District and Community

Tech Tips (Spring 2007) Purchase Camtasia Studios software to create video tutorials via email, web based, CD-ROM or DVD. Supplemental tutorials, lessons and training are a few uses of the audio and visually effective tool. This would purchase 15 licenses to be distributed throughout the district

SASI Safety Initiative - Handheld Student Database (Fall 2005) Enhance district safety and parental communication in a crisis situation (or in future daily situations) with access to student data and parent contact information at a person's fingertips. Having SASI (student database) information on a handheld computer makes critical information portable from any location.

Family Literacy and Homework Audio/Visual Collection (Spring 2005) Creation of Family Literacy and Homework Audio/Visual Collection that will support school curriculum

Go Grolier! (Fall 2004) Grolier Online is an educational research tool, available by remote access, of which the core is 3 encyclopedias with various links to current events, atlases and literary links. BHS and BMS would include a complete Spanish encyclopedia

The Anita Codey Tribute (Fall 2003) Upon the retirement of BMS principal Anita Codey, 25 parents made contributions to SHEF in her name. We are pleased to announce the awarding of two grants that reflect Anita’s love of literature, art and innovative learning overall: a collection of selected picture books to extend the understanding of literary skills and devices, and Electronic Classroom Jeopardy! for BMS & BHS.

Chem. Demo Team (Fall 2003) Updated and additional supplies for this multi-grade, multi-school outreach program. BHS chemistry students will continue to make presentations to eager elementary and middle school students throughout the district

Bedwell Elementary

Bernardsville Middle

Bernards High

Walk Into Health for Fourth Graders (Spring 2008) A pedometer for every Grade 4 student will provide them with tangible evidence of their level of physical activity and foster discussion and goal setting in PE class, as students chart and record to reach the 10,000 steps per day goal. This project will yield data that can be incorporated into math and social studies programs throughout the year.

BMS Fitness Boot Camp (Spring 2008) An alternative to the traditional team based PE units, all Bernardsville Middle School students will learn fitness activities and gain knowledge to improve upon their lifelong fitness with the purchase of a variety of materials to create a weekly fitness “boot camp” through gym class.

Somerset Hills Golden Prom (Spring 2008) BHS will host an intergenerational prom with students planning, implementing and actively participating on the evening of the event to build personal intergenerational relationships and highlight the new high school with Somerset Hills senior citizens

Second Grade Geologists at Work (Fall 2007) Create an excavation site in Bedwell courtyard so Grade 2 students may become geologists and participate in yearly “digs” to complement study of Earth Science

Temperature Measurement (Spring 2008) A variety of scientific probes, TI-84 calculators and a Vernier Data Logger will enable Grade 7 & 8 BMS students conduct  “real science” experiments throughout their new Science curriculum, simulating exact work that scientists engage in and preparing them for their BHS experience

Answers in Students’ Hands with Senteo (Fall 2007) Increase student interaction with handheld answering devices that enable a student to indicate understanding privately, free from peer judgment, questions from picture, video and sound files.

A Walk Through NJ (Fall 2007) Interdisciplinary research based learning experience for grades 2-4 students in Science, Art, Music and Technology culminating in a 3D installation of NJ Highlands and Pinelands

Author Presentation (Spring 2008) Teen Author Mary Hogan will spend the day with BMS students discussing the impact of media and advertising on body image and self esteem, as well as speaking with Grade 8 Literacy students about writing as a career. In addition, Ms Hogan will speak about teens at a parent coffee offered to BES, BMS & BHS parents.

Journalism Workshop (Fall 2007) For student editors of the Crimson staff to attend Fall Conference Journalism Workshop at Rutgers university, which will include a 1 year membership to Garden Sate Scholastic Press Association.

Jeopardy! In the Classroom (Fall 2007) Purchase Electronic Jeopardy to add lights, sound, and action to Bedwell classrooms when reviewing subject-related materials

Studio on Wheels - SOW (Spring 2007) To complement COWs, outfit a portable film making studio on wheels (SOW) so students can create video products. A MAC book laptop, cart and ancillary supplies would complement prior SHEF purchases.

Collaboration with UMASS Medical Center (Fall 2007): Provide training to 20/30 BHS Quest Mentors and Peer Leaders in proven effective methods for stress reduction that will turn keyed to other BHS students. Training will be provided by UMASS Medical Center for Mindfulness Based Stress Education Clinic.

Bedwell Builders (Spring 2007) Grade 4 student club will brainstorm, build and construct Lego robotics, incorporating math, science concepts, and problem solving skills with purchase of mechanical engineering kit. Purchase of Son Handicam Recorder will enable filming of the groups.

Career Dimensions (Spring 2007) Purchase Career Dimensions Online enabling every grade 5-8 BMS student to have a personal account, to facilitate values clarification, interest surveys and career planning information for high school.

Statistics with Minitab (Spring 2007): Students enrolled in courses such as Environmental Studies, Earth Systems, Psychology and Mathematics will use this software program to apply statistical concepts, produce appropriate statistical analysis, and interpret analysis meaningfully in context.  This will emphasize that statistics is an accessible tool for students in a variety of subject areas and can be applied outside the traditional statistics classroom.

Access for COWs (Spring 2007) To expand use of COWs, install six additional wireless access points and antennas in fourth grade locations and throughout the third and second grade hallways. Simultaneous use of COWs increases access and use.

World News @ Your Fingertips!: (Spring 2006) The Historical New York Times (1851-present) to provide primary source material and documents for research, as well as facilitate the study of economic and social history for the district. All students and staff would have access.

Everything for Science (Spring 2007)Enable all BHS Science students to complete latest research “24/7” from school or home through purchase of Thomson Gale Science Resource Center. This database of current books, journals, websites, and newspapers will prepare BHS students for college level research. Ms. Feibush will train students during science class. Grade 7&8 access.

Integrating Reading and Character Education (Spring 2007) Create a collection of books that reflect all reading levels K-4 and focus on the values of the Bedwell Character Education Initiative. This fiction and non-fiction literature will enable teachers to integrate character education concepts throughout the curriculum.

Electronic Classroom Jeopardy Update (Spring 2006): One USB Drive for both BMS and BHS to update the classic Jeopardy game, enabling teachers and students to input information directly on their computers (rather than hooking up a separate cumbersome keyboard and television) to create Jeopardy games. Grant money also includes five additional game cartridges for each school to accommodate expanded use.

Class Fashion Shoot (Spring 2007) Twenty-two senior photography students will travel to New York City to work “on-location” with fashion photographer Helene DeLillo, taking them through concept design to finished product. Monies will defray student transportation and studio costs.

Rock Climbing Wall (Spring 2007) Purchase and install a magnetic transverse climbing wall, 8 feet high and 20 feet wide with multi-colored hand held “rocks”. In addition to fitness and climbing skills, math concepts related to angles and planes and other classroom concepts can be integrated into PE class.

Cutting Edge Multi-Media Possibilities (Fall 2005) To utilize Video Streaming technology in the content area classroom, particularly social studies and science, by purchasing a video data projector to enable the projection of images for instructional and student presentation purposes.

Studio Extreme (Spring 2006) Provide various pieces of studio equipment and money for guest artists to enhance new photography department offerings at BHS (over 140 students). The equipment will provide studios for portable location shoots and complement artist-in-training sessions on the latest equipment.

Walking in John James Audubon’s Footsteps (Spring 2007) Grades 2-4 students will create environments, meet with naturalists from the Environmental Education Center and develop drawings, paintings and sketches of the style of John James Audubon, to learn art and life science skills and concepts.

Workout Station for BMS (Fall 2005) To add another fitness station, with the purchase of a Bowflex equipment for students and staff to utilize during PE class. Adding this piece of equipment will complement Dance, Dance Revolution and other fitness stations students cycle through.

“Lights, Camera, Action!” (Spring 2006) To provide three video cameras for all the World Language classrooms (77% of BHS population) to promote the development of oral language skills (taping of student presentations), facilitate pen pal and other cultural exchanges, and incorporate video into student Power Point presentations.

Bedwell Bookroom (Spring 2006) A Parent/Teacher grant to support the Bedwell Bookroom in the acquisition of non-fiction resources in the areas of Science, Social Studies, Technology, Art, and Character Education. These resources will support literacy instruction, and research and study, as well as the KICK (Kids Inventing Character Building Kreations) initiative at the Bedwell School. The Bedwell HSA has already contributed funds to this project, as well as an ongoing volunteer network to maintain it.

Path to Revolution (Spring 2005): An interdisciplinary project with author visit: purchase of books and partially fund author –in-residence to explore the roles of individuals during the American Revolution.

“Programmed for Success!” (Spring 2006) Specialized software to address the unique educational needs of special education students to better fulfill content class reading and writing requirements (text scanner/reader, report writing software, and auditory word-prediction software).

Bedwell Beats to the Djembe Drums (Spring 2006) These special drums originated in Africa. They are easily held, so all Bedwell students can learn techniques that will carry over to songs, chants, games, and dances in music class. Twenty drums will enable more students to actively participate in class. The one large drum will enable the instructor to serve as “lead” drum. These drums will be able to be used across all grade levels and for years to come.

Picture Perfect Writing (Fall 2004) Students will create a series of images and construct a story around them, as well as writing response activities thought out the year. NJ ASK results indicate this is a writing skill that needs improvement.

Community, Industrial and Agricultural Effects on Mine Brook (Fall 2005) The purchase of additional scientific probes and two data calculators to bring data collection to an advanced level for all science classes, as well as sustain the Mine Brook project. This equipment will ensure accurate data and the ability to use a computer to conduct data analysis. Well over 200 students will utilize this equipment in Physics, Biology, Chemistry and Earth Systems classes.

Hot off the Press for Teachers (Spring 2006) Professional resources, recommended by guest teacher Eileen Ryan, to support the latest practices and research in reading and writing instruction. The majority of resources offer practical lesson ideas and student materials that can be used directly in the classroom.

Year Long Young Poet’s Society and Adventures in Non-Fiction Picture Books (Fall 2004) Students will collect poetry and analyze as a reader and writer, to facilitate the creation of their own original poetry. Students will analyze non-fiction texts and learn how to pull information from them to create picture books.

A Picture is Worth 1000 Words (Fall 2005) Purchase, for BHS World Language Department, 3 digital cameras and 3 128 MB memory cards to utilize innovative teaching strategies with PowerPoint and digital cameras. These innovative ideas were presented and recommended by Dr. Joe Goebel, WL assessor for all BHS World Language and ESL students.

Handmade Books (Spring 2006) A Grade 4 project that combines literacy and art in every classroom. Students will create, from scratch, an individual handmade book/journal (learning how books are made) for compiling a collection of their poetry writing and drawing over the course of the school year. Equipment purchase will enable the project to continue for years to come.

Chicken Soup for My Soul (Spring 2004) 7th grade students will design, write and produce hardcover books in this multidisciplinary project centering on the importance of individuality.

In Focus (Fall 2005) Purchase, for BHS Social Studies Department, an additional Digital Media Projector to accommodate increased enrollment and enhance opportunities for student presentation and teacher innovation. Increased number of students and student created slide shows and movies have created demand for a second projector.

Marilyn Burns Math Library (Fall 2005)  Purchase math library (K-3) to capitalize on students’ love of literature and use it to inspire mathematical learning. The collection, tailored to specific grade levels, contains 25 titles with 5 copies of each title, to enable small group instruction with the books and ease of spreading into multiple classrooms.

It’s A Small World (Spring 2004) A portable LCD projector for the World Language Team to enliven all classes. Uses include: global pen pals, videos, virtual tours, QUIA and QWIZ competitions. Co-funded by SHSD.

A Better View (Fall 2005) To complement the use of innovative technology in Social Studies, purchase projection screens for the six BHS Social Studies classrooms, to replace the aged and torn ones presently hung. They would be able to be removed during any construction/renovation of this wing.

Community Connection (Fall 2005) Purchase building materials and supplies, research materials, and select related literature for all second grade classes to work in small groups to create a 3D model community and identify careers, as well as the responsibilities of citizenship within a community, extending the Social Studies program.

Fit for Life (pilot program) (Spring 2004) Dance-Dance Revolution equipment will be incorporated into the physical education program, offering a contemporary, non-competitive fitness activity that all students can enjoy.

Computerized Molecular Modeling Chemistry Class (Fall 2005) Introduce computerized molecular animated modeling to all BHS chemistry students on a weekly, if not daily basis, through a mobile LCD projector on a lockable cart.

Bedwell Professional Collection (Fall 2005) To provide teachers with an expanded professional selection of publications and resources for teaching in areas such as instructional strategies, classroom management and current curriculum content. Recent district consultants will be contacted or recommendations.

Non-fiction Spotlight (Spring 2004) A published author workshop and reading-writing-research blocks will help 8th grade students recognize the expanse of this real world genre.

Financial Strategies (Fall 2005)  To implement the Stock Market Game with Pre-college math students, pay for registration to participate in Stock Exchange game and help to defray costs for staff training.

Computer Supported Writing (Fall 2005) Support the cost of installing Co: Writer and Write Out Loud computer supported writing programs in third, fourth, and ESL classrooms to provide students with auditory feedback and support with spelling and grammar with regard to their writing.

Photojournalism Club (Fall 2003) Materials to display work from participating student, annually at the Bernardsville Public Library, and at BMS

Improving Peer Leadership (Fall 2005) To develop an interactive training manual to better prepare the Peer Leaders to run Freshman Orientation and other peer leadership initiatives, through the purchase of camcorders and payment of Ropes Course Challenge costs.

Miles Across America (Fall 2005) To make fitness a "family affair" and sharpen math and geography skills, purchase wristbands and other related materials to support daily walking. Mileage will be totaled by students once a month on a map of America where students will learn facts about different locations. Affects all Bedwell students.

Seussentennial Celebration: (Fall 2003) Performances and parent/teacher workshops on reading using the beloved works of Dr. Seuss.

Music/Art Research Paper (Fall 2005) Access the Grove Dictionary of Music and Art, the benchmark of historical arts research, through a subscription and provide students with an enhanced vehicle for research. Includes free subscription for Bedwell

Renzulli Learning (Fall 2005) Purchase 60 Renzulli Learning systems subscriptions, to be used on district computers, for 3rd and 4th graders identified for Type III enrichment, which will contribute to self-direction in learning through activities, research opportunities, and lessons based on individual student input.

Listening Literacy (Fall 2003) Audio books to enhance enjoyment of books and reading comprehension

Hands-On Journalism (Fall 2005) To bring reporting into the 21st century, the journalism program would obtain 4 Palm Pilots, 4 "Documents to Go" software, 4 handheld recorders, and 2 digital cameras for students to learn the applications of technology in reporting, and provide satellite (on location) reporting of district and community activities, as well as updated print reporting. SHEF will fund recorders and cameras.

Attention Training in the Classroom (Fall 2005) Arrange for Dr. Beverly Tignor to present information and strategies to staff to increase student attention and make attention training part of the skills students are taught. The booklet distributed to each teacher will detail information regarding attention, as well as activities every teacher can use in a variety of school or home settings

Electronic Classroom Jeopardy! (Fall 2003) An electronic version of the classic that is viewed on VCR screen. Can create original games through use of keyboard, students have remote buzzers.

Powerful Portfolios (Fall 2005) Purchase one Dell Multimedia Laptop System to pilot the development of digital portfolios that BHS students can use as part of graduation requirements and application to college. It will be a portable workstation housed in the Photography department with access to all BHS students. The current courses, such as digital photography, will pilot use.

NJ Writer’s Project: Artists-In-the-School (Fall 2004) A professional poet will work with Grade 4 students for 6 days in honor of National Poetry Month, which will culminate in a published school poetry anthology.

Technology for All BHS Students (Spring 2005) 30 TI83 Graphing Calculators available for loan to math students who cannot afford to purchase them in order to provide access to learning tools for all students.

Teaching Literacy Skills Through Picture Books (Fall 2004) Grade 3 teachers will present literary skills through select picture books. Grade 3 students will have the opportunity to apply this newfound knowledge by creating their own books.

“Simply Shocking” (Spring 2005) Purchase electronics supplies and equipment to introduce electrochemistry and electronics to BHS chemistry and physics students, as well as utilize during Science Fun Night with middle and elementary school children.

A Dinosaur Day / Prehistoric World (Fall 2004) Related Arts teachers will lead all Bedwell students in the research and creation of a three dimensional Prehistoric World

BHS Centennial - Celebrating Traditions of Excellence (Spring 2005) An historical overview of the school district and individuals from the early 1900’s, culminating in a calendar to be distributed in June 2005 in honor of Centennial Celebration.

Once Upon a Time (Fall 2004) A professional storyteller and enrichment consultant will give four performances to Bedwell students. Storytelling can help improve listening comprehension, help develop mental imaging, increase understanding and awareness of the world’s diverse cultures and stimulate appetites for further literary experiences.

Audio Production and Digital Recording (Fall 2004) Apple Powerbook G4 and DIGI Design Mbox will enable BHS performing groups a variety of opportunities, including creating CDs (which will display the SHEF logo) of concerts and performances.

Computer Supported Writing (Fall 2004) Co:Writer is an innovative computer program that focuses on improving writing skills. 3rd and 4th grade students who struggle with writing will have this tool available in their classroom.

Body, Mind, Spirit, Voice (Fall 2004) Members of the BHS Madrigal Ensemble will participate in two workshops led by four professional members of the Antioch Vocal Ensemble. They will demonstrate how focusing on proper vocal production, breathing, posture, facial expression and knowledge of the repertoire frees the singer from performance anxiety.

Putting the Class Back in Classroom Libraries (Fall 2004) “Seed Money” for Bedwell Participants in a PDI class to develop and implement an action plan that effectively creates and sustains classroom libraries reflecting current educational theory and practice.

Mine Brook Environmental Study (Spring 2004) A multifaceted research project to understand impact of community, industry, agriculture and nature on this local stream environment.. Co-funded by PSE&G grant.

Wiggle & Squirm (Spring 2004) Materials that promote attentiveness and sensory integration for 1st, 2nd and 3rd graders will be provided to each classroom. SHSD will offer specific training for teachers on these and related activities.

Bernardian (Fall 2003) Equipment and supplies for a more sophisticated yearbook and for use in photography contest submissions.

Giant Insects & Their Habitats (Spring 2004) Each 2nd grader will research, design and build 3-D creatures and present a report to classmates. Supports the hands-on approach encouraged in the FOSS program.

Celebrating the Seniors in Somerset Hills (Fall 2003) An intergenerational project involving students and senior citizens in the community.

Invention Convention (Fall 2003) materials to enable application of the Problem Solving Design Loop at the elementary school level.

Ultra Portable Projectors (two) (Fall 2003) Enable student and teacher presentations from the computer and internet, integrating technology into the classroom and curriculum.

Moment in Time (Fall 2003) All students will make personal clocks and one large community clock, integrating math and art to teach the concepts of time.

Games Kids Play (Fall 2003) Set of games for Grade 2 classes to use in conjunction with new Gifted and Talented enrichment unit