family poses for photo

On November 2, students, parents, and siblings gathered for another fun and educational Family Engagement Night held at Ellenville Elementary School. Nearly 200 guests attended the event, which kicked off with a delicious taco dinner in the school’s new cafeteria, along with an informative Community Resource Fair, during which families could interact with representatives from more than 20 different community organizations. 

After dinner, kids broke away for some fun learning activities that included virtual coloring, building with “magnatiles,” learning math and getting exercise in “Math in Movement,” practicing multiplication using manipulatives, and various grade-level STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) challenges like building with LEGOs, marble mazes, and air-powered rockets. 

In the meantime, adults engaged in their own learning, with 11 different workshops to choose from. They met for honest, frank discussions at such offerings as “Social Emotional Learning Strategies for Families,” “Positive Parenting Forum,” and “What Every Parent Needs to Know About Internet Safety.” They talked strategy at “Fun Literacy Materials to Use at Home for Your K-2 Student” and “Cultivating Creativity in Your Curious Kiddos.” In addition, parents learned about community resources in “What Can Ulster BOCES Adult Education Offer You?” and nutrition in “Rethink Your Drink” and “My Plate Food Groups.”

Another wonderful night of socializing, learning, and fun is in the books. A great time was had by all!