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Brought to you by: Law Link Crew Sponsored by: Law Magnet PTSA
- Debate Competition Highlights
- Interview with Mr. Smeltzer
- Interview with Ms. Nguyen
Want to access the digital version? English: tinyurl.com/novemberlegalpad
Spanish: tinyurl.com/spanishnoviembre
CALENDAR
Important November Dates
November 1st
Grant Halliburton presentation for parents: 6:30 pm in the library
Youth Poetry Competition Workshop Pies for Teachers - PTSA will be collecting store bought pies
October Poem Contest Winner
Last month, we asked you all to submit a Halloween themed poem for a chance to be featured on the next edition of The Legal Pad and on our Instagram.
We want to thank those who took the time to create and submit your poems to us. With that being said, please congratulate the winner of the October Poem Contest: Madeline McShann!!
Halloween Feels
By: Madeline McShann
The trees rattle, And the wind howls. It's that time of year!
Feel the whisper, Of the ghost that lurks a little closer. I fear there's more near.
Sending shivers down your spine, I think that's your sign. Hear the crackle of the lightning This seems to be frightening.
This must be perfect timing. Sense the ticks of the clock, Oh no, where's your watch?
Smell the reek of splattered blood, Which causes the vampire's love. Aw shucks that must suck. Get it?
This must be how Halloween feels!
OCTOBER ART CONTEST WINNER
Just like we asked our writers, we also asked you all to submit a Halloween themed art work for a chance to be featured on the next edition of The Legal Pad, and on our Instagram.
We want to thank those who took the time to create and submit your art work to us. With that being said, please congratulate the winner of the October Art ContestHarlem Gilbert!
MENTAL HEALTH CHECKLIST
We know that sometimes it's hard to put yourself before your academics and extracurricular activities. We wanted to make a self care checklist that could help you keep your body and mind healthy. Check it out!
Read a Book/ Lee un Libro
Taking a Walk/ Ir a una Caminata
Eat your favorite foods/ Come tu comidas favoritas
Drink Water/ Beber Agua
Write down in a journal/ Escribe en un cuaderno
Be open to talking about your feelings/ Ten la mente abierta para hablar
RAISING THE BAR - STUDENT HIGHLIGHT
For this month’s edition, The Legal Pad was determined to highlight underclassmen who, although relatively new to our school, emulate what it means to be a student at the Law Magnet. With this mission in mind, we asked teachers and staff who they thought best fit the description and they did not disappoint!
Meet Melanie Vela - a remarkable freshman who loves to speak, paint, cheer, and debate.
I started our chat by asking her an essential question: “If you had to describe yourself in 1-3 words, what would they be?”
Melanie’s answer, later proved true by her bubbly persona, was “creative and outgoing”. Her reasoning? She said that the creative aspect of her identity is rooted in the fact that she loves to paint and create art. Whenever there’s a school project, Melanie said that she’ll “go out of her way” to be as creative as she can, going above and beyond what’s required of her.
As for her outgoing side, Melanie simply loves to talk. So much so that she frequently participates in class. Due to her extroversion, Melanie is also a natural when it comes to making friends- an extremely valuable trait that allows her to easily connect with almost anyone she encounters.
Seeing that the Law Magnet is a college-preparatory school, I thought i'd ask Melanie about her future plans regarding college. She naturally doesn’t have everything figured out as a freshman, but she did express interest in UT Austin because it “has a good law program.” Because of this, I took it that she wanted to become a lawyer. However, that was not the case. Melanie debunked this notion by telling me that her ultimate goal was to become president, but before that point, she wants to work various government jobs. This makes perfect sense considering her love of speaking and engaging with those around her.
RAISING THE BAR - STUDENT HIGHLIGHT
Though she’s much too young to be POTUS, Melanie is currently using her voice elsewhere in Debate. She says she began debating in the sixth grade with little success, not having won a single award. She wanted to quit but persevered, continuing to compete throughout the seventh and eighth grades.
Eventually, Melanie’s commitment paid off! In sticking by the activity even when things got tough, she gradually demonstrated growth and ultimately became her team’s captain where she would consistently place impressively at tournaments. She closed her middle school career with a brilliant crescendo as the Dallas Urban Debate Alliance’s 8th Grade Debater of the Year. Melanie also says that it was the debate activity that sparked her interest in law and government, which she had no interest in prior.
To end things, I wanted to ask Melanie what drives her, because one doesn’t simply dominate the debate landscape and aspire to become president “just because.”
Typically, when you ask someone what motivates them or why they have a certain goal, the answer comes in the form of a person they respect or a life-changing experience, which is why Melanie’s answer caught me off guard. When asked about her “why”, she told me that her biggest driving factor is herself. The reason why Melanie tries her absolute best in everything she does, why she strives to be an excellent debater, and why she’s determined to occupy the highest seat in the U.S. government isn’t for her parents or the sake of some lofty ideal. No, Melanie is driven by herself and no one else. She tries, fails, perseveres, and excels, and is a great example of a Law Magnet student.
RAISING THE BAR - STUDENT ATHLETE
Next, we’d like to highlight one of our studentathletes. Amaad Garrett is a Sophomore transfer student from Cedar Hill Collegiate High school with an amazing story. He's a member of Model UN (one of our newest extracurricular activities), part of the Cedar Hill Varsity Baseball team (as a sophomore!), and also plays with the Texas Rangers Youth Team. Take a look at his fascinating story:
Q: Why did you choose the Law Magnet?
“I wanted to pursue more of my passion for politics and law and I felt like Law [and Townview in general] had more extracurriculars and opportunities to practice those skills”
Amaad came to this school knowing it lacks in athleticism, but he still chose to transfer because of his passion of learning the law. “What better place to explore my interest than to be at a school that is law oriented?”
Q: What are some of your highlights that you are proud of?
“Last year I had the opportunity to go to North Carolina to compete for the National Team (USA National Team). They have this tournament called the National Team Identification Series where they invite the top 20 from each region to play in a tournament. I was also at the MLB Hank Aaron Invitational Major League Baseball that invites around 150 or so top black athletes across the country to learn and be instructed by hall of fame professionals.”
These are huge involvements that should not go unrecognized - especially at such a young age. Amaad still has a long road to pursue his career with both his passions for baseball and the study of law. He has a drive like no other, and is sure to do great things and leave his mark here at the Law Magnet.
RAISING THE BAR - STUDENT ATHLETE
Q: I heard you were out of school for a while, what happened with that?
“ was playing with the Rangers, and I was trying to dive for the ball in the outfield and so I dove into a pole connected to a fence. My kidney got lacerated (split in half). They were telling me I could have surgery but I wouldn't have been able to play again if I did that, so I took my chances.”
Q: Why baseball and not any other sport?
“I’m the 4th generation. My father, great uncle, and great grandfather all played and enjoyed baseball. It's in my blood. I just love the companionship and the energy that comes from playing. I love the competitive atmosphere and I love the culture of baseball. Baseball is majority white and I like being different, because i'm black and dominating.”
Amaad is still on the road to recovery, and we're happy to see him back at school! However this incident will prevent him from being physically active for at least two months. As an athlete those are words one never wishes to hear, but Amaad still keeps a positive attitude that will surely help him persevere through hard times. We want to thank Amaad for sharing such an inspiring and uplifting story with us. As a sophomore, he has accomplished many great things. We look forward to what he will accomplish here at the Law Magnet.
Are you a part of any activities in or outside of school? Do you know someone you want to nominate for a highlight? Could it be a sport, a hobby, extracurricular, or maybe a small business? Interested in being interviewed next? Fill out this google form!
RAISING THE BAR - EXTRACURRICULARS
Our very own debate team had their first competition of the year on October 22, 2022. We’re very proud of them. Congratulations to everyone who showed up and showed out, both in policy and world schools debate!
Without our wonderful Debate coaches none of this would've been possible, so a big shoutout towards them is due.
Thank you Ms. Gregg and Ms. Opitz for leading such a strong group of students!
Ms. Gregg: “The Law Magnet Debate Team has shown time and again to be the best team in the district. I am particularly proud of the depth of talent on our team. What a great start to the season!”
Ms. Opitz: “When I first started teaching in 2020, I was asked by several clubs to join as an assistant coach. I decided to give debate a shot - mostly because I had never been in debate growing up, and the woman that ran the club with the purple hair seemed cool. Fast forward over two years later. I have never once regretted my decision. Our students in debate are smart, hardworking, competitive - everything you’d want from our championship team. But what means the most to me, is that they are kind. All of us, students and coaches combined, have built a team whose primary goal is creating an environment where kids feel supported and respected. I am so proud to be a part of a team that wins (and we win a lot). But my biggest sense of pride is being part of a team that respects each other, their coaches, and their competition. I’m beyond proud to be a member of this team. Oh and P.S. - that woman with the purple hair is now my best friend.”
Ms.Gregg on the left and Ms.Opitz on the right
RAISING THE BAR - TO VICTORY
On October 19, Law and SBM Link Crew Leaders brought an old Townview tradition that Covid had taken from us: friendly sports competitions. Law students and teachers took on two rounds against SBM’s volleyball team on the court.
The first round was students versus students, and although it wasn't easy, the Law Magnet students were able to pull a win and bring the trophy home. The game was followed by the teachers' competition, an extremely close round that resulted in the Law Magnet faculty losing by 2 points. In honor of this tradition being back, The Legal Pad interviewed the team that brought us the victory.
First, we asked our players how they came to be a part of the Law Magnet’s volleyball team. Many players like Selena, Kyla and Jackie explained that they were recruited by our Link Crew leaders.
We followed by asking them how they felt to be included. Many of them explained that they were excited to be a part of the team, especially because it was the first sports event they've heard of at the Law Magnet. Others explained that they saw this as an opportunity to represent our school and be part of something big.
Nick Webster said: “At first I felt nervous because I thought we were going to lose, however the team was really nice, so ultimately I didn't care if we lost or won, I would've had fun anyway.”
Selena Lopez said: “Honestly I was excited because I've always wanted to do some sort of sport here, not just for my homeschool. Now that I'm a senior, I'm glad I was able to fulfill my desire to represent Law.”
RAISING THE BAR - TO VICTORY
We then asked our players about their previous volleyball experience. Yesica Gutierrez said, “I played every week at my homeschool but this was different because I was finally playing for my own school.” Others like Sebastian, Mackey, and Alex explained how this was their first time playing in a team or in a serious game. Nick Webster stated that this was his first time playing, ever.
Next, we wanted to talk about the actual game, so we asked all of our players what their personal highlight was. Kameron’s highlight was simply slamming the ball over the net to the other side. Nick said his highlight was serving the ball 6 times in a row. Mackey said “Just my serving, I surprised myself. I didn't think I was gonna do good at all.” Selena explained how she felt like a libero, receiving and passing the ball. Kole’s highlight was feeling like an “iron wall''.
We asked our players if they were able to feel the school’s support during the game, and here’s what they said: Mackey: “Definitely, all my friends had signs, (and) they were screaming. It was a fun thing.” Kameron said that it was a great atmosphere, and that he felt like the entirety of Law was behind him. Kyla explained she especially felt supported by the team because they would cheer for her even if she missed the ball.
Before we ended the interview we asked our players if they had fun and would play again. They all said yes, with many saying they are up for a rematch or they just simply wish to redeem themselves and do better!
LEGAL LEGENDS - ALUMNI
We reached out to some of our excellent alumni to find some pieces of advice! If you have any doubts about anything, reach out to your mentors. They've been in your shoes!
ARIANNA
AAJENKINS 22'
University of Texas at Austin
Textiles and Apparel
“Enjoy this moment and this season that you're in, don't be in a rush to grow up.”
HALEJANDRA MENDEZ 20'
Texas A&M CC University Biomedical Science - PreVeterinary Medicine
“Create a balance between academic life & your wellbeing. As life becomes more challenging, we often get so used to putting our wellbeing to the side that we forget how important it actually is. Learning how to balance academics and health can lead to life success and make life a little easier.”
Southern Methodist University B.A in Psychology
“Put in the extra effort to create close relationships with your teachers. These relationships will benefit you in many ways in the long run. It will help ease the stress of figuring out who you want to ask for a recommendation letter from when your senior year comes around. You will also gain multiple mentors who can guide you through life after high school (especially when it comes to college and facing the real world). Lastly, this could be the beginning of your networking journey. I am where I am today because of the help of my high school teachers and to this day, they continue to be my mentors.”
HELJA ESTRADA 19'
Legal LegendsTeachers
Next, we have an interview with this edition's Legal Legends, starting with Mr. Smeltzer!
Where are you from?
"East Chatham, New York"
What classes do you teach?
"AP Seminar (11), AP Research (12), College Transition (11)"
What is essential for a good morning?
"Coffee, exercise, oatmeal"
How much do you like coffee?
"More than life itself"
How many cups a day do you drink?
"An eminently sane and reasonable number."
Favorite kind of coffee?
"Light roast. I love Arabic coffee."
Where did you attend school?
"Chatham High School, Southern Methodist University, the University of Chicago"
What’s your favorite research topic a student has chosen?
"How the ‘Crazy’ cat lady stereotype became one of Western culture’s most enduring sexist tropes."
Several of your students tell us you have many “biggest fears,” which one is your favorite?
"I’m not sure I have a favorite fear. I am extremely nervous around pigeons, though. "
What motivates you everyday?
"I want students to understand that seemingly difficult things–research and writing–are actually simple and attainable. I want to make difficult things into simple things."
What's your favorite word?
"Sequoia. Aurora is close second. Mire is probably my third."
Is Pie better than Cake?
"Yes, inarguably. "
I heard your favorite artist is Taylor Swift, what makes her so great?
"The premise here is wrong. I wouldn’t say Taylor Swift is my favorite artist. David Bowie is probably my favorite artist. Both of them are/were gifted lyricists, with talents for storytelling and narrative. I like Bowie more because I think his musical explorations, especially in the late 1970s, were remarkable. “Heroes” or “Station to Station” are probably my all-time favorite albums. "
What’s your favorite Taylor swift album? "I really like Evermore."
Favorite song?
I"’m assuming you mean on Evermore. Or that’s just how I am interpreting the question. I keep revisiting “Tolerate It.”
What Taylor swift “era” are you currently in?
The current “cottagecore” era, which has now seemingly transitioned into the more Antonoff-inflected “Midnights” era. "
What’s the best teen slang you’ve learned from your kids?
"“understood the assignment,” which originated on Twitter, is an excellent way to say someone was successful at something."
Do you have any pets? (Names, age, + small background)
"Three cats: Matilda, the eldest, Liz, the CFO (Chief Feline Officer), and Elaine Benes"
Want to see the full video? Check out our instagram or scan the QR code!
Legal Legends - Teachers
Hi, could you please introduce yourself?
"My name is Ms. Nguyen. This is my 14th year of teaching and my fifth year at Townview, and this year I'm teaching Algebra 1 and Fast Track. But I've taught pretty much every single class except AP Stats."
Where did you grow up? I see the University of Georgia flag in the back.
"I was born in Vietnam, and then I moved to New York. So Vietnam, nine years, New York, five years. And then Georgia, high school, college, grad school, and then Florida for a couple years for my first teaching job. And then I've been in Texas since 2011. So growing up, I know, it's kind of all over the place."
Do you have any pets?
"I have 3, but I had 4 last year. One of them passed away. "
What are their names?
"Hops, Doc, and Newton, named after Isaac Newton, creator of calculus. Doc, well, I didn't get to name him originally. Hops was named after the flower we use in beer."
Having gone to the University of Georgia, have you ever thought about getting a bulldog?
"Oh no, they have too many issues. They can't breathe well, and they're really not designed well. Just like Pugs and everything. They have so many breathing issues. They don't live long, most of them don't live beyond 10. Even though that is my school’s mascot."
How did you get into math?
"In high school, I think it started probably when I first arrived in the US, and I did not speak a single word of English. I couldn't do anything. I can't do any of the assignments, but I could do math. And I went, “Oh, this is easy. I've already done this.” So math, I was always kind of stronger. And I just felt really good about it and had a great interest in it. And so I majored in math, because I didn't really know what I wanted to do."
Did you have thoughts of becoming a teacher?
"I did have teaching in the back of my head for a long time, and I think like just coming from Vietnam, where teaching is a pretty respectable job. I think it was always there, but you know, having Asian parents, they kind of pushed you to be like in the medical field. So I explored that with a team volunteering at the hospital in the summer while I was in high school. I realized I don't really like to be at a hospital."
So then I majored in math, and then majored in architecture. And then I said okay, I like math better. Then, after I got my bachelor's, I'm like, “Okay, let's go get a master's.” And then as I'm working on my master's, I'm like, “I should decide what I want to do. Let me give teaching a try.”
So then I had to switch from math, a master's in math to math education, so that I could get certified to teach. I knew II wanted to do high school over everything else. So I went to certify for that, and got my masters. First year was actually pretty tough. But then after the first year was when I'm like, “I think I think this is my thing. I like this.” Teaching is one of those jobs, you can maybe dream of being one, but you don't really know until you just do it. I kind of got lucky that I didn't choose to go into it. And I do enjoy it.
Was it hard learning to teach, with English being your second language?
"Yes, but I think by the time I was in college, my thoughts were in English now. There was a transition where I was thinking everything in Vietnamese, and then just like, one day, you're like, “I think I had a dream in English.” So by college, I was already thinking and dreaming in English.
So you said you went down to Florida to teach. How did you eventually come to like the Law Magnet? "After Florida, I was like, “This town is too small.” It's not very diverse. It's just one ethnicity. And so I wanted to be in a big city, because I went to college in Atlanta and Atlanta is really diverse. I was like, “Let's move to a bigger city.” That took me here, and I just signed up for interviews.
My first interview was at a middle school, and it was just not a good fit. So then my second interview was at Conrad and I got the job on the spot. The school had a beautiful campus. So I think, “I can do this.” I accepted the job, and I was there for six years.
While I was there, I met Mr. Feimster. He was a principal in training, an Assistant Principal. Then, he went to the Law Magnet. While I was still at Conrad, he reached out and asked me if I wanted a job. So here I am. And of course, The Law Magnet is known to be a little bit better than Conrad."
How are you enjoying teaching at the Law Magnet?
"My favorite part is just like in the classroom, just students really wanting to learn compared to other schools I've been at. There's just so much more motivation. Obviously, there are some stressful things here and there. My grades are due tomorrow, but I enjoy it here."
Events:
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November 1st: Grant Halliburton presentation for parents: 6:30 pm in the library “SAFE!" Issues Affecting Today’s Youth and How You Can Help.
November 16th: Pies for Teachers - We will be collecting store bought pies to send home with our teachers for the Thanksgiving Break. You can sign up on our signup genius.
