Second annual in-service day teaches students strategies to become better learners

Nov. 3, 2009—Good study habits help build the foundation for academic success in school, college and beyond. To provide students with the skills they need to be successful, middle and high school students participated in the second annual "Student In-Service Day" on-campus in October.

Students also participated in a variety of elective courses, which were offered as a way to balance the day and possibly spark students interest in a new hobby. Some of the electives included learning how to play a guitar, cook French food, practice yoga and relaxation techniques and create a healthy and well-balanced diet.

In addition, students attended a career fair and met with representatives from various branches of the military.

The fair featured nearly 20 professionals representing the fields of medicine, education, law enforcement, government, art and much more.

Many thanks are extended to all of the individuals and organizations who took time out of their busy schedules to share their expertise.

Patrick Barnes, civil engineer, New York State Department of Transportation

Maria Barton, P.A. (Pathologists' Assistant), St. Peters Hospital

Joy Black, physician’s assistant, Albany Medical College

Sgt. John Blackburn, Stratton Air National Guard

Christopher Bonitatibus, financial representative, Northwestern Mutual Financial Network

Sgt. Eric Clifford, public information officer, Schenectady Police Department

Adrian Earle, Vicarious Visions

Lt. Dannielle Flanigan, New York National Guard CounterDrug Task Force

Sgt. Adam Gokey, Marines

Dustin James, physical education teacher

Dr. Ronald Kingsley, archeology professor, Schenectady County Community College

Eric Lindh, senior probation officer, Schenectady County Probation

Ted Loukides, geologist, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

Carlos Moreno, United States District Attorney

Sgt. Josh Murray, Army

Kathleen Murtagh, probation officer, Schenectady County Probation

CeCe Tkaczyk, legislative analyst, NY State Senate

Above: Students who elected to take the forensics course during in-service day identified ink samples using a technique known as paper chromatography.

Above: Middle school students learn about a career in archeology from Dr. Ronald Kingsley, a professor at Schenectady County Community College.
Throughout the day, students participated in workshops devoted to teaching learning strategies—for more effective study skills, note-taking abilities and organizational methods—in the core subjects.