CCSD news: Game development, student council, and Wonder Stories

CHURCHILL COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

First-year game development students in Aaron Holt’s class proudly presented their debut projects in Unreal Engine during a special showcase event for students and staff.

After weeks of hard work learning the basics of game design, and coding, the students unveiled their first fully playable games. The event allowed peers and teachers to experience these developers' creativity and technical skills.

Participants also had the opportunity to meet directly with the developers, ask questions, and share their impressions of the game.

“This showcase was a great demonstration for staff and students to really see the talent and passion growing within the school's new digital game development program. It was a great experience for these first-year students,” Holt said.

CHURCHILL COUNTY MIDDLE SCHOOL

This week CCMS staff and students recognized two staff members who always go out of their way to help others.

The staff recognized school secretary Heidi Woolsey and students recognized teacher Debra Potter.

One staff member shared on their nomination form: "Heidi is one of the most amazing people I have ever had the privilege to know. Her smile and laugh are one in a million. She lights up any room she walks in. She wears many hats here at CCMS. She doesn't get enough credit for everything she does. Thank you, Heidi, for being the best secretary ever."

Students recognized Potter and one student said on their nomination form.

"Mrs. Potter is very nice and when we need help with our work she is always there to help us."

Woolsey and Potter are definitely making CCMS a great place to work and learn.

NUMA

Newly elected fifth grade Student Council members are off to an impressive start.

Last week, they visited all fourth and fifth grade classes to promote Nevada's Week of Respect through engaging activities that emphasized the importance of a positive school environment.

The Student Council students presented word scramble posters featuring uplifting affirmation statements, encouraging their peers to work together to unscramble the words. As they collaborated on this fun challenge, students had meaningful discussions about the significance of mutual respect and inclusivity in our school.

“The activity was not only entertaining but also a great way to remind students that they all matter and are valued,” school counselor Noreen Swenson said. “We want to create a supportive atmosphere where everyone feels safe and respected and our student council members strive to promote that.”

The Student Council’s initiative not only fostered teamwork among classmates but also reinforced the message of respect and kindness that is essential for a thriving school environment.

“I am proud of our Student Council for their leadership and dedication to making Numa a better place for everyone,” Swenson said.

E.C. BEST

Last week, students in Monica Mayfield's third grade class completed their Wonder Stories, tackling questions that sparked their imagination and understanding.

From asking why they have hair and nails to unraveling the process of how broken bones heal, students learned how to cite text evidence to support their answers. In addition to exploring scientific wonders, the students sharpened their math skills by mastering four different strategies for solving multiplication problems. They worked with equal groups, arrays, counting bys, and repeated addition.

“These strategies help students approach multiplication from different angles, making it easier for them to grasp the concepts,” Mayfield said.

As students share their findings and solve math challenges, it’s clear that collaboration and critical thinking are at the center of learning in Mayfield’s classroom.

LAHONTAN

Students in Jenny Young’s first grade class worked on life science concepts and learned about the life cycle of plants. They participated in hands-on activities that deepened their understanding of how plants thrive in their environments.

The unit began with an investigation of a sunflower head. Students examined the structures and patterns that make sunflowers so unique. Following their exploration, they tasted sunflower seeds. Students then got to show off their creativity and crafted cheerful sunflower pictures, showcasing their artistic talents while reinforcing their learning. To complete the unit, each student wrote about their observations and insights regarding sunflowers.

Students learned how plants use their external parts to help them survive. They also proved that they can make observations and can see how young plants and animals can be alike, but not exactly like, their parents.

By the end of this unit, students demonstrated critical thinking, creativity, and a growing curiosity about the world around them.

NORTHSIDE EARLY LEARNING CENTER

Dr. Tom and Melissa McCormick made a donation of books to Janeen Malkovich's reading program for students in her four-year-old classroom. Melissa McCormick came into the classroom to distribute the books and read to the class.

“I am so thankful to the McCormick’s for their donation. This is such a fantastic way to support our students’ literacy journey,” Malkovich said. “Seeing their excitement about reading and receiving new books was so rewarding.”

NELC wants to thank the McCormicks for their thoughtfulness and commitment to nurturing young minds. Your contributions make a lasting impact on our community, and we are incredibly grateful.