Dear Gwynedd-Mercy Academy Family and Friends,
STEM Education is an essential component of 21st century teaching and learning, and a growing number of schools across the country are striving to build a stronger curriculum around STEM instruction. As a new member of the GMA community, I have been extremely impressed with interdisciplinary STEM initiatives that are integrated throughout our school on a daily basis. GMA's curriculum is comprised of best practices in STEM education, challenging students to think analytically, critically, and creatively while engaging in scientific explorations and investigations.
One of our new STEM initiatives that is demonstrating great success is our GMA Goes Green Greenhouse Dome Project. Mr. O'Connor, in collaboration with fellow faculty members, recently built a greenhouse dome to provide students with a meaningful, inquiry-based, and hands-on learning experience. Over the past two months, students have not only grown and cared for their plants but have analyzed the amount of sunlight, moisture, temperature, and venting to ensure the optimal growing condition for the plants in their care. We are happy to report that our sun-ripened tomato is ready for picking, our hibiscus and geraniums are in full-bloom, and our peppers are flowering and growing. Considering our initial success, we may be able to develop this wonderful STEM program with the goal of donating our produce to our local food bank. I would like to give a special shout out to 7th graders, Hayley Y., Bailey B., and Lindsey H. for faithfully checking our dome's temperature each day.
On another note, please keep our 2nd grade students in your thoughts and prayers as they receive their Sacrament of First Reconciliation this evening. Through reconciliation, may our First Communicants discover the peace and amazing love of God's forgiveness and mercy. Congratulations, 2nd graders!
In Christ's love and mercy,
Anne W. Knapke, M.Ed., Principal
