This year, Asa Clark Middle School welcomed over 25 new students. Each student had a different perspective of what it was like to be a new student at Asa, meaning that this year there were over 25 different perspectives! Here is one perspective of what it was like to be a new student:
“Being a new student can be very scary for some. You have to make new friends, meet new teachers, learn new curriculum, and, for some, move to a new house. This happened to me only a few weeks ago, but I had friends that knew me from sixth grade when I moved. So, I got a head start by already knowing kids that went to Asa, but I still had new teachers and new curriculum to learn. The teachers and students of Asa made me feel very welcomed on my first day back to Pewaukee. They understood that I had to learn how everything worked here and they showed me the ropes. Overall, this is a great school with great staff and great students.” -Vaughn (posted by Ms. Bartoszewski)
When I was younger I lived in Cleveland, Ohio, on a busy street called Detroit Road.I didn’t have many friends and then had no one to talk to. My parents were alwaystoobusy and my sisters hated spending time with me. So like most small, 4 to 7-year-old children, I made my own friends. But I failed, for my imagination was set on creating worlds with characters of my own design. Most of the time I was flying. Even though I wasn’t there I could feel thewind blowing through my hair; the clouds as I glided through them, the small drops of water tapping my face. Yes my images weresmall, but to me they were my only true place to be and not be alone at the same time. Then I moved for the first time.
New house. New people. New neighbors. New everything. My sisters and I weren't affected that much. For we were too young to realize what happened. But at that moment I found my first acquaintance, and his name was Anthony. Now he wasn’t a real friend he was more like aTRAP to me; his words were like fire and actions like bricks raining from the sky and crashing on my head. I always was the player two in our crimes. We would run from the man behind the huge pine trees. I thought we were having fun. But I was the one taking the punishment. I was the one that was unhappy. The one that was left in the snow crying. The one with the black eye, and the blood-covered nose. Then a ray of light shined on me with one word.-----Moving. At the time I didn’t know why he was so mean and still considered him a friend. So as a result, on that single day when I got into that car to move away, I cried as I said good bye. For I had no one else to go to. No one to laugh with, no one to spend time with. Again I was alone. Even though I was finally free from that horrible experience, I didn’t feel good about it.
While I was dealing with the problem at home I was also dealing with a new school. A school that talked about how you could be anything but made it to the point you were nothing. The teachers were hypocrites; they would say stand up to bullying but not help when they saw it. They wouldpunish you for being weak orscared. For me, the detention room was my class. I would be punished for the things I didn’t do. If it was for yelling @#%# in the lunchroom. Or saying that I was going to kill a kid. I had no friends in that hole. I was alone. No teachers to help me. That's the thing about teachers. They don’t understand kids and what they're going through. They don't understand how much pain I was in. Always living in fear of the sport kids. I had no talents. No special abilities. I had nothing. They made me felt like nothing. It hurt and no matter how hard I tried it wouldn't go away. I wascrushed to the point I again felt that I wasn’t needed in this world. There was a guidance counselor that was supposed to help. But instead of stopping the real problem she made it seem like I was the problem. Why didn’t you do this? Well, you did do this. My parents were the same. When I did stand up for myself I still got in trouble. But then the golden word appeared again.-----Moving. The word that set me free again.
Now I am here, talking about the past - how it hurt me, and how I wish it never happened. The past is the past. After that third time moving I had lost all hope for a happy life.
Then I got to my new school. It was my first day of third grade. I was alone... I hadn't made any friends, nor did I want to. I had no skills. No similar interests of other boys. While some played football, I played. I was in the still in thesky. Then I met people. I slowly started to come out of my bubble. I knew it would take a long to to keep popping mybubble. Even now I still have parts of it floating around me. Yes I did find people that blew a new one around me. But I pushed through it. I learned to look at the bigger picture.
Don’t take pity on me. Learn from me. Learn to stop looking in the past, and start looking into the future. Yes the past has shaped me into the person I am today. Even though i’m still finding myself I know that. Sometime, somewhere I will find who I am. So if you're having trouble with your past. Stop. Take a moment, and think about the future. For staying in the past will get you nowhere. Take it from me. It’s difficult I know, but you will find yourself.
"The only person that I can depend on and love and know that that person will always be there for me is my mom. She will always be the person I appreciate the most. No matter what, she tries her hardest to keep me happy, to keep me loved, and most of all just be there for me when I need her the most. I am so thankful for everything she has done for me even if it is just saying "hi" every day. I am so thankful that she tries to set a good example for me and my family. So the one person I appreciate the most is my mom and I’ll love her forever." - Dalten
In addition to their many responsibilities as library secretaries, Lynn Turba and Beth Doome, asked the Language Arts teachers to have their students reflect upon the concept of gratitude. All students and staff were then encouraged to share their thoughts on autumn-colored leaves. If you happen to be in the library, take a few minutes to read and enjoy all the wonderful things our students are grateful for. (posted by Ms. KBD)
“How can I start this off? There are so many things that I can say about Mrs. Canning and how she helped me grow as a student. When I first met her she was a very welcoming person to Asa. Those first time jitters, Mrs. Canning made it better. She would use humor, something I will always remember about her. Although her technology skills weren’t always at her best, she always had a positive attitude. Mrs. Canning is many wonderful things. She is kind, encouraging and lovable! Mrs. Canning has helped me was a student, just by following her lead. Even if she doesn’t understand somethings, or can’t get something to work, she always problem solves. I don’t think I have ever seen Mrs. Canning be negative about anything. She is always positive, and it really shows through to her students. Mrs Canning always has a positive attitude and is always shining bright! We will forever love Mrs.Canning and we hope to see her around during school!” - Fiona and Hadley
“The best part of subbing is the variety - everyday is different and interesting. After being in the one system for an extended time, I’ve enjoyed the rapport that I have developed with the staff and students. It really is a satisfying experience.” - Mrs. Canning
Catherine Canning has been subbing for the Pewaukee School District for nine years. Prior to subbing for us, she taught Reading, Language Arts, American History, Geography, and Ancient History at Holy Apostles. In addition to teaching, Mrs. Canning was an assistant basketball coach and served as secretary, then president of the Holy Apostles Athletic Association. (posted by Ms. KBD)
Ms. Flynn and her resource students focused on helping others as they created four beautiful tie-blankets for the “Stuff the Bus” community fundraiser. Think how warm and appreciative the recipients of these blankets will be as the Wisconsin weather turns chilly! Want to know how to create a tie-blanket, visit with Ms. Flynn or one of her resource students. (posted by Ms. KBD)
If you had an opportunity to watch our Pirate Dancers perform this fall, you may have noticed their wonderful new uniforms. Through the many heart-felt donations that were received by the Flegel family and Asa Clark Middle School, new uniforms were purchased to honor their friend and classmate Ashlyn Flegel. These uniforms were specially designed with a beautiful, blue-embroidered heart at the end of one sleeve.
Lead by Coach Miranda Kozlik, the Pirate Dancers devoted practice time to writing thank yous and sharing a picture of the new uniforms with all individuals who donated. Special thank you to Mandy Faller from EmbroidMe for generously donating the embroidered hearts. “I've absolutely loved having the opportunity to coach these girls. They are all such sweet and hard working young ladies with a lot of talent!” - Coach Miranda Kozlik
In addition to purchasing new Pirate Dancers uniforms, donations have also been used to support the dance team as they head to competition on Saturday, December 10 in Watertown. (posted by Ms. KBD
Art Exploration students experience the work of Renaissance artist Michelangelo in a whole new way. After learning about the Sistine Chapel, students get the chance to create artwork just like Michelangelo. They taped a piece of paper on the underside of tables, counters, etc., and drew while lying on their backs. (posted by Ms. Gruepink)
Students in Introduction to Business were given an opportunity to practice their business skills while attempting to raise money for the United Way. Working collaboratively in groups of three or four, students created and presented the following business elements to their classes: partnership agreement, business plan, flyer, 30-second commercial, and a presentation. Each class then analyzed each business idea to determine which they felt would be most successful. The following businesses won their class votes: Frappicream, Lemony Fresh, and Donut Sale. Congratulations to these three businesses who raised over $300 for the United Way! Big thanks to all the parents, students, and teachers who contributed to their success! (posted by Ms. KBD)
On Tuesday, October 25th, the Yearbook class attended a field trip at the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee hosted by Josten's Yearbook Company. Students participated in various workshops including Yearbook Basics, Design Trends, Photography and Photo Selection, and much more. More than 12 different schools from Wisconsin also participated in the workshop. Overall students learned many new skills and generated great ideas to incorporate into our school's yearbook. (posted by Ms. Gruepink)
On Wednesday, October 19th, students and staff joined other communities and schools in the nation to celebrate Unity Day. Students and staff wore orange, recognized each other for random acts of kindness, and united together with friends for kindness, acceptance, and inclusion. It was a day that we all came together against bullying, and showed that Asa continues to be a safe and supportive school environment. (posted by Ms. Bartoszewski)
Asa Clark Middle School decided to transition from the FIRST LEGO League to the VEX Robotics Competition this year. This transition provides our middle school students an opportunity to apply STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) principles to a more rigorous competition that mirrors working in a related industry. Robotics has thirty students all progressing through the VEX Robotics Competition. Students are applying gear ratios, mechanisms, and stability through their builds. They are then using a C-based programming language to both autonomously drive their robot and maneuver their chassis through user-controlled tasks. Ultimately, all four teams are preparing for their first competition on November 12 at Xavier Middle School in Appleton. Advisors for Robotics Club are Scott Roehl and Ron Johnson. (posted by Ms. KBD)
"I decided to join robotics because I want to be an Engineer, and I like that we have the opportunity to practice and learn these skills in the Robotics Club." - Evan R.
Everyone gets that feeling of butterflies flapping in their stomach, palms sometimes start sweating buckets, you start shaking and that one thing is all you can think about. It can happen to anyone, not just in a sports game. It can be waiting for a test result, finding out what part you get in a play, or going to present something in front of your class. When you win or get the grade, or part you wanted, you just want to celebrate. Celebrate with your friends, teammates, or new cast. A whole layer of stress just lifts off your shoulders. No matter who you are around when something amazing happens, you are ecstatic. Even if you show it to someone that you aren’t that great of friends with, it still is exciting. Leroy Butler explains this in his piece that he wrote. It is all about how sports can bring us together. “You and anyone around you might be all but blood enemies. Yet here at the game, you’re all in it together. You’re on the same team.” Throughout the whole piece, he talks about how sports can bring people together and teach them things about life as well. I feel like Leroy Butler is trying to show teens around the world that we need to stop focusing on why we don’t like some people and more about putting ourselves in each other's shoes.
Our world has changed so much with people judging others about more and more things that shouldn’t matter. For us teens, we don’t like some people because they did something that was totally rude in 3rd grade, or possibly spread some secret rumor about you in 5th grade, or maybe that person just isn’t in your group of friends. Why can’t we just go back to how it was in kindergarten: be friends with everyone, have a kind heart, and just be curious about everything? As we get older almost every teenager either gossips or just makes fun of one another. Leroy Butler stated that “We’re all God’s kids, and I think He wants us to play nicely together on this playground called Earth, and not hurt one another.” We need to take this into consideration and live everyday as if we were young.
I have talked to so many different people from different schools and almost every one of them said that there is a ‘popular’ group of kids that just seem like they have no heart. I am not saying that teens need to be best friends with everyone 24/7, just that they should remember that they are humans too and have feelings. Another thing mentioned in that piece of writing was how in a football game, people cheer together and laugh together for about 3-4 hours. None of that gossiping and talking behind people’s backs matters anymore, because we are all in the game together. With just this little bit of time in your week, this time should show how you should act at school, at practice, and at home. Wherever you are, just don't forget about the time that you can share together.
As you can see, even just a small getaway like a sports game, or a trip to the past could change how you see things. We shouldn’t dwell on the past because today is in the present. Each year that I have gone to school, there seems to be more and more drama. I understand that some believe this is just how life goes, but why can’t all teenagers learn that it isn’t right. Life goes on, and I know that gossiping will never go away completely because it is something natural that some people do. However, people need to understand what it feels like to get talked about behind their back; it hurts. Putting yourself in someone else’s shoes is something very difficult, but it will help limit the amount of mean things that are said at school. (submitted by Mrs. Whelan)
This year our cross country teams are being coached by Abby Bartz, Christina Callies, and Cathy Walz. You still have one opportunity to watch these young athletes challenge themselves to achieve their personal best time. Their last meet is the Waukesha Invite (Minooka Park) - Wednesday, October 12 at 4:25 p.m. Go Pirates! (posted by Ms. KBD)
"Just Breathe" by Izzy Y.
Authors Note: This short poem is my story about running cross country at Grant Park, where lake Michigan is right beside the course in the cool woods. This is one of my favorite courses, because it is so picturesque and the lake’s spray keeps you refreshed.
Left, right, left, right
My feet fall softly in front of each other
In, out, in, out
I breathe deeply through my nose
Leaves drift around me
As dirt loosens under my tired feet
In the distance I can hear waves
And Lake Michigan’s wind sweeps up it’s spray onto my face
Nature outlines my path
But it is beginning to blur as I grow weary
Mostly green with hints of red and yellow
Is the bleary picture that I see
I beg to stop, but I won’t
Controlled stubbornness is the only thing that drives me forward
Aside from my aching feet
I must keep on moving
I see a girl ahead
Our athletic shirts matchup
I pick up the pace
And she does too, pitter pat pitter pat
It’s me, I exhale
And she begins to slow down
Together we run through the trees
As we here cheers ringing in the outskirts of the woods
I continue running
And I see a mass of people ahead of me
I go a little faster now
The terrain is beginning level and only about 100 meters in front of me is the finish line
Faster and faster I run
Rapidly picking up speed as I zoom past the crowds
Closer and closer the finish comes
And I fly to the end and with nothing left...
Of Mice and Men is a book that you will get into right from the beginning and since it is only around one hundred pages, it will end very quickly. You will really get connected to one of the main characters, Lennie, and the ending will kill you. In a brief summary, this book is about George, a small but smart man, and Lennie, a living giant with the brain of a six-year-old. Lennie is one of the sweetest guys you will ever meet but he gets them in trouble a lot because he doesn't know his own strength. This is a book that you will not want to put down and one of my all time favorites. John Steinbeck is an amazing author with other great books like The Grapes of Wrath and East of Eden, but this will definitely be one of the best books you will ever read. (posted by Mrs. Whelan)
Do you remember the summer before starting middle school, and all of the thoughts and feelings you may have had? Were you nervous for the changes, excited for new opportunities, or maybe both? Many students here at Asa had those same thoughts and feelings.
A seventh grader, Khadija, shared that at first she was nervous because switching classes every period was something new. Another seventh grade student, David, added to this concern, stating that he was nervous about getting lost. However, middle school also brought excitement. Khadija said she was excited because she had the opportunity to try new things here at Asa. In addition, there were a variety of electives that students had the option to choose from.
Now that a month has gone by since the first day of school, seventh graders’ thoughts and feelings about middle school have changed. David stated that the transitions from class to class are easier than he thought they would be. Khadija added that she is not as nervous anymore for the same reason. In addition, they are both more comfortable now that they understand the school layout, the rules, and where they are going.
As a seventh or eighth grade student, the transition to a new school, or even just transitioning from summer vacation to the beginning of a new year, can take individuals either a short or a long time to adjust. If the transition seems to be taking longer than hoped or expected, Khadijah encourages students to join a club to meet people who share similar experiences. One last thought from David is that he encourages students to keep trying hard. All in all, students may have similar or different experiences and opinions with the transition process. (posted by Ms. Bartoszewski)
Coached by Sarah Coburn and Emily Pinzl, our 7th and 8th grade girls' basketball teams are undefeated in conference play. Be sure to catch the girls in action during one of their upcoming games. Go Pirates! (posted by Ms. KBD)
This school year we welcomed a new face to our ACMS office team. Ms. Anna Feller was hired this summer as the new attendance/student services secretary. Ms. Feller’s journey to this position is unique because she was also a student at Asa Clark.
Ms. Feller attended Asa Clark from 2003-2005 and graduated from Pewaukee High School in 2009. During her time at Asa Clark, her favorite teachers were Mrs. Mundt and Mr. Cattarozzle because they had a great attitudes in class, and made the learning environment enjoyable. One of her most memorable moments was when she was in band with Mr. Kuehl and participating in auditions. She beat out all of the other saxophone players for first chair and was really excited. She was also on the volleyball team during middle school.
Ms. Feller has enjoyed growing up and living in Pewaukee. When she saw that there was an opportunity to give back to the school she once attended, she knew she could not pass it up. She is also very excited to work within the middle school because it is a transitional time for students and she can relate to what they are going through based on her middle school years. Overall, Ms. Feller is looking forward to becoming a part of the Asa Clark / Pewaukee School District family, as well as watching each and every student grow and succeed. (posted by Mr. Pizzo)
The family of ACMS student, Gabriel F, and additional band members perform a free back to school concert at the Pewaukee Lake Pavilion on September 10th. Gabriel grabs the microphone and sings his first song for the crowd. Great classic rock hits were played. (posted by Ms. Greupink)
2D Art spent several classes outside to create sketches for a landscape painting. They analyzed the way objects overlap, as well as depicted a sense space by creating strong foreground, middle ground, and background. They also created detail sketches of the tree trunks, leaves, and branches.
Allie is an 8th grader who is taking charge of her passion for singing. In addition to singing the National Anthem at a volleyball qualifier in Chicago this past spring, Allie had the opportunity to perform at a recent Pewaukee Pirate JV football game. She hopes to one day be a voice coach so that she can share her passion for music and inspire others to pursue their dreams. (posted by Ms. KBD)
This year has been an interesting experience. All the students have been positive and enjoyable to learn with, and I have gained many new friends. The Asa Clark teachers have been encouraging and helpful. Although you may think middle school is going to be boring, it isn't at all. Good luck to next year’s 7th graders! ~ Cole H. (Class of 2021)
On my first day of 7th grade at ACMS, I totally couldn't get my locker open and I was FREAKING OUT. One of the teachers helped me get the custodian and that's when I realized that I wasn't alone "swimming in this new ocean". I loved 7th grade and it was a fun experience. That's when I met my best friends and now I hang out with them all the time. When I went to 8th grade, it was even better - new teachers, new people, and new classes. Even though it was tough this year, I totally enjoyed it and I have grown so much (literally and figuratively). ~ Logan T. (Class of 2020)
Middle school was a blast! Coming from a different school, I met so many new people at Asa. I developed many great relationships with people, and I think those friendships will last for a long time. The sports I took part in were also very fun. When I would take part in these sports, everyone would cheer for me and I would cheer for them. The teachers were also very enjoyable. The teachers would greet me with a smile. During class, the teachers would try their best to make the lessons fun even when we had work to do. ~ Zoe G. (Class of 2019)
Middle School was a big transition period in my life. I met many of my life long friends and began to see what types of classes I was interested in. Being able to participate in extra circulars such as soccer, basketball, XC, track and Student Council gave me a good sense of balance in my life between school, friends, sports and more. The teachers and faculty at Asa are so supportive and prepare you well for high school. Enjoy these two years- join activities, try new things, meet new people and learn as much as you can! It goes by fast and before you know it, you’re a freshman in high school! ~ Molly H. (Class of 2013) (posted by Mrs. Giese)
I am strong. I am physically, mentally and emotionally strong. There are important things that comprehend with being strong. I am strong to know what is the right decision but I am also strong to deal with the consequences if I make the wrong decision. Being strong could bring out the happy side of you, the mad side of you and even the sad side of you. Strength has many different meanings and different people interpret strength in many different ways. Some people think it means how many sports you play and how much muscle you have, others think it means pain and how you deal with pain. For me, it’s the second one.
I am willing. Willing to take risks, willing to fail. Willing to take the longer path on the twistier road rather than the short, smooth ride. This is important because everybody makes mistakes and we should all learn from our mistakes that we may make down the twisty road. I can build by not only doing what is right, but also by failing.
I am lost. Although we must take the longer road at times, sometimes that road is a couple miles too long. We get lost along the path, most of us don’t find our way back. When we get lost, the only thing we can do to be found, is fix ourselves. Fix the problems, fix the pain. Fix the tough times we have brewing inside us, fix what we didn’t know were problems.
I am caring. Deep down I care about what people say to me and I care about how I react to them. I care about people and most of the time the “people” is only me. I care about myself. I care about what I look like, I care about what I wear to school everyday and how I do my hair and how I do my makeup because I care about what people say behind my back that I don’t know about. People say “You can’t let those words tear you down.” But what they should be saying is, “I know how you feel.” Everyone goes through this and everyone cares about what other people say about them. The only thing is, the people talking about others just don’t CARE.
I am emotional.I cry, I laugh, I fall but I also get back up. I find the hope within myself and I pick myself back up when I fall. Times get tough, I know, but there is always, no matter what, still that spark in you to start your fire back up, even when the wood is wet.
I am determined. I find the path of life and I take it. Sometimes the path isn’t always lying in front of you, but takes you on a different journey to find it. That’s where determination comes into play. Most do not succeed when finding the path of life, but I work hard to get there. I fall, I lose, I get lost but I find my way back through determination. With determination comes struggle, comes heartbreak for various reasons and most importantly comes the path and finding the path makes all the struggle and heartbreak worth it.
I am knowing.I know what is right and what is wrong. I know that ‘doing something just because your friend does it’ is most of the time wrong. I know I am loud, I know I get excited too easily. But, I also know that sometimes the only path of life is going to be long and twisty and I know that life will never be perfect. I know I am not perfect, but I also know that I am strong, willing, lost, caring, emotional, determined and knowing. These things that I know that I am make me who I am and I am okay with not being a perfect child living in a perfect world. I know.
Video and reflection by Emily K (submitted by Ms. Pinzl)
[Note to the reader: A narrative is a story, and narratives can take many different forms. In this piece, an 8th grader uses narrative form to explore an important lesson she learned in childhood.]
Growing up, I had a very small house with a sizeable yard. Lucky for us kids, we enjoyed being outside all day long. We were able to amuse ourselves with sports and games, meanwhile keeping out of my mom’s hair. From the moment the sun came up and I finished devouring my breakfast, to the second I was called upon for dinner, I would challenge my siblings in a variety of games. Brooke, only two years older than me, was a close competitor, but ultimately had more skills than me. Griffin, my brother four years older, was like a species of his own. He would taunt us, running slower or showing the ball in front of us. Then, as soon as we would go for it…woosh! He would take off and win the game.
All day we would play soccer, basketball, capture the flag and more fun games. I would always come out on the bottom of the pack. Occasionally, I would go crying into my room because “Griffin wasn’t being fair.” or “Brooke made me fall.” I would lay in my bed with my teary eyes and frowny face shoved into my pillow and I would think of all the reasons why the games weren’t fair. Eventually I would get bored sulking in my bedroom and would mope back outside to play again. Annoyed, my siblings would hold their tongues and let me rejoin.
One roasting hot summer day, my siblings and I decided not to let the heat stop us from having fun. We dusted off the sprinkler and continued our games, only stopping for an occasional leap through the cool water. We decided to play soccer, Griffin’s personal favorite game. Like usual, Griffin cruised through Brooke and me, scoring more goals than we could count. Again. Again and again. Every goal discouraged me more. The mixture of emotions from the scorching heat and my aggravating losing streak caused me to act up and go crying to my room. While whimpering upstairs, I quickly realized that no one cared that I wasn’t playing. No one was upset that I was pouting… except for me.
I decided to wipe my tears away and go back outside. I sluggishly walked back outside and returned to the front yard where Brooke and Griffin were kicking the soccer ball back and forth. I approached them to a close enough distance for them to know I was ready to receive the ball. After 5 times of them passing to each other and ignoring me, I assured myself that if I were to steal the ball, they would have to start playing again. As the ball left Brooke’s foot and progressed towards Griffin, I lunged forward and picked off the ball. Sprinting a couple of yards forward, I only heard silence behind me. Neither of my siblings were falling for my plan. Instead they held their feet to the ground like glue and gave me a dirty look. Then after all of the times I ran away, pouted and complained, Brooke and Griffin discarded all of their emotions. “Are you going to be a baby like always?” Brooke roared. Then Griffin chimed in, “Do you think you can always just come back and act like you weren’t a brat?” As they howled and made fun of me, I started to form a rock in the back of my throat. I just wanted to run away, but I knew they would make fun of me more. Instead I kicked the soccer ball between my feet and pretended to ignore them. As the day went on they let me play again.
From then on, when I wanted to run away and cry, I would stay and hold my ground. I learned that it was okay to lose games, even when the scores aren’t even comparable. The most important thing when playing is not to win (though it does feel nice sometimes). The most important thing is to have fun and be a good sport. Now, no matter what the competition is, I know that I need to have good sportsmanship and keep my cool. Because I was the biggest loser as a kid, I learned to play with fairness, now I am the biggest winner… Even when I lose. - by Vivianne J (submitted by Mrs. Reagles)
You may have seen Rithwik Mathur in the halls of Asa Clark. You probably recognize his friendly smile, and if you have class with Rithwik, you know that he is a very bright, helpful student. What you may not know is that he is a chess savant!
Rithwik only began playing chess about two years ago. When he lived in India, his mom encouraged him to check out some chess lessons that were being given nearby. He took his mom’s advice, and he was intrigued by the game. He obviously picked up on the strategies and nuances of the game very quickly, so he began competing and found two coaches to help him improve. The more success he has had, the more dedicated he has become. On average, Rithwik spends five to six hours per day practicing and studying chess. When asked about the benefits of spending so much time on learning such a complex game, Rithwik cites improved mental capabilities. “When there is a critical position on the board, I need to be very precise. I think it has helped me with my mental math, and it’s just a good mental exercise. It can actually be really relaxing for me.”
As the Wisconsin K-8 champion, Rithwik will be participating in the 2016 Barber Tournament of Champions this summer in Indianapolis. With a successful summer, he will be even closer to his next goal of clinching the National Master Title, and could even participate in the World Youth Chess Championship in Russia. (submitted by Ms. KBD and Mrs. Giese)
Students in the "Reading, Writing and Speaking in the Real World" seminar have studied and crafted various types of writing - beyond the 5-paragraph essay. The pieces shown here are modeled after the short news clips and new product ads that appear in various news, fashion, and business publications. (Submitted by Mrs. Whelan)
Gluten Free Eating Made Easy
by Stephanie V.
About 7 years ago, avoiding gluten was practically unheard-of, but today, about one-third of Americans claim to be “gluten-free”. Avoiding bread and wheat is one thing, but what does being truly gluten-free really entail? Well, anyone with celiac disease would be able to tell you. Celiac disease is a disease that makes the small intestine “hyper-sensitive” to gluten, resulting in extreme nausea, and scarring of the small intestine if gluten is continually eaten. So just avoid gluten right? Well, no. Making something gluten-free means it cannot even be touched by gluten, and If it is an animal product, the animal cannot have eaten gluten. Eating at a restaurant, or even having dinner at a friends house can be a nightmare.
That’s why 6SensorLabs created a portable device can test if there is gluten in a meal. Small enough to fit in a pocket, the device contains a disposable food capsule in which you put a small portion of the meal for testing. After 2-3 minutes, you will have your results by the display of a smiley or frowny face on the small screen of the device. If you see a smiley face, the food is safe to eat!
Shoe Fashion
by Kayli B.
When you think of high-end shoes, you probably picture shoes like stilettos or shoes with high-end labels like Michael Kors or Marc Jacobs. But what you might not know is that the shoes you probably wore when you were a kid are making a high-fashion comeback. Comfortably beautiful shoes are in and painfully beautiful heels are out! Shoes like Birkenstocks that I’m wearing on my feet right now have made a comeback and now they’re bigger than ever! Fashion stylists like Chanel, Marni, and Celine have even taken the leap out of their high heels and into what they call "normcore" footwear. Even the ‘’Duck boots’’ that had all the hype when you were a kid is still a major trend... so Birkenstocks can stick around too! These shoes have gotten great talk and they don’t look like they’re going anywhere. So try it out! Ditch the heels and slip into something that’s easy on the eye and on the feet!
Marima N. talked to the social studies class on her past and her home country in honor of her “Gotcha Day”.
"May 5th is the day my family celebrates when I arrived in America and joined the Nangle family. I was born in Harper, Africa. There was a twelve-year civil war around the place I was born. It was a Civil War between Native Africans (like myself) and those who were brought to Africa from slavery in other countries. This Civil War set many places in the west part of Africa back 100 years in the time of only twelve years! When I was two years old, the war finally ended. When I was five, I was flown out of my home in a United Nation helicopter all the way to Monrovia, the capital of Liberia. Monrovia looked horrible when I was staying there because it was a big target for the war during that time. I just really love being able to share a little about my past and country." (posted by Mrs. Giese)
What do soccer players Tim Howard and David Beckham, musical composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and actor Dan Aykroyd have in common? All were diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome.
May 15 - June 15 is Tourettes Awareness Month. According to WebMD, Tourettes is "a brain condition that starts in childhood. Children with Tourettes make sounds or movements, such as coughing or twitching, that they can't control. These are called tics. Tics usually start at about age 2, may be at their worst by age 12, and tend to decrease during teenage years. They can continue into adulthood but occur less often and are less severe."
What Tourette Syndrome (TS) is and is not can be as confusing for both those who live with it as those who do not. Here are a few myths surrounding TS:
Swearing: It is a common myth that those with TS swear often and uncontrollably. In reality, only a small percentage of those with Tourette’s Syndrome have obscenity specific outbursts. In fact, there is a special name for it: coprolalia.
They are mentally challenged: Tourette Syndrome is not like Down’s Syndrome or cerebral palsy. It is a neurological disorder that is characterized by involuntary movement and speech tics.
It is extremely rare: It is estimated that every 1 in 100 children suffers from Tourette Syndrome, a higher number than those with autism. Most of them go undiagnosed and misunderstood.
TS is debilitating: Most people with Tourette Syndrome can go on to lead rich, fulfilling lives and take part in just about any activity as anyone else, especially if they are cared for properly.
Those with TS can’t do jobs with fine motor functions" Another false truth, famous Canadian surgeon Dr. Matt Doran was able to do complex procedures even though he had Tourette Syndrome.
It is clear to anyone watching television, reading the newspaper, or checking their social media that our nation is gearing up for a presidential election. On November 8th of this year, adults across the country will take part in one of the most important and fundamental processes of our democratic system.
While you may not be old enough to vote in that election, you can have a say in another election that may have a more immediate impact on your day-to-day school life. On Friday, May 6th, Asa Clark will be holding their officer elections, both for next year’s 8th graders on the Asa Clark Student Council, as well as for next year’s freshmen class officers on the PHS Student Senate.
Each candidate has been asked to respond to a few questions as part of the application process. We have linked each candidate’s response here. We hope that you take the time to read through these to get a better idea of who these candidates are. What motivates them? What previous experiences do they have that have prepared them to lead? What is their leadership philosophy?
It is our hope that when you vote on May 6th, you are voting for someone you think will make a positive impact on our school - someone you truly believe in! (posted by Mr. & Mrs. Giese)
