Volunteers make a difference in Council Rock

S.A.G.E. volunteers help in many ways, whether it's a one time (episodic) or weekly session in the classroom, the intergenerational learning benefits are immense.  Recently, Sandy Kopel, an educator in the Council Rock school district, had a need for some extra hands in the classroom and S.A.G.E didn't disappoint.

Ms. Kopel hosted volunteers Bernie Cullen, Joe Casarella, Debbie Glinski, Karen Arner, and Bob Schwenzer for 2 days to work one-on-one with her 6^th grade students.  S.A.G.E. volunteers helped the students read, paraphrase, and write a 2 page research paper with a Works Consulted (commonly referred to as a bibliography) and everyone enjoyed the experience. Bernie, Joe, Debbie, Karen and Bob also helped each student put together a Power Point presentation students presented to 2 other educators at a later date. 

Sandy says, "The volunteers listened to the students' presentations and gave them feedback in order for the child to receive a score of Proficient or better. "  All of Sandy's volunteers wrote her back and said they would do it again whenever she needs assistance in the classroom.  

Sandy continues, "I really enjoyed having the extra set of hands, as there’s NO WAY my colleagues and I could’ve given all these students the individualized help they needed without these volunteers.  I truly can’t thank you enough for giving me their names! I am having the students write each of them a “thank-you” note today as part of their writing lesson. Thanks again S.A.G.E.!" 

Another success story we're happy to share with you.  Keep up the good work volunteers! 

S.A.G.E. Volunteer participates in mock interview

Men and women over 55, are a wealth of knowledge and role models for today’s youth.  Yet, they don’t always have an outlet to share those experiences with others.  Taking note of this dilemma, Beryl Katz, a former high school educator, parent and active community member, saw an opportunity to unite seniors with youth in order to enrich educational experiences in the classroom.  In 1998, Beryl’s vision, Senior Adults for Greater Education became a reality in the Council Rock community.  As more neighboring school districts inquired about the intergenerational program, S.A.G.E. incorporated into a not for profit organization in 2003.

Over the years, S.A.G.E. has been fortunate to work with some amazing volunteers who enjoy helping future generation learn while staying active and giving back to the community.  For example, husband and wife duo, Matt & Nancy Korecki have volunteered in the Council Rock district for years.  After hearing about S.A.G.E. through neighbors, they decided to give it a try.  Giving history lessons and speaking about the importance of Veteran’s Day are just a few of the ways Matt and Nancy make a difference for students at Maureen Welch Elementary.  The Korecki’s say it’s very important to emphasize teamwork and discipline through their interaction with students.  These core values help shape students’ self-esteem and attitude towards others.     

 

From time to time Matt has the opportunity to visit and work with other students within the Council Rock school district as well.  Matt's most recent experience came in the form of a Mock Interview with 8th grade students at Newtown Middle School. The goal of the interview was to prepare students for seeking summer employment.  Students were asked specific questions and graded on their conduct during interviews and answers to questions.  Some example of questions were: tell me about yourself, why you want the job and what are your long term/short term goals. In addition, Matt also helped students learn about the emphasis dress, posture and eye contact play in the interview process.


Matt says, "The students were well prepared with their goals in focus. The interview was a gratifying experience and I hoped I helped a student prepare for the future."  

Another successful intergenerational activity where a volunteer's past experiences will give students a "leg up" in today's competitive world.  Thank you Matt!

To learn more about S.A.G.E. and how you can get involved, contact Beryl Katz at beasage03@aol.com
 

Over the years, S.A.G.E. has been fortunate to work with some amazing volunteers who enjoy helping future generation learn while staying active and giving back to the community.  For example, husband and wife duo, Matt & Nancy Korecki have also volunteered in the Council Rock district for years.  After hearing about S.A.G.E. through neighbors, they decided to give it a try.  Matt, a retired veteran of the Air Force loves working with 1^st graders because they are funny and show the utmost respect to adults.  Giving history lessons and speaking about the importance of Veteran’s Day are just a few of the ways Matt and Nancy make a difference for the great students at Maureen Welch Elementary.  The Korecki’s say it’s very important to emphasize teamwork and discipline through their interaction with students.  These core values help shape students’ self-esteem and attitude towards others.     

 

March 24, I participated in a Mock Interview with 8th grade students at Newtown Middle School. The goal is to prepare students who will seek summer employment

              and how to conduct themselves during the interview. Students were asked specific questions and graded on their answers. Example of questions: tell me about

              yourself, why you want the job, long term/short term goals. Also graded were dress, posture, eye contact, filler words  etc. The students were well prepared with their goals

              in focus. The interview was a gratifying experience and I hoped I helped a student prepare for the future.

              Matt Korecki, (13 year SAGE Volunteer)

              Richboro,

 

 

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Did you know that blue was the color originally associated with St. Patrick’s Day? Over the years that’s changed to green, and these days celebrations on or around March 17th are a cornucopia of four-leaf clovers — along with leprechauns, rainbows, and pots o’ gold!

In the classroom, laughing with limericks is a fun activity to celebrate this festive holiday.

Limericks are a type of nonsense poetry that are meant to be silly and funny.  Legend has it they originate from  Ireland which is why we often hear them around St. Patrick’s Day.  The name is often taken as a reference to the City or County of Limerick in Ireland.

Limericks have only 5 lines and the poem depends on the rhythm and the rhyme.

Lines one, two, and five rhyme with each other. Lines three and four rhyme as well.

Have the students think of it this way…A-A-B-B-A.

Students can have fun using one of the following templates to help them get started  creating their own silly limericks…

       There once was  ___________ from  _____________.

       Who always wanted to ___________.

       But whenever s/he ___________,

       The ___________

       That silly __________ from _______________.

 

   Or

 

      Introduce a person or a place (think of a name/word that is easy to rhyme)

      Describe a unique or funny feature of the person/place.

      Describe an activity or silly problem on this third line

      Continue describing the activity on the fourth line

      Wrap it up with a funny punch line!

 

Have fun and Happy St. Patrick’s Day to all!

 

 

 

      

 

February is around the Corner…Time to Salute our Presidents

Presidents’ Day is coming and with it comes a great time for many fun activities and learning about our nations’ Leaders of the past.   Here are some ideas for the classroom that students will enjoy….

-          Engage students in a discussion about what they know about the job of being the President of the United States.  What do they think is most important?

-          Hold a mock classroom debate on the topic of Presidential term limits. Are they a good idea? Why or why not?

-          President for a Day- Students imagine they are President for a day!  What would they do? What would their day be like?

-          Creating a timeline about all the Presidents of the United States

-          Creating a new monument for a past President

-          Presidential Powers- Students discuss the powers of the President  and then write down an idea for a new power for the President of the United States.

-          Presidents picture book- Students can create a picture book of their favorite Presidents with illustrations and explain the reasons for the choice of favorites.

-          Presidents’ name  Word Search / Word Scramble

-          Follow the Leader- Have the students split into teams and  try to arrange photos of the Presidents in chronological order

-          Presidents’ Day Crafts- Students can create cotton ball wigs, flags, Washington’s cherry tree,  Lincoln’s hat??

  These are just a few ideas….Have fun celebrating and learning about the Leaders of our great country.

 

 

A Volunteer's Viewpoint

Marge Lotter, who sits on the board of Hatboro Horsham is also a new volunteer with S.A.G.E.  She was kind enough to share her experiences assisting children in a kindergarten class. 

Being a S.A G. E. volunteer at Hallowell School in the AM Kindergarten class with Miss Caldwell is rewarding and fun.  Miss Caldwell is a treat to observe in action.  She is a natural as a Kindergarten teacher and the children respond in kind.

My hour is spent interacting with the children in various activities related to building their reading skills.  My favorite time with them is when I read stories on the ‘reading rug’.

When I visited in December, I explained to the children why my face was contorted (I came down with Bell’s Palsy).  They responded with kindness and curiosity.  When I visited in January I was greeted with warm hello’s and questions by some of the students as to how I was feeling.  I was strongly affected by their concern.

This time, instead of reading to the children, we invented our own story based on magical powers of the ‘reading rug’.  Our imaginations flew us out of the room (we had to duck to get out the window) and into the sky.  We saw familiar places and came back safely, by leaning back to slow down.   

Next time I’d like to ‘visit’ the zoo, but according to the children’s feedback, we may be going to Disney World.  My imaginary bags are already packed.

It is wonderful to hear about such a warm and friendly experience.  Thanks for sharing Marge!  We always love sharing stories with our readers.  If you have a story you'd like to share, email beasage08comcast.net. 

Student Resolutions…a fun way to start the New Year!

As classes have now resumed for the New Year, helping students develop a New Year’s resolution for themselves can be a fun and fresh activity.  Working on resolutions together can be a great group activity to inspire students to do something special. 

A few ideas…

-          Ask the students who has heard of New Year’s resolutions.  Some may have…many more may have not.  Explain the practice & purpose of making resolutions  and the effort involved to accomplish them.  

-          Tell the students that resolutions are like promises you make to yourself.

-          Discuss how important it is to make a resolution creative and challenging, but also realistic.

-          Share some examples of past resolutions you have made. How did you do?  Where some easier to keep than others? How great did it feel when you accomplished your goal?

-          Discuss ideas for some resolutions as a group then allow students time to work on their own resolutions.  Provide some realistic examples for them to visualize.

-          Perhaps provide an  example: When I am at_________, I promise to________ because _______.

-          Allow for some time for the students to share their resolutions with the class and discuss the importance of supporting one another to help achieve their goals.

-          Have the students illustrate their resolutions and then display in the classroom to provide encouragement and a visual reminder of the goals they have chosen for themselves.

Attached is a helpful link with a creative template that students could use…

http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/New-Year-Resolutions-1047138

Have fun & Happy New Year!

How to Successfully Return to School After Break!

Returning to school after an extended break can be tough on students AND teachers.  After a few weeks of relaxing and eating lots of holiday goodies, the prospect of diving back into the routine of studying can be hard to take. Here are some pointers to help students ease back into the school routine...

 

1. It is important to show care and concern for what students accomplished with their friends and family over the break.  It builds child/adult connection and gives you feedback on activities and topics that interest the students in the classroom.  Use this information to connect curricular material to the students' and/or your own experiences.  By connecting students' interests and experiences to what is being taught inside of the classroom, students are motivated to learn and an exciting ambiance is created in the learning environment!

 

2. Teachers usually spend the first few days getting back to speed with whatever students were looking at before Christmas, and giving feedback on any work submitted prior to the break.  During this time, students should set short term goals when learning new material throughout the first month of the new year.  These goals can focus on accomplishing a new task or be a challenge to beat a record for a well-known task.  As a SAGE volunteer, you could assist classroom teachers in gearing their students for accomplishment of these short term goals to start 2014 on a successful path!  Then you can be a part of celebrating their short-term goals with some small rewards!

 

3. Last but not least, be sure to establish a schedule and keep with this schedule so that students can ease back into a routine.  When families are home over the holidays, their schedules usually vary from non-holiday months.  Sleep patterns change and meals are eaten at different times during the holidays, so in order to succeed within school after the holidays, a schedule must be established to set normality for students and families.

 

These are just three ways to help students go back to school after the holiday break!  Happy 2014!  :)

SAGE ADVICE - Dealing with uncooperative students

Sometimes we are put in situations where no one gets along.  Although this difficulty can be frustrating and challenging to deal with as a tutor; there might be reasons for this behavior.  Sometimes the teacher may or may not be able to share them with you.  So we've put together a few tips to help you progress! 

1.     If a student’s behavior has been trying on you personally, use the 5– 5–5 rule.   Breath in for 5 seconds, hold it for five seconds, then breath out for 5 seconds.

2.       Don't argue with the student in front of the class or his/her peers. This might embarrass the student or escalate the situation.  Talk to the student in a calm and soft spoken voice. Do not accuse the student of not cooperating, instead state the problem and then the solution. For example, “There are crayons on the floor, don't you think we should pick them up?"

3.      Have a calm discussion with the student, explaining  the work or assignment in which you are collaborating.  If the child continues to refuse to cooperate, don’t keep asking or talking to the student, this attention may be just what they are looking for and expecting.  Just state that you will sit and wait for the student to tell you when they are ready to work.

4.      Ask the student for their attention for a short period of time.  Tell the student that you expect them to work for 10 minutes and then you can take a break and play a game or take a walk.

5.      Provide a great deal of positive reinforcement and many short breaks.

6.      If possible, ask the teacher for ideas about what strategies may work with the particular child.

Try one of these steps the next time you face a difficult situation and see what a difference in results you will have.

SAGE ADVICE - Planning Your Tutoring Session

 

Many times you may be asked to help a child understand a particular topic or problem area.  It is sometimes difficult  to know  “where to start” with such an open-ended request.  Here are a few suggestions to help you plan your tutoring session with a student.

1.      Think about your tutoring session in three sections or stages.  The three sections are 1) a motivational opening 2) the development of the lesson and  3) the closing. These stages will help the student remember the lesson more effectively and understand the concepts on a deeper level.

2.      Make sure your motivational opening is fun and engaging.  In this first section of the lesson you want to stimulate student’s interest in the topic or subject.  Students tend to think, “Why do I have to learn this?”    Thus, when you start a lesson try to include some element that shows the practical application of the lesson’s content.  You can tell or read a short story which highlights the concept in a practical application.  Another idea is to show a picture or diagram which visually shows the concept in action.  Or, you can start the lesson by asking the student some open-ended questions to peak their curiosity.

3.      Tap into the student’s background knowledge.   Make sure to ask questions to see what the student already knows about the subject.  They may know more than you think, but they may be having trouble integrating their knowledge or expressing it in the way the teacher is assessing. 

4.      During the development of the lesson break down the information in to small steps and praise the child for each step they accomplish.  Also, remember to assess the student’s knowledge periodically by asking questions By doing this, you know the students are retaining information and fully understanding the lesson.

5.      The closing section of the lesson should encourage the student to reflect on what they have learned and how they will use the knowledge.  Encourage the child to come up with their own ideas about how they can remember the information and how the information might be assessed in classroom exams or homework.

 

Working collaboratively with classroom teachers

Communication between  teacher and tutor is crucial.  With all the demands on teachers, it is sometimes challenging to have these critical conversations.  Teachers and tutors should work hand-in-hand in order to meet the needs of students and understand each other’s “worlds”.

Here is some "S.A.G.E." advice to initiate conversations:

       1.   Discuss what type of communication is best for the teacher and you (email, letters, phone
             conversations or meeting in person).

2.      Discuss the times of the day that are mutually convenient to have conversations about students or work assignments.

3.      Recognize that each year teachers may have different schedules and different demands put on them from the school administration.  Some years they will be coordinating programs and activities, in addition to their classroom work.  Some years teachers will have particularly large classrooms of students or large percentages of special needs students.  Both of these situations may impact the time the teacher has for conversations.  

4.      To make sure all questions and concerns are answered, keep a running list of your questions and bring the questions with you when you have time to talk with the teacher.  This will assure that all your questions can be answered in as efficient a manner as possible.

5.      Ask the teacher what types of reports or data they would like about specific students you work with, and how and when they would like to receive the information.

6.      Ask the teacher about any particular classroom rules or procedures that they want to make sure you follow.

7.      If appropriate, ask the teacher how they would like you to handle questions parents might ask you about their child who you are assisting.

8.      Be open to suggestions and supplemental material that the teacher may provide.

9.      Ask the teacher to be included in academic award ceremonies, if there are any, to exhibit collaboration between yourself and the teacher.  This will reinforce to the student that you are working with the teacher for their success.

Applying these steps will lead you down the path of success in the classroom and out!

 

 

Inaugural S.A.G.E. development training is a huge success!

Our volunteers enrich the learning experience for the schools they serve - from helping a child learn to read to demonstrating chemistry techniques.  We understand every experience is as different as the students and teachers with whom S.A.G.E. members interact.  We at the board of directors, are arming our wonderful members with the tools needed to thrive. Through a series of  2-3 hour training sessions, our members will become a further asset to their schools.

Our first training session was held on February 23rd at the Northampton Library. 22 volunteers participated in "S.A.G.E.'s Ages in Stages" which focused on child development.  Participants were a mix of new and seasoned volunteers.

Board members Christine Moran and Samantha Zirolli organized and headed up the training.    Samantha shared some of the training details.  "Specifically, we covered the physical, emotional, social, and intellectual characteristics of children ages 5-12. We focused on this age group because most of S.A.G.E.'s volunteers are placed in an elementary school setting, and these ages represent grades K-6."

Christine and Samantha used a PowerPoint presentation and worksheets to present information.   Seniors also had the opportunity to share their experiences in the classroom which was a valuable connection to the material at hand.  The training's closing activity allowed seniors to pair up and write a cinquain regarding their experience with SAGE. "Being board members, Christine and I appreciated the volunteers sharing bits and pieces as well as their opinion of their experience as we don't get to see them within the classrooms," Samantha adds.
 

The seniors really enjoyed themselves at the training.  At the moment, Christine and Samantha are throwing some ideas around for the next training.  A suggested topic is "technology in the classroom" but we are open to anything.  It really depends on what our seniors are most interested in learning about. We have the resources so why not tell us what will help you out the most!

Chemisty calls, Council Rocks answers - Part 3

After two hours of intense questioning on March 6^th, the YBTC Challenge for the Philadelphia region was narrowed down to four students.  I’m proud to announce that with the help of S.A.G.E., parent, teacher and other volunteers, two students moving on to the state competition are from Council Rock. 

Elementary and middle school students from surrounding Newtown and Holland participated in the second round of the YBTC Challenge at Dow Chemical facility in Spring House, PA.  These students competed against several other districts in this nationwide, interactive scientific competition.

This time, I had the pleasure of speaking with 2 outstanding volunteers, Sandra Kiselica and Mary Evangelisto.  Sandra has a Ph.D. in chemistry from Penn State University and is a consultant to the chemistry publishing industry. Mary Evangelisto, majored in chemistry & education and teaches chemistry at Bucks County Community College and Holy Family University.  Last June, Sandra attended the national challenge in Philadelphia to see how the program worked.  She was so inspired by the dedication and willingness of young students to learn about science that she knew the YTBC was something CR had to try. 

Outside of work, both women have a special interest in creating opportunities for young people to learn about science. Every year, Sandra provides chemistry demonstrations [geared towards getting girls enthused about chemistry] while Mary routinely volunteers as a judge at science fairs. 

Mary played a vital role in the preliminary round.  She and Wally Ropchan, another S.A.G.E. volunteer, attended study sessions and helped students prepare.  “We couldn't believe how much chemistry the students absorbed, probably more than most high school or even college students,” agree Sandra, Mary and Wally.  Mary goes on to say “Wally was a big help.  I’m sure he’ll be doing more with S.A.G.E. in the future and I’m going to take advantage of the opportunity as well.” 

Sandra had the chance to attend the second round of competition.  She was impressed with students’ level of knowledge and their confidence. Council Rock hopes to continue the YBTC next year and in order to grow the program, has applied for a grant to award prizes.  Sandra hopes to increase awareness and gain involvement from local chemists in the future.  “In this manner, they would be able to mentor and do more hands-on demonstrations with the students, quite an attraction.”

The two students moving on to the state competition at Penn State main campus on April 27^th are Rishi Mago, a sixth-grader from Sol Feinstone Elementary School and Henry Liu, a seventh-grader from Newtown Middle School.  What a wonderful achievement for them and the Council Rock school district! 

 

Chemistry calls, Council Rock answers - Part 2

When cool lab demonstrations mix with fun facts, Chemistry can be a fascinating science.  Just ask any Council Rock student participating in the You Be The Chemist (YBTC) Challenge.^®   

On February 12^th, elementary and middle school students participated in the first round of the YBTC Challenge at Council Rock North high school.  The YBTC is a nationwide, interactive academic competition that teaches students in grades 5-8 about important chemistry concepts, scientific discoveries, and laboratory safety.

This is Council Rock’s first year participating in the competition and they came to play.  Renee Devlin, District Science Coordinator for Council Rock, along with a team of volunteers, headed up the event.  According to Biology and Astronomy student teacher, Justin Kapusta, there was an overwhelming response for participants.  The district had to limit participation to 100 students after reaching that number almost immediately!  About 50 students took the qualifying test in round one and 10 students moved on to Round 2 which will be held on March 6^th at the Dow Chemical facility in Spring House, PA. 

The outstanding students moving on, both male and female, represent diverse backgrounds; two 5th graders, five 6th graders and two 7th graders.  These students from Sol Feinstone Elementary, Goodnoe Elementary, Churchville Elementary, Holland Elementary, Rolling Hills Elementary, Newtown Middle School, Holland Middle School, and Richboro Middle School will now face off against other area districts. 

“I’m thrilled to be a part of this fantastic enrichment experience,” says Kapusta.  My role in assisting Renee Devlin quickly evolved, almost overnight.  I became the main contact for participants and their parents, set up the WikiSpace (website) and ran every event with the help of our terrific S.A.G.E. volunteers, high school volunteers, Sal Colosi, Nancy Tillery, Dr. Sandra Kiselica, and many others.  The YBTC Challenge is great because it introduces younger children to a more advanced science subject.”

The inaugural YBTC Challenge at Council Rock was an overwhelming success.  From all of us at Senior Adults for Greater Education, congratulations to all participants and good luck on March 6^th.  We look forward to more good news! 

Chemistry calls, Council Rock answers - Part 1

 

What is the difference between a scientific inquiry and the scientific method?  Name a scientific element that’s a good conductor of electricity but not heat.  What year did Niels Bohr win the Nobel Prize?  Could you answer these questions?    Elementary and middle school students from Council Rock South can. 

For the first time ever, Council Rock South is engaging in a science competition of epic proportion.  The You Be The Chemist (YBTC) Challenge^® is an interactive academic competition that teaches students in grades 5-8 about important chemistry concepts, scientific discoveries, and laboratory safety.

The YBTC challenge competition was inspired by the Chemical Educational Foundation^® (CEF), a national non-profit organization dedicated to fostering a greater understanding of the science and value of chemistry. These types of competitions encourage the collaboration of industry members, schools, and community organizations across the country, to educate students about the value of science education and the role of chemistry in everyday lives.

Renee Devlin, District Science Coordinator for Council Rock, along with a team of volunteers is heading up the inaugural event.  The Council Rock Qualifying Challenge, (the first round of the YBTC challenge), will take place on February 9th at CR North from 11AM-1:00 PM.  90 students representing CR elementary and middle schools, interspersed with some private school students, will complete a written test of 50 multiple-choice questions.  The test will be followed by some cool chemistry demonstrations.  The top 10 students will move on to the Local Challenge that will take place on March 6^th at the Dow Chemical facility against other area districts.

Devlin elaborates on the importance of the YBTC Challenge initiative.  “Like all science enrichment programs we offer, we hope the YBTC Challenge engages students and gets them talking about science at home and becoming more excited about science in the classroom.” 

Her volunteer team has done a wonderful job advertising the program and providing facilitated study sessions.  Renee’s outstanding team consists of teachers, parents, teachers, Sal Colosi and Justin Kapusta, Science National Honor Society students from both CR North and South and S.A.G.E. volunteer, Dr. Wally Ropchan, a retired chemical engineer.   

Dr. Wally Ropchan, a new S.A.G.E. volunteer, has had a tremendous affect on the program, coordinating study sessions, visiting schools and walking students through chemistry demonstrations.   When asked what he enjoys most about the YBTC Challenge, Wally says, “I enjoy the enthusiasm of both the teaching staff and students for having me work with them on STEM centered activities.  (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics activities.)  These great students keep me on my toes with their focused questions.  In addition, it is truly inspiring to see how progressive the Council Rock School District is in its support for the S.A.G.E. program as a valuable community-oriented approach to education. ”   

The YBTC Challenge is inspiring the next generation of scientists.  Be sure to follow this “mini-series” and see the outcome of the CR Qualifying Challenge on Feb. 9^th!

 

SAGE Volunteers Enhance Lessons for Students!

SAGE volunteers have the chance to enhance the basic foundational lessons of topics within the general curriculum by sharing experiences to students that allow them to make real-life connections to the material!  Most recently, Rockne Anderson, a current SAGE volunteer had the chance to share an experience from a past job that excited the 3rd grade students about science!

Throughout most of Pennsylvania’s elementary schools, the science curriculum includes topics such as weather, matter, habitats, rocks, sounds, solar system, life cycles, motion, electrical circuit, natural resources, etc.  These topics can often be difficult for students to understand, as they cannot make true connections that enhance learning.  When SAGE volunteers share their expertise on a topic, especially when he/she worked in that particular field - it can be a true eye-opener for young learners!

"I had an interesting time last week. I brought in some seismic profiler records and maps of the ocean floor from 50 years ago when I was working on an oceanographic ship. The records are produced from the echoes from the sea floor from 1/2-lb blocks of TNT we threw overboard every two or three minutes. The 3rd graders in Mrs. Fitzgerald's class asked the most intelligent questions for about 20 minutes until we ran out of time. This was for their science class where they are studying sound. "
~Rockne Anderson

This quote is just an example of how a lesson can soar beyond an educator's expectations when real-life connections are made between the material being taught and the students learning it!  SAGE volunteers have the ability to create these connections and enhance learning within our partnering schools!  All of us from SAGE would love to hear of similar experiences within the classrooms of our volunteers! This is what our organization is all about!

How to live a happier, healthier lifestyle

People are living longer and longer these days. Studies have shown that over the past 100 years, our life expectancy has increased by 30 years!  So what do we do with all this time?  What should we do to say in shape and healthy?  Why, volunteer any way you can! Volunteering has been proven to be an affect way to maintain an active lifestyle and continue social engagements among other benefits. 

Linda Fried, a professor of public health at Columbia University Medical Center, says increased longevity raises the need to find engaging activities in our later years. She says there are overwhelming benefits for older adults who decide to volunteer their time for any good cause. 
Two benefits of volunteering are that people stay physically active as well as socially active. 

Linda says, "The social networks of people tend to decline as they age; family and friends move away or die. Volunteering can replace these ties and their well-being and happiness benefits.
"The other thing that is really important to people, particularly as they get older, is that they feel they've made a difference being on the planet," Fried says. "That's a deeply personal sense of meaning, particularly as people take stock of their lives as they get older."

I think we all like to know we've made a difference on this planet no matter what our age.  But the more people embrace volunteering in their later years, the happier and healthier they'll be. 

Which type of volunteer best describes you?

1. Communitarians - Doing Good Makes Sense 
2. Devouts - Doing Good is God's Will
3. Investor - Doing Good is Good Business
4. Socialite - Giving is Fun
5. Repayers - Doing Good in return
6. Altruist - Doing Good Feels Right
7. Dynasts - Doing Good is a Family Tradition

To read more about why helping others is a secret of happiness, check out this link!
http://money.usnews.com/money/personal-finance/articles/2012/04/04/why-helping-others-makes-us-happy?page=2

Different Ways to Celebrate Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is the starting point of the holiday season in America. It is known for feasting with family members –indulging in roasted turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie, etc. However, many families have special traditions that they partake in each year.

One word can describe an American Thanksgiving tradition: football. Most families like to watch a game on TV or even organize their own family ‘turkey bowl’! Some people go to the Thanksgiving parade in their hometown/city each year as a Thanksgiving tradition, while others donate time and service by volunteering at places such as an orphanage, old age home, soup kitchen, shelters, etc. There are families in which their traditions include the children cooking Thanksgiving dinner with a parent/grandparent or everyone sharing what they’re thankful for at the dinner table.

S.A.G.E. has a Thanksgiving tradition of its own in the form of an annual intergenerational luncheon. Beryl Katz, Executive Director of S.A.G.E., elaborates on this tradition. “We started the tradition in 1999, our first year assisting in Council Rock schools. Students really enjoy themselves and put on a good show for the seniors. One Thanksgiving, students were dressed in Wizard of Oz costumes and another year the football team and cheerleaders were servers. It is such a wonderful opportunity for folks to enjoy an afternoon of music and share a meal with other members of the community. We are especially grateful to Chartwells who have allowed us to continue this wonderful experience without any monetary outlay from the school district.”

This year’s luncheon took place at Richboro Middle School on Wednesday November 14^th. The fun afternoon involved the talented and caring students of the Council Rock school district showcasing their musical talents while showing appreciation for S.A.G.E. volunteers and their contributions to education. Kathi Sherzer, Associate Director of S.A.G.E., was pleased with this year’s amazing feedback at Council Rock, as the district truly knows how to “give thanks to the community.” She adds, “It was wonderful seeing 60 members of the CR community come together, enjoy musical entertainment, [and] share a meal and tons of conversation. Folks loved the entertainment and greatly appreciated the efforts of the football team who did all the serving.”

Originally the luncheon was a way to promote S.A.G.E. within the community and recruit warm volunteers. Today, it has become another intergenerational learning experience that both students and seniors look forward to each year and that’s what S.A.G.E. is all about. What Thanksgiving traditions do you and your families have?

 

Veterans share experiences in the classroom

In honor of the brave service men and women that fight to keep the United States safe, November has been dubbed Military Family Appreciation Month.  During this month, lots of veterans devote their time to reminding our youth about the freedom and independence our nation stands for every day.  This special gift is one that sometimes is taken for granted.   

Each year, in Newark, OH, U.S. Navy veteran, Bill Rissler visits schools to share his military experiences.  Rissler, 64 years of age, served as a gunner’s mate on an ammunition supply ship during the Vietnam War.  He was also responsible for transferring powder casings and explosives to other vessels. In all, he spent four years in the navy, six months in-country and three years off the coast.

This year he visited Legend Elementary School where his granddaughter attends 5th grade.  The children he spoke with have a better understanding of what it means to proudly serve our country and the importance of independence.  There is no better way for children to learn about these precious values than to have a descriptive firsthand account. In addition to speaking, Rissler also helps coordinate annual veterans’ visits for the holiday. On numerous occasions other veterans have come to share their stories and join in school assemblies complete with music, speeches and special ceremonies.

Children are not the only generation learning in the classroom.  Older veterans as well enjoy interacting with young citizens who will become the future leaders of our country. So take time to remember what you have and keep a positive outlook on the lifestyle you enjoy today.  Never knowing what tomorrow brings, let's be thankful for the brave men and women that protect our freedom every day. 

To read the full article, click here:
http://www.newarkadvocate.com/article/20121110/NEWS01/311100009/Legend-Elementary-School-students-hear-veterans-stories