Up, Up and Away

VSS Students Learn About the Power of the Wind

When students at Vincent Smith School in Port Washington heard that they would be spending a full day in workshops on the power of the wind, they didn’t exactly jump up and down with joy. However, once the day’s activities were revealed, they were extremely excited to be along for the ride. After all, it was a great way to celebrate National Kite Month.

Who knew the wind could be so much fun? Captain Carroll Teitsworth from the Liberty Balloon Company backed his truck onto the school’s soccer field and students were amazed at what he’d brought with him. He first pulled out a big wicker basket, some burners and colorful materials before he began assembly. As he tethered lines to nearby trees and briefed several VSS staff members on what their roles would be, students stood in awe as the material, basket, burners and 6,000 pounds of air evolved into a bright and massive hot air balloon.

“We could have very well taught the concepts students learned today with just classroom activities,” said Arlene Wishnew, Head of School. “We remember 5% of what someone tells us and 95% of what we learn ourselves. I guarantee you that the lessons learned today by being actively involved, testing the principles on their own and watching the flight of the balloon and kites will be something our students remember.”

Students not only enjoyed the hot air balloon, they spent much of the afternoon with Captain Teitsworth watching slides and learning about the history of ballooning, both gas and hot air. Students didn’t realize that the hot air balloon was man’s first experience with flight and that it was originally made out of paper. Students also learned that despite how much fun ballooning can be, it is serious business. There are a plethora of safety precautions that must be taken and you need a license to fly.

Students concluded their studies on the power of wind by constructing kites and testing the principles of flight. While building their kites, they learned a little history along the way. Kites date back more than 3,000 years and have been used to help discover electricity, to build bridges, to fish, and for entertainment purposes.

Caption: Vincent Smith School teachers Joanne Annunziato and Elizabeth Gawrysiak prepare to take off in a hot air balloon with Captain Carroll Teitsworth of the Liberty Balloon Company.