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LaSalle Elementary touts attendance gains, STEM-library projects and new assistant principal
Summary
LaSalle Elementary staff and students presented a six-week attendance playoff program that increased attendance about 2%, described STEM-library collaborations (including Kane's Arcade) and introduced new assistant principal Romina Choritsch at the School City of Mishawaka board meeting.
LaSalle Elementary staff and students presented highlights of classroom and library innovations at the School City of Mishawaka board meeting on Dec. 4, describing an attendance incentive program, STEM-library collaborations and a new assistant principal.
Mr. DeMarcus introduced the school—s six-week "attendance playoffs," a class-versus-class competition with rewards designed to reduce chronic absenteeism between Oct. 15 and Dec. 15. He said the program has produced a roughly 2% improvement in attendance during the six-week period. Students Franklin and Dom explained the tournament-style rules and spoke about redemption features that keep classes engaged.
Pat Fayes, LaSalle media clerk, described collaboration with the STEM teacher to build hands-on projects such as "Kane's Arcade," camouflage butterflies, circuits and a shoe-design unit. "By using STEM, I have fewer calls to the office for help," Fayes said, noting students practice design, testing and writing instructions for their projects. Student presenters said library engagement and behavior improved as a result of the hands-on activities.
The school also highlighted regular school-wide assemblies that use Whole Brain Teaching strategies and distribute traveling trophies for behavior, housekeeping and attendance categories. Mr. DeMarcus introduced Romina Choritsch as LaSalle—s new assistant principal; Choritsch said she has been impressed by staff professionalism and welcomed the opportunity to contribute to the school community.
What happens next: LaSalle will continue its attendance playoffs and STEM-library collaboration, and the district will note the school as host for the board meeting.
