With the school year off to great start, the students and faculty at Natchitoches magnet are enjoying their new facilities. The first nine weeks ended Oct. 10, and so much has happened already.
“We’re looking forward to exciting first year here,” said Principal Stephonie French.
Robert Carnline’s 8th grade Social Studies classes learned about Louisiana culture and culture regions. Groups researched Sportsman’s Paradise, Cross Roads, Cajun Country, Plantation Country and Greater New Orleans. Each group created a museum exhibit for 5th grade students to visit.
A few 8th graders volunteered to learn about and reenact Historic figures of Louisiana for APHN’s Children’s Tour, which is visited by 3rd graders throughout the Parish.
Students also showed their support on National Day of Prayer as they gathered around the flag pole in unity to lift up the nation, school and community.
Two 6th grade girls, Anniston Broadway and Madison Robinson, initiated an Anti-Bullying Effort on their own at the school. Anniston also created a flyer that they handed out to those interested in helping make a difference in this area. Putting positive notes in cubbies to create positive environment for everyone.
“We decided to do this because we wanted to prevent bullying and bring awareness to the school. We wanted to boost student’s self-confidence and make them feel comfortable at school by just being who they are.” –Annie and Madison
Other happenings include:
Second grade field trip to Anderson’s Farm and the Natchitoches Parish Fair
Printer and ink donation from Pilgrim’s
Builders Club and National Honor Society volunteered at Robeline First Baptist Church’s 5K Color Run
Student Council purchased vinyl to redo the sign in front of the school
David Peters was nationally recognized by Duke TIP for his ACT score
Continuously looking to the future and improving the student experience, French said the school is working on beginning an Elementary Honor Society and Pep Squad, which will start with the beginning of the second nine weeks.
Another new concept that French is excited to implement at the school is student led conferences. She visited the No. 1 school in the state to brainstorm some ideas that would work at Magnet. Student led conferences gives the students more ownership of their work. It helps them set and achieves roles. Instead of the teacher telling the parent about their child’s progress, the student is required to present their grades and achievements for the nine week period to their parent.
“We want them to be leaders in their education instead of back seat drivers,” said French. “We feel our students are capable of that.”
