Elwood School District students at James H. Boyd Intermediate School have been busy making memories. Despite restrictions and health protocols put in place due to COVID-19, students have had countless opportunities to interact with their classmates and participate in exciting activities and academics.  

On Feb. 12, third graders in Ms. Woods’ class participated in a writing workshop to discuss the book, “Because of Winn-Dixie,” by Katie DiCamillo. Students recognized one of the book’s themes: “thoughtfulness,” and shared examples of how they can be thoughtful in their own lives. 

Down the hall, third graders in Ms. Noon’s class worked hard on improving their mathematics skills with a lesson in measuring area. Similarly, Ms. Musto’s fifth graders refined their math skills as they compared fractions, mixed numbers and decimals. 

Ms. Musto’s students also recently completed a fun writing assignment to commemorate the New Year. Students shared their New Year’s resolutions and chose 10 things that they couldn’t live without in 2021. Answers ranged from dogs and art to family and friends. 

Ms. Warren’s fourth grade students recently celebrated the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Each designed a book and filled its pages with stories about Dr. King’s childhood, his influence on the Civil Rights Movement and the importance of honoring those contributions today.  

Third, fourth and fifth grade speech students in Ms. Siefert’s class recently wrote and illustrated personal letters that they sent to older adults in the community. In an effort to give back, students shared stories about their studies, as well as activities both in and out of school. 

On Feb. 12, fifth graders in Ms. McLeod’s class read the children’s book, “Tadpole’s Promise,” by Jeanne Willis to culminate their unit on research skills and credible sources. To test their knowledge, students listed facts about caterpillars and tadpoles using the internet and their own personal experiences.

Ms. McLeod’s students also recently completed a writing assignment designed to teach them about mindfulness. Students wrote about their goals for the future, which ranged from becoming a better reader to being prepared for middle school.