Schools

Deron School Students Get A 'Big Bang' Out of Summer Program

Renowned Geologist, Planetarium Sky Dome and Break Dancers are part of the Scientific Platform.

Roughly 80 students who have learning disabilities or varying levels of autism are unraveling the mysteries of the universe this summer as part of a “Big Bang” summer program at Deron School II in Montclair, NJ.

Starting in early July through mid-August, these students, ages 14 to 21 will hear a renowned geologist speak about rock formations, sit inside a planetarium sky dome to be built on campus and watch break dancing demonstrations as part of their effort to understand how science exists in everyday life.

“It’s important for kids who don’t learn at the average pace of others not to lose ground over the summer months,” said Bonnie Congiu, Supervisor at Deron School II.

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“Our teachers and school administrators work hard to create a summer theme each year that will resonate with the students and their parents.  For most, science is a difficult subject and may provoke angst among many students, but when presented in a fun and “hands on” manner it can be a different matter,” she added.

A geologist from Golder Associates of Mt. Laurel, NJ, will spend time teaching them about the earth’s layers and how rocks are formed.  In addition, a large planetarium will be assembled on site so that the students can sit in the dome and see the placement of stars and planets like they may never have experienced it – in 3D. 

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Break dancing demonstrations will complete the science program and show students how such moves require the science of muscle and bones to work together.

Each Monday, the week starts off with a “mad scientist hunt.”  A photo of a scientist is hidden somewhere inside the school for all students to find, awarding a prize to the winner.  In addition, science is carefully integrated into the curriculum; including social studies and the reading of science-based stories in language arts. 

Students will also travel to “Big Brook” in Colts Neck to dig up fossils in the river and end their summer program with a school-wide Science Fair.

“No doubt all the science activities are very hands on and fun," said Congiu, “but we also realize it is summer, so we participate in other fun activities such as swimming twice a week and watching an occasional movie.”

For more information on the Deron School ESY summer activities please contact Lori Alter at (908) 206-0444 or lalter@deronschool.org.



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