Supporting Independence Through Functional Math skills The aim of our Math program at SKILLs is to introduce our students to functional math skills which will enable them to care for themselves as independently as possible and make decisions about their daily lives. Decisions for which they are being prepared include: the means by which they will earn a living or acquire money, what they will do with this money, where they will live and leisure activities they can partake in during their spare time. To prepare for these tasks, students will need to be able to count money, manage their time, make travel plans, shop on a budget and be able to keep track of their balances in their bank accounts. The latter skill, is one which students will constantly have to work on as they navigate their way through the financial channels of life. Bank trips to various boroughs are planned and students are required to check their balances, make deposits and perform withdrawals using an ATM or the service of a teller. There are those students who will either be intimidated by using the machine while others may want to shy away from interacting with bank personnel; whatever the case may be, instructors encourage them to branch out of their comfort zones and try. Handling money wisely is another pertinent skill students are being taught. As parents, you can also assist them with becoming more comfortable with spending money. For the next trip to the store or supermarket, have them compare prices and choose the items that are more reasonable or save money. Next, have them estimate what the cost may be when they get to the cashier (rounding up to next dollar) and hand them the bills to count out to make payment. Although it is more convenient to use a card, using cash can help to provide a visual of the value of money as they can compare the quantity and quality of items with the amount of money spent each time. When all is said and done, the ultimate goal of our Math program is to equip students with skills that will encourage independence and engender a sense of pride when they realize that they have accomplished something they may have once thought impossible. SKILLS Students at St. John’s University SKILLs students have begun another successful year at St. John’s University (SJU)! Their classes this semester are “Living On Your Own” and “Reading 101”. They’re working hard and getting to know their SJU teachers and fellow students in class and during lunch. They’re doing a great job getting to know the campus and getting to their classes in two different buildings on time! We’re all looking forward to a wonderful semester ahead with more opportunities to meet new students through sports and learning about what it takes to live on your own. VR WORLDIn the beginning of October cohorts Pelham, Rockaway, and Caesar’s Bay traveled to VR World for an educational workshop. During our visit the VR Educator discussed the history of Virtual Reality and how all the components of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) are combined to create VR experiences. Students enjoyed creating Art via augmented reality, viewed 360 degree videos/documentaries, and participated in VR experiences(Tilt Brush, Beat Saber, Job Simulator...). ALUMNI ASSOCIATION The Kickoff Party was a huge success! Over 75 attendees enjoyed dancing, karaoke, DIY snacks, games and art! Upcoming Alumni Events Halloween Dance October 26th, 7pm - 9pm at Cooke Academy Click HERE to register Want to make sure the DJ plays your favorite song? Click HERE to make a request Bowling @ BOWLMOR November 9th, 4pm - 5:30pm at Chelsea Piers Click HERE to register Let's Get Social! |
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