Valhalla Center Science Fair gives families a glimpse of learning and a chance to connect

Topics vary by class, followed by a chat with the principal

Karen Walker led her class at Valhalla Center through an interactive slide presentation about the solar system, while next door Lisa Cullers called students one by one up to a tri-fold display about viruses and cells. Across the hall, Max Bagnuolo’s room focused on the life cycles of plants, and Errol Rivera’s class engaged in a colorful experiment utilizing Skittles candy. 

What each lesson had in common was the presence of visiting family members and the prevalence of high fives as students showed off their knowledge of each topic.

The Science Fair Parent Engagement Event was an open house-style opportunity to celebrate students’ hard work, explore their projects, and engage in discussions about their learning.

“I think it’s amazing,” parent Michele Ponce said. “I think our kids are capable of so much.”

“You’re putting science on the front burner, and that’s great,” parent Michele-Coyle Hughes said.

The event culminated with a meeting led by Principal Diana Dinzey, who told parents that many of the skills students learn in class can be replicated at home.

“These are invaluable skills that we are working on,” she said. 

She credited her teachers and staff for the success students have seen in these areas. In turn, parents expressed appreciation for her leadership of programs that mean so much to their children.

One piece of feedback she has heard, Ms. Dinzey said, is a call for more performance-based lessons. She cited the presence of a music teacher who works with students and will oversee a student choral performance at graduation ceremonies.

“Just know that the feedback you give us is important,” she said.