Woodhull School sixth graders put their thermal energy knowledge to the test in a hands-on design challenge. Under the direction of teacher Danielle Flaumenhaft, the students were tasked with creating a cup that would keep liquids icy cold, using only three additional materials and ensuring it could fit a typical car cup holder.

Before constructing the cup, students analyzed each design component and considered how factors like lid height might influence evaporation, whether a straw hole would let in warmth, and how the choice of materials impacted insulation. They also explored the reusability and recyclability of their materials and cost-effectiveness of each design.

Once the cups were built, students used a light bulb as a heat source and observed how external heat affected the temperatures inside their cups. They then refined their designs based on how well their cups maintained the chill.

After recording their findings, students compared the performance and cost-efficiency of each cup. Through trial and error, they discovered which designs best resisted warming and came away with valuable lessons in science, sustainability and creative problem-solving.

Click here to view the Thermal Energy Innovators slideshow.

Date Added: 11/19/2024

After a brisk autumn walk to Ocean Beach Fire Hall, Woodhull students were greeted by dedicated local firefighters for hands-on fire safety lessons.

The students leaned critical skills including how to dial 9-1-1, the importance of knowing their address and practicing evacuation plans with their families. Through engaging discussions and interactive demonstrations, students also mastered the lifesaving “stop, drop and roll” technique.

Excitement continued as the students climbed aboard the fire truck and explored the gauges and equipment. The Suffolk Marine Bureau’s fireboat also offered the opportunity to learn how different firefighting vehicles support diverse emergencies. The most fun was experienced when the fire truck and boat demonstrated the force of their water cannons by spraying water high into the sky.

Each junior firefighter then received a bag filled with fire safety information and their own firefighter hat, which was a perfect reminder of a day filled with learning, adventure and community spirit.

Click here to view the Fire safety Comes to Life slideshow.

Date Added: 11/18/2024

Students and staff collaborated on a meaningful tribute for Veterans Day called the Hallway of Heroes. Filled with the names and photos of veterans and active service members from the school family, the display celebrated the dedication, sacrifice and bravery of those who served and are currently serving the country.

Students and faculty also attended a Veterans Day assembly with an historian and retired Ocean Beach Police Officer, who captivated the students with stories from his time as a soldier. He also showed them his collection of military uniforms and headgear from World Wars I and II, Vietnam and the modern era. Additionally, Woodhull School received a special video message from an active Army soldier — the son of a Woodhull staff member— who shared a glimpse of his life in the military.

Students also wrote thank-you cards to these heroes, expressing their appreciation through thoughtful words and colorful drawings.

The district expresses its deepest gratitude to the veterans and active service members who protect and defend the nation’s cherished freedoms.

Click here to view the A Veterans Day Tribute slideshow.

Date Added: 11/13/2024

The inaugural edition of the “Woodhull Student Newspaper” was distributed last week, thanks to the hard work of the newspaper staff: Rebecca, Kennedy, Danny and Milana. Every student, faculty and staff member received a copy, marking a proud moment for the newspaper team.

In a recent interview, the team shared their vision of creating a newspaper that all students, regardless of grade level, could enjoy. They emphasized their desire to include the voices and perspectives of many students throughout the school, ensuring that everyone has a platform to be heard.

The student-driven initiative is an excellent opportunity to highlight the value of free press in a democratic society. By encouraging student journalists to express their ideas freely, we foster critical thinking, creativity and an understanding of the importance of an informed and engaged community.

Click here to view the Extra, Extra! Read All About It! 24-25 slideshow.

Date Added: 10/6/2024

Students had the unique opportunity to learn about and participate in the making of challah bread with local Ocean Beach resident and Rachel’s Restaurant and Bakery owner Rachel Doering. With all the ingredients prepared and ready, each student had the chance to knead, shape and braid their own loaf of this traditional bread.  

The activity was a hands-on experience that connected students to a long-standing tradition cherished by many in our community and brought creativity and joy to the classroom. The activity was not just about baking but a meaningful way to explore cultural traditions and the importance of gathering. 

Rachel shared the significance of challah in celebrations, explaining its roots in Jewish tradition, and helped our students appreciate the beauty of preparing food together. This experience was a memorable highlight for all involved, giving students a taste  - both figuratively and literally – of community, culture and connection. 

Click here to view the Baking up Tradition: Challah Bread with Rachel slideshow.

Date Added: 10/3/2024