Skype is a free and easy way for teachers to open up their classrooms and expose students to a world way beyond their campus. With Skype, students can learn from other students, connect with other cultures, and expand their knowledge in amazing ways (50 Awesome Ways to Use Skype in the Classroom). Junior high school band students took advantage of this technology to connect through video-conference with an accomplished musician and instructor at Henderson State University in Arkansas recently - getting real-time instruction and coaching from more than 700 miles away.

Music Director Martin England thought his students would benefit from having access to Jennifer Amox's experience in flute performance. Amox has performed with various orchestras and has teaching experience in k-12 music education as well as post-secondary education. With Skype, she was able to visit the band class, interact with the students, and share her expertise. NISD TECHNOLOGY BLOG

Students at Navasota Intermediate School are participating in Blinn College's "If I Had a Hammer" program in which students integrate the learning of academic subject matter with a fun, hands-on activity through the blending of a construction team activity and classroom curriculum. Students work as a group to assemble an 8 X 11 foot house in less than two hours. The finished product - a free-standing house complete with windows, door and a front porch - is the result of teamwork, communication and the real-life application of math and science concepts. Students also build self-esteem and experience a powerful sense of accomplishment that comes through hard work.

The Navasota ISD Board of Trustees held a regular meeting Monday, Oct. 19. The Board recognized high school student Andrew Paiyou for his participation in the International Science Fair in May and the Rattler Band for its First Division Rating at the UIL Region 27 Marching Contest. The Board also heard the Interim Superintendent's report and considered action items that included the district improvement plan, revision of Board policies related to leaves and absences as well as the drug testing policy.

SEE MINUTES AND AGENDAS FOR BOARD OF TRUSTEE MEETINGS

Navasota Independent School District has begun a process of developing a long-term district strategic plan. The Board of Trustees approved a contract this summer with Insight 4 Leaders, a consulting group, to facilitate the process which will conclude in the spring of 2010. This process includes gathering and integrating the thoughts and opinions of school district personnel and community members. Please take a moment to share your perspective by filling out the anonymous online survey. You may also obtain a paper copy of the survey from campus administration or at the Navasota ISD administration offices.

ONLINE SURVEY - ENGLISH
ONLINE SURVEY - SPANISH