Fins Up Newsletter
McKissick Academy of Science and Technology - 8.15.25
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom
K5 students created Chicka Chicka Boom Boom Trees this week as their first STEM lesson using our Engineering and Design Process. This process will be intertwined with their learning of all subjects and all grade levels!
Kona Ice
Kona Ice was a hit Friday at recess! Thanks for supporting our PTO with your purchase. Your funds raised are helping us get our sun shade for our recess field and supplies for the classroom teachers.
Our Garden
We have 2 gardens at our school, and this week we had some students begin to help weed them so we can grow some fall vegetables! This is from our garden grant that we received last year!
Volunteer Training - New Procedures for 2025-2026
We have some exciting news that may help our busy families with meeting our volunteer requirements. We are now offering a VIRTUAL VOLUNTEER TRAINING! Follow the steps in the attached file to be cleared to chaperone for field trips and other school events. Please note that MAST requires that all volunteers have a current background check through our Raptor system (information about how to order is in the attached document). Background checks are good for 3 calendar years. If you have any questions, please contact me at whitneymoore@pickens.k12.sc.us. We look forward to working with you this year!
Also, let me know if you would like to be added to PTO's email distribution list for opportunities to help volunteer through their events and activities this year.
STEM Corner
As a magnet school, we are guided by core STEM pillars that shape our curriculum and learning environment throughout the year. One of these key pillars is Engineering. We integrate the Engineering Design Process across all subjects and grade levels, empowering students to think critically and creatively. Through this process, students are encouraged to ask questions, explore possible solutions, design models, evaluate outcomes, and explain their reasoning. This approach fosters problem-solving skills and a deeper understanding of real-world applications.
SHARK Spirit Rock
The Spirit Rock is available for families to rent, offering a special way to celebrate your student! Check out the guidelines and sign-up link below. All proceeds will go toward funding our field trips this year!
Please be sure to pay AND sign up on SignUp Genius.https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vBLqddeF8_VIOX9hdDiv9yMhXzOjgDY4qjpdcpUdO84/edit?usp=sharing
Box Tops
Join McKissick in earning cash for our school by using the Box Tops app. It’s an easy way to make a difference. All you have to do is buy Box Tops participating products (like Cheerios!) and scan your grocery receipt. Box Tops are worth $.10 each and they add up fast! Twice a year, our school receives a check to help pay for whatever we need - equipment, supplies or experiences the kids love!
Use this referral code HZ5F0LUF when you sign up and you’ll get 25 Bonus Box Tops when you scan your first receipt now through 05/31/2024, while supplies last! Download the Box Tops for Education app here: https://btfe.smart.link/c2jjdifkw?referral_code=HZ5F0LUF
McKissick Academy of Science and Technology
Email: heathertouchberry@pickens.k12.sc.us
Website: https://mast.pickens.k12.sc.us/
Location: 156 McKissick Road, Easley, SC, USA
Phone: 864.397.2200
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MASTFINSUP
Twitter: @mastfinsup