LAKES: School to be proud of

I was one of several guests invited to participate in an "Instructional Review" of the teaching at Lakes Magnet School for Science, Art and Music. I observed children who were eager to greet a visitor in the hallways, all wearing their school logo uniform shirts, and a positive learning atmosphere in every classroom. This campus is nearly litter free and it is obvious there is pride in their school both by the staff and students. In one class students donned monk robes and participated in a simulated medieval monastery. I was impressed how closely this lesson was aligned with the adopted state curriculum (6-9 WHC 1.9.3 "Explain how religion influenced social behavior and created social order.")

These children were all engaged in the simulation and were very active learners. My second class was an eighth-grade wood shop class (this was the second day of class in the new semester). All these students were intently observing the teacher as he led them through all the safety rules and procedures to use the band saw. I loved shop as a kid and it was exciting to see the eagerness of the children to cut that first board.

Finally, I observed a lesson in health where the focus was on not only physical health but mental and emotional health. This teacher was using a document camera and led the class discussion, making sure everyone was engaged. I saw excellent teaching, intense learning and a quality, wholesome atmosphere for children.

DAVID RAWLS

Hayden