ASMS
Middle School Grades 6-8
Innovative Teaching
Student-Centered Learning
This past weekend, ASMS students showcased their creativity and problem-solving skills at the local FIRST® LEGO® League (FLL) competition. FLL challenges students to design, build, and program LEGO robots to complete themed challenges while also developing an Innovation Project to solve a real-world problem. Our teams demonstrated remarkable growth, significantly improving their robot performance scores from the ASMS mock competition. Though they did not advance to the next stage in Buffalo, their dedication and teamwork were truly commendable.
In addition to their robotics achievements, students worked hard to refine their Innovation Project and Robot Design presentations, impressing the judges with their final materials. We also celebrate the success of Children of Apollo and Rio Supernova, two teams with ASMS students who qualified for the next round in Buffalo. Be sure to congratulate all participants for their outstanding efforts when you see them!
ASMS students were inspired by a visit from Tony Weaver Jr., author of the graphic novel Weirdo. During his presentation, Weaver shared how his personal experiences shaped the book, describing it as a "nerdy kid's instruction manual for self-love and confidence." Through his stories, he encouraged students to celebrate their individuality, reminding them that what makes them different also makes them powerful.
The event, made possible by a collaboration between Corning Incorporated and the Southeast Steuben County Library, provided each ASMS student and middle school students in the Southern Tier with a copy of Weirdo, totaling about 1300 copies. Weaver also led a creative workshop, where he encouraged 6th-grade students to see themselves as storytellers and embrace their creative potential. Sixth-grade students got to create their own character for the book, complete with a superpower and uniform accessory.
ASMS alum and current teacher Nia Walton, who helped organize the visit, praised the book’s impact. “It’s the kind of story I wish I had as a kid,” she said, noting how it helps students feel seen and supported. The book’s narrative serves as both a mirror, reflecting the experiences and identities of many students, and a window, offering insights into diverse perspectives. Weaver’s empowering message of self-acceptance resonated throughout the day, leaving students and staff alike inspired to celebrate their unique identities.
Local News Coverage:
Big Fox: ASMS students get inspired by author Tony Weaver
WENY: Author Tony Weaver Jr., Inspires Students in Corning to Embrace Their 'Weird"
Star Gazette:'Weirdo' author Tony Weaver Jr. leaves students 'inspired', 'empowered' after local tour