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Barnard School showcases pre-K technology, greenhouse and staff recognitions
Summary
Henry Barnard School staff presented their early-childhood program to the Board of Education, highlighting iPad integration in pre-K, use of coding robots and Azobots, a newly emphasized greenhouse program, and tenure recognitions for several staff members.
Board members visited Henry Barnard School for a presentation on the school—s early-childhood program and technology-infused instructional practices. Principal Shelley Owens and assistant principal Malik Ivel led the presentation, describing classroom routines, technology standards and professional learning that support pre-K through second-grade instruction.
Owens said Barnard aims to "nurture the whole child" with instruction that is "responsive and respectful of their learning journeys," and described a strategic emphasis on ‘‘high expectations and rigorous instruction’’ within an early-childhood context. She outlined five technology design standards used at Barnard: accessible and inclusive learning, development of fundamental skills, exploration of diverse tools, curricular extension across co-curricular areas, and communication and problem‑solving skill building.
Technology examples included iPad sets in pre-K classrooms supporting apps and online libraries (myON, Starfall), class sets of Ozobots for color- and line-based programming, and larger programmable robots that use barcode sequencing to teach directionality and sequencing. Owens described a ‘‘through line’’ of technology that starts in pre-K and progresses into upper grades via tools such as LEGO coding and code.org activities; she emphasized the role of professional learning that equips teachers to use those tools instructionally rather than as passive media.
The presentation also described investments in instructional technology for non-classroom spaces: a smart board in the gym was purchased to allow the physical‑education teacher to model exercises and provide immediate feedback during lessons. Owens credited instructional technology staff (identified in the presentation as Katie/Przyewski and technology coach Mark) with in-class coaching that supported teachers in adopting new tools.
Owens highlighted Barnard—s greenhouse as a long-term community project and memorial effort tied to a former supporter, Amy O—0Doherty. She said the school plans to expand green-team work and curriculum connections across the school. The principal also recognized several staff being awarded tenure this year, including Ms. LaDolce (EL teacher), Ms. DeFabio (support staff), Mrs. Treviaso (school social worker) and others; Owens invited those staff to the stage for acknowledgement and photos.
Board members praised the school climate, student affirmations and the visible integration of art and literacy throughout the building. Trustees asked follow-up questions about safety lessons (bike-safety instruction), classroom artifacts and how the Barnard model feeds into districtwide K–12 technology trajectories.
Ending: Trustees thanked Principal Owens and the Barnard staff for the presentation and for the tenure recognitions; the board then moved on to the district—s budget presentations that followed at the same meeting.
