Summer Safety Comes Alive at Denton Avenue

HERRICKS SCHOOL DISTRICT, JUNE 24, 2022: Summer Safety lessons came to life at Denton Avenue when the fourth-grade students presented a puppet show focusing on the topic and presented it to the school’s kindergarten classes. During Library classes with the school’s Librarian Mrs. Donna Deodato, the students researched important summer safety rules, including the importance of wearing sunblock, staying hydrated, wearing helmets while bike riding, and practicing swimming rules and regulations while in pools and at the beach. They wrote their own scripts and created their own paper puppets to bring these important messages to their younger classmates. The idea for the project was Inspired by Herricks’ Cultural Arts program. Mr. Rob Gioia, Herricks Music Teacher, visited the Denton Avenue School earlier this year instructing fourth grade classes on the finer points of Theater and the Arts. The Denton students were so impressed with the lessons they convinced Mrs. Deodato to carve out the time to create these puppet shows. In addition to having lots of fun for students who put on the show—and those who made up the younger audience—students left school for summer vacation with vivid reminders of the importance of safety this summer.

Second Grade Field Day at Denton Avenue School

Denton Avenue 2nd graders from Mrs. Lombardi’s class enjoyed their first field day. Pictured with Mr. Tolipano, students happily participated in relay races, 50-yard dash and everyone's favorite- tug of war. A special thank you to physical education teachers, Mr. Lesak and Ms.Masterson for coordinating this special event.

From Madagascar to Denton -  “Erik the Reptile Guy"

Denton Avenue students enjoyed  “Erik the Reptile Guy'' as he streamed from Madagascar directly into some of our Denton classrooms this Spring.  During the presentation, students were introduced to exotic animals live and up close as they learned about the rainforest.  Each class that participated in the event was provided with a magazine, tailored to the experience for their grade level.  

Yamile Saied Mendez, Denton Author Visit

Thanks to Denton librarian, Mrs. Deodato, Denton Avenue students were fortunate to speak virtually with visiting author, Yamile Saied Mendez. Ms. Mendez writes fiction stories for the young and old. During her virtual visit the students listened to the author share her memories from childhood.  Yamile and her family moved to the United States from Argentina. There were many challenges for her as a young writer as she tried to learn English and make new friends.  She gave Denton students plenty of tips during her live question and answer session, as she talked with them about the writing process.  

The Ned Program Visits Denton *Virtually*

Denton Avenue students participated in a live, interactive, and remote character education assembly, called 'The NED Program.' NED is a cartoon character whose name is an acronym for, "Never give up, Encourage others, and Do your best." The assembly promoted a culture of kindness and excellence.