The Branch School

Where in the world is this Branch student? Enjoying a vacation with family in beautiful California!

Branch 8th graders participate in a year-long "Capstone" project, Students choose a subject that they are interested in, and then spend their year doing a deep dive into that subject. These projects include a spoken, written and visual presentation, as well as an impact project. This year, students presented on a wide variety of subjects ranging from Artificial Intelligence to Animal welfare, climate change, dreams, LGBTQIA topics, dementia and more. We couldn't be more proud of their hard work and creativity!

Branch 7th and 8th graders had a great trip to California. Highlights included Yosemite National Park, Monterey Bay Aquarium, Fisherman's Wharf, Alcatraz, and more! Thanks to our dedicated parents who chaperoned. Special thanks to Branch Staff, Ms. Shu and Ms. Brown for bringing the fun and education at the same time. Mr. Judice also chaperoned, and he enjoyed getting to know the students and parents better, and was very impressed with all.

The Branch Track team competed in their final meet of the year recently. While Branch is a smaller school than many of our competitors, our student athletes did exceptionally well. Sports is a great way to develop character, and the Branch characteristics of "grace and grit". We are so proud of our team! A big thanks to Coach Cooks for his leadership, and to Mr. Hill for lending his expertise. Thank you to the parents and spectators who made the long trek to the meet. Go Bears!

At Branch, reading is SERIOUS business. Also at Branch, reading is a whole lot of fun! The Branch Parents Association sponsored their annual Readathon again this year. However, a new event was added--the "Read-In". Students started with a yummy snack and a bit of playground time. Then, they could choose from several stations to visit. These included an arts and crafts area, a movie (from a book, of course), having a story read to them by a teacher or volunteer, listening to a book, or acting out a book. Or, you could just enjoy quiet reading by cozy candlelight. Students could switch between "chapters" for a change of activity. Everyone had fun, and was able to add their book-related activities to their minutes log for the Readathon. A lifetime love of reading is the big win!

Last week, Branch teachers, students and families enjoyed the annual Spring Bonnet parade. Students sported their own creative hats, and had a colorful parade around the playground. Then, families gathered with their students for a potluck brunch. Everyone had a very happy time! Thank you North Wing teachers, Ms. Brown, Mrs. Peters and Mrs. Scarbrough for always bringing the joy to every occasion!
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