I enjoyed my school visit with Ms. Hagan's 4th grade Science Class along with all the 4th graders at Deer Park Elementary in Owensboro. The students just finished up their weather unit along with a project on the water cycle.

I showed them my storm chasing video along with how cloud formations in the field help give clues on upcoming weather. Also, I illustrated how to use time and distance to forecast how close a thunderstorm is to the school. Of course you need lightning and sound.

The Parent-Teacher Organization of Sorgho Elementary School has been awarded $5,000 by Lowe’s Toolbox for Education Grants. The money will be used to help fund the PTO’s current project to build an outdoor classroom pavilion.

SES Principal Laura Cecil said, “The pavilion will provide many opportunities for outdoor learning, and provide a community area as well. It is the PTO’s hope that it becomes part of the community living space for people in the Sorgho area as it will be located by the school’s walking trail and playground, and the Sorgho community ball fields.”

Fifth-grade students at DCPS elementary schools are signing “College and Career Commitment Cards” signifying their commitment to continue their educations after graduation from high school, acknowledging their understanding that doing so will enable the students to reach their goals for success.

The cards will be kept on file and returned to the students when they are seniors in high school. In between, students will be reminded of their commitments as part of the district’s continued emphasis on preparing students for college and career readiness through providing a world-class education.