The EXEL Program
Excellence in Experiential Learning

Weird Scientists:
Excel students pass their Scientific Method test and earn the right to wear a real lab coat!

Journalism: Fourth and Fifth grade journalists and photojournalists publish the elementary school newspaper, "The Eagles Nest News". We are members of the National Association of Elementary School Newspapers. In addition to learning how to conduct interviews, write articles, edit, take photos and create layouts, we have done the following:

· Legislators visit: We interviewed 2 state representatives about their jobs as legislators and their views about current event.
· State Supreme Court Judge visit: In January we had a visit from State Supreme Court Justice Barbara Madsen. We were able to interview her for our newspaper and conduct a mock trial with her as the judge.
· Capital visit: In April, we will be visiting the state capitol and interviewing some more legislators.

Young Writers:
Students in grades K-3 hone their creative writing skills as they write short stories, plays, poems, and prepare a chapter book for self-publication. On February 4th students will be competing in Life Christian's Speech Meet in Heritage Hall. The winners (in grades 1-5) will be representing our school at the District ACSI meet on March 11 at Cascade Christian.

Drama:
Fourth and Fifth graders learn theater terminology and dramatic technique. We have performed at Back to School Night, Veteran's Day Chapel, The Christmas Concert, Martin Luther Chapel, and will be performing at the Spring Elementary School Musical.

Brainiacs:
Brainiacs is a Challenge Math class for Highly Capable K-3 grades. (the classes for fourth and fifth graders is coming soon). We play math games, logic games, build things and design and create our own math games. Students will be competing in our Math Olympics on March 15 and the third -fifth grade winners will represent our school at the ACSI District meet on Friday, April 22 at South Kitsap Christian.