How a Moveable Space Can Ignite Creativity in the Classroom

AHS Writing LoungeMany of our schools and individual teachers are creating more flexible spaces for learners to work on projects and creative “make to learn” activities as well as to participate in collaborative discussions and seminars. Some Albemarle world language teachers using the Teaching Proficiency through Reading and Storytelling (TPRS) have taken desks out of their classrooms to facilitate this version of immersion learning. Often teachers take a “do it yourself” approach to modernizing their classrooms for more flexibility. This blog post from KQED describes how moveable spaces can provide greater flexibility for activities in the school environment.

2015 STEM Voice™ Video Competition

STEM Voice LogoThe STEM Voice™ Video Competition is nation-wide opportunity for kids in grades 5-12 to artistically explore the importance of STEM. Sponsored by the Coalition of State Bioscience Institutes (CSBI), the competition encourages students to be creative and use video to show how much they love STEM. Entries will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. PST on April 17, 2015. Continue reading

Avoid Delayed Retirement Benefits: Submit Your VRS Application by Mar. 15

Retirement PlanningSpring brings daffodils, warmer temps, and retirements! We recommend that employees retiring under the Virginia Retirement System (VRS) submit their VRS application materials to Human Resources (HR) by March 15 in order to avoid delayed retirement benefits. If you are planning on retiring at the end of this school year, be sure to contact John McQuilkin in HR (jmcquilkin@albemarle.org or 434-296-5827 #3074) for more information. Continue reading