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Neil Armstrong Elementary spotlights teacher‑authored book, student theatre and community school growth
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Summary
Principal Rebecca Scott highlighted culturally responsive literacy, the school’s community school expansion and Upsetty Yeti — a book written by Armstrong kindergarten teacher Emily Christiansen — and introduced student performances from the Frozen Kids production.
Rebecca Scott, principal of Neil Armstrong Elementary, told the Gates Chili Board on Jan. 20 that the school’s priorities this year emphasize culturally responsive literacy, responsive classroom practices and stronger family and community engagement as part of a year‑two community school model.
Scott highlighted Upsetty Yeti, a K–5 school‑wide book written by Armstrong kindergarten teacher Emily Christiansen, and described a school‑wide reveal and read‑aloud intended to support social‑emotional learning. Scott said the book has been integrated into classroom read‑alouds and writing activities and that the event built excitement across students and families.
Scott also described expansion of performing‑arts opportunities: a theater club proposed by a fifth‑grade teacher and a winter musical, "Frozen Kids," that involved many students. Students performed a musical number for the board during the meeting. "You did such a great job," the chair told students after the performance; the transcript records applause and board appreciation.
The principal noted the school’s community school site coordinator, Alex Scalina, and a social learning specialist, Cassie Kappan, as staff supporting family engagement and targeted student interventions. Scott said these roles support attendance, enrichment and social‑emotional learning.
Next steps: The school will continue to expand student voice and extracurricular opportunities and to integrate the school‑authored text into literacy and SEL activities.
