Maitland, FL (3.7.19) - Jewish Academy of Orlando second graders completed their
annual space unit with the Sun, Moon, and Stars Space Show where each student
demonstrated his or her knowledge of our solar system through music, song, and
dance. The program included dialogue and songs about gravity, the moon and stars,
planets, and the sun.
The space unit is incorporated into the school’s S.T.E.A.M. initiative that integrates
science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics into the curriculum. The
multi-faceted curriculum included the creation of vocabulary, journals, and fine arts,
and it was enriched by a visit to the Seminole State Planetarium. There, students
experienced what a night sky would look like without light pollution.
“The Space program is a wonderful opportunity for our students to illustrate
learning for our families. It not only showcases their understanding of concepts such
as gravity, the beneficial properties of the sun, and the planets in our solar system,
but the program also fosters important presentation skills. It is incredible to see
the confidence with which they present and how knowledgeable they are about the
content,” stated Nikki Buyna, Director of Academics.
The program’s fine arts components included sculptures of the first moon landing,
mobiles depicting the roles of the sun, moon, and stars, and artwork done with oil
pastels.
“We are delighted to bring a program of this caliber that synthesizes academic
lessons, space, art, music, and performance to our first grade students,” added Alan
Rusonik, Head of School.
Jewish Academy of Orlando serves central Florida students of all faiths from grades
kindergarten through fifth. The school delivers a whole-child education fostering
academic excellence and character education rooted in Jewish values. Jewish Academy
of Orlando is accredited by the Florida Council of Independent Schools. Beginning in
fall of 2019, the school will offer a transitional kindergarten.