​In an effort to promote STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) learning in the classroom, J.W. Long Elementary sixth graders had the opportunity to participate in a friendly contest based on the hit TV show, “Shark Tank.” Students were divided into groups and tasked with pinpointing a legitimate problem, brainstorming a solution, and presenting a prototype to a panel of judges.
 
Students worked together in their teams over the course of a week formulating their strategies and coming up with an idea.
 
“They argued, they agreed, they drew then tore up what they created, and went back and did it again. I kept thinking some of them would quit or ask to change groups, but it didn’t happen,” said sixth grade teacher Gayla Baker.
 
Each group focused on a different problem to solve, from military weaponry, to missile detectors, water purifiers, and fire fighting robots. Included in their presentations, students had to give real life instances where their device could be used. One group proposed a water purifier made up of simple materials that could be obtained in any third-world country. Another group presented a robot firefighter that would prevent real firefighters from being harmed or trapped in burning buildings. 
 
“Every group brought something great to the table,” Baker added. “I feel confident about having this group of students running our world one day.”    
 
Winners of the “Shark Tank” invention competition included Marq Bryant, Braylon Gardner, Javier Tovar, Jaysom El Sibai, Cody Phillips and Dylan Prater, whose idea consisted of a missile that could intercept a nuclear weapon and would self-destruct if hacked.
 
Great job to all of these outstanding and innovative students!

​A creative partnership between the Terrell ISD’s Gifted and Talented Academy and retired TISD art teacher, Cindy Oakley, is providing third grade students with the unique opportunity to participate in a yearlong art project. Oakley, who taught in the District for 21 years, is volunteering her time as a guest lecturer for the project. For the first project, Oakley shared her artistic expertise as students dove into the history and significance of American monuments.
 
In preparation for the art project, students studied the history, symbolism and importance of the Statue of Liberty. After viewing a documentary and numerous photos of the monument, students created their own Lady Liberty by using watercolor, collage, tempera, and perspective techniques. Oakley, who finds inspiration from a variety of cultures, encouraged the students to utilize a wide range of mediums to create their artwork.
 
GT Academy students busily moved around the room sharing their finished work with classmates and guest teacher. For many of the students, this was their first experience with Oakley’s techniques. They expressed their gratitude for Oakley’s time through “Thank You” cards.
 
“Thank you for teaching me how to paint a sunset with watercolors. Now, I am painting sunsets at home,” said Brant Raney.
 
At the conclusion of the class, students expressed their excitement for Oakley’s next art project.
 
“Thank you for teaching us so many new techniques. I am excited that you are coming again to help us with more projects,” shared Paulina Nava.
 
Thank you Mrs. Oakley for lending us your time and talents to provide our students with this fun and unique learning opportunity. We look forward to seeing more artwork from our students