Recently a group of students participated in an experiential visit to the Trade Institute of Pittsburgh. Run by professional leaders in trade industries, counseling, business, and economic development, the Trade Institute of Pittsburgh offers a ‘hand up, not a hand out’ for individuals looking to create exceptional careers and life opportunities. Our students learned the fundamentals of various construction trades and discussed how acquiring these skills could enable them to create a self-sufficient, productive life. TIP offers an intensive ten-week, education program that our students can now consider as they plan their future academic and career opportunities.
Science Fun!!!! Bill Nye the Science Guy has nothing on Mr. Darnley and his New Outlook Academy science class. In their recent study of the earth's interior, students got some first hand experience with volcanoes and why they do what they do. Based on what they learned, students used baking soda, vinegar, soap, water, glitter and glue to simulate and demonstrate volcanic eruptions. The groups enjoyed competing against one another to see who could create the largest eruption.
The Academy Charter School recently participated in a volunteer experience with World Vision Pittsburgh at their Global Distribution Center where donated products are sorted, processed, and prepared for domestic and international distribution. World Vision is an international humanitarian organization that partners with children, families, and their communities by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice.
During their visit, our students had the opportunity to tour the 40,000 square foot distribution center and learn about the organization's international projects. We also contributed our time and talents by sorting, folding and packaging 940 men's shirts for shipment to one of World Vision's community project.
We hope to have the opportunity to work with World Vision again the future, as we are extremely proud to be a part of their impressive volunteer team.
New Outlook Academy students recently attended the 11th annual "Pink the Petersen" Pitt women's basketball game against Duke University.
A portion of the proceeds from this year's event was donated to Susan G. Komen Pittsburgh. Fans also received a free "Pink The Petersen" t-shirt and enjoyed pre-game activities, as well as on-court post-game autographs from the team. Breast cancer survivors in attendance were also recognized at halftime.
The girls had a great afternoon at the game while learning about the importance of breast cancer awareness, treatment and research.
Students at The Academy Charter School recently volunteered at the Intersection Soup Kitchen which serves individuals and families in McKeesport and the surrounding area. The program provides nearly 14,000 hot meals per year for individuals who do not have permanent residences or adequate kitchen facilities. For this event, our students created handmade place mats and decorations. They also helped to prepare and serve the meal, as well as clean up the dining hall afterward. The Academy Charter School students are very proud to serve at The Intersection Soup Kitchen… "a crossroads for those who want to give and those in need."
Summit Students Deliver “Foster Love” Care Packages
Young children who find themselves in the foster care system often arrive at a temporary residence under difficult circumstances and many without personal belongings. One non-profit group in our area is working to help these children by providing care bags intended to make foster placement a more loving and comfortable experience.
The “Foster Love Project” collects donations of placement bags and comfort items to provide to children when they arrive at a foster home. Each duffel bag or backpack includes new pajamas, a blanket, stuffed animal, book, toothbrush, toothpaste, bath soap and a wash puff. Summit Academy students, once again, volunteered at the collection event, loading the placement bags for delivery to foster agencies in Allegheny and Beaver Counties.
Our young men take great pride and gratification in contributing to the worthy cause of making foster placement just a little more comfortable for kids across our region.
Summit Academy was honored to help with the Allegheny Valley Association of Churches’ Christmas Food Bank again this year! Students assisted in setting up the event by gathering donations from the Allegheny Valley Association of Churches headquarters to bring to the Christmas Food Bank venue. Students organized donated toys, clothes, and food so that participants could shop for their holiday season needs. On the day of the Christmas Food Bank, our young men also assisted the families in selecting gifts and groceries, as well as packing their vehicles. We love being a part of this wonderful holiday tradition each year, and our students appreciate this opportunity to give back during the holiday season.
Ms. George's Biology class at New Outlook Academy has been hard at work completing plant cell and animal kingdom projects. Our 10th grade students are creating 3D models of cells, while the 12th grade students are making 3D posters on the different segments of the animal kingdom. Students are enjoying the hands-on, interactive process of creating their own works of art to depict what they are learning.
