CCSD news: Autos, math, and lots of science

CHURCHILL COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

The CCHS Auto Shop is officially open for business, and students in Todd Wright’s Automotive Technology and Diesel Technology classes are ready to begin some hands-on learning by providing a range of services including vehicle safety inspections, engine oil changes, tire mounting, balancing and rotations, brake services, alignments and minor repairs.

“Currently, we’re offering services exclusively to CCHS staff members, but our goal is to expand and eventually serve the entire community,” Wright said.

Staff who wish to book a service are asked to bring oil, filters, and parts for their appointment. All services are available for donations to support the Auto and Diesel CTE programs.

“While this initiative helps us fund equipment and compete in SkillsUSA, it also offers our students invaluable hands-on experience,” Wright said. “This is a fantastic opportunity for them to understand what their future careers might look like if they pursue this pathway after graduation.”

CHURCHILL COUNTY MIDDLE SCHOOL

Math teachers at CCMS are on a mission to make math easier to understand and fun to learn.

In Zoey Gerhardson’s class, students embarked on a sequencing hunt, sequencing rigid transformations. Students raced against the clock to accurately graph and execute their unique set of transformations, fostering both teamwork and excitement along the way.

Meanwhile, in Kailyn Simpson’s class, collaboration was in full swing. Students who excelled on their recent test took on the role of mentors, guiding their peers through test corrections. This peer-to-peer support reinforced their understanding.

“Students who needed a little extra help were encouraged to approach me for guidance, but for the most part they were able to receive the help they needed from their fellow students,” Simpson said.

Teachers at CCMS, are not just teaching, they prove daily, that they are creating a dynamic learning experience where every student can thrive.

NUMA

Alissa Bailey's class started their first science unit, focusing on the topic of erosion.

Last week, students participated in hands-on learning, observing firsthand how wind and water can shape the landscape around them. Many students were excited to share examples of erosion in their own yards or around Fallon. These real-world connections enriched their understanding and highlighted the impact of natural forces on their community.

“It’s inspiring to see their knowledge grow and their curiosity deepen,” Bailey said.

As the students continue their exploration of science, they are not only learning about the environment but also developing a greater appreciation for the world around them.

E.C. BEST

Students in Heather Alves’ second-grade class have been hard at work across all subjects. Last week, the class learned about communities and discussed many reasons why Fallon is such a great place to call home.

In addition to exploring their community, students dove into their new ELA SAVVAS curriculum, immersing themselves in the world of poetry. They also worked on i-Ready math curriculum that challenged them to expand their vocabulary and rethink their approach to math.

Through engaging activities, students were able to develop critical thinking skills that they will use beyond the classroom. To celebrate their hard work and to conclude a productive week, students got to do an art project.

“The blend of learning and creativity fosters a dynamic classroom environment where students are excited to engage and grow. As we continue our learning journey, my goal is for my students to continue to exemplify the joy of learning,” Alves said.

LAHONTAN

Over the past two weeks, kindergarten students in Erika Stanford’s class have been engaged in an exciting science unit focused on the five senses. Students participated in a variety of activities designed to enhance their sensory awareness.

While blindfolded, students described and shared their observations based on what they could hear, feel, smell, or taste.

“They shared their predictions with the class and it was so fun to hear. We had some very interesting answers,” Stanford said.

As part of this lesson, students were challenged to write their names and draw a heart while blindfolded, they even attempted to read a printed book while blindfolded, highlighting the importance of vision. In addition, students had to taste blueberries and chocolate, listen to the sounds of water, trains, and ambulances, and smell coffee grounds, dirt, and bananas – all while blindfolded.

They also explored different textures by touching cotton balls, pumpkin pulp, and paper clips, then described what they felt to make guesses about what was in the cup. To wrap up their unit, students created a flip book, cutting out photos from magazines to illustrate each sense.

"They had a blast and looked forward to the activity each day,” Stanford said.

This hands-on approach made learning fun for the students and helped them appreciate their five senses, understand how they work together and how to rely on other senses when they can’t use one.