CCSD Cool School News

CCHS

Students from Steve Johnson’s Chem 122 course attended a nuclear science tour at the University of Nevada, Reno. They observed how a scanning electron microscope is used to assess the effectiveness of nuclear waste encapsulation and toured four laboratories dedicated to making nuclear power safer. “Our tour guide was our very own Jade Beland, a 2020 graduate of CCHS who is now working on her Ph.D. in nuclear waste management,” Johnson said. “It was incredibly special to see a former student leading my current students through this experience. It was a full-circle moment and truly amazing to witness.”

CCMS

Churchill County Middle School proudly celebrated the Month of the Military Child with meaningful events that honored the strength, resilience, and connections of military students. During a special movie day at the Fallon Theatre, military students were invited to bring a guest, creating a fun, inclusive opportunity to celebrate together as military kids and share the experience with a friend. In addition to this celebration, students participated in Purple Up Day, showing visible support across campus. The celebration continued with a schoolwide dance on April 23, where students showed up dressed to the nines and filled the cafeteria with energy, laughter, and impressive dance moves. “A heartfelt thank you goes to our Purple Star Committee, Student Council, and dedicated staff for creating such memorable opportunities to recognize and celebrate our military-connected students,” Principal Dr. Deana Porretta said. Photo below:  Churchill County Middle School students and their invited guests gather in front of the Fallon Theatre for a special movie day celebration.

Numa

Students in Vickie Purrell’s class were introduced to the unit Chemical Change by completing an investigation on milk and soda. Students created a hypothesis on what would occur if 20 mL of whole milk were added to a bottle of Coca-Cola. Every 10 minutes, students made observations and recorded them on their data sheets. On day two, students made a final observation. Students then researched the properties of milk and Coca-Cola and predicted what could have created the substance found after 24 hours. Next week, students will share their findings and conclude whether two edible substances can combine to create an inedible substance.  Photo below: Students in Vickie Purrell’s class at Numa Elementary School observe what happens when whole milk is added to a bottle of Coca-Cola and record their findings.

E.C. Best

Kirsten Perez’s class brought learning to life this April, focusing on all things plants. Students observed the germination process firsthand by soaking bean seeds, placing them in a sunny window, and watching closely as new growth emerged. Students also started a garden just outside their classroom, planting a variety of vegetable seeds in growing containers. As the week progressed, students continued the process by assembling a garden bed and preparing to transplant their sprouts, turning the lesson into a thriving outdoor learning space.  Photo:  Jocilyn Mitchell, Olivia Cayer, and Allison Enriquez of E.C. Best Elementary School observe the germination process of bean seeds they soaked in water and placed for growth.

Lahontan

April was a month full of meaningful experiences for students in Monica Franks’ kindergarten class. During Ag Day, students explored the important role agriculture plays in our local community, gaining a deeper appreciation for an industry that surrounds them every day. The excitement continued with a field trip to the Terry Lee Wells Nevada Discovery Museum, where students spent the day exploring, experimenting, and fully immersing themselves in discovery through interactive exhibits. It was a month that sparked curiosity, connection, and a genuine love of learning. Photo: Students in Monica Franks’ class at Lahontan Elementary School stand at the top of the cloud exhibit at the Discovery Museum in Reno.

Northside Early Learning Center

Families were recently welcomed into a pre-K art gallery hosted by Octavia Merritt and Montana Koplin, where young artists proudly showcased their original creations. During the event, parents had the opportunity to “purchase” their child’s unique paintings using playful, pretend currency. The gallery highlighted the importance of child-created art in early learning, giving students a meaningful way to express their thoughts, feelings, and ideas beyond words. Through the creative process, students built confidence, independence, and essential developmental skills, all while embracing imagination and individuality. By focusing on creativity over perfection, the event allowed each child to take pride in their work and share a glimpse of their personality with those who matter most.