Tryouts have been held and this year's Lego League team of 4th-6th grade students is now being formed. This is an international competition where the team of students builds a "vehicle" out of Legos and programs it to perform a series of tasks (missions). In addition, students research an issue of global importance and create a presentation about a solution. This year's challenge is called Power Puzzle and the topic is energy use and alternate energy sources. The regional tournament will be held in mid-November or early December.
Applications have been accepted for this year's Insect Research team of six 4th-6th grade students. This is an opportunity to research an insect and present their findings at the annual University of Minnesota Insect Fair on December 15th.
The Highland Park Elementary Collectors' Corner applications have been accepted for this year's curators and docents and training has begun. The job of a curator is to keep records of each artifact donated, by whom, and when it is traded. They also assist in the donation process. The job of a docent is to assist students who attend the Museum in the process of donating or trading artifacts.
Steve Abenth, Highland Park
Elementary's Choir Director will begin practice for the 4th-6th grade
choir in early October. All 4th-6th grade students have had
an opportunity to sign up for this opportunity.
 Hands-On Algebra opportunities will be offered to 3rd and 4th grade students with teacher recommendations beginning in early October.
 Students have been asking whether or not we will have Destination Imagination teams this year. My answer to them has been that we need Team Managers (coaches). If any of you out there are interested in managing a team of up to seven students, please contact me at eileen.cotter@spps.org or 651-203-8770. I can provide you with more information and get you started in the right direction.
Each
year teams of two to seven members select one of five competitive
Challenges focused on one or more of the following areas:
• Technical/Mechanical Design • Structural/Architectural Design • Theatrical/Literary/Fine Arts • Scientific Exploration • Improvisation
With the guidance – but not help – of a Team Manager (who
serves as facilitator, not coach), the team creates an action plan and
works together to create everything needed for their Presentation.
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LegoApplication.doc
Application due September 19th.