Up-and-coming entrepreneurs

Every day I find out a new cool thing going on in one of our Education Department programs. 

Our theme for our After-School Academy (ASA) this summer is Environment. The teachers have done absolutely amazing things with the kids. The last time I walked into the ASA, I wondered aloud why there were a series of about six 8 1/2" x 11" pieces of paper stuck to the low ceiling. I was quickly told that the papers were the kids' effort (guided by Mr. Chris) to Google map Dallas to China so they could begin to understand their ecological footprint.

Another one of our teachers, Ms. Danielle, is working on teaching the kids about nutrition, healthy eating, and gardening. She's done some cooking classes with the kids that are combined with literature, nutrition, and the different academic skills that go along with the cooking. The ASA has also started a walking club that involves families in the program. They are even working with our own Dr. Rhonda (pediatrician) to measure their BMI and such to start seeing improvement as the summer progresses.

So, when the farm stands started this week, it folded in wonderfully with our theme and the teachers' lessons. Danielle Evans (different from Ms. Danielle the teacher) has gotten community members involved to oversee the farm stand every Wednesday from 9:00-3:00. Plans are in the works for our Mid-Teen University boys to begin working with the police department on a service project that would take orders from the seniors in the Roseland Gardens high rise and then deliver their produce on Wednesdays. 

Since we are about education, learning, and knowledge...and since we have a theory that part of the reason people in low-income communities don't eat as many fruits and veggies because of lack of access and/or low-quality and high price in the stores, it was very exciting to me to hear that the kids and teens from our different education programs pulled their quarters together to go buy a bag of 4 apples for $1 so they could have a snack for later in the day. (knowing this is leading us to make plans to have the farm stand later in the day once the school year starts so kids can buy healthier snacks once school lets out).

Finally, it was very exciting to me to walk into the building after lunch on Thursday to see Mr. Chris's class with printouts of fruits and veggies on the tables. I love that Mr. Chris took the idea of the farm stand and created a simulation for the kids to learn how to operate the farm stands (which will lead us to our next project of getting the kids to run their own business and operate the farm stands themselves). You can hear them all discussing how the farm stands work, giving me the pitch to sell their fruit and veggies, and learning ways to make extra money.

Our ASA this summer absolutely amazes me every time I visit. Thanks, crew!

MTU Outreach

This past Monday, I had the opportunity to visit the residents of the Roseland community. Myself, Dranoel, and a couple of the older girls and boys of the After School Academy traveled door to door to inform the residents of the various programs we have for children and adults. Before embarking on our afternoon journey, we split into two groups. Dranoel took the three boys- Neiman, Joshua and John- and I took Niesha and Diamond. Since Dranoel already posted his telling of the boys experience, I'll be happy to share mine.

After splitting up, the girls and I made our way around one side of the community. We were fortunate enough to be able to speak to quite a bit of people. Some of which, Niesha was already acquainted with, which definitely made it more comfortable for Diamond and I. Although we were familiar with a few people, there were a few houses that had no idea what kind of programs the Roseland community has to offer. The girls and I were anxious to fill them in and invite them to come and join our community. The neighbors were very impressed with the girls' ability to greet and introduce themselves. It definitely piqued their interest in our programs and what we teach our students.

All in all, it was a very fun, new and exciting experience for all of us. We will definitely have the opportunity to venture out into the community in the near future. Until then, please enjoy these two videos of both groups responses to their afternoon of outreach!





-Sheena Hampton (UTA Intern and MTU Teacher)

The Mohawk & Alondra Show!

Last week, Ruben & Alonda (from the Green Team) recorded their first episode of "The Mohawk & Alondra Show." They demonstrated the reaction you get when you mix oil, water, and different substances. (Sand, Sugar, & Salt)

Greetings From the ASA

After learning that a greeting is when someone takes the time to show others respect by shaking their hand and acknowledging their presence; the 3^rd,4^th and 5^th graders role-played greeting. The children role-played how to greet acquaintances/friends and how to greet someone whom they have not met before. Also, the children spent the day intentionally greeting others.

Chrystalin W. (3rd,4th,5th grade Teacher)

Below two students demonstrate meeting someone new.

American Airlines Field Trip

How to pass the bread

How to Set the Table

Public Etiquette Demonstration

My Day in Mid Teen University

So, as the teens in Teen University were going through Etiquette Class upstairs, I was sent down to unofficially assist Mr. Adam in running Mid Teen University. I have seen Mr. Terrence and Mr. Adam run this program before, but I didn't think I was going to assist in it anytime soon. No sweat...well maybe a little bit.

In attendance were two of the three young men who helped me pass out flyers earlier in the community, Niemen and Joshua. Along with them, were two others, Noel (who claimed I stole his name, his father's name, and his grandfather's name) and TJ. These guys have a lot of energy I tell you.

Well, we started of playing a board game geared towards prominent African-American figures and African-American history. I have never seen anything like it and I thought it was pretty cool to learn facts about George Washington Carver and George Washington Bush. After that, we played Brain Quest, the United States version. We learned facts about the 50 states and I was appreciative of the involvement of the young men in the program.

After sitting around with board games, they want to be more active, so we played a series of Human Knot and Categories (Joshua insisted). And I don't remember, but someone mentioned having a crab walk competition...Whew! To see them all crab walking for a time was funny and inspiring altogether. So, I volunteered to compete also...I am not old enough to complain, but it has been a while since I crab walked :) After that, we had a bear crawl competition. Even Mr. Adam participated in the activity (which also inspired me to participate). I almost broke a sweat, but it would have been well worth it for the fun of the program. Engaging them in physical activities is a great idea because young men have lots of energy and what is a better way to use it than to have them play a sport, or even bear crawl.

The kids in the program are great, as well as the staff. I am glad Mr. Terrence created this program and Mr. Adam is continuing it. I like the path MTU is going through and if they need any assistance in running the program, whether physically running or just running the program generally, I wouldn't mind. That was my first day of Mid Teen University in a nutshell.

- Dranoel

Showing me the Works

So today, Sheena and I were sent on a mission to go out to the Roseland Community and tell the residents about ASA, MTU, the Farm Stand, and the different events going on through Central Dallas Ministries. I have been around the area, but I have not really been AROUND the area. Luckily, I was blessed with three guides who helped me along the way. Niemen, Joshua, and John were three young gentlemen who are apart of our programs, and were my help along the way. Niemen pretty much took us where he left off from a previous advertising walk, and we went door-to-door from there. I let them introduce themselves, and they did it very well, and in a respectable manner. I heard them tell me which homes had kids, and which homes had dogs (i.e. the homes they would knock and then run back, leaving me to face the canines haha). They presented the information and flyers well, and whatever they left off, I would make sure to mention it.

We received compliments from the residents about how good the kids were, and I even got a compliment for spending the time with them to go out and and pass out flyers with them. As said by one of the residents "I see a future in these young men." I believe that with all my heart.

I have to say it was a pleasure completing this successful mission with these gentlemen. I enjoyed their help and company.

- Dranoel

Gross!

But unfortunately, that's what trash is.

Gross.

Today the 2nd-3rd graders got their messy on and went (supervised, that's very important) Dumpster diving! Tomorrow's field trip is to the landfill and recycling center, and before we saw where the trash goes, I wanted them to see what the trash is. Later in the day Aviant and Niemen even got to stop the dump truck as it was leaving and talk to the driver!

Now here's the best part, and the kids did this all on their own. They began to realize that lots of things in the dumpster could/should have been recycled, but now they're going to the landfill instead. So they took some items we found out and put them in the recycling bin! How's that for implementing what you learn?

~Mr. Chris

"The Skin I'm In"

Our Pre-Teen girls are reading and discussing "The Skin I'm In" by Sharon Flake this summer.

D.E.A.R. Time

DROP EVERYTHING AND READ!

I GOT THE BLUES!

What an exciting day for Teen U students! Today, we went to the House of Blues and learned about African Americans contribution to music from the past to the present. It was very fascinating to hear the songs the slaves sang when they were being transported through the Middle Passage to America to the 1970's when Muddy Waters sang "I can't be satisfied. " The students enjoyed the experience and cannot wait until next Friday when they go back to the House of Blues to learn about folk artists.

On Wednesday, Teen U students had another college 101 workshop entitled "How to choose a major." Each student had to find a major based on their interests. For example, Sharde loves to help people so she decided to major in sociology. After they found their major, they had to look for universities with their major and pick a profession. Finally, they created a poster or PowerPoint to present their major and career choice to their peers. I enjoyed listening to their presentations and getting to know more about the students.

~~~Jamacah~~~

Listen Carefully

Today for rotations I had the opportunity of participating in a "music" activity with my class and then Ms. Chrystalin's class. The goal? To hear the music of our world. The product? Music of our own. The first scene is my class with their composition of imitated city sounds (yes, they are supposed to be that loud, after all, the city is loud, right?), then we see some footage of Ms. Chrystalin's class collaborating on their song, then their finished project. See if you can identify all the different noises (birds, people, helicopters, ice cream trucks, cars, potato chip crunching, candy shaking, power washers). What else do you hear?

~Mr. Chris

Call for Legos!

Thanks to the Dallas Housing Authority (DHA), we were provided space that allowed us to operate our Teen University, Library/Bookstore and Connect U technology lab in the Roseland community since September of last year. Conversations with residents (youth and adults) over the years had told me that our communities didn't have access to the educational opportunities people want and need in order to be successful. Though we had an After-School Academy, it only allowed us to reach kids up to 5th grade. So, I was very excited once we were provided with the space to expand our programs.

Despite our 300% increase in number of programs, we realized about halfway into the school year that we were still missing something. The middle schoolers weren't fitting in to our 6th-12th grade Teen University concept. They just weren't old enough for it to work for them. So, Terrence, one of our Americorps members, branched off on his own to create Mid-Teen U for the middle school (and sometimes younger) boys.

What he found was that the boys wanted to learn "how to." They wanted to figure out how to build structures. They were interested in knowing how things worked. So, the staff started researching and found some curriculum on aerodynamics. They started dropping things from the bannister to see how fast it would fall. They let the boys experiment. They looked into building wind turbines.

As a result, instead of the boys being on the outside of the building getting into trouble with their friends, several of them began going inside and using their brain power to think about educational concepts. You know that saying, "The idle mind is a devil's workshop"? Over the years, I have begun to understand that if we challenge our kids to think and work with them in our programs on things that cause them to leave for the day still thinking and wondering about how they can do something or what they can create next, their brain power is used up strategizing what they can do next. As a result, they know how to use their brain to create and construct instead of destroy.

Investing in these young men takes staffing, time, effort, and lots of emotional energy. However, not investing in them ends up taking much more staff, time, effort, and emotional energy in a much more negative way.

So, this summer, we have worked to try to continue the program two days a week. (We hope to have it 5 days a week this fall). We invested in Lego Smart kits for each kid with the goal of entering Lego competitions in the fall. The boys have begun to take an interest and now want to create a community with Legos. The only problem is, the Lego kits only have about 15 pieces each. So, we need more Legos!

If you or anyone you know can donate retired Legos (tubs, kits, etc.), we would love to take them off your hands...and maybe when the young guys get their city or other structure built, you can come see it....or at least see them in process.

Fewer Low-Income Students Going to College

A recent report shows a decline in college enrollment and graduation of low-income students.

I know what a lot of people say..."Not everyone is college material." and "We need all kinds of workers...not just those who work at jobs with college degrees." and "People can make a better salary working some of the 'trade school' type jobs." And I agree with all of those statements.

However, I feel that every person deserves information and a choice. So, I feel a personal obligation to provide that information to the people in my network of friends and in the community where I live and work. If, equipped with the information, people choose something different than college, I'll completely support that decision.

So, the latest information out is that there are fewer low-income students going to college. Of course, when you add to that the graph I've attached at the top that shows income is directly related to education, this new report causes me great concern. I don't get the feeling that the drop in numbers of low-income people attending and graduating from college is leading to higher paying jobs for those who don't attend.

The other disturbing factor to me is my many conversations with young people who explain to me, "I can't go to college. My mom is a single mom and she can't afford it," or other misnomers that have led to low-income individuals moving on a path that doesn't involve college and usually ends them in dead-end jobs.

I understand that this report was based on 2004 numbers and that things may look different now--six years later with an economic downturn that has led even high-degreed college graduates to sit at home drawing unemployment. However, I would think an over-qualified, out-of-work executive would be much more likely to land any job (if they would be willing to take such a pay cut) over someone who was much less qualified and less skilled. Personally, I would rather be the one with the resume that demonstrates my education and experience.

To counter the myths out there about college, our Teen University at Roseland has begun doing College 101 classes. You can see the topics here...and feel free to let anyone in the Dallas area know about it. If they are willing to get there, we are willing to include them.

Hands on with Solar Energy

Video by: Danielle Davis

Solar Energy Workshop for the ASA

Today the Green Team had their second environment workshop, Solar Energy. The workshop went off well, although the sunlight was blocked due to cloud coverage. The Green Team worked with what they had and did most of their original activities with a few modifications. I was impressed with the way the Green Team adapted to the sudden change in plans. At no time did they say we CAN’T do something, they just worked with what they had. The workshop concluded with a movie and we finally got a chance to watch Wall-E (YAH!!!!)

Overall I would say this workshop went off better than the last, due in part to the ASA staff. After the first workshop we asked the ASA staff for recommendations. Their help allowed the Green Team to be successful in this workshop.

If you want more information on the workshop check out Ruben’s blog post (below). But until next time remember to tune in to this Bat Channel at this Bat Time!

~Nazim

Solar Energy Workshop!

Today, the Green Team put together a Solar Energy Workshop for the ASA Children.

Not only did they get a tasty treat while watching WALL-E, but they also learned how to make a solar oven, learned facts about the sun, and how the sun evaporates water.

In the beginning, there was some chaos, no sun for the solar energy workshop. (Due to the clouds.) In the end, everything turned out well, and the kids (once again) had a blast.

Our original plan was to have rotation after rotation constantly, and due to weather we had to cancel some activities. So, being the flexible Green Team we are, we had a plan B! What better way to learn solar energy, by with a solar disney movie! (Wall-E)
The kids enjoyed their rice kripsy "Suns" during the movie, and enjoyed every minute of it.

We made the suns to give a scale of the sun and the earth. We showed that it was bigger than the earth, and that the sun (just like the earth) has a core. We created edible paint with whipped cream & food coloring. As we created our edible suns, we spoke to the kids about some facts and myths over the sun.

Overall, the workshop went very well and everyone (including the Green Team, ASA Teachers, and Kids) learned something.

-Ruben Ramirez & Alondra Sanchez

JUST A LITTLE HOT SAUCE

Trinity loved her green eggs and ham, but she thought it was even better with "just a little hot sauce!"

by: by:shannon,kameshia, and danielle

MEAT GROUP

by:shannon,kameshia, and danielle

How Do YOU See Your World?

Today we embarked on a scavenger hunt, doing our best to look at the world around us from a slightly different perspective, from the eyes of the resource-conscious individual. Where do things come from? Where are they going? What happens when I throw this onto the ground, turning it into pollution? What happens when I put it in that blue bag instead? On this hunt, we looked for ordinary things around us through extraordinary eyes. These are some of the things we found.

~Mr. Chris

We went to college yesterday

This week at Teen U...

It was a very busy week at Teen U!

Tuesday-- The teens had a very special guest speaker, Mrs. Sharon Grigsby, from the Dallas Morning News. Mrs. Grigsby shared how she became interested in writing and editing for Newspapers, what it took for her to get there, and many other things. Thanks Mrs. Grigsby!

Wednesday-- The UTD Go Center Interns (Jamacah and Dranoel) turned the 2101 Building into a mock University and the students attended "Freshman Orientation". During the orientation, the teens learned about all the services that are offered on college campuses. The students really enjoyed the role-playing and having many of their questions about college answered.

Thursday-- The teens took a field trip to Dallas City Hall. When we arrived, we were greeted and introduced to the City Plan Commission. We had the opportunity to attend a briefing of some of the projects the Commission would be voting on later that afternoon. After the briefing, Commissioner Mike Davis gave the teens around City Hall. They really enjoyed learning about the different careers and services offered at City Hall but their absolute FAVORITE thing about City Hall was the Mayor's Office. Thanks Commissioner!!!

Bringin' On the Green

This summer the 2nd-3rd graders have been studying resources, how they're used, and what happens to them. We've done all kinds of things from figuring out where things come fromn and where they go:

to dealing with the sad consequences of pollution:

to undergoing our own reduce, reuse recycle, go green projects (garden work, recycling our own paper, enjoying the beauty of the butterfly):

And thus ends week 3 (and that's just a taste). We've learned, equipped, and processed, easily and not-so-easily. But none of us intend to quit now. Next week we hope to begin the big project for the environment fair (a case study of chosen objects and their resources), and the big project for the ASA (marble machine!). Let's get busy!

~Mr. Chris

University of Central Dallas: Class of 2013

This week Teen U students’ lived the life of a college student by going through a mocked freshman orientation. My co-workers and I turned 2101 building into a real university. The students went to different places in the university to learn about housing, registering for classes, meal plans, student organizations, financial aid and much more.

The students were giving handouts and instructed to act like their characters. They had to use their Id number to check into the orientation. After they checked in, they were giving a map and their own agendas to learn more about University of Central Dallas. For example, La’kyra was from Plano, Texas and majoring in Education. She had to go to the student union because she wanted to be active in a lot of organizations and did not know where to begin. Next, she went to university housing to fill out a roommate compatibility form because she had to live on campus and did not have a roommate. La’kyra and the other students loved role-playing. They were excited to learn so much about college life.

~Jamacah~

Pizza & Equality for All!!!

To kick off Civil Rights, on Friday, at lunch, we demonstrated discrimination in a certain way. As excited as the teens were about receiving pizza, it did not match the feelings they showed when we gave the pepperoni pizza to the teens wearing white, and gave cheese to everyone else. We also gave the people wearing white the option to choose between soda and lemonade, which was not an option for the rest. You could see thorough the teens attitudes that it was unjust. The people wearing white were satisfied, but at the same time wondering what's going on. The people not wearing white were feeling disappointed, amongst other feelings. This is a reminder of how people of 'different' attributes are treated differently, such as African-Americans, women, and even young teenagers. With this start off, we hope to establish the importance of respect and equality at Teen University and in their lives.

- Dranoel

The Best Day Ever

I had the best time at City Hall. I learned that the mayor is Tom Leppert and the mayor pro tem is Dwaine Caraway. We also had the opportunity to go to the City Commision Briefing to see some of the projects and things they were working on.

--DeQuaylan

" almost there''

This week we learned about college and all the things we go through to get ready our freshmen year. For example, we have to go to freshmen ordination and get things (information) on the services that are offered at your school.

by kadriana

A Day At Dallas City Hall

My first day at Dallas City Hall was interesting. A major thing I learned was the name of the Mayor, which is Tom Leppert. Not only did I know his name I saw a picture of him. Whenever the mayor is out the Mayor Pro-tem, which is Dwaine Caraway, takes over. An excitng thing for me was when I we went into Dwaine Caraway's office. My favorite part about the trip was when I saw the history of the Mayors which were pictures of them.

By: LaKyra

*Dallas City Hall*

City hall: I learned so much from the trip we took to City Hall. I learned about all of the AW3SOME CAREERS that you can have there which are council members, mayors, commissioners (chair and vice chair) assistants to the mayors, etc. The field trip somewhat inspired me to become a mayor one day.. because of all of the things they get and perks, nice offices, etc.

College Workshop: I enjoyed the workshop and I also learned A LOT !!!!! I had some great volunteers set up a somewhat 'freshman orientation" that was pretty cool. I learned almost everything that I need to know about college including some things that probably most college students don't even know.



I have had a fun time ! :) by: Julian Randall

The Road to Solar Energy

This week has definitely been a productive one for the Green Team and the Roseland Staff.

On Tuesday, the staff got together for a weekly meeting and each learned a little bit more about each other and what's going on in the Roseland Community. Not only did we learn that everyone has their own definition of words like "caring," "field trip," and "discipline," but we learned that this summer is going well.

The Green Team has been working on putting together the 2nd workshop for the ASA Kids next Thursday.

Not only have we come up with what activities will be going on, but we definitely know the kids will enjoy this more than the Weather Workshop we did last Thursday. We have wood art, paper art, a solar oven, and rice krispy "earths" in store for this workshop coming.

Anyone is welcome to come see the kids make crafts and learn about Solar Energy as well.


-Ruben Ramirez

The Great Paper Mash

How do YOU recycle?

Another week, another success!

The kids are finishing the 2nd week of Teen University, and it was great. The students visited the U.S. Mint and Texas Instruments. The first presentation of College 101 was given on Wednesday by Jamacah and me. The topic was 'Myths about College', and we played a small Friday, Ms. Tameka Caldwell came by and gave a workshop on Finanacial Literacy and we all participated in 'The Game of Life'. As the 'Utilities Manager' and 'Landlord', it was interesting to see the kids go through the experience of the adult life. Paying bills, budgeting their paychecks, receiving Noise Violation tickets and whatnot. The workshop was awesome, and I hope to see more energy like that through the days of Teen University!
- Dranoel

Have You Ever Played LIFE?

The game of LIFE is not a board game! It is actually a game that deals with financial planning and your financial future. To me, this game is like going to J.A Biz town without any breaks. You do things, like go to the bank to make deposits, pay loans, and get your pay check amount. You also start of with a bill payment guide and calendar that has the place where you need to pay your bills. Although LIFE is educational and fun, you have to pay attention and understand what you are doing.

--

Oil Spills, Peas, and Pizzas, Oh My!

After a Hard Day's Work

Pinwheels and Wind Turbines

I wanted to make sure the kids understood that the pinwheels they were making today were a part of a bigger lesson on wind energy. I was pleasantly surprised when the tables turned and they began explaining to me how wind turbines work!

Never underestimate the learning abilities of a child.

Library Learning

As I was observing the Green Team implementing their weather/environment workshop, I got a pleasant surprise. Jailyn and Trinity started greeting me in sign language!

Every day after the After-School Academy is over (around 2:00 p.m.), Trinity and Jailyn head over to the Library/Bookstore. Two days a week, Ms. Brittany teaches sign language. Evidently, they're catching on! :)

Texas Instruments

One of the jobs I learned about today at Texas Instruments was the Auditor. The auditor's job is to vist the production plants and make sure the the employees are doing their jobs and following policies.

My favorite part about today was to see all the wonderful things that techonlgy gives us and to see all the things you can do with just a small chip.
--Kadriana

My First Day at T.I.

One of my favorite parts about going to Texas instruments was when I went in the Theater Room. In there I saw a couple of 3-D movie previews that dealt with the D.L.P projector using 3-D glasses to watch. The D.L.P projector is actually with Texas Instruments and is really cool to use when watching a 3-D movie.

What I learned was when you take interviews for the job you want they could ask you about the experiences you have had and how would you deal with certain situations. I also learned that college teaches you how to apply and learn more on whatever you want to succeed in. Going to T.I for the first time was very interesting and cool. I enjoyed myself A LOT!

-La'Kyra

Our Field Trip to T.I.!

Today, I went to a field trip at TI (Texas Instruments). I learned that the majority of the

employees have a degree in Computer Science.

Also, I learned that they just don't make calculators they make other things too.

They also make computer software. Today was a good trip... I look forward to going back.

Peace!!!!!

--Sharde

Green Teams 1st workshop

Today the Green Team Kids had their first workshop. The events went well even though it was off to a slow start.

The projector did not work with the computer we had so Chris and I had to go to Best Buy and purchase a connector for my Mac and a guitar amp. Once we returned we found that Rubenn had the kids under control with his pin-wheel project. After everything got hooked up we then realized the picture was green... Janet fixed it buy jiggling the cord.

Since we got off to a slow start we did not get a chance to show "Wall-E." Next workshop will be over solar energy. Since the character Wall-E is powered by solar energy we can use the movie to help with the explanation.

If you want to know any more look up Rubennn and Alondra's blog, it will explain more.... till next time stay funky kids!

Nazim

Weather Workshop #1!

Today, was the Green Team's first Environmental Workshop, with the ASA Kids, and we had a blast learning!

Throughout the day, unfortunately we had some technical difficulties, and had to quickly change our plans at last minute! BUT, things worked out great!

We engaged the kids into learning about Wind Energy and how Wind Turbines create electricity. We followed a short speech with a pinwheel activity, and held a contest to see who created one the best. This made the kids very enthusiastic about the activities and made them anticipate for what was to come.

Next, we introduced them to Geothermal Energy, and they had already had a little background on this topic. We had them do a easy activity sheet, informing them about more details of Geothermal Energy. Then, our project was to show them none other than the Mentos & Coke Experiment! Demonstrating how the heat of the earth can force water, or gas to burst from the ground. The kids absolutely loved it, and learned about "Old Faithful."

The kids had a 30 minute lunch break, and when they returned we had them watch a short animated film about the Carbon Cycle, followed by another activity sheet. The activity sheet contained questions about how much energy they used in their homes, at school, etc. Once they had an idea of what the Carbon Cycle was, they each recieved candy due to their great progress.

The last activity contained of dirt, water, sand, panty hose, and gravel. What could kids possibly do with all these? Clean water, ofcourse! We took the children outside and asked about what they thought the dirty water contained. Once they answered, we gave them a chance to pour dirt, leaves, sticks, trash, & every dirty thing into a bottle of water. We asked how we could clean this and explain the process of filtriation. Once inside, they got the opportunity to build their own filter out of cotton balls, panty hose, and sponges. They filtered dirty water to, somewhat clean water.

Some things the Green Team learned was that candy + kids, do NOT mix after lunch. We might have some minor things to improve on, but we know that next workshop, the kids will enjoy it 100%. Their comments and feedback are helping us improve till next workshop.

-Green Team. (Ruben Ramirez, Alondra Sanchez)

Teen U Students Visit the US MINT!

As a Career Connection Enrichment fieldtrip, the Teen U students got the opportunity to visit the U.S. Mint in FortWorth on Tuesday. The students went on an insightful tour of the Mint and learned all about how the money they spend is produced. They realized during the tour that money production is a very tedious and complex process. Producing money is such an intricate procedure that there are over 800 jobs available to ensure that the money is printed and produced at the highest quality.After the tour, the students visited the gift shop where they each recieved a bag of money worth one hundred and fifty dollars!!! The money was a mixture of shredded and defective bills, of course, but they didn't seem to mind one little bit (no pun intended). They also got a chance to stand next to the "How Tall Are You Worth" tube near the entrance of the Mint. This was was huge clear column filled with shredded money, and based on your height, it gives you an estimate of your worth. The Students really enjoyed this experience and they are still talking about it to this day!!!

P.S.-Would you like to experience fun like this while YOU learn? Visit the Teen Center to Join TeenU today!!!

My Field Trip to Texas Instruments

One thing I learned on our field trip at TI (Texas Instruments) was that they test a little chip in our phones, our cameras, and pretty much all technology.

--Shania

The news never stops...

Camera Operator: Kwane

Just another day on the farm...

The Silent Interview

On yesterday, I had my first sign language session in the library, from 3-3:30. I felt as though I set myself up for failure because at this time of day, the library goers are usually a bit antsy, and we get a group of kids from the ASA. The circle initally began with about 7 or 8 participants. We began working on the manual alphabet. I wasn't sure how many of the ladies were already familiar with it, so I started slow.

One of the youngest participants, Tatiana, was already having an off-day and had a not-so-good attitude. I lost her before I had even began--or so I thought. I was fearful that because she was unattentive; she wouldn't retain anything that we were working on.

Some distractions here, a parent pick-up there. Gradually the circle minimized. It was only 3 ladies left--Aneja, Trinity, and Tatiana. They worked on learning how to sign "What's your name?" and "My name is--." It was amazing to see that they had not only learned the entire manual alphabet, but also how to spell their names & each other's names in only a 30 minute session.

-Brittany Stubblefield

Insects, Bugs and Crustaceans….

Last week my 3^rd, 4^th, and 5^th grade class discovered Sparky (an escaped insect from Ms. Danielle’s class). Rather than be upset that Sparky was disrupting my Morning Meeting, I asked the class if they wanted to catch him. They responded with a resounding “YES”.

Originally, I had planned for the class to continue a study of Rain Forest and Ocean habitats. However, after noting their excitement over Sparky; I asked them if they would like to go outside and catch other bugs. Thus began my class’s infatuation with all things creepy and crawly. In the past seven days I have learned more about centipedes, millipedes, lady bugs, worms and roly polies then I had ever learned in 16 years of formal education.

Below are the Top Five Facts the kids have taught me. Also, note that some of the information we learned through observation as the children have built a habitat for the roly poise.

5. Centipedes eat roly polies.

4. Roly Polies eat dead leaves and grass.

3. Lady bugs can be red or orange with black spots.

2. Roly Polies are crustaceans not bugs or insects.

1. Roly polies breath through their “feet” . They have gill like structures not lungs.

- Chrystalin (3rd, 4th, and 5th grade teacher)

Mr. Aviant makes the Connection

So today the 2nd-3rd graders learned about oil spills and simulated one of their own (hopefully video will come out soon; I brought home the wrong FLIP). I just wished to share an "Aha!" moment with you.

Over the past week, the kids have been learning about resources and have developed the concept that things are made from other things using other things. Today, I had made some simulated oil for our activity and had set it aside for the afternoon, when I noticed that it was missing midway through the morning.

Oh my goodness, I thought prematurely to myself, I don't want to get on to another kid.

I looked around and noticed Mr. Aviant hurrying to the door with the oil in hand.

"Aviant!" I shouted as I went to fetch him, "Where are you going with that?"

"I'm going to the place where they make bottles!" he answered nonchalantly as he continued out the door.

His answer stopped me dead in my tracks. You see, I had yet to tell them that this was oil (though vegetable oil wouldn't make very good plastic, but they don't know that yet), but Aviant had seen it, and applying what he had learned last week about plastic, bottles, and oil (and reading the book I've had lying on the shelf since the summer started), he decided he was going to go make bottles out of his newly found oil.

It's so wonderful being inspired by kids.

~Chris

Welcome to Teen U, Again! =)

Even though I have worked with Teen University for half a year, it is still exciting for me to work at Teen U for the summer. It is good to see the familiar faces participating in the program(Phantasia, Phasia, Chasity, Crystal, Sharde), as well as some new faces (Kadriana, Jorrell). And also I have co-workers who were apart of Teen U during the school year(Reisha, Shannon, Brittany). And I can't forget my new co-workers and fellow colleagues, Iman and Jamacah. The first two weeks has been great, and it's only the beginning. The teens are here, and I am ready to get it in gear!:) This is going to be an exciting summer at Roseland, I can feel it.

-Dranoel Wilson

I Got Caught Doing Something Good

With the beginning of the summer programming at the Roseland Library and Bookstore, the staff implemented the "Got Caught Doing Something Good" jar. Although it is only a recycled animal cracker jar, the kids that come to the library are very eager to get their name in the jar. The winner gets to pick out one book of their choice within the library to make their own library.

Our first weekly recipient of the "Got Caught Doing Something Good" was Ta'Kyra. She is an avid library participant and also is an attendant at the After School Academy's Summer Enrichment Program. I witnessed her be a leader within her peer group and even demonstrate respect and social encounterings surpassing those older than her. She always greets the staff and any other adult that enters the library. She even helped us with constructing our library expectations.

I am overly excited about Ta'Kyra's performance over this summer in the library. Until next week...she was caught red-handed--doing something good.

Blues Clues Brings All Ages Together

Throughout the week, I have noticed the kids in the library tend to group together by age. However, after all but two kids left today, I was scratching my brain on how I was going to entertain them both because they are on different reading levels. When the four year old went to the book shelf and picked up a book he was interested in reading, I told him he was a genius. He looked at me with a funny face because he did not know I didn't know what to do so he really did not know how he had saved the day. All three of us sat on the ground and the four year old and I listened as we were read to. I had never read a Blues Clues book because it came out after my childhood years, but I was moved on how it was able to bring 3 people of 3 different ages together.

Greetings!!! From Teen University

We have reached the end of our first week here at Teen University. This week we focused on Greeting. Greeting is a very important social skill and if it is done properly it can make a persons day. A proper greeting serves as an introduction which is essential for meeting someone new or acknowledging someone you already know. Sharde uses a flipshare to demonstrate a proper greeting. She understands that a proper greeting consist of saying Goodmorning or Goodafternoon, making eye contact with the person you are speaking to, a firm handshake, and speaking clearly. This skill has become a natural part of everyones day here at Teen University and should be adopted by all.

Operation: GET HENRY A JOB

On yesterday, Teen U was ecstatic to have Ms. Hazel Davis present a job readiness workshop. She taught the teenagers about the stereotypes employers may have against them.

• Irresponsible
• Play to much
• Mean
• Lack of a strong work ethic
• Know it alls
  

Despite these stereotypes, Ms. Davis told the students that they should not get discouraged. She told them how to impress potential employers when they have little to no experience by researching the company, making good grades, having perfect attendance, and volunteering for different organizations. We had fun with group games and the TEEN U students stated they could not wait until Ms. Davis comes back to give more workshops about resumes, networking, and how to dress for interviews.

Our first summer adventure... Wild Walkabouts

Another Picture

 

Dirty Dirty Air

Today the 2nd-3rd graders (after an...interesting bout at the healthy eating adventure challenge) continued their studies on pollution, and we made our very own pollution catchers! We painted old food cans then covered them in double-sided tape; we'll check them in about a week or so and find out about the air quality in this area.

Of course, the kids decided they wanted theirs on the roof...and Mr. Chris found out that shimmying up poles is not his forte.

Dallas Arboretum – Garden and Wild walkabout

Above is a montage of photos from the ASA first field trip. They went to the Dallas Arboretum.

-Chrystalin (3rd, 4th, 5th grade ASA teacher)

A day at the Dallas Arboretum

So much fun and Learning

Today we took the kids on a field trip to the Dallas Arboretum. They had so much fun. They learned a lot about the different flowers, animals, and insects. They also caught dragon flies and put them inside this Magnifying Glass and looked close at it and named the type of dragon fly it was. Some children caught two at once they were very excited !!! One student named Joshua caught one and he named it Joshua Jr. (Awww... how cute) He was very sad when he had to let it go.

We also visited the Peter Rabbit Exhibit. It was very cool the kids loved it and we also so this giant rabbit. It was sooooo neat!!!! All in all... I think the kids enjoyed themselves even though they were complaining about the heat.

The arboretum

Today, we attended a field trip at The Dallas Arboretum. During the walkabout, we had the opportunity to catch dragonflies. One of my kids, Joshua, caught a dragonfly and named him Joshua. He wanted to keep it and take it home but he couldn't so we had to let it go way back in to the wild.

Going Green, but Not in the Environmentally Friendly Way

Today we learned about pollution and natural resources, and so after looking at some gross (one of the boys insisted that he showered in it every day, much to the dismay of the girls) pictures of water pollution, we drew our own versions of water pollution. This is one of the pictures drawn, notice their teacher (Mr. Chris) is one of the contaminants...

At least I'll be cool with the boys!

Memphis Civil Rights and College Trip

Our Civil Rights/College trip started at 10:00 p.m. on Friday evening. Eight charter buses full of 400+ teenagers and chaperones left City Hall to head to Memphis, TN for a whirlwind trip thanks to Mayor Pro Tem Dwaine Caraway and staff.

The itinerary:

• LeMoyne-Owen College--tour and breakfast
• Stax museum
• National Civil Rights Museum
• Beale Street
• Mud Island for lunch
• Drive by the Clinton Library and Central High School
• Philander Smith College--tour and dinner

It was a crazy schedule. I admit, I wasn't real hopeful of accomplishing all of it. But, as you see in Shenandoah's video above, we were able to make it to every place on the trip...with a slight little adjustment of driving by Beale Street instead of stopping.

I'll write more later once I edit the other videos.

First time to meet... The big greeting... The talk...