What makes Cypress Hills Community School special?
Brooklyn’s Cypress Hills Community School was founded by parents and the Cypress Hills Local Development Corporation in 1997, with support from New Visions for Public Schools. It is a public school based on an innovative, dual language (English-Spanish) model with strong parent leadership and currently has 450 students in pre-kindergarten to eighth grade. Read the whole story here.
What is Write to Read Day?
W2R Day is a conference style event for middle schoolers to celebrate literacy, story telling, and self-expression. It is planned, promoted, and executed by Library House, a team of 6th-8th graders who care for our school library. Held the first week of May, Write to Read Day is now in its 5th year.
What's the event schedule?
- 9:00 - 10:00 am: Keynote speaker
- 10:00 - 10:20 am: Opening Ceremonies
- 10:20 - 11:07 am: Workshop session 1
- 11:09 -11:54 am: Workshop session 2
- 11:56 - 12:45: Students have lunch/recess
How many kids will be in my workshop? Will I be alone with them?
Workshops range from 20-30 students depending on the number of presenters and the nature of your activity. Every room will have a certified teacher and library house volunteers to assist you with management and transitions.
How many kids attend the keynote/opening ceremonies?
The keynote is attended by the entire middle school, approximately 180 students.
How can I make sure my workshop will "speak" to middle schoolers?
Our students will be very excited to meet you and hear what you have to say, but keep in mind that as language learners, visuals may help them understand you and keep them engaged. Workshops are most successful when they are interactive- the students love to try out the ideas being presented to them!
What if I don't speak Spanish?
Our staff is bilingual and will be able to translate for you.
What do I need to bring?
Bring any materials you need to present (slideshow, flash drive) or want to use in a demonstration. We can provide paper, pencils, and other art supplies. Please bring ID to show at the security desk on your way in.
What technology is available?
Each room is equipped with a SmartBoard and can be set up with a laptop for your presentation. We also have an Elmo document camera, iPads, cameras, and video cameras. Let us know what you need!
How do I get to your school?
You can Google directions to our building at 265 Warwick St., Brooklyn. We are three blocks from the Cleveland stop on the J train, eight blocks from the Van Siclen stop on the C train, and a fifteen minute walk from the 3 train New Lots stop.
Where do I park?
Parking is readily available in the neighborhood, but please pay attention to alternate side parking rules.
Where do I go when I arrive?
After checking in at the security desk, you will be greeted by a staff member or student who will escort you to your room to set up. Join us in the gym at 10 am for the opening ceremonies when you will be introduced to the student body.
Will I get paid?
We are a title I school with a small budget for materials and honorariums, but due to the number of presenters we are also dependent on reduced fees and volunteered time. We are so grateful to everyone who is able to help keep our event affordable!
How do you pay for this event?
The school covers as much of the cost as it can and we supplement with fundraisers when need be. We have raised money on Kickstarter and sold original t-shirts on Booster.com. The shirt concept is developed by students and drawn by a volunteer illustrator.