Students at both Lynbrook North and South Middle Schools recently put their creativity, problem-solving and critical thinking skills to the test through an exciting series of hands-on projects developed in their schools’ STEAM Labs.

Under the guidance of Peter McNally at North Middle School and James Fanning at South Middle School, students were encouraged to think outside the box as they brainstormed, designed and built their own unique creations. The initiative aimed to deepen students’ understanding of science, technology, engineering, art and math through experiential learning and real-world application.

Students began the process by identifying challenges or needs, then collaborated in teams to generate ideas and explore possible solutions. Using a variety of materials — including cardboard, paper, tape, popsicle sticks and recycled objects — they transformed their ideas into physical prototypes. Projects ranged from intricate architectural models and bridges to simple machines and interactive games.

Throughout the process, students demonstrated the core skills central to STEAM education. They analyzed problems, tested ideas and refined their designs based on trial and error. The result was not only a wide range of imaginative projects, but also a boost in students’ confidence and enthusiasm for learning.

“Our STEAM Lab gives students a space to experiment and learn from failure, which is essential for developing critical thinking,” Mr. McNally said. “It’s inspiring to see how they push themselves to come up with innovative solutions.”

James Fanning echoed that sentiment: “The students aren’t just building projects — they’re learning how to think creatively, collaborate effectively and solve problems in ways that will serve them far beyond the classroom.”

The success of the program highlights the importance of STEAM education in preparing students for the future — and just how powerful learning can be when imagination leads the way. #OwlProud #OwlLearns

 

Click here to view the Lynbrook middle schoolers innovate with STEAM projects slideshow.

 

Date Added: 4/24/2025

 

Girl Scouts Brownie Troop 2600, comprised of 20 third graders who attend all three Lynbrook elementary schools, had a fantastic experience visiting Lynbrook High School’s Robotics Club!  Students advised by Mr. Dusman led an impressive and engaging presentation about their equipment. The girls asked many questions and were thrilled for the hands-on experience. The Robotics Team helped the Girl Scouts earn their Showcasing Robots Badge, which required them to learn about robotics competitions, robotics teams and see robots in action. #OwlProud #OwlLearns

 

Click here to view the Local Girl Scouts troop visits LHS Robotics Club slideshow.

 

Date Added: 4/24/2025

 

Students at Waverly Park Elementary School recently had fun decorating plates to showcase the foods that they traditionally eat during this holiday season. The holidays included Easter, Passover and Greek Easter. Students who do not celebrate the holidays drew their favorite foods. The feasts were then hung up in the hallway so everyone could admire the works of art and the fabulous foods that are enjoyed by our Waverly family! #OwlProud

Click here to view the Waverly Park celebrates holiday season with creative crafts slideshow.

Date Added: 4/22/2025

Elementary school families in the Lynbrook community recently gathered for PTA Connected: Ready, Tech, Go!, an event designed to equip families with strategies for fostering healthy digital habits and understanding the impact of screens and social media on children's mental health. Organized by Marion Street PTA and Waverly Park PTA, parents and children in grades 1-5 across the school district were invited to attend. The event featured hands-on activities for children and informative discussions for parents, creating an engaging and educational evening for all.


Interactive Learning for Children

While parents attended discussions, children participated in hands-on learning stations designed to promote digital awareness and balance. They explored the basics of digital communication by creating binary code bracelets, engaged in games to encourage face-to-face interaction and learned about online safety through activities that highlighted digital footprints and cybersecurity.
 

Expert Insights for Parents

Parents attended presentations by expert speakers on the effects of screen time and social media use. The evening began with a welcome message from Lynbrook Guidance and Support Staff, including Ms. Nathalie Chery (School Social Worker from Marion Street Elementary), Mrs. Carol Woehr (School Social Worker from Waverly Park Elementary) and Mrs. Natacha Boyce, Director of School Counseling and Social Work. They provided an overview of trends they are seeing in our elementary schools related to children's technology use and social media habits.

Next, Dr. Vera Feuer, Northwell Medical Director of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, delivered a presentation titled Healthy Screen Habits: Navigating Internet Use, Social Media, and Screen Time and Its Impact on Mental Health. She shared insights and engaged parents in discussion on digital habits, screen time and mental health.

Following Dr. Feuer, Matt Silverman, Producer and Technology Journalist, presented Profits Over Safety: How Social Media Companies Monetize Our Kids' Addiction and Anxiety. He provided eye-opening insights into how digital platforms capture young users' attention and offered strategies for caregivers to counteract these influences.

 
Supporting Families Beyond the Event

At the end of the night, parents received a resource folder with additional materials, tips and strategies to continue the conversation at home with their children.

This program was a collaborative effort between Marion Street and Waverly Park PTAs, with support from Lynbrook Guidance and Support Staff. The event was made possible by sponsorship from AT&T and National PTA through the Ready, Tech, Go! grant. #OwlProud #OwlLearns

 

Click here to view the Marion Street and Waverly Park PTAs host ‘Ready, Tech, Go!’ event slideshow.

 

Date Added: 4/22/2025

Kicking off Earth Day celebrations, members of the Lynbrook High School Culture and Diversity Club, along with their advisor Karen Smith, visited West End Elementary School on April 11. The high school students led second and third graders in a fun and educational arts and crafts activity centered around caring for the environment. Each session began with an interactive PowerPoint presentation that sparked curiosity and discussion about the Earth and ways to protect it. The elementary students were fully engaged, enthusiastically brainstorming ideas on how they can make a positive impact on the planet. #OwlProud #OwlCares #OwlLearns

Click here to view the LHS Culture and Diversity Club visits West End for Earth Day slideshow.

 

Date Added: 4/21/2025