Students in Kerrie Ghiozzi’s classroom are gathered around different tables, working on different tasks. One group is cutting out cardboard teeth. Others are pulling a white gauze material apart to make a spooky look. Everyone is focused and having fun; it’s almost first period and they have just a few more minutes to finish up their Monster Door!
They point to their eighth-grade Homebase leader Kaitlyn. “She’s everywhere,” said one of the students. “She’s got the plan.”
Homebase is a thirty-minute pause that begins each day. Students are assigned to a Homebase; each one includes a mix of sixth, seventh and eighth graders. While students use Homebase to charge their devices and get organized, it’s also a time to connect. Some days include an activity or conversation led by a seventh or eighth grade Homebase leader. Other are more freeform … like making Monster Doors in the two weeks preceding Halloween!
“We celebrate things like Hispanic Heritage Month and Red Ribbon Week through Homebase,” said Assistant Principal Catherine Graybosch, who organizes Homebase. She also mentors the student leaders throughout the year.
Art teachers Kendra Collins and Jean Capuano were the advisors for the Monster Doors project. They shared a video of possibilities with the Homebase teachers and organized materials for each Homebase classroom.
“The Monster Door Decorating Contest is part of our building council’s plan to do more whole-school activities to lead to a greater sense of community and belonging for all of our students, faculty and staff,” said Principal Jeff Swiatowicz. “And they look great!”
