Summer School at Glenwood Jr. High Adds Hands-On Learning

Summer school at Glenwood Junior High is offering students more than academic support this year. While students work on strengthening skills in areas where they need extra help, they are also participating in project-based learning activities that connect classroom concepts to real-world careers and experiences.

The first guest instructors were Superintendent Chris Neifer and his wife, Amy Neifer, a Boardman High School graduate and local chemistry teacher. The pair led students in several hands-on science activities, including a crystal-growing experiment and a water filtration challenge. Using dirty pond water, sand, rocks, cotton, and coffee filters, students worked in teams to create filtration systems and see who could make the water as clear as possible. The projects encouraged problem-solving, teamwork, and scientific thinking while making learning fun.

More exciting learning opportunities are planned throughout the summer. Mr. Harker will introduce students to robotics, while Boardman High School teacher Mr. Popio will take students to the BHS STEAM Lab for an information technology building project.

Students will also get a behind-the-scenes look at district improvement projects with Facilities Director Mr. Fonderlin. He will guide students through current construction projects, including the Spartan Stadium turf replacement and several concrete improvement projects around the district, helping them see how planning, engineering, and skilled trades come together to improve school facilities.

By combining academic support with project-based learning, Glenwood's summer school program is helping students build skills, explore new interests, and make meaningful connections between what they learn in school and the world around them.