2014 - 2015

Makerbot 3D printer

The affordable 3D Replicator features the ease of one-touch printing and has all the same technology as full-size MakerBot printers.  Creating 3D models has never been easier with the MakerBot Replicator Mini Compact 3D Printer. It has all the same technology as the full-size, fifth-generation MakerBot printers and features one-touch printing—just send your file to print and press a button. It’s that simple. The Replicator Mini has a build volume of 4 x 4 x 5 inches (L x W x H), making it perfect for creating  household items, replacement parts, and unique gifts.

Odyssey of the Mind

Odyssey of the Mind

The Odyssey of the Mind teaches students how to think divergently by providing open-ended problems that appeal to a wide range of interests. Students learn how to identify challenges and to think creatively to solve those problems. They are free to express their ideas and suggestions without fear of criticism. The creative problem-solving process rewards thinking “outside of the box.” While conventional thinking has an important place in a well-rounded education, students need to learn how to think creatively and productively.  Learn more.

Marci Chesin Memorial Children's Book Project

The Alliance for Excellence has now funded the Marci Chesin Memorial Children’s Book Project, which is a fun school project where 7th graders author a story with a moral lesson, print the story in a hardcover book and read the story to 2nd graders. The 7th graders enhance their creative writing, illustrating, mentoring and presenting skills; and the 2nd graders learn about moral issues, how to read, and role model engagement. The funding buys the materials to create the hard cover books with illustrations for 100 students.

LBES Mosaics Project

The Alliance was excited to co-fund (with PTO) the upcoming LBES Mosaic Project! All students and staff will participate in the design and creation of a 12′ wide by 10′ high mosaic that will be installed within the elementary school. Students will learn about the history of mosaic art and then be part of the design and creation, including specific art elements for mosaic making and design, gluing techniques, use of tools, and grouting.

Leveled Literacy Intervention

The Fountas and Pinnell Leveled Literacy Intervention has a proven record of improving students’ fluency, comprehension, vocabulary, and writing skills. The Alliance was proud to fund the 4th grade materials for LBES. In the words of LBES teacher, Anne de Got, “We are so excited to be able to use the LLI program with our students. This program will allow our students to have access to literacy building components to help develop a stronger foundation for reading with material that the students can enjoy and discuss."

From Anne de Got, Leaning Behavior Specialist at LBES:

“We are so excited to be able to use the LLI program with our students. This program will allow our students to have access to literacy building components to help develop a stronger foundation for reading with material that the students can enjoy and discuss.”

Teacher Timers

To support executive functioning with consistent expectations across grade levels, the Alliance funded the purchase of 30 Teacher Timers. These visual timers provide a further breakdown of the day into specific blocks of time and can help manage student behavior, support smooth transitions, and hold students accountable for completing tasks within a certain amount of time.