math to about blowing something Yes it can be frustrating with PS 29 dad, Mike Myers to add up the total cost of the up? because my job is on the line. If (Father of 5th Grader Lydia, supplies I need to buy. I also It is really hard to know how big something goes wrong,I could 5-500), who creates special effects use science to make sure the and potentially dangerous an lose my job. There are many for a living. special effects are safe. explosion could be. parts and pieces of special How did you get your Do you like doing special Lydia Myers (5-500) with her effects that could go wrong. What is your job? license? effects? dad Mike and the authors. Do you do small effects just I have a special effects license It takes five years of training to Yes, I like doing special effects for fun? and right now I am a special get the special effects license because I get to do new, exciting working on a fake car crash and Yes when I have free time. effects expert on a grownup that I have. I had to study hard. things every day! I thought it looked really fun. Does that mean you could TV show called “Gotham.” It I had to train with another When did you get interested Have you ever hurt be happy in your job for the is about superheros. My job is expert and always pay attention in doing special effects? yourself? rest of your life? to make some things in the TV to him. Right after college I met a No! I still have 10 fingers and Yes, but I get tired from the show look dangerous, but in How long have you been great guy who was doing 10 toes but I do have some big long hours that I work and at real life when we are filming it working on special effects? special effects and I saw him scabs! some point I would like a break. Technology In NOT AN ALBUM COVER Our Classroom BY MARIN TYREE (5-500)
At P.S. 29, we have many computers “We have had a lot of progress getting in the technology room. There are Chromebooks to the classrooms in the also Chromebooks in some 5th grade upper-grades, and we will continue to classrooms. Class 5-500, for example, try and reach our goal,” Sperry says. has a lot of Chromebooks, but it also has At least ten lower-grade classrooms many students: 21 Chromebooks and one have iPads in their classes. “We got iPad for 32 students to use. them through a program called Donors “The purpose of the devices is to Choose with the help of parents,” Sperry prepare the kids for living in a digital said. world where we use tech every day,” says The P.S. 29 PTA is trying to raise P.S. 29’s Technology teacher, Susannah money for Chromebooks and iPads for Sperry. “Using technology in school all students to use. helps kids be able to access and analyze Michael Maniaci, a 5th-grade teacher, all of the media they encounter in their said he likes using Chromebooks in the lives and be able to create new media, classroom for many reasons. “It’s cool which I think is the most exciting part.” because kids can access the (Google) How long will it take to get drive, and they know how to because Chromebooks to all the upper-grade Ms. Sperry has taught them how to use classes and iPads to all the lower-grade their drive for class work,” Maniaci said. classes? “Also, they are not very expensive, so we can get a lot of them for our classes.” Chromebooks also help with organization of students’ work. It’s “so much better than loads of loose papers,” Maniaci added. Chromebooks also teach students how to use a laptop or learn how to use technology, notes Tanya Raymond, a substitute teacher at P.S. 29. “Not all kids are lucky enough to have computers at home,” she said. Having them at school can help level the playing field. A team of 29 Post student-reporters wait for their interview subject to arrive early one morning before school.. Photo: Sarma Ozols 29POST Page 11 Please Welcome A Day in the Life Four New Teachers of a Principal BY KATELYN BRICKNER (5-505), NINA RIVAS (5-505), ISABELLE CONNOLLY (5-505) AND BY DAGMAR JEPPESEN,(4-507) LILLIAN GAINES (5-505) AMELIA LEONE,(4-524) AND DYLAN MARSHALL(4-524) This year at P.S. 29 there are four new, full-time classroom teachers -- Ms. Julie, Ms. Kaady, Ms. Johnson, and Ms. Brickle. Have you ever wondered what it would They teach fourth grade, kindergarten be like if you were a principal? We and third grade. do so we asked Dr. Fagin a bunch of Ms Brickle, currently a kindergarten questions. teacher, came from The Parkside School and P.S. 59, in Manhattan. Ms Brickle Q. Do you like being a principal? has taught every grade from kindergar- A. “I love being a principal. I wouldn’t ten to fourth. She has been teaching want another job. What we do at for nine years. Ms. Brickle came to this elementary school shapes who we school because she wanted a change and become.” because it was closer to her home. ‘“I love the school and the kids,” Ms. Q. Do you have time to spend with Brickle said. your kids before you go to work? Ms. Kaady, currently a third grade A. “Yes. I treasure being with my kids. teacher, came from substituting at differ- Our lives are more hectic after school.” P.S. 29 ent schools. She has taught 5th, 4th, and Principal 1st grade. Ms. Kaady has been a teacher Q. What would you like to change Rebecca for two years. Ms. Kaady’s favorite thing about the school? Fagin about P.S. 29 is the community. This A. I always tries to change things about stepping out school is different from her other schools the school. As our students improve of a little- because everyone works together. She every year our community changes so known back came to this school because Dr. Fagin we always have to change our needs to entrance to gave her a job, which she really wanted balance the school. her office and so was very happy about “P.S. 29 has aka her secret door! a great community,” she said. Q. Do you like who you work with? Photo: Coco Ms. Julie came from Monarch Acad- A. “Yes, I love who I work with. Maloney and emy in Oakland, California. Ms. Julie Something that makes PS29 special is Laila Baluk. has taught 2nd, 4th and 6th grade. She the people. It makes it easier.” has been a teacher for four years. Ms. Julie’s favorite thing about P.S. 29 is the Q. Do you like the kids at the school? classrooms because we have to make eventually moved back to New York enthusiasm of the students. This school A. “I love them! They make me laugh, room for another class in a grade. where I taught 5th and 6th grades. After is different from her old school because it they teach me, and they make me that I went to a special school to get my has many more stairs and there are a lot proud.” Q. How did you become a principal? Doctoral degree in school leadership. I more arts and clubs. “When I was younger I always wanted ended up being an assistant principal “Parents and students make a lot more Q. Is it hard that you have two kids at to be a teacher. I would line up my in a middle school. Five years later I things happen,” Ms.Julie said. the school? dolls and have them call me Ms. Fagin. became a principal here at PS29. If Ms. Johnson is currently a fourth A. “In some ways it’s hard and some When I graduated from college I did you asked me 10 years ago if I wanted grade teacher. Last year she was teaching ways it’s easy. I get to see a point of view a program called “Teach for America” to be a principal and I would say NO fifth grade for part of the year when Ms. from a principal and a parent.” where I fell in love with teaching. WAY! It all just kind of fit together and Kane had a baby. Ms. Johnson has been I taught 3rd grade in California. I happened.” teaching for three years. She has taught Q. What Is your daily schedule? 4th grade and 5th grade. Her favorite A. I don’t really have a schedule. It thing about PS 29 is the environment. changes every day. She came to this school because other teachers recommended it to her. She also Q. What is your biggest worry about heard it was a great school with inter- PS29? ested, engaged students. She was glad to A. I worry about over-crowding at the find out these things were true! school and having to take away specialty Your Favorite School Foods
BY JULIETTE BAENZIGER (4-521) AND EMMA HARTY (4-521)
Did you know that the Cafeteria staff wakes up really early before we wake up to make us breakfast and lunch? Wendy Liquet, one of two cooks at P.S. 29, told us she wakes up at 5:00am each morning. On many mornings she feeds 400 hungry kids breakfast. It can be crazy, but “I love working with children.” Her favorite food to make is chicken and she’s very glad the school has a salad bar because “it’s healthy for you.” Tofu is also very healthy but Wendy says that it is the kids least favorite food. Why? “I think they really don’t like the taste.” The kids favorite meal wasn’t very surprising: Pizza on Fridays! “Kids just love it.” 29POST Page 12 Your Top Ten Video Games of 2015 BY DEVIN WAXMAN (4-527), DEREK TARPIN (4-507) AND JACK DAVIS (4-527)
The top ten video games that students at Players have different play sets and toy 2D game with lots of mobs and bosses. (which are creepy human sized toys that P.S. 29 like to play are not only interesting, boxes. In the play set you get to play Terraria is an open-ended sandbox game want to scare you). You have to survive but fun! We surveyed a number of 4th-, different adventures and in the toy boxes, with gameplay that revolves around five nights without being “jump scared”(a 3rd-, 2nd- and 1st-grade students about you make your own world. It is a game exploration, building, and action. term that means being so scared that you what video games they play, and here--in that requires a portal and figures are put jump)by the animatronics! ascending order--are their favorites: on the portal, so that the figure goes into the game as a playable character. 10. Pixel Gun 3D A game sort of like Minecraft, except with guns, cool maps, and much more! It is a game with different modes, from 1vs1 battles to battling zombies in an arena.
7. Agar.io A fun online game in which you collect mass (which is the stuff inside of an 5.Super Smash Bros object) and eat other users who are also A fun 2-to-8-player game, in which collecting mass. The objective of agar. you battle other players using different io is to grow “a cell”, a circular player- Nintendo characters. The gameplay 9. Minecraft Story Mode controlled object, by swallowing both objective differs from that of traditional Minecraft “story mode” is about a story pellets and smaller cells without being fighters by aiming to knock opponents in Minecraft where you get to choose swallowed by larger cells. It can be played out of the stage instead of depleting life your own decisions. The game is made in a deathmatch or between teams. The bars. by Telltale Games (which is a game goal of the game is to obtain the largest company). It is episodic adventure and cell. Players restart when all of their cells has lots of action. are swallowed.
1. Minecraft A sandbox singleplayer or multiplayer, 3D game, in which everything is blocks and players must build, mine and craft. The goal is, well 4. Skylanders there is no real goal! In the A game where you use magical powers 8. Disney Infinity 6. Terraria and floating islands to destroy all evil! end, Minecraft is the top game A sandbox adventure with Disney movie Another game similar to Minecraft, Games in the series are played by – nearly everyone’s favorite to characters (Star Wars, Marvel, etc.) except it’s not 3D. It is 2D. It is a sandbox placing character figures called the Skylanders on a portal. Players can put play. figures in a portal, and the figure goes into the game as a playable character.
Live in year round or summer child care.
Currently placing for Summer 2016 3. Splatoon Discounted rate for 29 parents A third-person shooter where you shoot ink at other players. [email protected] // Essieleblancaupairs.com You have different modes, like single player to team matches. In Splatoon, players control characters referred to as Inklings. The player uses an Inkling in human form to shoot colored ink across the game environment.
Our survey yielded close result for the Top 2 .The Five Nights At Freddy's Series Game: The Five Nights At Freddy's Series A scary horror game that involves lots got 10 votes, but Minecraft edged it out with of jumpscares and scary animatronics 16 votes! 29POST Page 13 Meet Matt Green, The Walking Man BY VANIA WORKMAN VON USSAR (5-506)
Matt Green is walking every street in Boot scrapers on doorways and stair- New York City. If you add it up block- ways on streets near P.S. 29. Boot scrap- by-block, it would be 85,00 miles in total. ers are usually metal and found on older Green started his walk on December 31, stairways to scrape off mud or “horse 2011, and he plans to finish the entire city poop” off your shoe, Green said. When in two more years. you see boot scrapers on houses, you In an interview, Green discussed his know that these houses have been around walk and his experience walking. Before since people rode horse wagons to places he started walking every street in New - around the 1890’s or before. York City, he used to work as a civil The Church on Hicks and Warren engineer and did not like being at a desk Streets, which has been turned into all the time. Green quit his job and came condominiums. There are several other up with an idea to walk across the United churches in our neighborhood that have States of America, which is approximate- become condos as well. The bell tower ly 3,300 miles. After walking the U.S., at the church on Hicks and Warren was Green wanted to walk even more. turned into a two-story penthouse. Why New York City? Because Green When asked what the most historic lives here. He lives off $15 a day and gets thing in New York City is that Green has money from his popular blog (www. seen, he picked something not in our imjustwalkin.com) neighborhood: the Queens Giant. The “The toughest thing for me, I think, Queens Giant is the oldest and tallest is the amount of time I spend not walk- tree. People say it’s over 400 years old, ing.” which would mean that it was there be- Green talked about three interesting fore the Revolutionary War. If you want things he noticed that are near P.S. 29: to see the Queen’s Giant, it is in Alley The mural on 490 Hicks St. (at the Pond Park in Queens. BQE) of Mother Cabrini called “The Green says elementary school kids can Legacy of Mother Cabrini: Story of Im- learn a lot from walking around. Boot scraper on stoop near P.S. 29. Photo: Matt Green migration.” She was the first U.S. citizen To find out more about Green, you can visit to become a saint. www.imjustwalkin.com. Looping With Ms. Monica
BY JONAH MERKIN, AMELIA POOR, ELENI CATANZARO AND HADEEL ASABARI (4-508) ARE YOU A POET AND DON’T EVEN KNOW IT? ENTER OUR Last spring, just before the school how much the students loved Ms. sad about the decision to loop one got out for summer, the 27 students Monica: “She is gentle, she is en- class but not others. “I pounded on CONTEST AND WIN A PRIZE! of Class 3-404 got some great news. couraging, and she is smart.” the table and thought my life was SEE P14. They were going to “loop” with Ms. The petition, however, turned out over,” said Baluk, who was in 3-405 Monica Salazar-Austin. to be a coincidence. Ms. Monica last year and would have loved an- “Looping” is a practice at P.S. 29 already knew she was going to loop other year with Ms. Leah. “I really when a class moves up to the next with 3-404 – she found out two liked my teacher, and my class was grade with the same teacher. This weeks before the students started cool,” Baluk said. does not happen a lot, explains Dr. collecting signatures. Eli Gordon, who was also in 3-405 Rebecca Fagin, P.S. 29’s principal. Why did Dr. Fagin make the with Baluik, agreed. “I thought we “It’s a rare thing,” Fagin says. “It decision to loop 3-404? Mr. Peter had a great class,” Gordon said. depends on the right set of many Cipparone, a 4th-grade teacher, Because one student moved circumstances. And we’re very care- left P.S. 29 to attend graduate away, a spot was open, and Hadeel ful when we make this decision.” school, and Dr. Fagin needed to Asabari switched into the looping But looping has happened at P.S. add another 4th-grade class. “Ms. class. It wasn’t a tough transition. “I 29 for “a long time,” starting well Monica’s class had a lot of chem- knew everyone in the class already,” before Fagin became principal. istry, and I saw that they that they Asabari says. Last year, two students in Ms. wanted to loop really badly,” Fagin So what is looping like for Ms. Monica’s 3rd-grade class, Quincy says. “(Ms.) Monica is exceptional Monica? “I like parts of 3rd grade Orr and Zephyr Weinrich, started a teacher with experience and has a and parts of 4th grade. But both petition, asking if their class could very strong classroom community.” years have their challenges,” she continue on with the same teacher But some students in other class- says. And where she will end up in 4th grade. The petition described es, such as Laila Baluk (4-521), felt next year, no one knows. Should Friends Be In The Same Class? BY RAFAELA SEWARDS (4-527)
Some teachers think that good 3rd grade teacher Ms. Nancy Because they wouldn’t focus, friends should be in the same class added, “I would put friends in the although, if they can focus but others warn of problems. same class if they can stop talking together then they can be in the “Only if they can work together while they’re getting their work same class.” without talking to each other. done. but if they absolutely can’t, Fellow 4th grader Eli Gordon If they can’t, it would be a great then I wouldn’t.” said: “Well, I think that the hard opportunity for them to learn how On this one students basically working friends should be together to be more disciplined, but if they agreed with teachers. 4th grade but the goofy kids shouldn’t can’t, they can’t and shouldn’t be student Amelia Poor said “I think because they can’t focus. And it’s together,” said 4th grade teacher it depends if the friends are going going to be unfair to the other Aaron Berns. to talk a lot then they shouldn’t. teacher that gets the goofy kids.” 29POST Page 14 POETRY CORNER Ms. Colon: Our The Moon By Anya Chu (5-506)
Have you ever realized School’s Hidden Hero there are so many moons in our galaxy, BY LOGAN LANE (5-505) AND CHARLOTTE CONNOLLY (5-506) yet ours It is 6:25pm on a cold, weary December Jessica, Jennifer and Stephanie. All of to us night. She waits at the security desk her girls attended P.S. 29. Her daughter is the most important? for the stressed parents to pick up their Stephanie now lives in Florida and is a Sure, it provides worn-out children. All but one child waitress there. Two others work, like Ms. us light in the night, remains. Her face holds a worried frown. Colon, in and around schools. Jennifer is a comforting light The parents are late. Only once they a kindergarten teacher at another public for all the people who finally arrive, rushing through the steel school, and her daughter, Ms. Jessica, don’t like doors after a long day, Ms. Colon is free is the P.S. 29 crossing-guard on Kane night lights. to leave. Street, at the corner of our school. But, what about For the children at P.S. 29, it’s just Ms. Colon vividly remembers a time the other creatures, another day of school. But for Ms. Colon, when P.S. 29 was a different place. When on other planets? it’s the end of another workday in one of she was here as a student, the school What about them? the longest careers at P.S. 29. had an assembly every Wednesday that What do they think? Ms. Colon’s official title is “school required students to wear uniforms of Have you ever tried to think aide.” What does she really do? Support white shirts with red bow-ties and navy about that? worried children, build confidence, create skirts. “I would love to bring back assem- an amazing community, and hand out a bly,” she said, “because every week it was Jump whole lot of love! That’s why she is the 29 something different.” Post’s first Hidden Hero. “If you didn’t wear your assembly By Sabine Demopoulos (5-506) Ms Colon. Photo: Logan Lane Ms. Colon–who also attended P.S. 29 clothes,” she explained, “you had a pun- herself–has been walking through the the school’s second- and third-grade ishment of sitting in the principal’s of- my feet leave the floor front doors at 10:30am each school day graders. Then for the fourth- and fifth- fice.” At lunchtime, children got chicken I fell like for the last 20 years. She walks to her graders. This routine happens every day. fingers,mozzarella sticks, and sometimes I am flying steel locker on the first floor, throwing “My favorite part of the day is lunch even ice cream! air hits my face in her coat and bag. She heads into the and recess duty,” Ms. Colon told us in the The teachers and parents of P.S. 29 for a second I feel lunchroom to the hectic kindergarten yard during a rainy recess recently. “But alike appreciate all the Ms. Colon has magical and first grade lunch period where she that is also the hardest part! It really done for the school community--and then my feet feel cold will make sure everything is the way it depends on the kids.” continues to do each day. “Ms. Colon and the magic ends should be. She helps keep the cafeteria Ms. Colon is the youngest of 9 children: improves our school,” says fifth-grader when I hit my bed clean, making sure no one is running, Vincent, Freddy, Ramon, Sandra, Eliza- Julia Berman. Most students agree: Ms. the magic stops and keeping kids in line. After that, it’s beth, Tina, Nicholas, Luis, and of course, Colon gives our school joy, strength, and but it will start again time for recess. Then for her time with herself. She also has three daughters: a whole lot of love. soon
POETRY CONTEST OUR WINTER COAT DRIVE
THE RULES 1ST PLACE Poem must be original Poem in the 29 Post, 1 chocolate bar 2ND PLACE Only two entries per Poem in the 29 Post student. 3RD PLACE Write your name, Poem on the 29 Post blog classroom and teacher on Drop off your poems in the 29 Post each entry mailbox in the office by February 15 to be eligible.
The P.S. 29 coat drive, sponsored by the PTA’s Service Committee, was able to donate more than 200 coats in good condition to people in need. Photo: Lillian Gaines
THE SHORT STORY COMPETITION! YOU HAVE A CHANCE TO SEE YOUR STORY IN THE PAPER!
RULES Must be an original idea Must be appropriate Groups are allowed to work on a story together All PS29 students can participate! Should be approximately 500 words
1st place: Your story and your name featured in the 29 Post, and a chocolate bar. 2nd place: Your name listed in the 29 Post 3rd place: Your name listed on the PS 29 website
Drop off your story in the 29 Post mailbox in the office by February 15 to be eligible. 29POST Page 15
WORD SEARCH BY NOAH SILBER (5-505
Talking to Alice(s) in Wonderland
BY MAYA EVANS (5-506) in early January in preparation for two Izzy: So first of all, I thought someone check the paper because I thought that public performances in May. There are was playing a trick on me, and then I I would get ensemble or something. But This year’s 5th grade play will be an three Alices in this show. We talked to realized that it probably wasn’t a trick, then Isabelle Connolly came over to me adaption of Alice in Wonderland, writ- two of them, Alice and Small Alice. They that it was probably just a mistake. and told me that I was in the play and ten by P.S. 29’s drama teacher, Mollie will be played by Vania Workman von When I realized that it was real, I had to had A LOT of lines. I first didn’t believe Lief, in collaboration with her father, Ussar and Isabel Young. I asked how go and check it out for myself. I basi- her but then more people came over Jonathan. they felt about starring in the play. cally felt like my stomach was turning to me and said, “You’re in the play!” The casting was announced right inside out. It felt really weird. Finally, I went over to the paper and before the holiday break to great excite- What did you do when you heard that Vania: I walked up the stairs and I got realized they were right. I was at a loss ment. The cast and crew start rehearsals you were the main character? onto the 5th floor. I didn’t bother to for words and still am. 29POST Page 16 Why Don’t Elementary Schools Have How Microbeads Sports Teams? Were Abolished BY JULIAN MCCAUL (5-505), LUKE MALMSTROM (5-500) AND ALEJANDRO SALAZAR (5-500) BY SABINE DEMOPOULOS (5-506) AND MIA PERRY (5-500) There are sports teams in middle school, opportunities currently. There’s “Mr. high school, and college, so why are there Danny’s after-school basketball on Fridays Microbeads are pieces of plastic smaller use them more to make a greater profit. no sports teams in elementary schools like and my after-school sports activities.” We than a grain of sand that are often P.S. 29? Being on a sports team at a young also have recess sports too. She also said found in personal care products. These What Are They Doing? age can help prepare you for the future. the gym is so small that it really limits any pieces of plastic are may seem like noth- Every time you use a product with Many teams would probably be popular: possible teams. So, instead Ms. Nobles ing to you, but to the ocean that’s a dif- microbeads they go down the drain. The soccer, basketball, baseball, and maybe does her best to promote creative and ferent story. P.S. 29 students have been microbeads are designed to go down the even flag football. active games like gaga, flickets, and many learning about them in science class drain and not clog up your shower or We talked to the P.E. teacher, Ms. Kathy more. and we’re happy that the Microbead- sink. But, that is the problem: they get Nobles. She would “like to make teams, Some kids are still disappointed there Free Waters Act of 2015 was passed into our waterways, because they are so but there are probably too many kids are no teams at 29 but, fortunately, most by the US Senate on December 18 and small that most wastewater treatment who would want to participate.” She also middle schools have them so most kids signed into law by President Obama on plants can’t capture them. And once in pointed out that there are lots of sports will get their chance. December 28. The law says that compa- our waterways they pollute the water nies have to stop using most microbeads and cause fish that mistake them for NEWS BITS by 2018 but we can still demand that fish eggs and get sick or even die. they stop using them even more quickly. LANG SCIENCE PROGRAM parent coordinator Monica Gutierrez- This Is Important Each year, students in 5th grade Kirwan at [email protected] for What Are Microbeads? This is important because our oceans throughout New York City are info. Microbeads are found in most per- provide us with oxygen, they regulate chosen to become part of a 7-year sonal care products like, toothpastes our climate and give us food. And filling extracurricular educational FIGHT 2B FIT CHAMPIONS (such as Crest Pro-Health), and soaps them with plastic is hurting them, and opportunity with the Museum of In November, P.S. 29 5th graders (especially body and face washes). A now us. People realized this and sent Natural History. The program starts bested 17 other schools to claim the tube of facial cleanser may have about a message to companies that we don’t in the summer between 5th and 6th Fight 2B Fit Wellness Challenge 330,000 of them! They are replacements want products with microbeads. This grade and continues through the Championship for the sixth straight for natural exfoliants,like rice & grape time, the government was listening. end of 12th grade. The application year! A big congratulations to our seeds, lavender seeds, and fruit pits or The new law is an important lesson that deadline is February 13. Contact health-conscious 5th graders! nut shells. The microbeads are cheaper things can be changed for the better if than natural exfoliants, so companies citizens demand that change.
NEWSPAPER CLUB, 2015-2016
4-507 Ms. Johnson Amelia Poor 4-527 Ms. Junsay and Mr. Lillian Gaines Clara Fass Oliver Roach Berns Logan Lane Dagmar Jeppesen Fletcher Steinberg Sadie Barrett Julian McCaul Coco Maloney Mia Zaborski Eli Gordon Noah Silber Sasha Meier Kali Iacono Archana Vaithilingam Sara Mohamed 4-521 Ms. Ghoshhrjra Amelia Kupper Harry Segal Aya Alsabri Rafaela Sewards 5-506 Ms. Hana Derek Tarpin Juliette Baenziger Devin Waxman Kyle Blint-Dittersdorf Laila Baluk Talia Willscher Julia Cates-Addison 4-508 Ms. Monica Tess Curtis Anya Chu Hadeel Alsabri Jack Davis 5-500 Mr. Gerloff and Mr. Charlotte Connolly Eleni Catanzaro Mia Gabai Maniaci Sabine Demopoulos Gatsby Feather Emma Harty Giulia Fontaine Ian Espinales Aguirre Declan Herper Gus Krumpus Maya Evans Louisphilipe Janssen 4-524 Ms. Julie Harris Longfield August Greer Talula Jevremov Pierce Devin Gerety Luke Malmstrom Ila Holstein-Rosen Cian Kirwan Amelia Leone Bianca Martinez Ella Kaplan Jonah Merkin Dylan Marshall Ruby McAfee Nina Luyindula Nicholas Napoli Maddy Tait Marshall Moorehead Saba Naini Ukmar Mia Perry Garratt Rothberg Fiona Reidy Harrison Stehmer Lola Shub Vania Workman von Ussar Aggie Schnee Alejandro Salazar Advisors Marin Tyree Ms. Elisabeth Stephens (5-505) Isabel Young Simmi Degnemark David Gray 5-505 Ms. Elisabeth Kim Koelewijn Dominick Balsamo Andrew Meier Neko Barocci Sarma Ozols Julia Berman Peter Rothberg Salma Brown Emily Steed Isabelle Connolly Kyle Spencer Millan Degnemark Lauren Young Griffin Feather