At the open house Nov. 14, students made Thanksgiving centerpieces for residents at Evergreen Commons in East Greenbush
Sackett Educational Center held an open house for current students and their families on Thursday, November 14. Parents met with Principal Karen Brockley and Questar III Guidance Counselor/Transition Coordinator Sally Lauletta to discuss pathways to graduation, Regents requirements to graduate and the course offerings at Sackett.
Brockley says events like this are important to ensure students get the most out of their education.
“Parent involvement is crucial to any child’s education. Research has shown that parent involvement results in increased attendance, improved behavior, and an increase in both their social and academic skills. It is important that parents have the opportunity to be involved in their child’s education, get to know their teachers and staff, as well as have the opportunity to ask questions and learn about changes to education.”
During the open house, students worked with school staff and Work-Based Learning Coordinator Jon Levine on a service project for Evergreen Common nursing home in East Greenbush.
Students created Thanksgiving centerpieces by decorating mason jars with artificial leaves, twine and battery-powered lights to donate to residents at the nursing home. Like many Questar III programs, service learning projects are an important part of the academic program at Sackett, teaching students not only skills that will be needed or useful in the workplace, but more importantly how giving back to their community can enhance one’s own sense of self-worth and the value of community. In all, students made 12 centerpieces that were delivered to the nursing home last week.