It's pretty amazing how quickly time flies. Already, we are in the third quarter of our second year here at the International Academy. We started our year strong with some great learning experiences, especially in the biology/ecology classes with Ms. Arscott, Mr. Parker, Ms. Harvey, and Ms. Molina. In the fall, our classes went outside several times to the nearby Chinquapin Trail to measure water quality of Taylor Run and collect data on the various plant species observed. We wanted to know, how do we affect our local waterways, and how do they affect us?
In October, thirty lucky students got to take a field trip to Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve along the Potomac River. There, the students were led on nature walks by volunteers of Friends of Dyke Marsh and on row boat tours of the the Marsh by employees and volunteers of the Alexandria Seaport Foundation to collect water quality data. When they returned from their tours, students were able to help National Park Service personnel re-pot some native plant seedlings to be planted in the park later when they've grown.
Also in October, our new teachers had the opportunity to visit more INPS schools in New York City. We are so fortunate to have these times to collaborate with our peers at Flushing International, Prospect Heights, and Brooklyn International. In this picture, you can see Mr. Hammond, Ms. Harvey, and Ms. Casey enjoying an evening in Manhattan.
On October 16, the Builders Team had a special treat. Each of the Builders students got to participate in three events: a special presentation by fellow recent immigrants attending college at George Mason University, a lesson on the basics of American Football by Mr. Hammond, and a series of fun relay races with Mr. Munson and Mr. Fontenot.
On November 20, Mr. Wynne and Mr. Munson helped organize a student versus staff soccer game. There must have been 100 students there, and they did a great job. The staff got creamed!
In January, students in the biology/ecology classes took some time to plant native aquatic plant seedlings. The students will grow these in the classroom for the National Park Service, and then on April 25, plant similar native aquatic plant species near the Potomac River at Roaches Run Waterfowl Sanctuary.