![International Holocaust Remembrance Day As part of our eighth graders’ exploration of World War II...]()
International Holocaust Remembrance Day
As part of our eighth graders’ exploration of World War II and its lasting impact, students read the powerful memoir All But My Life by Gerda Weissmann Klein in their Humanities class. To complement this study, RCS had the privilege of hosting Anna Leiser-Kleinhaus, a Holocaust survivor from our local community, as a guest speaker. Anna shared her deeply moving story and provided firsthand insights into the harrowing experiences she endured during the Holocaust.
“This visit was a wonderful way to deepen our students’ understanding of this critical chapter in history, bringing a real-life connection to the events we have been studying,” Humanities Department Chair Melissa Cavaliere said.
"Storytelling and personal experiences have always held immense power in bridging divides and fostering empathy, allowing us to connect deeply with the lives and struggles of others," Co-Director of DEIB Marie Peña said. "By sharing our unique narratives, we illuminate diverse perspectives, inspire understanding, and cultivate a shared sense of humanity that drives social change and enriches our communities."
"Spending this time to learn stories of Holocaust survivors allows us to commit to a better future in their honor," Director of Development Daphne Viders added. “We never forget what happened so that this history will never be allowed to repeat itself."
#RippowamCisqua![Wow, the energy was palpable this morning as over 30 second and third graders joined us for the...]()
"Wow, the energy was palpable this morning as over 30 second and third graders joined us for the first Mega MathMinds meeting. Students worked together to solve three different problems that required a great deal of effort to solve. Using pictures and diagrams to "get into" the problem, students persevered enthusiastically as they moved through the problem set.
“I was really impressed with the resolve of these kids — we had some groups work on the first problem for the entire half hour. What struck me most was their determination not to give up! Even more important than a solution, if children engage with challenging problems for extended periods of time without succumbing to frustration, then the learning is authentic and real. I was so proud to watch these young minds in action." — Mathematics Specialist Josh Bookin
Mega MathMinds (or 3M for short) explores challenging mathematical concepts and problem-solving strategies that extend beyond our standard Singapore Dimensions math curriculum. The enrichment opportunity is intended for students who enjoy math and are looking for additional challenges to expand their thinking.
Each week, students meet for 30-35 minutes on Friday morning to explore novel problems and learn various problem-solving strategies they can use to find solutions. Students explore new strategies (such as making a chart or table, working backward, solving a simpler problem, drawing a diagram to visualize, etc.) through problem-based instruction, and collaborate to solve problems by employing these new strategies.
#RippowamCisqua![A Moment in Time: Fifth Graders Create Custom Clocks ⏰ At RCS, Innovation class means more than...]()
A Moment in Time: Fifth Graders Create Custom Clocks ⏰
At RCS, Innovation class means more than learning to use new tools — it’s about transforming imagination into reality. This winter, fifth grade students dove into the digital design world, where they blended technology, art, and engineering to create custom clocks.
Guided by Innovation Coordinator Fatema Albader, students used Adobe Illustrator to design unique clock faces. Each design reflected personal creativity, from Latin numerals to custom symbols. Once ready, the students watched as their creations were laser-cut from plywood. Finally, they assembled working clock mechanisms, bringing their visions to life — ticking hands and all.
“I’m so impressed by the enthusiasm and creativity the fifth graders brought to this project,” Ms. Albader shared. “Watching students transform their ideas into real, working clocks was incredible. I can’t wait to see what these young innovators dream up next!”
This hands-on project not only showcased students’ growing digital design skills but also gave them a deeper appreciation for how abstract ideas become tangible, functional products. The clocks now stand as lasting reminders of their innovation and creativity — and, of course, the value of time well spent.
#RippowamCisqua![🎥A Moment in Time: Fifth Graders Create Custom Clocks ⏰ Story to come shortly… #RippowamCisqua]()
🎥A Moment in Time: Fifth Graders Create Custom Clocks ⏰ Story to come shortly…
#RippowamCisqua![More Moments from Community Connections Day 🤝 Here’s a look at more highlights from January 17,...]()
More Moments from Community Connections Day 🤝
Here’s a look at more highlights from January 17, when students, faculty and staff came together to learn, collaborate and connect. Activities with Ripp Rally partners emphasized teamwork, kindness, and shared responsibility.
📷 @rhondajs
#CommunityConnections #RippowamCisqua![Pack your suitcase and travel with us on the Grade 5 Road Trip! ✈️ Fifth graders began their...]()
Pack your suitcase and travel with us on the Grade 5 Road Trip! ✈️
Fifth graders began their exploration of the U.S. by learning the location and region of each state. Then, they planned travel-themed vacations across the country. Working in small groups, they chose themes like roller coasters, sports arenas, or beaches, mapped a five to six day trip through at least five states, and stayed within a set budget for travel and accommodations. After planning their trips and calculating expenses on paper, they created digital scrapbook presentations with day-by-day accounts of their journeys. This project showcased students' organizational skills, preparation and planning, complex math operations, and creativity.
“Students began with the 11 states of the Northeast, using strategies to identify their locations. They developed study habits as they progressed through the South, Midwest, and West, and prepared for their first cumulative middle school quiz,” Grade 5 Teacher Mrs. Glynn said. “Along the way, we tied geography to U.S. history, from early explorers and settlements to the 13 colonies, reviewed westward expansion, and ended with the Civil War.”
“It was amazing to witness the level of thought and care students put into their trips, balancing passion and budget,” added Mr. Lacey.
Learning has never been this adventurous! 🌍
#RippowamCisqua
