Winter 2019–2020 Volume 4 Issue 1
5048 E. Oak Street Phoenix, AZ 85008 602 389 8600 newwayacademy.org
NEW WAY FAMILY
CONNECTIONS
News and campus highlights to connect the New Way family.
Engage. Enrich. Empower. A TAGLINE STEMMED FROM TRUTH
By Laura Murray
A team of New Way staff and board members convened during last summer to collaborate on the best features of New Way. What makes our school so special? How do our students know they are getting the quality education they deserve, meeting the diverse needs of each individual? After a full-day dialogue on everything uniquely “New Way”, the conclusion was made. New Way students are: • E NGAGED at home, at school, and in their community. • E NRICHED with tools, with strategies, and with resources. • E MPOWERED to learn, to self-advocate, and to stand for their beliefs. Throughout the fall, we shared stories about each of these important factors in giving New Way students the opportunity to become confident and capable learners. The following three stories highlight what it means every day for a New Way student to be an engaged, enriched, and empowered learner. STEM Class Teaches Chemistry Principles While Engaging Students at Home When students step foot into Mr. Vallejo’s STEM class, they know they’re going to learn about something that sparks, sticks, or streams. That’s because STEM in Junior High is all about handson learning: taking materials that are common to find at home, and using them to learn science, technology, engineering, or math in an interesting and memorable way. STEM students started off the year by learning basic chemistry principles and terminology. To most of us, that does not sound like the class in which you’d be most likely to engage — but Mr. V’s students know that there’s no better way to make sense of a chemical reaction than to see it happen in real time!
Vinegar and baking soda are pulled out of the cabinet and transformed into a wonderfully in-depth discussion about how molecules become reactants that produce change. The experiments continue with other household items each day. In fact, a concentrated sugar solution in boiling water one week will have bonded molecules, forming beautifully crystallized rock candy the next! As you might suspect, when students see a homemade experiment with a bottle of soda and mints, a lot of excitement ensues. Students learn that mint candies and soda have a chemical reaction, and the fizzy explosion is actually the carbon dioxide gas as precipitate from the solution. But only after exploring the reasoning and scientific explanations, can they fully understand how high the reaction’s jet stream shot into the air (almost 9 feet, in case you were wondering!). Enriched with the Resources to Become Responsible Digital Citizens We all know that being tech-savvy has become essential in today’s world. But how does a New Way student fully grasp the importance of being a responsible Digital Citizen? New Way’s technology teacher, Ms. Olgin, has been leading the charge on educating Bulldogs about technology usage by enriching students with resources. Lower School and Junior High students have started with what continued on page 2
Engage. Enrich. continued from page 1
they already know: they created a video tutorial on troubleshooting a computer problem they knew how to solve. How did students approach the project? Acquire a decommissioned Chromebook, pop the keys off the keyboard, and let the fun begin! Being tech-savvy isn’t only about hardware and software, though. That’s why technology classes dive into the nitty gritty with lessons from Digital Citizen Academy that teach age-appropriate lessons on everything from online gaming and cyber bullying to oversharing on social media. “Make a list of things you would like to find out about yourself on the internet in the future,” the first exercise reads. Further on, students are asked to “Start an online blog that builds awareness on how digital cheating relates to or impacts a digital reputation or footprint.” When students have questions about navigating social media use, how do they uncover the answers they crave? Enter: content journalism skills. By touring campus and asking adults their perspective on having an online presence, students quickly learn what it means to uphold a positive digital reputation online. Risks and benefits of social media, how to navigate cyber bullying, what to do when stumbling across inappropriate search results, and sharing personal information online are the conversation many adults never had in school. For twenty-first century learners, it’s vitally important to uncover the always-evolving topics of technology usage so they can grow to make responsible use of their time and energy on devices. Empowered to Learn: about Cultures, Diversity, and Inclusion Students in Ms. Madrid’s Lower School classes received a broad-spectrum lesson on continents, regions, and cultural differences. While one student took the opportunity to identify countries on a map, others were drawing a basic topographic landscape of each continent to begin a large wall display. “Now that you know about cultures and their locations around the world, how do you think each culture expresses the words ‘Peace’, ‘Love’, and
‘Friend’? Where would you look to find out how to say those words in… Chinese, Swahili, or French?” Ms. Madrid asks. Immediately, students used their resources to look up, hear, and learn how to write the characters expressing each of those three words in different languages. Uncovering cultural diversity through language was just the tip of the iceberg. Next came an in-depth discussion to uncover all the similarities in the room, and celebrate their differences. It was as if light bulbs brightened over their very heads. “So… we all live with different families, some of us are learning Hebrew, and some people out there actually enjoy eating sushi?!”“Well sure,” replied Ms. Madrid. “Let’s think about how culture in America actually developed; aren’t we all from different backgrounds? Don’t we all have different cultural roots that come from all over the world?” Empowering out students to learn about cultures and diversity was even taken one step further — staff members lent their cultural artifacts and family stories to Ms. Madrid’s classroom for a hands-on lesson about our differences. While Ms. Olgin brought in chabat candles and a mezuzah (parchment in a case hung on the right side of a home’s doorway), Mr. Brodie brought in fantastically detailed Native American art. Tony Gardella, a valued member of our maintenance team, brought in a sombrero and a cookbook to share of his heritage. As students learned the value of celebrating differences, they made their own connections that October and November are important months in Mexican culture. Based on their new understanding of world cultures, they created their own unit project by building their own ofrendas — a collection of objects to display on an altar honoring a deceased family member for Dia de los Muertos. The opportunities our students have on campus empower them to learn every day through inquisitive lessons and selfgenerated creative exploration and to be engaged at home as they share these exciting lessons with their family.
Empower. What is Transition? By Meg Woster, Transition Director
New Way Transition Department Megan Woster, Director of Transition: woster@newwayacademy.org Laura Morgan, Transition Specialist: morgan@newwayacademy.org
Every New Way high school student has a transition plan that incorporates: • the student’s own wishes and desires about their future • a summary of their transition interview, which includes the student’s input on what they want to do after high school, his/her level of support needed in education, plus independent living and job readiness • suggestions on activities that will help strengthen skills necessary for success after high school • a parent perspective on the student with regards to education, independent living, and job readiness
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ransition planning is an integral part of the New Way High School experience. Each of the four high school years are met with strategic support through a variety of transition services to help families create realistic, attainable, and exciting plans for the future. Services include guided career exploration and assessments, post-secondary education advising, and independent living advice. Our Senior CORE programming aims to prepare each student for their unique pathway after graduation. In the Fall semester, seniors enroll in the Career CORE program for two periods of their school day. Students participate in career exploration, job simulations, and internship opportunities while learning skills necessary for success as a professional and independent adult. In the Spring, seniors transition to the College CORE program and enroll in a college success course within the Maricopa Community College network. Students gain valuable experience in registering for accommodations with Disability Resource Services, navigating the enrollment process, purchasing school materials, and adapting to the college environment while still receiving direct instruction and support from New Way. Year after year, this senior curriculum proves to be a positive and growth producing experience for each of our students. Transitioning from high school into a postsecondary pathway is a pivotal point in the life of young adults. For students with learning
differences, this brings the need for extra assistance in post-secondary independent living, education and vocational preparation, and academic support and self-advocacy. All New Way high school students have a Transition Plan incorporated into their Student Annual Meeting documents. Students take part in an annual informational interview with a New Way transition specialist to gain awareness surrounding their own strengths and needs. Students take an active role in developing and implementing their own transition plan, ensuring that he or she graduates prepared to pursue college or career. Throughout a New Way student’s high school career, there are many opportunities for guidance and exploration. Students are required to attend our annual Transition Fair. The annual event hosts approximately 30 educational organizations that support young adults with learning differences, as well as advocacy groups that provide assistance with life decisions. Students are given opportunities to touch base with the transition department throughout their school year, and are encouraged to seek the support of their transition team and teachers as they prepare for graduation. New Way seeks specific opportunities for high school students to attend elective-based field trips which are arranged specifically for students to explore post-secondary opportunities.
Continuing the t First Semester Athletics Highlights By Nate Bodinet, Athletic Director
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nce again, New Way Athletes displayed what it means to Never, Ever, Ever Give Up. They are expected to be positive teammates, building each other up and supporting their peers through each win and loss. It is truly heartwarming to hear from field officials that they seek out the games New Way students are playing in, because they know our athletes will show the utmost in sportsmanship, teamwork, and respect throughout a match. This year, our Lower School football team had their first winning season and came in second place in the entire league. Our Junior High flag football team went all the way to the quarter finals and finished with our best record yet at 8 and 3. Our High School football team was on the verge of not being able to have
a season. We had 13 young men step up and commit themselves to the program. Tackle football is one of the more physically demanding games there is. To play every down of every game of this challenging sport is an incredible accomplishment! The high school guys were able to keep a tradition alive that will continue because of their dedication. Our swim team continued to grow with 26 students and several athletes were able to set new personal records and improve every meet. Our cross country team displayed courage and commitment. They all showed up and worked hard for both themselves and their school. There are no substitutions, time outs, or do-overs in cross country. The mental and physical toughness of our runners is impressive! New Way is proud of all of our Fall athletes this school year. Go Bulldogs!
New Way’s Third Annual Color & Fun Run: A Rockin’ Good Time!
I New Way Color/Fun Run February 14, 2020
n its third year, the Color and Fun Run presents an engaging opportunity for students to earn prizes while working towards raising funds for a campus improvement project. This year, our goal is $20,000 to build an extraordinary outdoor classroom space. It will be professionally designed by a partnering architect and will include diverse outdoor seating for up to 20 students, space for movement and kinesthetic learning, and a water feature to enhance the landscape and provide ambient noise. It is slated to be finished this summer. We are seeking sponsors to help us offset the cost of hosting this fun event. Secure your sponsorship by January 16th at: bit.ly/RockNRollRun.
Sponsorship Opportunities Platinum Album Record Deal Mix Tape $1,000 $500 $250 Logo on T-shirt x x Bulletin Blurb w/company link x x Signage on field for one year x x Shout-out at the event x x x Signage on track x x x Logo on website x x x Targeted email w/ logo x x x Social media post thanks x x x Invitation to kick off the race x Invitation to attend dedication x Permanent recognition on plaque x
For questions about sponsorships, or about this year’s Fun Run campus project, please contact Laura Murray, Marketing and Communications Director at murray@newwayacademy.org.
tradition. The Benefits of Musical Theater, and the Charm of Peter and Mary By Laura Murray “We joked about never, ever growing up but in just three and a half months, the cast all grew beyond expectation!” While many students returned from participating in previous productions, each year a handful of new students bring fresh energy. “Students have truly expanded their experiences and their creativity,” shared Kimberly Jeter Hall, music teacher and CoDirector. “I’m so happy to have shared in their joyful experiences, they immersed themselves in the roles by swinging during recess, or by spontaneously bursting into song during class!”
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ach year, a team of committed teachers go above and beyond to ensure New Way students have the chance to succeed at something many never thought possible — a role in the school musical. As some students meet the challenge to memorize their lines, others focus on building confidence onstage. It’s a marathon to the finish line and, for students, the reward comes in the form of transferable skills not learned in any other way. Fall 2019 saw 22 Lower School cast members in a fantastic rendition of Peter Pan Jr. Co-director, Christina Huston, describes,
The biannual musicals on campus bring benefits for both cast and set design crew that transcends the culminating production weekend. Each opportunity to participate in performing arts means endless benefits to character building traits such as: collaboration and teamwork; self esteem building; memory and problem solving; and social awareness and mastering emotions. Students who perform in theater productions while in school innately learn skills that can’t be necessarily be taught, such as anxiety management and improvisation. For a New Way student, this means that the skills learned are a benefit beyond measure — a success to be proud of in and of itself. This spring, Junior High and High School students will perform Mary Poppins Jr., showing on stage Friday, May 8th and Saturday, May 9th, 2020.
Emergenetics update By Laura Morgan, High School CORE teacher and Transition Specialist
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he 2019–2020 school year brought back principles from Emergenetics with two “Meeting of the Minds Workshops” for High School and Junior High students. Students learned more about their thinking and behavior preferences, as well as tips for working with each other and their teachers to understand one another's communication and problem-solving styles from a strengths-based perspective. Students received their unique Youth Reports that explored the brilliance they bring to every interaction both inside and outside of school. Throughout the second quarter, the Junior High and High School teachers have incorporated different Emergenetics activities into their lesson plans and projects. For example, Mr. Clark lists each
daily objective from the different thinking preferences so students have a clear understanding of what to expect during that class period. Some students even created profiles for literary characters from their classroom novels. In Mr. Brodie’s high school English class, students determined that Scout Finch, from To Kill a Mockingbird, has a conceptual and social preference, while her father Atticus prefers to approach things from an analytical perspective. Juniors and Seniors in High School CORE classes used their Emergenetics Youth Reports to help create their personal brand as they start to explore career and postsecondary opportunities. We are excited to further incorporate Emergenetics into our classrooms and also build connections between students and their families.
Student Highlight. Student feature: Excerpts from “Empathy in To Kill a Mockingbird” By Avery Calleja, Sophomore in Mr. Clark’s writing class
O ‘Noun; the ability to understand and share the feelings of another.’ This is the definition of empathy. Empathy is a trait that is prominently featured in To Kill a Mockingbird.
ne great example of an empathetic character is Atticus Finch. Time and time again, Atticus shows kindness and understanding towards other characters. In chapter 3, Atticus tells Scout, “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view [...] until you climb into his skin and walk around in it.” Atticus takes his own advice more than once throughout the novel. When cranky old neighbor, Mrs. Dubose, is rude to Atticus and his children, he stays calm and civil. He explains that even though she sees things differently than he does, she still has many traits that are redeeming in the end. Finally, Atticus defends Tom Robinson, an African-American man, in court despite the backlash from his friends, neighbors, and family. In a time when defending a black man was condemned, Atticus followed his moral compass and upheld his belief that all people should be treated equally. If that’s not empathy, I don’t know what is! To do what you believe is right even when everyone in your life is telling you you’re wrong takes a lot of strength and courage. If more people in today’s society followed Atticus’s example there would likely be many more people standing up to racism, because too many people stay quiet for fear of judgement or backlash.
Empathy translates to real life as well. In my own life, I have both experienced and expressed empathy. This summer when I was in the hospital, my mom stayed with me the entire time. She told me she was having sympathy pains, but now I think they must have been empathy pains. There’s nothing more empathetic than literally experiencing what the other person is going through! I try to express empathy towards everyone in my daily life. Every choice I make, from becoming vegan to learning sign language, has been in an attempt to better understand and help others. I think this is important because if the roles were reversed I’d want someone to empathize with me, and helping others feels good.
Contribute in four easy steps:
it's not too late It's to take the credit!
By contributing to the Arizona Private School Tax Credit program, you may receive a dollar-for-dollar credit on your Arizona state income tax return. Your tax credit contribution is imperative to making New Way a continued educational opportunity for our students. Thank you for giving a student with learning differences the best chance to succeed!
1. Donate online at newwayacademy.org/taxcredit. 2. FAIS will send you a receipt to save for your tax documents. 3. File your taxes! Complete AZ Forms 323 and 348 to claim your Private School Tax Credits. 4. Receive your refund, and/or pay your tax liability knowing that your tax dollars go straight to New Way students!
Deadline: April 15, 2020 Tax Credit limits have changed: Individuals: $1,135 | Married couples: $2,269
A school tuition organization cannot award, restrict, or reserve scholarships solely on the basis of donor recommendations. A taxpayer may not claim a tax credit if the taxpayer agrees to swap donations with another taxpayer to benefit either taxpayer’s own dependent. FAIS does not discriminate against any person due to color, race, religion, national origin, disability, or gender. You may receive tax credits up to your AZ income tax liability. The information provided is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice. Always contact a tax professional for guidance on your unique tax situation.
Alumni Proud. Catching up with Ken Swart, Class of 2016 New Way Alum, Ken Swart, has had a lot of involvement on campus since graduating from New Way. Aside from attending spirit assemblies, playing in last year’s Staff/Parent basketball game, and helping to coach football, Ken has achieved so much in career pursuits, as well. I attended New Way from 2007 to 2016. Since I was there for 10 years, I saw a lot of the bigger changes happen. I remember when we moved from the old campus to the current one. I was diagnosed with dyslexia and ADD, and the way New Way is set up, it let me learn to the best of my ability. New Way turned what many would consider a disability into a strength. During my time at New Way, I did anything I could to try and give back to the school that gave everything to me. I was involved in Student Council in Junior High, and then in Student Government in High School. My Senior Year, I was elected Student Body President. I played Soccer throughout High School as well (big shouts to Boone and Flatness for teaching me soccer, giving the nickname Fast Ken and in general just being awesome people). Overall, I look back on New Way and my high school career with happiness. I’ve made great friends there that I won’t soon forget.
Since graduation, I’ve been pursuing a career in the fire service at Mesa Community College. I started by taking an EMT course and a hazmat (hazardous materials) course in the Fall of 2016. The EMT course was great, I learned how to take care of the sick and injured. In the hazmat course, we learned about how to deal with incidents like chemical spills and terrorist attacks. Once I passed those two classes, I enrolled in the MCC fire academy, which I really enjoyed. We did everything a firefighter would handle such as a fire attack, search and rescue in a fire, assess ventilation in a burning building, etc. Firefighting is super hard career but in the end is a right fit for me and is very rewarding. Since completing the Fire Academy, I’ve been working as a Reserve Firefighter work with Rural Metro, and I was also hired on with New Way to help coach the football season in 2017. Do you know of an alumni student who should be featured in our newsletter? Contact New Way's Alumni Relations team at alumni@newwayacademy.org.
Alumni Association Update: Sharing the Love! Fall 2019 presented an opportunity to hit the ground running with a team of committed staff members who revamped the Alumni Association program. For the past several months, we've welcomed many new changes to grow our engagement of alumni students: • Alumni Student, Spencer Bienstock, has been appointed as our first Alumni President for a two year term. • Ms. Alyssa Johnson is leading the charge on engagement and event management for alumni students. • Goals have been set for monthly outings in central locations throughout the Valley, always with teachers invited. The main objective is to provide frequent opportunities for students to get together, regardless of location or schedule. Spencer Bienstock with his parents at the New Way Academy Golden Gala
• Outreach to alumni parents is expanding to provide support in post-secondary guidance and strategies for parenting young adults (look for more information on our upcoming sessions soon!).
• In collaboration with Laura Murray, New Way’s Marketing Director, communications are expanding with increased email correspondence, social media posts, plus texts through the Remind App for alumni students to remain up to date on New Way events. •A lumni students are welcome to contribute feedback on engagement at any of our events, and/or email us at alumni@newwayacademy.org to share their successes and contribute ideas to the growing alumni program. Follow New Way Alumni Association for more up to date content: facebook and instagram: @NewWayAcademyAlumni. Join us on the remind app: remind.com/join/newwayalu
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Save the Dates!
Don’t fur-get to join us for these community events in 2020! JANUARY Friday, January 24th: Lower school Winter White Party Friday, January 24th: Spirit Assembly
FEBRUARY Friday, February 14th: Heart, Sole and Rock 'n' Roll 3rd annual Color and Fun Run
MARCH Friday, March 6th: 7th annual Parent/Staff Basketball Game Thursday, March 12th: Spring Fine Arts Celebration March 16–20: Spring Break Friday, March 27th: Spirit Assembly
APRIL April 15th: Tax Credit Deadline
MAY Friday, May 1st: High School Prom Friday, May 8th: Spirit Assembly Friday, May 8th–Saturday, May 9th: Mary Poppins Upper School Musical Saturday, May 16th: 20/20 Vision Auction & Gala