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New Republic Elementary students showcase Playworks, PBIS and award-winning music performances
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Summary
Students from New Republic Elementary presented at the Santa Rita Union School District board meeting about Playworks recess games, PBIS incentives and a school Disney production; Gavilan View music students also reported multiple "excellent" and "superior" ratings at regional solo/ensemble events.
At the Santa Rita Union School District board meeting, New Republic Elementary Principal Heather Baumgartner introduced fifth-grade students who presented on the school—'s Playworks recess program, Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) incentives and an after-school Disney play production.
—'"We opened up our fourth and fifth grade calm corner several years ago, and this year we opened up first through third grade," Principal Heather Baumgartner said, describing a supervised quiet recess space for students who prefer calmer activities. Student presenters described how Playworks teaches games such as Foursquare and relay events and how junior coaches mentor younger students.
Students also highlighted PBIS rewards and spirit days that the school uses to improve attendance and engagement. Henry Roland and Adonis Treco introduced themselves and thanked families in the audience; another student said participating in the honor ensemble and solo/ensemble competitions felt like "a huge new experience."
The principal said the school secured a three-year grant to stage a Disney play (101 Dalmatians), involving roughly 35—to 40 students in after-school rehearsals, with a family night performance scheduled later in the week.
Separately, Diane Gehling and students from Gavilan View reported on the music program—'s recent returns to solo/ensemble events after a long gap. Gehling named multiple students who received "excellent" ratings and several who received "superior" ratings; she said the results open opportunities for All-State participation and previewed upcoming spring concerts and student collaborations with area high-school ensembles.
Board members praised the students and staff, noting the discipline and leadership shown by performers and volunteer parents. Trustees and the superintendent posed for a group photo with students after the presentations.
The board moved on to other agenda items after brief applause and trustee comments of appreciation for the programs and family engagement.
