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Superintendent Communiqué Midland Public Schools

October 3, 2022

Volume 10 Edition 10

Midland Public Schools District Vision Statement: Lead with respect, trust and courage. Ensure an equitable, collaborative and inclusive culture. Enable all to achieve success.
Thank you, Principals!
Last week, Central Park 1st graders kicked off their second unit of inquiry, Sharing the Planet, with a sticky provocation! Our CPE explorers worked in small groups and were challenged to create the tallest structure using only marshmallows and toothpicks. Students practiced self-management, thinking, and social skills as they considered multiple perspectives, made decisions as a group, and demonstrated perseverance when their structures didn’t initially hold firm. Throughout the unit, they will continue to learn about the power of teamwork, conflict resolution strategies, and understanding their role within both of those concepts.
Mrs. Moe’s second grade was one of the classes at Adams Elementary School that made handmade cards for Neighboring week. They plan to hand these cards out to their neighbors.
Each year, Adams Art teacher Mrs. Dulude leads our students in a collaborative Art project. This year's work of art was inspired by the Bruno Mars song Count on Me. Each grade listened to the song, brainstormed how to illustrate the lyrics, and created! Each Adams student made a small part of the huge mural that is in the hallway outside our office. Individually, we create beautiful pieces; together, we create amazing art and make the world a better place!
The 4th grade class at Woodcrest Elementary celebrated Neighboring Week.
Our Elementary Auxiliary staff worked with the PYP Coordinators to explore ways to connect with students and build a community within their classrooms and context. The Central Idea for their learning: The journey of the human experience includes exploration, identity, connection, and belonging. We know how much the arts contribute to our students’ journey and how many students truly feel a sense of belonging in these classes. “Exposure to and experience with arts opens doors to questions about life and learning. The process of making and appreciating arts is gratifying and will encourage students to continue creating throughout their lives.” -IB Publication. We are grateful for our auxiliary staff for creating spaces and learning experiences that allow students to develop a sense of self and expand their knowledge.

Mandarin 2a Class Event

Last Tuesday, the students of Jefferson Middle School Mandarin Class 2A had a special class. Dr. Joe Chai introduced five Chinese musical instruments and gave a small concert with the Chinese flute and Guzheng. He also displayed his traditional clothing. Dr. Chai is from the Tujia group, one of China's ethnic minorities. After the demonstration, the students had a hands-on experience by touching and practicing five Chinese musical instruments. The students enjoyed the lecture very much because they not only reviewed the names of the Chinese musical instruments they had learned but also learned two new Chinese musical instruments. The lively and beautiful music performance also inspired students to explore Chinese culture.

Dr. Chai is playing Guzheng- a traditional Chinese music instrument.
Students are learning a new Chinese musical instrument-Suona.
Dr.Chai is introducing Chinese flute.