It’s a new era at Woodhull Intermediate School with a new principal, many students new to the building and a new set of traditions to go along with many of the time-honored ones. This new one is educational, too.
Principal Scott Oshrin worked with physical education teachers Carrie Postel and Eric Triolo to a get a sixth grade three-on-three outdoor basketball tournament off the ground for students.
Every Woodhull sixth grader was invited to participate and 81 boys and girls responded to the call.
“Students are responsible for calling their own fouls, keeping score, substitutions and most importantly, demonstrating good sportsmanship,” Mr. Oshrin said. “The purpose of the tournament is to teach students to settle their disputes in a respectful manner. There are no referees for the games. They must referee themselves and learn to find solutions to any issues that arise.”
The tournament has proved to be a great way to build excitement at Woodhull. “The matchups are announced each morning,” Mr. Oshrin said. “The winning teams are shared in the afternoon. The games take place during recess. Students from across the grade level cheer on the teams that are playing that day. It has brought excitement and energy to our school.”