Appy Time For Learning Photo Blog
Appy Time For Learning 2016-2024
Aug 2024 - Mr. Schaffer, the Community Schools Coordinator, from Mary Ann Winterling Elementary, shares appreciation for over 90 filled backpacks donated by Hopkins United Methodist Church located in Howard County, MD. Appy Time For Learning is happy to be a partner with this generous congregation.
Aug 2024 - Crossroads Community Church in Westminster and the GFWC Women's Club of Westminster donated school supplies for the students at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School. It is so important for each student to have the supplies they need to begin school with confidence.
May 2024 - The Guys Read club at Ebb Valley Elementary School created a collection of books that interest 4th and 5th-grade boys and donated them to the Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School library. They included personal reviews of their books for interested readers. Dr. Jeannette Taylor, the librarian, graciously accepted the donation from Patricia Mack-Preston. She is planning to highlight these next school year.
May 2024 - Appy Time For Learning participated in Teacher Appreciation Week. The teachers were very grateful for the coffee and donuts. We have partnered with this school for nine years and know the hard work and dedication the teachers bring each day.
May 2024 - Appy Time For Learning thanks Mount View Middle School for buying and organizing the summer fun learning bags for all first graders at Mary Ann Winterling School. We also thank our volunteer, Ms. Eichler, for purchasing and arranging the summer fun bags for all the kindergarten students. We know how important it is to keep learning all summer!
May 2024 - Students at Carroll County Head Start receive their certificate of completion and End Of Year Summer goodie bags. The goodie bags were donated by the ATFL volunteers. Thanks to all the hard work of each volunteer as they shared the love of learning weekly.
May 2024 - The first-grade students at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School had a day filled with learning at the Farm Field Tours field trip to Bortner Valley. This trip was sponsored in part by Appy Time For Learning. The classroom was a barn where they learned about vegetables, seeds, and other farm crops. Each student planted a tomato plant and four other seeds to take home to begin their own personal organic farm. They also learned about the importance of bees, how they live, and what a beekeeper does. The students enjoyed interacting with farm animals, picnicking outdoors, and participating in an "I Spy" hike on the property. The day ended with some fun outdoor games before boarding the bus to go back to school.
May 2024 - The Guys Read Club of Ebb Valley Elementary School in Carroll County organized a book drive for Appy Time For Learning. The book drive was their fourth year of raising awareness of children growing up in poverty who need books of their own. This year, the club created a special selection of their favorite books, along with a personal review, to encourage 4th and 5th-grade boys at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School to read these recommended genres and authors.
April 2024 - The students at Mary Ann Winterling and Carroll County Head Start celebrated Earth Day by learning about how earthworms and honey bees help our environment. Some students were apprehensive in the beginning, but after learning about nature's important helpers, they left wanting to know more about these friends. They even built worm farms to continue their studies in the classroom.
March 2024 - Appy Time planned a STEM Day for our students at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary. Students learned about open and closed electrical circuits using Playdough and power packs. They used circuits to make lights turn on, whistles blow, and fans turn. We planted seeds that this could be a career in their future.
March 2024 - Our architecture station provided lots of fun learning as they built a structure for a specific purpose. We read the story of The Three Little Pigs and discussed the design of each pig's house. The students were challenged to build a house that could withstand the force of air from the Big Bad Wolf (a hairdryer). Afterward, we discussed what were the best designs that protected their paper pigs.
March 2024 - The students learned to make predictions and draw conclusions as they learned about solids, liquids, and gases. Experimenting and recording their observations sparked a natural interest in becoming a scientist.
Feburary 2024 - The Book Club Caterers from Westminster, MD organized Valentine's treat bags to help Appy Time For Learning remind the students that they are loved! The Carroll County Head Start volunteers also created treat bags for the PreK class. Everyone went home with treats in hand and the knowledge that they were cared for by us.
Feburary 2024 - Appy Time wants to thank our school partners from Eb Valley Elementary, West Friendship Elementary, Shiloh Middle School, and Mount View Middle School for supplying us with books for the students to develop a personal library in their homes. We also thank our individual donors for their book contributions. The students love choosing books each week!
Feburary 2024 - The first graders at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary are earning Mcdonald's gift cards for learning to independently read chosen leveled books. Here they are discussing what they might purchase. Anyone for chicken nuggets? The smiles tell of their effort and accomplishment!
December 2023 - The Prime Timers small group from Crossroads Community Church collected and organized Christmas gift bags for each student. While there are goodies like bubbles and Playdough, there are also some necessities, such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, and tissues. Their faithfulness is inspiring year after year, and exemplifies the true meaning of Christmas.
December 2023 - “A book is a gift you can open again and again.” ― Garrison Keillor
Students in the PreK class at Carroll County Head Start loved choosing new books donated by employees of Penguin Random House. Each month our students choose books to build their home libraries.
Students in the PreK class at Carroll County Head Start loved choosing new books donated by employees of Penguin Random House. Each month our students choose books to build their home libraries.
December 2023 - The students and staff from Head Start gave the Appy Time volunteers a treat for the holidays. We loved the personal touch of each student participating in making us a holiday poster. The luncheon was delicious and the fellowship was divine.
December 2023 - We give thanks to the volunteers who generously gave of their time and finances to create Christmas gift bags for all kindergartners, first graders, and second graders. The students were overjoyed with Appy Time's pouring out of love for each of them. The teachers also received a treat in their mailboxes! Teachers have a challenging job each day and they appreciate any act of kindness and appreciation for what they do.
December 2023 - The robots help kids learn the basics of robotics and coding. The excitement is contagious!
Hour of Code: Mary Ann Winterling Elementary kindergartners and first graders participated in The Hour Of Code on December 7th. The Hour of Code is a free introduction to computer science through fun activities and videos for learners of all skill levels. The photos and videos exemplify how much fun the students had while learning how to code. We are so thankful for the volunteers who gave of their time and talents.
Hour of Code: Mary Ann Winterling Elementary kindergartners and first graders participated in The Hour Of Code on December 7th. The Hour of Code is a free introduction to computer science through fun activities and videos for learners of all skill levels. The photos and videos exemplify how much fun the students had while learning how to code. We are so thankful for the volunteers who gave of their time and talents.
|
|
|
|
|
On December 5th, the Pre-K students at Carroll County Head Start joined students from all over the world to participate in The Hour Of Code, which teaches students about coding. They loved writing code using the Bee Bots. Learning about computer science at an early age will certainly be a benefit as they continue to grow.
  |
|
November 2023 - Appy Time participated in the Day of Giving by refreshing the Ravens hallway. While it was a lot of fun, it was also encouraging to see other community groups and staff there to help out. Mr. Michael Schaffer, the community school coordinator, organizes this event every spring and fall.
November 2023 - We love how our students are engaged in learning and motivated to excel.
November 2023 - We believe that 1:1 instruction with each child allows for a deeper understanding of how he or she learns best and builds on their strengths while targeting the areas of need.
November 2023 - Appy Time For Learning started our ninth year at Carroll County Head Start in Westminster, MD. The students were engaged in learning as they learned letter names and counted sets on the iPads. Providing a 1:1 relationship with each student provides a learning environment that is personal and allows for instruction to be targeted specifically for each student's needs and strengths.
October 2023 - We also love to encourage the staff at Mary Ann Winterling. Teachers, assistants, administrators, and custodial staff all received Halloween treats in their mailboxes from Appy Time For Learning.
October 2023 - We started our year at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary with waves and hugs from former students in the halls. Our new students were full of smiles and excitement, and so were our volunteers! We began with a get to know you activity on ABCya.com.
August 2023 - Crossroads Community Church of Westminster, Maryland held a school supply drive for Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School. Steph Albright, the missions director, helped to pack the car to the brim with the supplies. We are so thankful to all those who gave generously for those who are in need.
August 2023 - Mr. Poknis, the assistant principal, Patricia Mack-Preston, executive director of Appy Time For Learning, and Michael Schaffer, Community Schools Coordinator, pose for a picture receiving the school supplies.
August 2023 - Appy Time For Learning joined Mary Ann Winterling for their "Sneak Peak" day on Friday. There was so much excitement in the air! Students came to meet their teachers, receive backpacks with school supplies, eat lunch, and learn about Appy Time For Learning. We were able to share with families our mission and to show them some of the apps we use. We offered free books and special treats like rainbow pencils and bouncy balls. What a great time!
August 2023 - Appy Time For Learning will partner with Carroll County Head Start for the ninth year. We enjoyed telling families about Appy Time For Learning as they arrived at the Open House. The students were so excited as we helped them to navigate some of the apps we will be using this school year.
June 2023 - Student testimonials from our young friends at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School. Love those precious voices & sweet words.
May 2023 - The Boys Read Club organized a school-wide book drive for "I Can Read" type books for students at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School. They created colorful posters and promoted the event on the school's morning news program. This proud group of boys collected almost 900 books! Promoting the love of reading is an essential component to increasing good readers at all levels. We are so grateful to be connected with the thoughtful students of the Boys Read club.
May 2023 - The Pre-K students at Carroll County Head Start enjoyed the end of year ceremony where they received a certificate and fun summer learning bags.
May 2023 - On Appy Time For Learning’s last day at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary, each kindergartner and first grader received bags of learning supplies and fun summer games. They also chose three books for their home libraries. Each student that we mentored increased their home libraries by at least 25 books this year. Special thanks to Mount View Middle School in Howard County and GFWC Jr. organization of Carroll County for donating the materials.
“The content of a book holds the power of education and it is with this power that we can shape our future and change lives.” —Malala Yousafzai
May 2023 - Planting Day at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School Students were excited to turn their school’s front garden area into a lovely flower garden. Each day when they arrive at school, they will experience a sense of pride to see the fruits of their labor.
The students were excited and ready to plant their own tomato plants to take home. Who knew that wearing gardening gloves would be such a motivator?
The students loved learning about the parts of a plant and what plants need to survive through “hands-on” experience. Planting their own tomato plant for their home will inspire them to possibly plant a garden of their own.
March 2023 - These pictures are of the Shiloh Middle School SGA students reading their thank you letters from MAWE students. Shiloh SGA assembled Valentine bag treats for every kindergarten student. The kindergartners were thrilled with all the goodies!
February 2023 - Feeling the love at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School.
Appy Time For Learning assembled Valentine's Day goodie bags for kindergartners and first graders at Mary Ann Winterling, Carroll County Head Start PreK classes, and children at the Westminster Family Shelter.
|
The staff at Mary Ann Winterling were shown appreciation on Valentine's Day. Each staff member received chocolate treats in their mailboxes. Chocolate always brings smiles.
|
December 2022 - The SGA at Shiloh Middle School in Hampstead, Md, wanted to encourage students at Mary Ann Winterling to enjoy reading. They decorated cards stating the benefits of reading, and assembled winter coloring books for the students in Pre-K, 1st, and 2nd grade. Penguin Random House generously donated new books, and these were added to the gift. Shiloh Middle School has been faithful Appy Time partners over the years. It's great that these middle school students are understanding their power in changing lives and acting on it.
December 2022 - Crossroads Community Church located in Westminster, MD is a faithful partner of Appy Time For Learning. During the holidays, there are families who cannot afford to buy gifts for their children and continue to pay the monthly bills. Michael Schaffer, Community Schools Coordinator at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary designated eight families in need. Crossroads Community Church members sprang into action, led by Stephanie Albright, the missions director, and collected many boxes of gifts on the families' wish list.
December 2022 - The Prime Time small group from Crossroads Community Church in Westminster, MD assembled Christmas bags for the Pre-K classes at Carroll County Head Start. Each bag had a brand new book from Penguin Random House, coloring books, crayons, play dough, tooth brushes, tooth paste, and other fun supplies. The students were very excited to explore all the treasures in their bags.
December 2022 - We are thankful to the Hour of Code volunteers who gave their time to help make this day a success.
|
|
The students at Mary Ann Winterling joined students from all over the world to participate in The Hour of Code, a day designed to expose students to coding. The kindergarten and first grade students loved learning how to Code Bee Bots as they reviewed letter sounds, sequencing, and numbers. They also used coding apps, such as Code Spark Academy and Code Karts to practice writing code. |
November 2022 - Appy Time For Learning volunteers made a strong presence at Mary Ann Winterling’s Giving Back Day. We had eight volunteers doing jobs, such as painting, organizing closet supplies, and cleaning the gym areas. It was a pleasure to serve and create a more desirable learning environment for the students we serve. “
October/November 2022 - Carroll County Head Start
Appy Time For Learning started our year in October with lots of smiles and motivated students at Carroll County Head Start. We began teaching number identification and counting sets using the apps Elmo's 1,2,3's and Kid Numbers 1,2,3. The students loved the interactive approach used in the apps and the volunteers were their biggest cheerleaders.
Appy Time For Learning started our year in October with lots of smiles and motivated students at Carroll County Head Start. We began teaching number identification and counting sets using the apps Elmo's 1,2,3's and Kid Numbers 1,2,3. The students loved the interactive approach used in the apps and the volunteers were their biggest cheerleaders.
Appy Time For Learning is continuing our pledge to give each student at least ten books for the school year for their personal home libraries. Reading is the foundation of learning and we want to be a positive influence in the early years.
October/November 2022 - Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School
Students at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary began the year practicing letter and sound identification in kindergarten and sight word recognition in first grade. Each student was engaged in learning and loved the 1:1 adult support they received. Building trusting relationships with each student is an important goal for Appy Time. Learning is achieved best in an environment of trust and safety.
Students at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary began the year practicing letter and sound identification in kindergarten and sight word recognition in first grade. Each student was engaged in learning and loved the 1:1 adult support they received. Building trusting relationships with each student is an important goal for Appy Time. Learning is achieved best in an environment of trust and safety.
October 2022 - Appy Time For Learning knows the importance of recognizing the teachers who give so much of themselves and their time for each student. Each teacher at Mary Ann Winterling received a Halloween treat as a thank you. All kindergartners and first graders received a Halloween treat bag.
September 2022 - Patricia Mack-Preston, the executive director of Appy Time For Learning, was a participant on a panel discussion with other leaders who bring hope to people living in impoverished communities. A portion of the initial proceeds from the book, Hope Realized by James Belt, were donated to Appy Time For Learning.
A link to the entire panel discussion (25:00): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_1W66yNb810
A link to the entire panel discussion (25:00): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_1W66yNb810
August 2022 - Appy Time for Learning was at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School's Back To School event on Friday, August 26th. It was wonderful to see our students again and how much bigger they are from last year! Each student received a small gift bag with a book and Play Doh or bubbles. We had iPads on display to show the parents how we use apps to support their child's education. We also had a table with free books. This same effort was echoed at Carroll County's Head Start on Monday, August 29th.
July 2022 - Members of Bible Fellowship Church in Reisterstown, MD donated school supplies during their VBS week for the students served by Appy Time For Learning. As prices of supplies have increased dramatically, families will be blessed to have extra help for their children. We appreciate every donation toward a child's education. Special thanks to Pastor Jim Crocker, Lousie Crocker, and Gladeen Hewlett.
|
June 2022 - A few words from Ms. Woods. She is a Kindergarten teacher at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School. |
|
June 2022 - West Friendship Elementary School students in Howard County donated over 400 books for the students at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School in Baltimore City. Special thanks to Amy Petrilla, the media specialist, (far right in photo) for organizing everything.
May 2022 - MAWES Student Testimonials
|
Part 1
|
Part 2
|
|
|
May 2022 - PLANTING DAY at MAWES was a day full of smiles, laughter, dirty hands, and learning about plant life. The kindergartners, and some second graders, enjoyed cleaning up the school's front garden and planting a flower garden. They also planted individual tomato plants, donated by Gary and Jan Pohler, to grow at their homes. When it was time to leave, everyone wanted to continue planting and cleaning. Everyday when they enter school, they will feel a sense of pride and accomplishment in helping their school look beautiful.
May 2022 - Even though we did not volunteer at Carroll County Head Start this year due to the pandemic, we continued to remind them that we were still here to support them. A group of Head Start volunteers and board members donated supplies for the summer fun bags for 40 PreK students. Items, such as, playdough, pencils, activity books, crayons, literature books, and paints were included. A group of middle and high school students from the Community Bible Study classes in Westminster, MD brought learning games and included a personal card of encouragement. Amy Hammond, the education director, enthusiastically accepted the summer bags.
|
|
May 2022 - Appy Time For Learning gave each Mary Ann Winterling student in kindergarten and second grade a summer fun bag with activity books, crayons, pencils, notepads, bubbles, snacks, learning games, and literature books. The excitement grew when each student opened their summer fun bag and chose two literature books for their home libraries.
|
|
April 2022 - Earth Day Celebration! Earth Day was a great success this year at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary. Students learned how earthworms help our soil through hands-on observation, informational videos, and creating earthworm farms for their classrooms. The importance of honeybees for our flowers and plants was also explored as students observed a real beehive.
The observation station encouraged students to learn about earthworm movements and body parts through observation. The students had many questions and the volunteers guided them as they learned many characteristics of earthworms and their importance to the health of our earth.
The observation station encouraged students to learn about earthworm movements and body parts through observation. The students had many questions and the volunteers guided them as they learned many characteristics of earthworms and their importance to the health of our earth.
|
|
|
The students also learned many facts about honeybees as they observed a hive from the Carroll County Beekeepers Association. Kindergartners have a natural curiosity about nature, and Mr. Belt shared many interesting facts that amazed them. One student didn’t think it was fair that the females did most of the work in the hive.
|
|
|
Creating a “soil surprise” with edible dirt, grass, and topped with a gummy worm was a favorite station for every student.
At the end of the day, each kindergarten student received an Earth Day learning bag of fun learning activities, books, and treats.
April 2022 - Thanks to Shiloh Middle School Student Government Association for leading a book drive for Appy Time For Learning. Because of their generosity, each of the 100 students we serve at Carroll County Head Start and Mary Ann Winterling Elementary will receive 2-3 books in their summer fun learning bags. Additional books will be used in our neighborhood libraries so children will continue to have access to books throughout the summer.
|
|
April 2022 - Students enjoyed treats for spring break donated by one of our volunteers.
April 2022 - Please join us as we celebrate our motivated and happy students who read their book and earned a McDonald's gift card!
March 2022 - The Boys Read Club at Ebb Valley Elementary in Carroll County organized a book drive for the children Appy Time serves at Carroll County Head Start and Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School in Baltimore City. This is the third year this group of community-minded students have conducted a book drive for us. It was wonderful meeting 4th and 5th grade boys who love to read and are using their passion for reading to encourage other students to discover the joy of reading. Their goal was to collect 500 books, and they surpassed that goal!
We spent time together gathering the books from around the school and discussing the books they enjoy reading. The boys were so inspired after hearing about the students with whom they were sharing that they began brainstorming other ways to help. These boys are our future leaders! Thank you to Mr. Fosnot, the lead teacher of this group, who works diligently with the boys before the official school day.
We spent time together gathering the books from around the school and discussing the books they enjoy reading. The boys were so inspired after hearing about the students with whom they were sharing that they began brainstorming other ways to help. These boys are our future leaders! Thank you to Mr. Fosnot, the lead teacher of this group, who works diligently with the boys before the official school day.
March 2022 - Appy Time is providing incentives for our second grade students who are challenged by reading and generally do not like to read. They are given an opportunity each week to choose a book at their reading level. After practicing reading the book with us, they have one week to practice at home or school. When we meet again, if the student reads the book successfully to us, they receive a five dollar McDonald's gift card. When we announced this incentive, the students' eyes grew large with excitement and interest. Each student also gets to keep their book to start building a library of books they can read fluently. Below you see pictures of very happy students with their new books.
February 2022 - Appy Time For Learning is continuing to care for the students at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary while we have taken a break for two months due to the COVID virus. Valentine's Day is the perfect opportunity to remind the students and teachers that we care about them. Appy Time volunteers organized treat bags for all kindergarten and second grade students. All staff members were also reminded of our appreciation as they discovered Valentine treat bags in their mailboxes.
February 2022 - Appy Time For Learning partnered with Shiloh Middle School Student Government Association to provide Valentine treat bags for the four year old classes at Carroll County Head Start. Students received fun supplies, such as stickers, crayons, and pencils. Shiloh Middle School has been a faithful partner with ATFL and this group of dedicated students exemplify each year the importance of supporting those in our community.
December 2021 - Our partners in education participated in The Hour of Code week (Dec 6-12):
Appy Time For Learning participated in Computer Science Week at Mary Ann Winterling using coding apps and robotics. The kindergartners and first graders thoroughly loved learning to write code. We encouraged them to think about becoming a computer programmer when they grow up and go to college. Knowledge of this career choice was a first for many of the students. We challenged them to "not just play video games, but design them yourselves."
Appy Time For Learning participated in Computer Science Week at Mary Ann Winterling using coding apps and robotics. The kindergartners and first graders thoroughly loved learning to write code. We encouraged them to think about becoming a computer programmer when they grow up and go to college. Knowledge of this career choice was a first for many of the students. We challenged them to "not just play video games, but design them yourselves."
December 2021 - ATFL distributed learning activity bags from our yearly successful fundraiser. Fifty kindergartners at Mary Ann Winterling and forty PreK students at Carroll County Head Start received a knapsack with two learning games, pencils, playdough, two literature books, and stickers. The students in PreK also received a festive face mask to wear. The students at Mary Ann Winterling cheered for joy when we showed them what was in each bag.
December 2021 - ATFL partnered again with Crossroads Community Church through the Prime Time small group. They have been faithful in providing a variety of fun treat bags throughout the years for the students at Carroll County Head Start. They bought and organized Christmas bags for the 40 students at Carroll County Head Start. Some much needed items, such as toothbrushes, tissues, and toothpaste, were included in addition to books, playdough, bubbles, and stickers. Carroll County Head Start teachers delivered the learning activity bags to each student's home. The smiles tell the whole story.
An ATFL volunteer organized treat bags for the holidays for our 50 kindergartners at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School. Each student was very thankful and wanted to open their treat bags immediately.
December 2021 - The Crossroads Community Church Mission team generously supplied gifts for 10 families in need at Mary Ann Winterling Elem. The gifts were received with hearts of thankfulness and gratitude.
November 20, 2021 - Packing Day for ATFL
|
|
Today, at Crossroads Community Church, we had 9 volunteers packing learning activity bags for 90 students at Carroll County Head Start and Mary Ann Winterling Elementary. All items packed were a part of our fall fundraiser. Each student will receive a math and a language arts interactive game, books, play dough, pencils, and stickers. We want to sincerely thank our supporters for their generosity. We also thank God for continuing to bless our work at Appy Time For Learning. There will be many smiling faces when the students receive their learning bags. |
November 2021 - Reading books is an important indicator in student academic success. It has been proven that an emphasis on reading and literacy helps develop higher levels of focus, concentration, and memory skills. Students become better critical thinkers, build better vocabulary, and learn a variety of concepts.
Appy Time For Learning has donated two mini neighborhood library houses located in the front of Mary Ann Winterling Elem. school. We gave one hundred literature books on our first day of operation. Students were encouraged to take books home to enjoy and to keep at home to add to their personal home libraries. The yellow house is for grades kindergarten through second grade. The blue house is for grades three through five.
We thank God for The Willis family who donated the supplies and built the houses with excellent craftsmanship at no cost to us. We also thank Gregg Nibbelink, one of our volunteers, who painted and secured the houses in the ground. Each week, books will be added for students to take home. We also thank those supporters of Appy Time who donate their gently used and new books for us to pass on to the students and teachers.
Appy Time For Learning has donated two mini neighborhood library houses located in the front of Mary Ann Winterling Elem. school. We gave one hundred literature books on our first day of operation. Students were encouraged to take books home to enjoy and to keep at home to add to their personal home libraries. The yellow house is for grades kindergarten through second grade. The blue house is for grades three through five.
We thank God for The Willis family who donated the supplies and built the houses with excellent craftsmanship at no cost to us. We also thank Gregg Nibbelink, one of our volunteers, who painted and secured the houses in the ground. Each week, books will be added for students to take home. We also thank those supporters of Appy Time who donate their gently used and new books for us to pass on to the students and teachers.
October 2021 - Appy Time For Learning is back at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School providing individualized instruction through technology. ATFL volunteers are already witnessing student growth in less than a month's time. October is also a great time to sprinkle some Halloween fun to both students and staff members.
September 2021 - At Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School's Back to School Night, Appy Time for Learning (ATFL) shared with family members our mission and demonstrated some apps that we use for instruction. Kindergarten students received an "I Love Reading" knapsack with a book and stickers. Staff and parents were very excited to have us back in the school supporting MAWES students' academic progress.
August 2021 - Appy Time For Learning participated in Carroll County Head Start's open house. The mission of Appy Time was shared with family members and students were able to practice academic apps on the iPads. Each student received a knapsack with a book and crayons. The students were very excited to start school.
August 2021 - Twenty-five bags and boxes of school supplies were provided for the students at MAWES. These donations were collected in partnership with Crossroads Community Church in Westminster, MD. Mr. Michael Schaffer, Community Schools Coordinator, and Ms. Jelani Brown, kindergarten teacher, graciously accepted the donations.
June 2021
1. A team of volunteers from ATFL and Crossroads Church joined together and cleaned up the front garden area of MAWES by weeding, planting flowers, and mulching. "Dirt Desserts" were given to each PreK and kindergarten student since they could not join us in the planting this year due to COVID restrictions.
2. First grade, kindergarten, and PreK students at Mary Ann Winterling were given Summer Family STEM packets that were bought and assembled by Appy Time volunteers. PreK students at Carroll County Head Start were also given packets. In all, 70 packets were given out. In each packet, there were four activities that provided a STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) challenge for students. Using basic materials, students were motivated to build, assemble, and design items to meet a specific goal.
1. A team of volunteers from ATFL and Crossroads Church joined together and cleaned up the front garden area of MAWES by weeding, planting flowers, and mulching. "Dirt Desserts" were given to each PreK and kindergarten student since they could not join us in the planting this year due to COVID restrictions.
2. First grade, kindergarten, and PreK students at Mary Ann Winterling were given Summer Family STEM packets that were bought and assembled by Appy Time volunteers. PreK students at Carroll County Head Start were also given packets. In all, 70 packets were given out. In each packet, there were four activities that provided a STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) challenge for students. Using basic materials, students were motivated to build, assemble, and design items to meet a specific goal.
May 2021 - A team of volunteers from ATFL and Crossroads Church supported Mary Ann Winterling Elementary's "Day of Giving" by repairing and building raised bed gardens needed for the upcoming Outdoor Classrooms grant the school received. All supplies were provided by Jay Belt and company. Other ATFL volunteers assisted in cleaning out supply closets and organizing them in preparation of honoring the long time custodian, Miss Kathy, with her own dedication of service. Undergarments and clothes were also donated to the closet to meet student needs.
April 2021 - ATFL began a penpal program for the students who returned to in-person learning at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary. The purpose of the program was to connect students with adults and teens that would take a personal interest in them and would be an encouraging voice during a difficult time. Pen pal programs have been documented to improve reading and writing skills, develop compassion and understanding of other communities, cultures and values, as well as develop a child's curiosity.
With Mount View Middle School, ATFL also provided funds to create "swag bags" for each student and staff that returned to in-person learning. The "swag bags" were fanny packs that included materials, such as hand sanitizers, tissues, lip gloss, lotions, pens, etc. ATFL also designed and bought 80 water bottles for students and staff. The school was very appreciative with our support in helping to keep everyone safe.
With Mount View Middle School, ATFL also provided funds to create "swag bags" for each student and staff that returned to in-person learning. The "swag bags" were fanny packs that included materials, such as hand sanitizers, tissues, lip gloss, lotions, pens, etc. ATFL also designed and bought 80 water bottles for students and staff. The school was very appreciative with our support in helping to keep everyone safe.
Please enjoy this short Pen Pal exchange between a MAWES 5th grade student and Pen Pal adult volunteer.
*Click on letter images below to enlarge.
*Click on letter images below to enlarge.
February 2021 - This week (week of February 8th) we delivered 80 Valentine bags to students at Head Start and Mary Ann Winterling. The teachers and students were very appreciative. Due to the pandemic, we are not allowed in the buildings so everything is outside. We did get one picture with a student who had just arrived to receive her bag.
December 2020 - Our friends at the Crossroads Community Church Eldersburg campus sponsored 11 families in need at MAWES. Each student received a new coat, books, hat, scarves & gloves, pj’s, and 1-2 family games. Coats, scarves, and hats will be so important to children this winter as many walk or take public transportation. Books and games will bring hours of fun learning and interacting with family and friends.
Jay Belt, Micah Mohlmann, and Bernie Blake delivered 20 additional new handmade desks for a total of 40 new desks altogether. The school administration was very excited about receiving additional desks so more students will have their own learning space at home to support online learning.
Theresa Yodzis, an Appy Time volunteer and board member, and Michele Kocak, an Appy Time supporter, provided and assembled large packages of snacks for the children. Food is always a need in areas of poverty. Each child received their own bag and smiles of thankfulness showed their appreciation.
Jay Belt, Micah Mohlmann, and Bernie Blake delivered 20 additional new handmade desks for a total of 40 new desks altogether. The school administration was very excited about receiving additional desks so more students will have their own learning space at home to support online learning.
Theresa Yodzis, an Appy Time volunteer and board member, and Michele Kocak, an Appy Time supporter, provided and assembled large packages of snacks for the children. Food is always a need in areas of poverty. Each child received their own bag and smiles of thankfulness showed their appreciation.
December 2020 - Appy Time For Learning continues to support the students we serve at Carroll County Head Start and Early Head Start, even though we cannot have person-to-person contact. Thanks to our partnership with Carroll County Career and Technology Center and Crossroads Community Church, we were able to create holiday gift bags for all 40 students. The textile division class, headed by Mrs. Harris, sewed 40 child-size face coverings with fun prints. We know the children will love to wear these around the community with pride.
|
December 2020 - Crossroads Community Church designed the holiday gift bags, sought donations from community organizations, and brought various supplies. Items, such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, tissues, bubbles, new books, stickers, and pencils were among the contents. The staff were excited to receive our donations and appreciative of our continued efforts to stay connected as a community partnership. Left to right: Gail Carlson (Appy Time volunteer), Lisa Symonds (teacher), Amy Hammond (Education Director), Chelsey Casadei (Teacher), Patricia Mack-Preston ( Appy Time-Executive Director) |
|
November 2020 - Enjoy these photos from Thursday's (11/05) delivery of desks, backpacks and non-perishable food items to our friends at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School in Baltimore City. The non-perishable food items were donated by the Maryland Fever U16 Softball Team.
|
November 5, 2020 Please view a word of thanks from Mrs. Hyette. Mrs. Hyette is an educator from Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School. |
|
November 2020 - Beginner set of 19 desks for MAWE students to use at home have been built by ATFL volunteers, Jay Belt and colleaugues Gregg Nibbelink, Micah Mohlmann and Bernie Blake. These desks will provide a much needed personal space for the students' learning environment in their homes.
October 2020 - Thank you to our ATFL volunteers and supporters; their generosity never ends. They donated and created 90 backpacks filled with learning games to help during online learning. Pictured below are ATFL volunteers and the Head Start Education Director, Amy Hammond, as they are handing out backpacks for Pre-K students at Carroll County Head Start.
March 2020 -ATFL is thankful to the student government association of Shiloh Middle School in Carroll County for its organization of a school-wide coat drive for the students of Mary Ann Winterling in Southwest Baltimore. Over 200 coats were donated! What an example of young people demonstrating compassion for each other. The pictures below show students at MAWE unloading cars of donated coats.
January 2020 - Shiloh Middle School Student Government Association partnered with Appy Time For Learning by replenishing classroom supplies for each teacher at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School. The staff was very thankful and excited to receive these much needed items.
December 2019 - Crossroads Community Church created gift bags for Head Start students in the four-year old classes. The gift bags contained items, such as toothbrushes, tissues, toothpaste, bubbles and stickers. Kindergarten and first grade students at Mary Ann Winterling received holiday treat bags and books donated by Appy Time For Learning volunteers.
December 2019 - Who says four and five-year olds can't learn to write code? Check out our budding computer programmers!
|
|
|
October 2019- Off to a great start!
Kindergarten students enjoy learning using iPads. Each student receives 1:1 instruction, which allows the volunteers to tailor learning to meet each child’s individual needs.
Kindergarten students enjoy learning using iPads. Each student receives 1:1 instruction, which allows the volunteers to tailor learning to meet each child’s individual needs.
Our volunteers are full service!
From academic instruction to shoe tying and beyond.
From academic instruction to shoe tying and beyond.
October 2019
Another successful Applebees Flapjack Fundraiser. We had over 100 hungry supporters.
Another successful Applebees Flapjack Fundraiser. We had over 100 hungry supporters.
October 2019 - Our goal is to provide each kindergartner with 10 books for their home libraries. The kindergarten students at Mary Ann Winterling Elem. received their first books from Appy Time For Learning. They enjoyed writing their names in their books and relaxing in the reading room. Many of the students stated that this was their very first personal book.
Head Start students choosing their first book from Appy Time For Learning. We are very thankful to the many people that donate books throughout the year.
Students Engaged In Learning
May 2019 - Ending Ceremony for Westminster Head Start
Each student received a knapsack full of goodies, such as, six literature books, one activity book, crayons, pencils, bubbles, stickers, and sidewalk chalk.
Each student received a knapsack full of goodies, such as, six literature books, one activity book, crayons, pencils, bubbles, stickers, and sidewalk chalk.
May 2019 - Ending Ceremony for Mary Ann Winterling Elementary
Kindergarten students show off their summer knapsacks filled with summer goodies just after they received their certificate of completion.
Kindergarten students show off their summer knapsacks filled with summer goodies just after they received their certificate of completion.
May 2019 - Appy Time volunteers assemble 90 knapsacks for students at Westminster Head Start and Mary Ann Winterling Elementary.
May 2019 - STEM Day
Students made lava lamps as they explored chemical interactions. Learning about open and closed electrical circuits was a lot of fun as students turned on fans, buzzers and lights.
Students made lava lamps as they explored chemical interactions. Learning about open and closed electrical circuits was a lot of fun as students turned on fans, buzzers and lights.
|
|
|
There were squeals of delight as the students learned about states of matter through blowing up a balloon using the gas created by vinegar and baking soda. Students were able to record their observations like a real scientist on a data collection sheet. Our budding architects were challenged to build houses using toothpicks and candy Dots that could withstand the blowing forces of the Big Bad Wolf.
April 2019 - Planting Day was a big success at Mary Ann Winterling. The students rotated through 4 stations, including observing earthworms, planting personal tomato plants, designing the school's flower garden, and creating a culinary worm dessert.
April 2019 -
Ebb Valley Elementary School's Guys Read club organized a school-wide book drive for students at Mary Ann Winterling School. This is the second year this group of avid readers with a desire to spread the love of reading has partnered with Appy Time. They collected about 1,200 new and gently used books.
West Friendship Elementary School students organized a book drive for the third year in a row. The students have shown commitment, care, and generosity by helping students growing up in challenging conditions foster a love of reading. Ten boxes of books were donated!
Ebb Valley Elementary School's Guys Read club organized a school-wide book drive for students at Mary Ann Winterling School. This is the second year this group of avid readers with a desire to spread the love of reading has partnered with Appy Time. They collected about 1,200 new and gently used books.
West Friendship Elementary School students organized a book drive for the third year in a row. The students have shown commitment, care, and generosity by helping students growing up in challenging conditions foster a love of reading. Ten boxes of books were donated!
March 2019 - Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School
Westminster Head Start
Westminster Head Start
|
|
The students are so excited when they get to choose their own personal book each month. This student practiced reading her favorite section of her new book. |
February 2019 - The Student Government at Shiloh Middle School in Hampstead, MD made Valentine Treats for the MAWES kindergartners. It's so fun to listen to their excitement and thankfulness.
|
|
|
January 2019 - Students enjoy reading at their individual level using the RazKids app. They love to show off their comprehension scores!
December 2018 - Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School
Crossroads Community Church and Appy Time For Learning partnered together to provide each student a book for their personal home libraries and cookie mix for baking a special treat at home for the holidays. Smiling faces tell the whole story!
Crossroads Community Church and Appy Time For Learning partnered together to provide each student a book for their personal home libraries and cookie mix for baking a special treat at home for the holidays. Smiling faces tell the whole story!
|
|
|
December 2018 - Westminster Head Start
Appy Time gave each student in the 4 year old classes at Westminster Head Start a goodie bag for the holidays that included things, such as stickers, pencils, tissues, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and other fun things. The volunteers were treated with a table full of thank you cards, cookies, drinks, and festive music from the students. It was quite a surprise and we were all very thankful.
Appy Time gave each student in the 4 year old classes at Westminster Head Start a goodie bag for the holidays that included things, such as stickers, pencils, tissues, toothpaste, toothbrushes, and other fun things. The volunteers were treated with a table full of thank you cards, cookies, drinks, and festive music from the students. It was quite a surprise and we were all very thankful.
December 2018
Appy Time for Learning brings Hour of Code to Westminster Head Start and Mary Ann Winterling Elem.
Appy Time for Learning brings Hour of Code to Westminster Head Start and Mary Ann Winterling Elem.
The kindergarten students at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School and Westminster Head Start joined in on the Hour Of Code Day which celebrates teaching computer science in schools around the world. The students enjoyed writing code using the app, Code Spark Academy. They learned to problem solve and use logical thinking skills. Big smiles and shouts of "I did it" testified to the successes of the day. Students also programmed Beebots as they solved number, spatial, and sequential challenges. At the end of the hour, each student received a certificate and was encouraged to aspire to programming as a future career.
|
|
|
|
October 2018
|
Appy Time For Learning begins at Westminster Head Start and Mary Ann Winterling Elementary. The students are so excited to learn on the iPads and to receive one-on-one support. The volunteers are able to scaffold their learning based on their individual needs. |
September 2018
Missy Shock from Rapha Holistic Wellness Studio located in Hampstead, MD, began a donation box for school supplies to allow her clients an opportunity to give to children in need. The supplies were happily received by Nikia Carter, principal at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School, and Appy Time For Learning is very thankful for our community members who reach out to help others.
Missy Shock from Rapha Holistic Wellness Studio located in Hampstead, MD, began a donation box for school supplies to allow her clients an opportunity to give to children in need. The supplies were happily received by Nikia Carter, principal at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School, and Appy Time For Learning is very thankful for our community members who reach out to help others.
Dessert Night - June 2018
Appy Time For Learning thanked its supporters and volunteers by hosting a dessert appreciation night. It was a night of sweet friends and sweet desserts.
Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School End of School Year Ceremony - June 2018
Appy Time For Learning celebrated a year of success as each student received a certificate of completion and a backpack full of summer activities.
Westminster Head Start End of School Year Ceremony - June 2018
Appy Time For Learning celebrated a year of success as each student received a certificate of completion and a backpack full of summer activities.
College Students Visitation Day - June 2018
MacDaniel College education graduate students spent the day learning and engaging in STEM activities with students from Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School. The Education students also observed teaching in diverse communities.
MacDaniel College education graduate students spent the day learning and engaging in STEM activities with students from Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School. The Education students also observed teaching in diverse communities.
May 2018
Many thanks to the Guys Read Club at Ebb Valley Elementary School for organizing a book drive for Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School.
Many thanks to the Guys Read Club at Ebb Valley Elementary School for organizing a book drive for Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School.
STEM Day May - 2018
The kindergarten students had a wonderful time learning about basic circuitry skills using electrical circuits and play dough. They also explored chemical interactions as they built their own lava lamp. The students were challenged to build a house for the Little Pig that could withstand the Big Bad Wolf's blow dryer breath.
Planting Day - May 2018
Worms, Soil, and Plants...Oh My! Each student planted a tomato and sunflower plant to take home to grow their own green space. They also beautified the front of the school with flowers and shrubs. After all this hard work, they created and ate a "worm dessert."
Hour of Code - December 2017
Each student learned how to write code using The Foos app and programmable Bee Bots. There was so much excitement in the room! At the end of the day, each child received a certificate of completion and the realization that computer science could be a career path for their future.
STEM DAY in Kindergarten at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School
May 2017
May 2017
Kindergartners learned about creating electrical circuits using play dough, LED lights, and batteries. See how excited they get when the closed circuit turns on the light or rings the buzzer.
Students enjoyed learning about chemical interactions as they created slime and observed how vinegar (liquid) and baking soda (solid) created gas to expand a balloon.
Building roller coasters to examine the motion and force was a big hit! Students learned how to program a Bee Bot to navigate a simple path they created.
Kinetic creatures designed by kindergartners are showing off their electronic dance moves.
|
2015 - Artist in Residence made possible by Patricia Mack-Preston and Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School. Appy Time For Learning partnered with the kindergarten team to write a grant proposal involving a STEM activity. The kindergarten classes at Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School were recipients of the Young Artists grant. Over a four day period, the artist-in-residence facilitated the students in designing and creating kinetic creatures as they learned about coding, electronics, and math. |
Westminster Head Start - Bee Bot
|
|
|
Dr. Seuss Day at Westminster Head Start - March 2017
|
Students enjoyed listening to Patricia Mack-Preston, ATFL Executive Director, and Aaron Chiusano, Production Manager of Carroll Media Center as they read the Cat in the Hat. Each student received a personal copy from the GFWC Woman's Club of Westminster.
|
|
Exploring Plants - April 2017
|
|
|
Mount View Middle School (MVMS) Field Trip to Mary Ann Winterling Elementary School - April 2016 - The MVMS Community Outreach Student Group traveled to MAWES to visit with the preschool classes. Middle school kids were paired up with preschool-aged students. Together they read a book and played a follow up activity. The activity was created by the middle school kids. Some students even had time to play at centers together as the preschoolers got to share their favorite parts of the classroom. Following this reading activity, they shared lunch and recess together. All students made made fond memories and new friends.
|
|
|
