A Letter from Principal John
Dear P596X Families:
As this year comes to a close, we can look back on this unforgettable year, filled with many emotions. They say that in a time of crisis, people either come together or become further divided. From the day the Mayor announced that we would be shifting to remote teaching and learning, our staff and families joined forces and kicked into high gear, becoming partners in google classroom and how to best support our students in a remote capacity. Ultimately we became a stronger school family.
When I reflect on the year, so many memories come to mind. Here are just a few…
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We launched the PS 596X instagram account with over 100 pictures of our staff and students engaging in a variety of activities.
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We rolled out the "Book of the Month" program, focusing on the 4 Hallmarks of advanced literacy. This work was incredible and will be deepened in the fall.
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PS 596X received a well developed in all areas of our quality review, no easy feat! This major accomplishments is shared with all staff, students and families who worked so hard to allow our school to shine.
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Students performed in our holiday show. The performance was brilliant! We are thinking creatively on how to continue rehearsing for the Disney show, Frozen.
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We continued the Saturday Academy. Together, families gathered one Saturday of each month to have fun, learn and share.
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We launched a remote support group for families based on parent feedback from our first remote learning survey.
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We continued the Parent Empowerment Initiative, where several hundred families participated in monthly lessons and "Book of the Month" readalouds in their child’s classroom. We had the highest number of parent involvement 596x has ever had - thank you to our incredible families!
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We continued the Monthly Multicultural Assembly Program where various artists provided hands on experiences for our students in the Truman HS Auditorium. Some of those topics included Feraba and American Foot Steppers.
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We launched the staff wellness series, where staff joined afterschool to be part of a variety of wellness events from painting to pilates.
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P596x was able to continue to employ two former students this year, as part time school aides!
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Our commitment to STEM, specifically Computer Science expanded as each site provided students with hands on programming which included, Lego Robotics, Circuits, Hydroponics, Drones, Greenhouses and engineering through coding. Our pilot at the 178x site, which included new 21st century interactive furniture was enjoyed by staff and students (153x and 498x are up next)!
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P596x was recognized as a, “Respect for All” school and received the, “No Place for Hate” award. The award is given to schools who are committed to work that embodies empathy, inclusivity, tolerance and respect.
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Out of seven thousand teachers that applied, two 596x teachers made it to the final round of the, Big Apple Teacher Awards, which recognizes exemplary teaching.
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Izzy, our school therapy dog took to the paws, (I mean halls) of P596x and supported students in social emotional learning, through the Muttigree’s curriculum. Izzy will be further trained by the world famous animal trainer, Cesar Millan in the fall - so exciting!
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Student, Jahsiah Blakes' art work made the final round for the cover of the Disabilities Pride Parade Art Contest.
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There were gains in all goals of the school (Comprehensive Education Plan). We are so proud!
I could go on and on....
While this year was certainly one none of us would have expected and will be spoken about in years to come, I couldn't be more proud of our work together.
We have begun planning for an exciting 2020-2021 school year. As always, my virtual door is open to you for suggestions, ideas or thoughts you have on how to deepen our work, collaboratively. For families that are not participating in summer Chapter 683, I wish you and your family a safe and restful summer. For those that will be attending, I look forward to a fun remote summer at 596x as we venture, "Under the Sea".
I continue to be inspired by your kindness and support.
Congratulations to the class of 2020 - enjoy the graduation video!
Stay well,
John Siracuse
Principal
