Computer Class was where they planned the route to either guide the turkey to the trap or for their balloon to follow . Using the ozobot robots , students learned to use colors to code the robot to follow their selected path of twists and turns .
“ We ’ ve been using the ozobots for the past year ,” said McCartney , who borrowed them from the Peters Township Public Library before receiving a grant to purchase some for the District . “ I ’ ve been anxious to do a bigger project with them and this was a great opportunity .”
The culmination of the projects brought it all together . With designs in place and robot paths created , students showed their hard work to their classmates to
5th grade students show off their parade floats .
GET TO KNOW : MRS . BARB VIOLA , MUSIC TEACHER
see how many turkeys were caught and how many balloons made it to the parade route .
“ They get so excited when the robots do what they programmed them to do ,” added McCartney . “ They are always surprised and proud of what they accomplished .”
There was excitement for the teachers as well who enjoyed the collaboration across subject areas and are looking for future projects as well .
“ We ’ ve already begun talking about next year ,” said Mathieu , who suggested that leprechaun traps may be on the horizon .
Whether or not they find that pot of gold , it ’ s the students who are the lucky ones at McMurray Elementary . eters Township
PETERS TOWNSHIP SCHOOL DISTRICT NEWS
In any visit to our schools you will encounter talented and dedicated individuals who work hard to make Peters Township one of the best Districts in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania . In this issue , we would like everyone to Get to Know Mrs . Barb Viola , who teaches music to students at Pleasant Valley Elementary . Throughout the year her students have the chance to explore both vocal and instrumental music and have a lot of fun in the process ! We took a few minutes to help you Get to Know Mrs . Viola !
What made you want to become a music teacher ?
Music involves the understanding of all subjects such as history , science and math . I have always loved learning and am excited to make those connections with students and create musical experiences incorporating their interests .
What other interesting jobs have you held ? My most interesting nonteaching job was working as an usher at Heinz Hall for the Performing Arts in Pittsburgh . It was the
70 PETERS TOWNSHIP
perfect job when I was in college as it gave me the opportunity to see the symphony , opera , ballet and musical theater on a daily basis .
What is your favorite thing to do outside the classroom ?
I love to visit museums and attend Broadway performances whenever possible ! Those experiences recharge my batteries and spark new ideas . I enjoyed my recent visit to the immersive Van Gogh experience .
What has been one of your favorite projects / events / days at school ?
I truly love the first day of school . There is an excitement in the air as our school family is happy to be together after a summer break .
What do you wish every student would know after their time in your classroom ?
About music , about themselves , about anything ! I wish every student would know that they should be proud of their unique talents and confident to share those talents with others .