The eighth grade technology classes were invited to attend a day of STEM related learning activities at New York Institute of Technology. In a college environment the students participated in several activities in the application of understanding and working to solve problems facing their generation. Through exposure and the a robot demonstration, E-cycling activities, virtual reality demonstrations, creating their own plan and then modeling their plans, students were exposed to advanced technologies that will shape their future.

On Thursday, October 24th, Helen Turner, Director of Youth Education of the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County visited our Robert M. Finley Middle School and presented the “The Power of Words” to our 6th-grade students. “The Power of Words” presentation is designed for students to understand the meaning and historical context of words that are used in our society that discriminate, segregate, and alienate people. The purpose of the presentation to teach our youth the dangers of antisemitism, racism, bullying and all other manifestations of intolerance. The presentation promotes resistance to prejudice and advocates respect for every human being.

On Friday, October 18, 2019, the faculty, staff, and students at Finley Middle School came together as a community to celebrate the school’s PBIS Kick-Off. PBIS, or Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports, is a nationally-recognized program that teaches students consistent behavior expectations in their classrooms, hallways, school grounds, and in the community and acknowledges positive student behavior in a variety of ways. During this event, students discussed various school-wide expectations and the actions that should be taken in different scenarios, met with the school’s guidance department to learn about the importance of perseverance and overcoming obstacles, and worked collaboratively on community service projects, such as decorating bags for the school’s food pantry, making cards for sick children in hospitals, and painting inspiring messages on rocks for the school’s outdoor areas. Thank you to all the students, staff, and faculty who helped make this event a success!