BBL Enrichment Magazine - 1

2022 - 2023

Curated by: Kaela Brundage and Karlene Buckle

TABLE OF CONTENTS Editor’s message.....................................................

1

Save Mother Earth - Mural Project............. 3 Aim High...................................................................

17

Arts & Crafts............................................................. 20 Band.............................................................................. 23 Basketball................................................................... 25 Center Stage............................................................ 27 Chess............................................................................. 28 Choir............................................................................. 31 Coding......................................................................... 34 Cosmetology............................................................ 36 Cosplay & Digital Media................................... 38 Culinary Arts............................................................. 41 Cybersecurity........................................................... 44 Dance........................................................................... 45 DIY................................................................................. 51 Drones......................................................................... 52

TABLE OF CONTENTS Financial Literacy................................................... 56 Gardening.................................................................. 57 Hydroponic Gardening & Nutrition............ 58 Interactive Engineering...................................... 60 Lion King Kids.......................................................... 63 Makerspace.............................................................. 70 Music Engineering................................................ 72 Podcasting................................................................. 76 Puppetry..................................................................... 80 Science Lab............................................................... 82 Soccer.......................................................................... 84 Stop Motion............................................................. 87 Student Council...................................................... 90 Writer’s Corner....................................................... 98 Yoga.............................................................................. 100 NineDot Collaboration....................................... 101 NineDot - Clean Energy Mural...................... 103

TABLE OF CONTENTS BLA Showcase.......................................................... 109 Closing Poem........................................................... 110

Editors’ Message

This magazine, and the creativity, ingenuity, and joy of our students captured within, has been near and dear to our hearts for almost a year.

Ourselves being artists, writers, and musicians, we sought to preserve the gift of the arts that we know all too well.

Today a writer, tomorrow a leader. Today an artist, tomorrow a problem solver. Today a musician, tomorrow a creative thinker. At BBL, we seek to engage the whole child in a rigorous but creative educational environment. BLA is a testament of our mission to do so.

We hope you enjoy!

Karlene & Kaela

1

2

Save Mother Earth Mural Project In the heart of the Bronx, a vibrant burst of color has emerged, radiating hope and environmental consciousness to all who pass by Bronx Charter School for Better Learning (Annex) on Crawford Avenue. This artistic masterpiece isn't the work of seasoned artists; it's the collective effort of young minds who joined forces with a passionate teaching artist, Tijay Mohammed, to create a visually striking "Save Mother Earth" mural.

In an era where climate change and environmental issues have taken center stage on the global agenda, this Bronx Charter School for Better Learning has gone above and beyond the traditional classroom experience to empower its students with the knowledge and creativity needed to address these pressing concerns. With brush strokes and bold ideas, these young artists have embarked on a journey to spread a message of environmental conservation, and their stunning mural is a testament to their dedication and passion for safeguarding our planet.

This project started in the bustling hallways of Bronx Charter School for Better Learning, where the voices of 4th-grade students echoed with passion as they delved into spirited discussions about pressing environmental issues during their Social Studies lessons. Two big themes in New York State’s Science/Social Studies curriculum are cause and effect relationships and interdependence. The students studied the relationship between the burning of fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions, they learned about the harmful effects of deforestation, and the benefits of reforestation (and how photosynthesis explains how trees absorb carbon and clean the air). They learned how reusing, reducing, recycling, and repurposing curb climate change and plastics in the ocean. Our students also learned about great black activists during Black History Month, and are also learning, in our collaboration with our ELA team, about how they too can act as activists through persuasive artwork.

3

Their fervor spilled over into their Fridays, transforming them into vibrant STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) sessions. The young minds of the school embarked on a mission, gathering an eclectic assortment of materials from their homes and school lunches. Old magazines, cereal boxes, paper towels and tissue tubes, and milk cartons became the canvas for their creativity. Armed with paper quilling techniques, they adorned bulletin boards with striking titles, crafted captivating collages, molded intricate sculptures, and painted architectural wonders that transcended imagination.

As their artistic expressions flourished, these budding change-makers pondered the ways they could extend their message to a wider audience. The idea of a grand mural took shape, with one bold student council member approaching Principal Jacobs to spearhead the endeavor. Thanks to the unwavering dedication of Ms. Buckle, who drafted a persuasive grant proposal, the project gained the green light, and the wheels were set in motion.

4

While awaiting the necessary approvals and the disbursement of funds, the students found another way to channel their artistic energy. In celebration of Earth Day 2022, they invited fellow playground enthusiasts to participate in the creation of a temporary chalk mural, showcasing their flair for graffiti art. Though a downpour washed away their vibrant masterpiece the following day, the essence of the moment was forever preserved through the lens of a camera.

5

The initiative to prepare the wall for the impending mural took shape under the leadership of Mr. Kashon Dubose, the PTA president. With a collaborative spirit, hands eagerly scraped, sanded, and primed the surface, setting the stage for an awe-inspiring artistic journey.

Ms. Buckle making sure that Amir applying the techniques Jenesha’s shoes are covered learned from Mr. Tijay

Ms. Clarke taking over and giving the students a break

Ms. Phillips adding her finishing touches to the priming stage

6

In the classroom, Mr. Tijay facilitated the conversation about environmental hazards affecting humans. Students were provided with materials to illustrate their ideas for the mural.

7

8

All the ideas were merged and a rendering was presented to our school administrators for approval.

Different students engaged staff to get feedback.

9

Principal Jacobs is an artist!

Mr. Shubert Jacobs, our BBL1 Principal, did not hesitate to add the first brush stroke to the design sketched on the primed wall. In his executive attire, he showed the young artists that he was part of the adventure. He found time on the weekend to meet with Mr. Tijay to add the finer details.

10

The Reveal & Celebration The young artists took their creativity a step further by enlisting the support of the entire school community to collect plastic bottles for their typography project on the fence. Through collective effort, we gathered a substantial number of bottles, enough to spell out the event's theme: "SPEAKING OUR TRUTH." Even parents, arriving to pick up their children after a long day, enthusiastically joined in on the fun.

11

On June 14, 2022, all 75 4th-graders had their respective roles to play during the grand reveal and celebration. The audience was treated to a diverse array of performances, from captivating dances to powerful choral recitations. As the morning progressed, we shared the compelling story of our journey, highlighting the dedication and teamwork that made our project a reality.

I AM MOTHER EARTH I am Mother Earth I am the river flowing through valleys I am the sun and the moon and the stars I am the forest breathing oxygen I am the ocean from which life springs I am Mother Earth I’m in your hands I’m in your care Together we stand So stop listening to greed I am Mother Earth Listen to the animals Listen to the plants Listen to the spirits of the deep Begging you, please!

12

I send you drought to warn you I send you storms to scold you I send you earthquakes to humble you I send you forest fires to wake you up But you still mar my face You burn fossil fuels You strip my land of its roots You stain the air with your plumes of smoke You fill my oceans with garbage You take… And take… And take from me Where did my children go?

Where did your appreciation go?

What will you humans do when you’ve lost my heartbeat from under your feet?

I am Mother Earth I will not wait for you to change I will not wait for you to change I will not wait for you to change!

Paint party with our BBL2 friends

13

Dress rehearsal

Performance

14

S

Janesha Miller and Emmanual Ezema

15

Among our esteemed guests was Mr. Tijay, who graced us with his presence and offered his own heartfelt message. He shared how our project had inspired him, underscoring the profound impact of our collective efforts on our school community and beyond.

16

Aim High

The Aim High Empowerment Institute is an exclusive program that gives boys exposure to positive influences, access to academic professional resources, and customized personal and professional development training.

17

Aim High Students in the program connect with coaches who are dedicated to helping them build competence, confidence and character.

18

19

Arts & Crafts

Our students used their creative skills to make their own two- and three-dimensional works of fine art. Visual Arts is all about allowing an individual to express a message in an emotional and visual way. While children are having fun, they’re also learning. The important role of Visual Arts is shaping our children’s success. This starts with our kindergarteners. The image below shows the relationship between arts and crafts and your children’s education. Each grade studied the life cycle within their classrooms. They had lots of fun using their fine motor skills to be creative. All grades collaborated by creating a beautiful backdrop of all their work showing each life cycle they worked on.

20

Arts & Crafts Kindergarten Our lovely five- and six-year-olds enjoyed playing and having fun by being creative while exploring the life cycle of a butterfly. They learned that butterflies start out as tiny eggs. Out comes a larva (caterpillar).

Next, is the pupa (chrysalis). Finally, the butterfly.

They used many textures such as pompoms, popsicle sticks, tissue paper, and glue to display each cycle.

1st Grade These young creative minds acquired the knowledge of the life cycle of a chicken. The famous question arose… “What came first, the chicken or the egg?”

They were able to grasp new concepts by paying close attention to each step of the life cycle. They used clay, feathers, pipe cleaners, paint and so much more.

2nd Grade Our young planters mastered their knowledge of planting by recreating each step. Students discussed their thoughts on what it takes to care for plants.

They need space to grow, the right temperature, light, water, air, nutrients, and time. They discovered this using their prior knowledge during their classroom science unit. Being able to create fun crafts based on their experience seemed to be intriguing to them.

21

Arts & Crafts

Kids love arts and crafts. We experimented with assorted colors and techniques, painting with paintbrushes, Q-tips, and even their fingers! One of the activities that we did was Handprint Art. There could be no better way to get a little messy and have fun making art with handprints and Q-tips! We made hand hearts for Valentine's Day. For the 100th day of school, we did a cool project that required the kids to paint with a Q-tip and make dots into a l masterpiece. Arts and crafts for kids have many benefits!

The following benefits are direct and indirect when kids are carrying out arts and crafts projects following a set guide or experimenting and using their own creativity.

Brain Development, Fine Motor Skills, Color Matching and Communication Skills -Ms. McLawrence

22

BAND Band students at BBL1 collaborated with the Theater department for the performance of Lion King Kids.

Our student musicians performed Danza Africana at both live performances of the musical. All band students received small group music lessons from our band director, Ms. Linzer.

23

BAND

Our student musicians at BBL2 learned and performed excerpts from the Standard Book of Excellence, Book 1.

24

BASKETBALL

25

The basketball enrichment program aimed to provide more than just basketball skills to young men. It focused on creating mentorship opportunities and developing positive role models for their peers. Students improved on basketball techniques such as shooting, dribbling, defending, rebounding, and passing. In addition, students enhanced their agility, acrobatic ability, speed, endurance, and overall basketball knowledge. These skills were not only valuable on the court but also helped in personal growth and development. To ensure that the players understood the broader responsibilities associated with being part of the team, they were asked to sign a basketball contract. This contract emphasized the importance of showing school pride, displaying leadership skills, practicing good sportsmanship, maintaining good grades, and exhibiting appropriate behavior in their classrooms. On and off the court, the BBL Lions created an environment that fostered character development and sports skills. This commitment to being a well-rounded individual was reinforced throughout the basketball enrichment club, creating an environment that fostered character development alongside basketball skills.

-Ms. Duncan

26

Center Stage

In the Center Stage program, students engaged in activities, ranging from script writing to acting to public speaking.

With guidance from Center Stage leader Mrs. Punzalan, students created a social-emotional play that discussed topics such as fitting in, being yourself, and how to handle bullying. The play examined several social scenarios and provided advice on the topics mentioned above. Our Center Stage scholars enjoyed sharing positive messages and lessons that can be learned from tough situations.

27

Chess Students in 3rd – 5th grade learned patience, critical thinking, problem-solving, and reasoning skills.

28

Chess

Chess tournaments taught students how to respond when they are not winning, giving them the opportunity to develop stamina, selfesteem, and self-efficacy.

29

June 22nd at the Albert Tuitt Campus Library with coach Mr. Romeo Emmanuel Ezema Ethan Asafo Zachary Flanigan Derrick Owubokiri Oreon Gooden Amari Reeves Nii Forson

30

CHOIR The program at Bronx Charter School for Better Learning is designed to enhance the musical, creative, and expressive qualities of all students.

Children learn the basic skills of singing, developing song repertoire, broadening listening skills, and experiencing the interrelated nature of music with other cultures and content areas.

This program consists of students ages 7 to 11 who desire to learn how to sing with proper technique and learn to sing in a group setting. Songs are arranged in 1-4 vocal parts, so students practice singing chorally while harmonizing, and blending with those around them. They were given multiple opportunities to perform a diverse repertoire at assemblies, showcases, basketball games, and any other event connected to BBL.

-Ms. Aviles + Ms. Antoine

31

32

33

CODING In our Coding Club, we use special computer languages like Python, Java, and HTML to make cool things on the internet, like websites, apps, and computer programs.

Our smart teachers will help you learn by doing fun projects. They'll show you how to understand tricky ideas and how to solve problems, which are really important skills in today's computer world!

34

CODING

Here's what you'll gain: Coding Mastery: From text to functional programs, you'll become proficient in coding across multiple languages.

Problem Solving: Tackle realworld challenges, sharpen critical thinking, and conquer complex problems.

Creativity & Innovation: Code as your canvas—design interfaces and create innovative projects.

Teamwork: Learn effective collaboration, idea-sharing, and communication while achieving shared goals.

Resilience: Develop patience and troubleshooting skills to conquer coding obstacles.

Digital Savvy: Gain deep tech knowledge for a competitive edge in any 35 career.

Cosmetology Students in our Cosmetology and Grooming program learned the importance of cleanliness, hygiene, and self care.

Our students were introduced to a variety of services, such as cuticle care, manicures, hair washing and hairstyling, and much more!

To showcase what they learned, students created their own spas and salons. in which they were tasked with offering services and pricing.

Additionally, they spoke of the importance of each service.

36

37

COSPLAY & DIGITAL MEDIA

Additionally, these 4th and 5th grade students participated in several acting workshops. In these workshops, students became more confident in their acting abilities, mastered the art of acting and reacting, gained understanding of how minor facial changes can reflect major emotional changes, and completed acting challenges through improvisation.

In Cosplay and Digital Media, students learned about the magic of Cosplay, and how modern Cosplay utilizes digital media. Students were introduced to the various types of Cosplay, and even created their own character. Cosplay is more than simply dressing up - it is assuming the character's traits, mannerisms, emotions, and backstory. Students crafted details about their characters to make each one unique.

In regards to Digital Media, students planned and filmed a variety of small projects. Students researched audio clips that they believe captured the essence of their cosplay characters.

Students produced and directed their own introductory videos, as well as wrote the scripts needed for our Capstone project.

38

COSPLAY & DIGITAL MEDIA But that's not all!

"It [Cosplay & Digital Media] changed my thinking about both acting and making videos because it showed me that sometimes you have to accept other ideas besides mine." - Mila

In addition to gaining acting and digital media skills, students also made connections between their new knowledge and real life situations. Students shared how their participation in this group changed their thinking and helped them grow as individuals and scholars.

"I learned to be confident and try things outside of my comfort zone." - Elisa "These ideas and skills are important because they can help you share your ideas with other people." - Sara "My learning changed my thinking because I thought that people could act without practicing. But actually, you really have to practice your scenes and be confident." Sydney

39

COSPLAY & DIGITAL MEDIA

40

CULINARY ARTS

"The team provided us with unwavering

assistance

since Day 1. I will definitely recommend

getting

your

dream home with Warner."

Our Culinary Arts Club captured the hearts and taste buds of our young aspiring chefs. It was designed to provide students with hands-on experience in the world of cooking and baking.

It aimed to teach them valuable life skills, such as teamwork, following instructions, safety rules of the kitchen, and fostering a love for healthy, homemade food. Each week had a unique culinary theme, which allowed the young chefs to explore a wide range of flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques.

They embraced their culinary journey with enthusiasm and determination. Many of them not only learned essential cooking skills but also displayed remarkable creativity.

41

42

Our Culinary Arts chefs produced their very own cooking show.

Enjoy!

43

Cybersecurity Cybersecurity...it's the name of the game Protecting yourself, it's not just a claim Keep your info safe, like a secret treasure Stay smart and secure beyond measure.

Hey BBL gather 'round, let me tell you a tale About a world online, where you check your mail It's called the Internet, a digital space But beware my friends, there may be danger to erase!

Passwords...oh passwords, they're your keys to the gate Make'em strong and unique, don't underestimate Use a mix of letters, numbers, and signs No pet names or birthdays...that's not fine!

Phishing emails, oh what a sneaky trick They pretend to be real, but it's all a flick Don't click on suspicious links or download the unknown It's better to be cautious, the responsibility is your own.

Be careful with sharing, and think before you post Personal info online can hurt you the most Your full name, address, or where you go to school Keep them private and safe...don't be too cool!

If you see something wrong, like cyberbullying or hate Tell a trusted adult, don't hesitate Together we can make the online world a better place Kindness and safety...let's make haste!

So, BBL friends, remember as you surf the net Stay wide awake, and don't fall into the threat With cybersecurity knowledge, you're the hero in the fight Keeping yourself safe, both day and night.

Cybersecurity...it's the name of the game Protecting yourself, it's not just a claim Keep your info safe, like a secret treasure Stay smart and secure beyond measure

44

45

DANCE

46

DANCE

The dance club was a very enjoyable experience. I learned many valuable lessons that I continue to apply daily as a teacher.

The club enhanced my creativity, as I connected the Arts(dance) through academic Enrichment. As I taught the children, I learnt that discovery learning can be applied in any area.

I was also able to capture the students different learning styles, and meet them where they are, by providing opportunities for them to excel in this area of discipline.

Sharmane Hazel

47

48

DANCE

DANCE

49

DANCE

50

DIY Through a culture of discovery, students had the opportunity to create projects that are primarily visual in nature, drawing, painting, and sculpture.

This club allowed students to express their creativity, engage in playful thinking, improve motor skills, increase social skills, and enter/express their imaginative world.

51

DRONES We strive to inspire and direct our students to become future leaders in technology.

52

DRONES

The drone program exposes students to a range of real-world possibilities using the latest technologies. In the program, students learn how to deploy drones for aerial photography, search and rescue missions, mapping, and inspections.

53

54

55

Financial Literacy

56

G A R D E N I N G

We believe in nurturing not only young minds but also green thumbs.

One of the most exciting extracurricular activities that took place last term was our gardening club. The students learned about the growth cycle of plants, the importance of soil, and how to care for them.

Watching their seeds sprout and grow was a rewarding experience for all.

Composting workshops educated the students about the significance of recycling organic waste to create nutrient-rich soil. They were involved in the composting process, learning how it contributes to sustainable gardening and a greener Earth.

57

HYDROPONIC GARDENING & NUTRITION

58

During last school year '22-'23, our scholars participated in a pilot for the discovery of hydroponics.

They explored the basics of hydroponics and made fun recipes along the way to make better food choices. This year they are part of the first Green Our Planet Magic garden portal filled with STEMworks-accredited curricula specialized for use with hydroponics systems.

We understand the need to promote plant-growing efforts indoors. Hydroponic farming offers our students and community a viable option to integrate nextgeneration standards with food security and literacy for better nutrition.

59

Interactive

E n g i n e e r i n g

Interactive engineering introduced students to various projects within three distinct themes: Mechanical, Marine, and Aerospace.

Students tackled challenges together while also learning about engineering principles.

These challenges included the creation and use of catapults, parachutes, and zip sails.

60

Interactive

E n g i n e e r i n g

Students also learned about boat basics, cartesian divers, straw rockets, and tried to defy gravity with an egg drop challenge.

61

62

63

Lion King Kids

Students make history: First ever BBL musical

Having a musical at The Bronx Charter School for Better Learning was an idea that we (Nia Greenwood & Jahmar Redwood) had in mind since we both began working at the school in 2018. After the challenges that the school faced during COVID, we both decided that the 2022-2023 school year was the perfect time to implement the musical.

The Lion King Kids was BBL 1's very first musical. At BBL 1 we have choir, band, and all the other amazing enrichment clubs that students are involved in. However, there are a plethora of students who have hidden talents of acting, singing, and dancing; The Lion King Kids was the perfect opportunity for those students to shine. Having the musical, students were able to showcase their talents, but also be held accountable for their academics and behavior during the school year.

In June 2023, students did the unimaginable. After 4 months of preparation, The Lion King Kids saw immense success and got astonishing feedback from the school community, staff, parents, and families. In the 2023-2024 school year, we (Nia Greenwood and Jahmar Redwood) will proudly present Beauty and The Beast, BBL 1's second musical. It will come at a perfect time, as a huge way to celebrate our school's 20th anniversary.

64

65

66

67

68

69

MAKERSPACE

70

MAKERSPACE Makerspace provided an exciting and engaging opportunity for our young learners to explore their creativity and relax after school.

The club was designed to cater to diverse interests and talents, ensuring that every child felt motivated and included. Some students in the club enthusiastically delved into the world of fashion and interior design, where they showcased their imagination by designing doll clothing and creating beautiful home interior decor. Meanwhile, other students embraced the world of engineering and construction, working with LEGOs to build an array of innovative structures and vehicles. This club provided a fantastic space for these budding engineers, designers, and innovators to collaborate, experiment, and express themselves, fostering a love for learning and exploration in the process.

71

72

MUSIC ENGINEERING

73

This curriculum is designed to serve students of various ages and backgrounds by facilitating student-authored compositions using graphic notation while embracing a modern approach to music education.

Graphic notation is the process by which youth create a visual image or symbol to represent a sound, and then a series of symbols are developed and arranged sequentially in patterns to craft melodies or rhythms to bring about the final score.

MUSIC ENGINEERING The process of symbols representing metrics of time helps students practice mathematical principles in a fun and creative process, where one symbol might be two beats, one might be four beats, or one beat of rest, and so on.

Alongside the scores, utilizing modern instrumentation is a method of engaging with technology and electrical engineering at a conscious level.

Synthesizers, samplers, electronic drums, hand percussion, electric guitar, and effects are all in the cache of equipment for student use. During their introduction, we delved into circuitry design, sound properties relating to fundamental physics, and pragmatic use in a musical setting, all to delve deeper into the joy of music and its application across many subjects and professions.

74

MUSIC ENGINEERING

All these lessons are taught through a filter of the teachers’ own experiences as composers, refining experimentation in compositions of minimalism, drone, and combinations of electronic and acoustic instrumentation. We hope to record our music and safely perform for families and the community as the culminating event to uplift our youth.

75

Podcasting

Podcasting is more fun with friends!

EDITING TOGETHER

Our 3rd – 5th students have excellent imaginations and creativity, but they often do not know how to harness and develop it.

RECORDING IN PROGRESS The Podcasting club provided the vehicle and fuel to let their creativity and

imagination

soar.

Students

developed and improved their writing

PRODUCER AT WORK

skills as well as their confidence.

76

Podcasting Each

student

engaged

in

the

writing

process by selecting a topic of interest, developing

characters/settings

in

the

genre of choice, drafting his/her story, editing after receiving feedback from their peers

and

their

teachers,

and

lastly

publishing their work.

COLLABORATING

Each student’s published book will be showcased.

WRITING OUR SCRIPTS

PODCAST CREATION IN PROGRESS

77

Podcasting episode from BBL2

78

Podcasting episodes from BBL1

79

PUPPETRY

Our young thespians had the opportunity to explore the fascinating world of drama and expression. They not only learned the art of storytelling but also honed their communication and acting skills. One of the highlights of the club was the hands-on experience of making their very own sock puppets.

These puppets became their canvas for selfexpression, as they named their creations and imbued them with unique personalities. The students' creativity truly shone as they brought their puppet characters to life through performances for a live Buses audience. It was heartwarming to witness the enthusiasm and imagination these young talents brought to the stage.

80

81

Science Lab

We had an amazing time exploring the wonders of the natural world. In our science lab, young scientists learned how to conduct investigations, just like real scientists do. We observed fascinating things; how plants grow and change, what happens when we mix different liquids, and even how objects float or sink in water. We used our observation skills to carefully watch and take notes about what we saw. Then, we put on our thinking caps and drew conclusions about the mysteries we uncovered. The best part was that we worked in groups, which helped us build teamwork skills, share ideas, and, most importantly, have a ton of fun while discovering the secrets of science!

82

Science Lab

83

SOCCER Research has proven that soccer can be a great sport for kids who may not have high levels of athletic ability, but who would like to participate in team sports. Soccer is ideal for boys and girls, who play the same game under the same rules and where physically appropriate, may play alongside each other.

Some individuals have the prerequisites to become good players. However, rather than focusing on individual talent and play, they needed to learn how to work more as a team or group.

Based on that, the sessions were mainly focused on working as a team and having good communication amongst themselves. While engaged in the activities, their coordination improved which promoted better teamwork and sharing. They learned to ‘think on the run’, which helped to increase skills in concentration, persistence, and self-discipline.

Learning proper controlling, passing, and shooting techniques while lessening one’s frustration and mistakes in the process, helped to increase their confidence and self-esteem and reduce anxiety.

Working as a team helped several individuals to understand that teamwork is very important in achieving a common goal rather than trying to achieve it solo.

FROM THE KIDS “Playing soccer has helped to improve my movements and to be patient with others.” NJR “The soccer enrichment has helped to improve my skills at playing. I was so bad at it, but now I can even play with my parents. They are so impressed with how good I’ve become.” PC -Mr. Letts & Ms. Kerr

84

SOCCER

85

86

Stop motion is an animated filmmaking technique in which objects are physically manipulated in small increments between individually photographed frames so that they will appear to exhibit independent motion or change when the series of frames is played back.

Students at both campuses constructed their own stop motion mini films, creating their own storyline through illustrations and specific movements.

Students first applied their new skills to the creation of a short film featuring a bird flying. Students had to determine what movements would best show those actions to their viewers.

87

88

Additionally, students crafted short films about superheroes flying through the air. Students made small adjustments to their artwork to show capes flapping in the breeze and the superheroes soaring to varying heights, on their way to fight crime, For their final creations, students collaborated to draw, color, film and animate a short story, depicting the steps of making a sandwich.

Despite having the same prompt, all groups presented their own unique twist on the narrative.

89

STUDENT COUNCIL- BBL1

The Student Council Deparment at our school is an important way for students in our 3rd - 5th grade classes to step up and show their leadership skills. In the 3rd - 5th grade classes, two students are chosen to be a leader and representative for their classes. In this role, students exemplify what it is to be a leader, in and out of their classes. Student Council also selects a President and Vice President who is the voice for the student body in 3rd 5th grade. Students in 3rd - 5th grade can choose to run and campaign for these positions, which helps them grow in their public speaking, develop their language skills, and overall confidence. It is important that we continue to utilize our students in leadership roles, as it will help guide them through middle school, high school, and their adulthood to come.

-Mr. Jahmar Redwood

90

STUDENT COUNCIL- BBL2

I had the pleasure of serving as the student council coordinator, overseeing twelve student council representatives this past school year. We met weekly during lunch to discuss different visions, ideas, and concerns that students had brought forth.

Student council members were noticeably active; they collaborated and put together motivational kits that included snacks, words of inspiration, and other treats for 3rd 5th-grade students who were preparing to take state tests in May. They also prepared/distributed programs for our spring concert and served as ushers to assist parents, families, and visitors into the auditorium. Lastly, they created a beautiful banner that would be displayed during the Staff vs. Parents Basketball Game.

Students engaged in the electoral process and successfully campaigned for the student council president and vice president positions. Teachers volunteered as campaign managers to assist students with their campaigns. Students distributed bracelets, displayed posters, created campaign videos, and visited different classrooms to appeal to their peers, in hopes of gaining their votes. The ballots were cast by 3rd - 5th graders digitally, and students received "I Voted" stickers after they had exercised their civic duties. The winners for the 2023-2024 student council president and vice president positions were then announced in June.

It was wonderful witnessing students come out of their "shells," developing their interpersonal skills, public speaking skills, and just serving their school community in different capacities. I think the students enjoyed the overall experience, as well.

-Ms. Carine Valere

91

92

93

STUDENT COUNCIL- BBL2

94

sustainability sustainability The BBL 2 sustainability department is working on creating a new reusable bottle initiative to limit waste from plastic water bottles. The objective of this initiative will be to provide every student at BBL2 with a reusable water bottle that can be refilled throughout the school day, to limit the effects of plastic bottle waste.

This program will teach students the direct effects that plastic waste has on our school and community and give students the opportunity to teach their peers about the importance of recycling. The reusable bottle initiative will begin at the start of the school year.

-Mr. Christopher Metzger

95

As the Sustainability Coordinator here at BBL1, I am thrilled to share some exciting news with you today. We are embarking on a fantastic journey to repurpose shredded paper from our main office into an artistic venture that will not only nurture creativity but also promote sustainability.

Paper clay, for those who are unfamiliar, is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional clay that's made by mixing shredded paper with a few simple ingredients. It's a wonderful material for sculpting, and it dries to a hard, durable finish that can be painted and used for various purposes.

We plan to host exhibitions showcasing the incredible sculptures created by our students and the broader community. These exhibitions will be open to the public, allowing us to share our message of sustainability and creativity with the wider community.

Using paper clay in our art projects not only diverts paper waste from landfills but also promotes creative thinking and resourcefulness among our students. It's a fantastic way to teach them about recycling, reusing, and reducing waste while having fun making art.

We will make a difference, one sculpture at a time.

-Nichole Campbell-Brown

96

paper clay

97

WRITER'S CORNER

YOU'RE NEVER TOO YOUNG TO BECOME AN AUTHOR

98

99

YOGA Practicing Mindfulness Students learned mindfulness, flexibility, and inner balance. It was heartwarming to witness these young yogis develop their physical and mental well-being. Each session began with a circle of positivity, where the children shared their intentions for the day.

We then embarked on a series of gentle yoga poses and stretches, fostering body awareness and strength. The highlight was the imaginative yoga adventures that transported the students to far-off The first Company to be places and magical worlds, igniting their creativity and exploration. Founded

100

It's time to make a change, We're on a mission, let's rearrange.

Talking 'bout clean energy, let's go green, Environmental health from The Bronx to Brooklyn Clean energy, we're on the right track, Saving the Earth, we ain't never turning back.

Renewable power, wind and solar rays, Together we'll make a brighter future, come what may.

Wind turbines spinning, capturing the breeze, Generating power, no pollution, it's a breeze.

Solar panels shining, soaking up the sun, Reducing carbon footprint, we're getting things done.

Recycling our trash, reducing waste, Composting food scraps…let's make haste.

Planting trees, cleaning rivers and streams, Protecting habitats, fulfilling our dreams.

101

We're the eco-warriors, standing strong and tall, We're gonna save the Earth … for one and all.

With love for our planet, we'll make a stand, Hand in hand, we'll protect this land.

So, join the movement, become a part, Let's spread the message, right from the heart.

Together we're powerful, we'll make a change, Clean energy for a better world, that's our aim.

BBL, we hope you're inspired, To be eco-friendly, the Earth's desire.

Let's be environmental activists, united and strong, For a cleaner, greener world, where we all belong.

102

NINEDOT-BBL CLEAN ENERGY MURAL Over the past year, Bronx Charter School for Better Learning (BBL2) got to know our Gunther Avenue neighbor, NineDot Energy, who built their first community battery storage site across the street from the school. As part of this relationship, NineDot Energy employees traveled to our classroom on Fridays to volunteer for an after-school STEM program. They presented lessons on energy storage, distribution, and consumption, shared ideas about their work with NineDot, and answered questions about clean energy. From these interactions, the 4th and 5th-grade students got excited and wanted to create a mural for the battery site that conveys a strong message about the importance of clean energy. Their STEM manager, Ms. Karlene Buckle, devised a plan in collaboration with her school administrators and NineDot. Working with Mr. Tijay Mohammed, a renowned teaching artist, the students commenced their art activism journey. After months of dedication and hard work, the mural project was completed. This mural, a testament to the passion and dedication of the young artists, will serve as a symbol of hope and change.

It will convey the urgent message of clean energy and sustainability, inspiring all who see it to take action. The collaborative effort between BBL and NineDot Energy exemplifies the power of community engagement and the ability of young minds to effect positive change.

The mural, spanning the length of the battery site, installed by ArtBridge, faces the MS144 school building with BBL2 on the third floor and was revealed to the public on Saturday, October 14, 2023.

103

104

105

106

107

Volume 2 of our BLA Magazine will include the details of the CLEAN ENERGY MURAL ...

REVEALED!

108

BLA SHOWCASE

109

Better Learning Academy: where dreams ignite ​ A tapestry of talents, shining so bright ​ From January to June 3:00 to 5:00 everyday​ Now let’s describe all the clubs in a unique way​ ​ DIY means Do It Yourself We made pretty things to put on our bookshelves Although we made a few mistakes We enjoyed every session with tapes and shapes ​ Podcasting, a platform for voices to be heard On issues in the Bronx and across the world​ From interviews to stories, we shared our tale ​ With every episode, our voices prevailed ​ In Makerspace, we built a school With cardboard boxes and different tools Every day we worked hard with our hands The beautiful project we shared with our fans ​ Drones taking flight, high in the sky ​ Aerial pictures we captured with the camera’s eagle eye ​ With every hover, a new perspective was found ​ Exploring Northeast Bronx, and the BBL compound In music engineering, melodies take shape ​ Mixing and mastering, creating landscapes ​ Sounds harmonize, rhythms intertwine​ Bells toll and metals chime​ Chess, where minds are engaged and strategies unfurled The pawns advanced, and the knights were twirled​ Bishops glided, queens commanded the fray Checkmate whispered victory's bouquet

110

​ Basketball and soccer, create bursts of sweat​ The thrill of victory, the motivation you get With teamwork, swift passes, and goals on every side Our coaches cheering and supporting with pride ​

Visual arts, where colors dance and sing​ Paintbrushes sway, creating everything ​ Glues, paints, and papier-mâché​ Imagination paves the way​ Band instruments playing, melodies unfold ​ Harmony and rhythm, a symphony bold ​ From brass to strings, happy sounds fill the air ​ Instruments sing, and our talents we share​ In 2022, we had multiple performances​ To celebrate Black History, Hispanic Heritage, Hanukka, and Christmas Our hearts intertwined in joyful exuberance A tapestry of cultures, a harmonious chance ​ Interactive Engineering, a challenge...that’s true​ Investigation skills needed after following the cue, ​ With gears, pulleys, and circuits that withstand, ​ Our projects are never bland.​ Financial literacy, a pathway to success ​ Understanding money, no more distress ​ Budgeting, investing, building wealth anew ​ Empowered students, futures bright and true​

​ ​

111

​ ​ Clean energy mural, colors of sustainability, ​ Painting a future, filled with possibility. ​ Brushes stroke hope, shades of green, ​ Inspiring change, a world pristine.​ ​ Student council, leaders’ voices united Planning and implementing , school principals invited As we advocate on behalf of our peers And for us to enjoy our future years.

In Cosmetology class, we boldly shine, With winning smiles, pretty nails, and positive minds Grooming, fashion, and poise boost our self-esteem With all this in place, we can start working on our dreams In the heart of the jungle, where dreams take flight Lion King Junior, a magical delight With Simba and his friends, in a radiant display A timeless tale of courage, in the African sun's ray Cosplay, a world of characters and delight Imagination taking flight, day and night Costumes crafted, identities embraced​ In fictional worlds, we found our place Coding, the language of the future, we embraced ​ Lines of code, created in cyberspace Problem solvers, innovators in the making With each keystroke, new possibilities awakening​

112

Cybersecurity teaches us to stay secure and strong ​ Four simple pointers to help you along Protect your passwords, strong and unique ​ Think before you click, avoid the sneak peek In our virtual reality world we wander and explore​ We take trips to places near and far With VR goggles, we travel and play Learning in a whole new way In classrooms green, young farmers learn About hydroponic wonders in return Seeds in water, roots reach for light It’s amazing what happens overnight ​ In AIM HIGH, as young men we learn of our power,​ To protect our country, neighborhood, and each other,​ To uphold the values of good leaders While pursuing excellence as 3rd to 5th-graders ​ At Center Stage we act and direct Sharing stories of love and respect Teaching lessons of how to treat others Like we are all sisters and brothers​ ​ In Culinary Arts we slice and dice And make simple dishes that are simply nice With aprons on and utensils in hands We explore many recipes with different food brands

113