Wordworks 2019

George Baker Pg. 23

Haley Baker Pgs. 23, 46

Abby Bastos Pg. 28

Katelyn Bastos Pg. 41

Megan Bastos Pg. 32

Javi Beatty Pg. 45

Leah Berhanu Pg. 35

Noah Berhanu Pg. 18

Tanner Berry Pg. 36

Trey Berry Pg. 39

Daniel Beyerbach Pg. 40

Sophia Blackshaw-Brown Pg. 22

Quinn Bohmer Pg. 7

William Bishop Pg. 25

Maggie Bissmeyer Pg. 9

Emily Bolan Pgs. 21, 48

Mirabella Bosse Pgs. 22, 47

Braden Bricking Pg. 27

Sydney Brinkman Pg. 21

Anneliese Brouwer Pg. 12

Sophie Brouwer Pg. 37

Katie Buckius Pg. 10

Mason Butler Pgs. 34, 48

Kenyon Byrd Pg. 23

Jefferson Campbell Pg. 31

Coleton Chadwell Pg. 34

Jillian Chavez Pg. 14

Hana Conte Pg. 18

Rowan Cosgrove Pg. 15

Heidi Crowther Pg. 11

Meghana Curran Pg. 24

Jackson Curt Pg. 19

Devlan Daniel Pg. 44

Lily de Lacy Pgs. 19, 47

Olivia de Lacy Pg. 29

Tessa Dennemann Pg. 6

Authors

Joey DiPaola

Pg. 39

Benedict Domville Pg. 28

Ava Dona

Caleb Driessen

Pg. 27

Pg. 4

Carson Dwyer Pg. 38

Kylie Eastman Pg. 29

Lexi Eastman

Pg. 8

Allison Ebken Pg. 4

Faye Edmondson Pg. 33

Carolyn Federle

Pg. 14

Callie Fox Pg. 30

Dillon Fox

Aaron Fraley

Gabe Gamboa

Lily Gentes

Rosie Gieseke

Nate Gockerman

Wyatt Gockerman

Esmé Gonyo

Carleigh Gottenbusch

Pg 5

Pg. 20

Pg. 31

Pg. 13

Pg. 37

Pg. 10

Pg. 17

Pg. 15

Pg. 30

Jonathan Grooms Pg. 26

Brenden Hamilton Pg. 16

William Hartmann Pg. 29

Lucy Hayes Pg. 43

Charles Healy Pgs. 37, 46

Bebe Heekin

Pg. 11

Jacob Heimbouch Pg. 15

Jack Hendrix

Pg. 20

Sam Hinton Pg. 23

Elsa Hobbins Pg. 22

Tom Hobbins Pgs. 36, 47

Margaret Hobbins Pg. 28

Blake Hollenbeck Pgs. 13, 48

Emmett Hood

Pg. 44

Marcel Huguet Pg. 40

Rylee Jewell Pg. 45

Alaric Jones Pg. 35

Zaina Kamran Pg. 11

Callie Karageorges Pg. 19

Ama Karikari Pg. 24

Kwadwo Karikari Pg. 17

Kadyn Keeney Pgs. 8, 48

Natalie Kenter Pg. 37

Axel Kindel Pg. 10

Elizabeth Klocek Pg. 7

Gabby Knight Pg. 15

Colin Koran Pg. 20

Finn Kropp Pg. 7

Paige Kropp Pg. 42

Annette LaLonde Pg. 24

Andrew Lam Pg. 39

Claire Lamarre Pgs. 26, 47

Jordyn Lauckner Pg. 33

Jocelyn Lauckner Pg. 26

Holland Lippert Pg. 40

Trey Lippert Pg. 9

Cameron Lorentz Pg. 19

Leo Lyons Pg. 42

Vivie Lyons Pg. 34

Shriyan Masineni Pg. 38

Leelah Mason Pg. 27

Aliviah McCarter Pg. 30

Jasmine McCarter Pg. 43

Kate McLane Pg. 18

Lennard Mellin Pg. 29

Wyatt Miller Pg. 43

Peter Misrach Pg. 6

Nia Neal Pg. 7

Beatrice Nery Pg. 34

Sophia Nery Pg. 14

Natalie Neyra Pg. 15

Kira Njegovan Pg. 32

Kendall Northern Pgs. 45, 48

Emma O’Brien Pg. 33

Luke Pappano Pg. 12

Abigayle Penote Pg. 42

Carlo Quintero Pg. 36

Rocco Quintero Pg. 10

Chloe Ragland Pg. 46

Kaitlyn Rassi Pgs. 21, 47

Jack Reynolds Pg. 31

Mercer Reynolds Pg. 4

Shaun Rice Pg. 30

Jaron Richter Pg. 31

Charlie Ritch Pgs. 35, 46

Anna Grace Sanders Pg. 43

Connor Schaaf Pg. 27

Madeline Schaefer Pg. 8

Lilly Sievering Pg. 32

Nabil Sinno Pgs. 36, 47

Kali Smith Pg. 13

Madelyn Smith Pg. 21

Isabella Soper Pg. 41

Dylan Sougstad Pg. 6

Parker Sougstad Pg. 25

Elena Stone Pg. 41

Johnny Sumnar Pg. 5

Sabian Swan Pg. 13

Charlotte Thompson Pg. 37

Anna Toebben Pg. 4

Grace Tounge Pg. 44

Ethan Traiforos Pg. 16

Allen Wang Pg. 16

Patrick Williams Pg. 8

Harper Wood Pg. 27

Ryka Woodruff Pgs. 25, 48

Sasha Woodard Pg. 38

Cailyn Youtsey Pgs. 6, 46

Cover Art

Braden Bricking, Circle of Life

Sydney Brinkman, The Flight

Kenyon Byrd, Untitled

Ava Dona, Goddess of the Galaxy

Thomas Hobbins, Sunny Side Up

Rylee Jewell, Untitled

Charlie Ritch, You Are My Sunshine

Sabiean Swan, Summer Sport Unknown

After School – a “Pepper and Midnight’s Misadventure” excerpt

Mercer Reynolds Gr. 6

After school when Mrs. Rademacher left, the class chinchillas played dodgeball. While they played, Pepper did a 360 and won the match vs Midnight. Then after the match, Midnight got some food from the cabinet. When they got the food, they found a PS4. Then they went to play Spider-Man. While they were playing, Pepper had to fight Fisk, but he lost. Then it was Midnight’s turn and he won vs the bad dude Fisk. Then they went outside to play basketball. Finally, while they played basketball, Midnight hurtled over Pepper and dunked.

Then they went outside the school and Pepper saw a rocket ship. They went into it and they were so confused they didn’t know how to start the rocket ship. While they were in it the ship said, “Verify the code, verify the code.” Then Midnight tried out a random number “2649” and it worked. Then it was super easy and they flew around the school. After all that they had so much fun for 30 minutes, but the sad part was that they were tired.

After their ride, they went into the rocket ship to go on top of the school. When they were on the roof, they saw a beautiful sunset. Then they went to bed because they were tired.

Albert Einstein – A “Wax Museum of Courage” excerpt

Caleb Driessen Gr. 5

Courage is strength in the face of pain or grief. Albert Einstein was a very courageous person. He showed courage throughout his life. Einstein has contributed to society by the famous equation E=Mc2. One way he showed courage is by speaking out against unjust things in the world. Albert Einstein lived a very long life. In Ulm, Germany, on March 14, 1879, Einstein was born to a Jewish family. He grew up during WWI. During his school years, He spent time in Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic. He returned to Germany to be a professor in 1914. In 1933, he fled the Nazis and emigrated to the U.S.A. He died in Princeton, New Jersey, on April 18, 1955.

Allison – a Bio Poem

Allison Ebken Gr. 5

Who enjoys spending time with her family

Who feels quiet and happy when she’s looking at Switzerland’s beautiful mountains

Who wonders if foxes will ever be domesticated

Who fears that she will get bad grades

Who cares about her family, friends, and foxes

Who is able to play volleyball, soccer, and basketball

Who dreams about going to Fiji with her family

Andes Mountains – a “Pepper and Midnight’s Misadventure” excerpt

Anna Toebben Gr. 6

Mrs. Rademacher was leaving for the weekend. She looked at the chinchilla cage and said goodbye to Pepper and Midnight and she was gone. Pepper and Midnight are cousins who comes from the Andes mountains in South America. They are part of the rodent family. Pepper looked at Midnight and Midnight looked at Pepper and they said in chinchilla language the door is open! They looked around and it was barren. So, they jumped out of the cage and landed on the floor. They looked around and said let’s go to the cafeteria! So, they went running to the cafeteria!

They went running and then they stopped. They saw the door to the cafeteria. Pepper jumped onto the door and tried to push it open, but it was locked. So, Pepper pulled out a mini shovel and put the shovel in the lock and twisted the shovel and the door opened. They looked inside, and it was awesome. There in front of them was a big load of food they jumped and squealed, and they ran to the food. They ate and ate when suddenly Midnight saw a camera looking at them from a corner.

Another Place, Another Time

Dillon Fox Gr. 4

It was the year 2019. Leo was a regular 14-year-old kid. He went to school, did homework, and played with his friends. Nothing unusual every happened to him until one day in math. Leo suddenly needed to go to the bathroom. He raised his hand and asked, “May I go to the bathroom?” “Fine,” grunted the teacher. While he was walking down the hall, he passed out. When Leo awakened, he was on a stone brick road. He had different clothes on. He had a white sailor cap, black buttoned long sleeve shirt, white pants and black shoes. Leo was confused, and he glanced around trying to figure out where he was and what was happening.

In the distance, he saw what appeared to be a castle. It stood on a hill overlooking a lake. It was covered in fog. He walked up to someone and asked, “Where am I? What year is it?” The person said, “It’s 1874.” Leo was shocked and confused that he just traveled into the past. Then he saw a kid that looked like he around 13 years old. Leo introduced himself to the boy who was named John. “How do I get there? Leo asked as he pointed to the castle on the hill. John told him there was a way across the lake and led Leo to the railroad tracks.

At the tracks, John showed Leo a railroad car with a sail attached. This can get you across the lake to the base of the castle. Leo was certain that if there was an answer to why he had time travelled and where he was, the castle was where he would find his answers.

Archie Smith, Boy Wonder

Johnny Sumnar Gr. 4

Archie Smith was a boy who never got in trouble, the perfect boy. He had many friends and had loving parents. Today was his 13th birthday, and he was supposed to be happy. Instead, he felt strange. On the walk home with some of his friends, the talk was about science homework. Archie heard something behind them and thought he saw somebody following them. When he got home, he did his usual routine. He got a snack, did his homework, got ready for soccer practice, and left with his mom to go to practice. When he got home after practice, he showered and got ready for bed. While Archie was sleeping, his window creaked open in came two balls of light. The balls of light said, “Is he the one?” Slowly the window closed, and the balls of light disappeared. Where the balls of light were, two people started forming out of thin air. One was a woman. The other was a man. They were both dressed in robes of black cloth. They shook Archie awake and before he could scream, the woman flicked a stick toward Archie. Archie cried out for his parents, but they did not come. The woman said she was a Merlinite, a follower of Merlin. Archie knew they were joking because Merlin was not real. However, they showed Archie their sticks, and he realized they were wands. To prove they had magical powers, they cast a spell. There appeared three floating brooms. They said they needed him to help the followers of Merlin beat the Jhikins who wanted to destroy all Merlinites and rule the world. They said he was Merlin’s son even though Archie knew no magic.

When in the sky, Archie asked what she did when she flicked her wand. She said she cast a spell to make his parents not notice Archie was gone and just call the school and say he was sick. When they got to Merlin’s castle, the Jhikins were outnumbering them two to one, and the ruler of the Jhikins was nowhere to be seen. The Merlinites gave Archie a wand and taught him a few simple spells. When they were in battle, the only spell he could remember was push. He said the spell. Archie did not exactly know what happened because he closed his eyes, but the Merlinites told him that when he said the spell the shield appeared out of his wand. The shield was pushed from the wand and launched half the army into the ocean. Half an hour later, the battle was over and the Merlinites won. Archie had a nagging feeling that it was not the end, and then he remembered the Jhikins’ ruler. Archie rushed up to Merlin’s throne room and found Merlin being thrown against a stone wall. He shouted, “Disappear!” and pointed his wand at the Jhikins’ ruler. The ruler evaporated. When Archie got back to his house, he sent a letter to Merlin saying he would visit over the summer when school was out. So, Archie lived his regular life and went to the castle during the summer for magic.

Baking Perseverance – Using Unit Vocabulary in Writing

Finn Kropp Gr. 6

I persevere through baking. The measurements have to be correct. When baking icing flowers, they sometimes wilt. Some of the eggs will be marred and I can’t use them. I also love to make peanut butter pie. I make a pact with my family to bake in the kitchen. When I bake I listen to overtures of music. Sometimes I have a dialogue with my family. Baking is really interesting. This activity is a fun thing to do, and I think you should try it.

Barn Application – a Job Application

Elizabeth Klocek Gr. 5

I am applying for the Barn Assistant position. I am qualified for this job because I have helped many creatures including a stray cat. Another reason I qualify for this job is I am good at being resourceful. You need a skill like mine because if you run out of food or something vital for the reindeer I can come up with a creative solution. Finally, I am qualified because I am good working with other people or animals. In this way I could work with your team of elves to get the reindeer what they need.

I attend The Summit Country Day School and my strengths are being creative, math, and listening to others. One of the clubs I am part of is called Service Club. It is about spreading Christmas cheer by going caroling to a rehabilitation home. Also, I am part of another club called Destination Imagination which helps me be more creative. I feel I am the best person for this job because I help animals and I am very creative and resourceful. I am looking forward to hearing from you.

Belgium to Cincinnati – a “Sisters of Notre Dame Historical Fiction” excerpt

Nia Neal Gr. 6

On September 1, 1840, Sr. Catherine left Belgium. Belgium was beautiful. She loved it there so much. In 1843, Father DeSmet requested Sr. Catherine help on a mission to America. She accepted his request but didn’t know how hard it would be. She left Belgium not knowing how tough the journey would be to get there.

The six-week journey by boat was rough. Her head was spinning, her stomach churning, her unsteadiness, making her sway side to side. She felt like she was about to get sick, but she didn’t. She struggled through, the boat hitting rough waves as the days went by. She knew she would be doing well soon. She was very homesick. She missed Belgium and all of its beauties.

“Cincinnati is way uglier than I imagined,” she thought. She was right. Belgium was prettier than Cincinnati. The boat finally came to the dock, and the captain helped her off. She looked around and saw another sister, Sister Lucreita, and she welcomed her into Cincinnati. They walked to a building, and Lucreita lead her to the construction site. “This is Summit,” she explains, “This is going to be a new school in Cincinnati.”

The Best Part of Me

Quinn Bohmer Gr. 5

The best part of me is my eyes. My eyes are icy blue. With my eyes I can see my friends, my family and my life. My eyes help me see everything around me. I love my eyes.

Bio Poem

Kadyn Keeney Gr. 5

Happy, kind, chatty

Loves acting, dancing, singing and gaming.

Who wonders what the other galaxy looks like

Who fears natural disasters

Who feels happy and peaceful while taking dance

Who cares about his family and friends

Who dreams about becoming an actor, singer, or a dancer

Camp Campbell Gard

Madeline Schaefer Gr. 6

“Ugh, Mom my arm doesn’t even fit in anything. My arm was broken, and I had a big cast on when I was packing. I had the biggest struggles because my arm would not fit in my shirt. My mom and I tried hundreds of shirts but three of my mom’s long sleeve shirts finally fit. I was very excited for camp, but I was nervous that I would not be able to do many activities because of my arm. After packing I was excited and ready for camp!

On Monday morning I arrived at school and headed to the cafeteria. When I got inside the cafeteria, I was ready to board the bus, but we had to wait for about 30 minutes for everyone to arrive. 45 minutes later we had arrived at Camp Campbell Gard, and we were settled in. After we played some games, we had corn dogs and fries for lunch. After lunch we did the low ropes challenges, dinner, and the best human clue. Then we went to bed exhausted after a long day of activities!

Candy Chef – a Job Application

Lexi Eastman Gr. 5

I am applying for the Candy Chef position. I am qualified for this job because I love cooking with my family, and I watch a lot of shows about cooking, and I am very creative. I have made a lot of artwork, slime, treats, and I am good at making things with my hands.

I attend The Summit Country Day School, and I feel my strengths are I work hard, I focus on my work, and I love to make all kinds of different things. Some of my artwork has been chosen for art shows. I am a very good at defense in soccer. I am called the brick wall and I am a good team player.

I feel I am the best person for the job because I love candy and I am creative and love to cook.

Captain Tory – an excerpt

Patrick Williams Gr. 4

CHAPTER 1: Some Uninteresting Stuff about Me

Hi. My name is Thomas. There isn’t much interesting stuff about me, though. I live in a normal town, a normal house, 621 McEnery lane, to be precise. Now, school is a different thing. It is not as normal, and it was an especially strange school day on the date of January 13. Probably the strangest thing that has ever happened to me, and probably ever will. So, I will just have to tell you the story. When you are older. Hahaha. Just kidding. Next week? FINE. Right now. BUT... UM... um. Okay. No more delays. Here we go!

Cat Cora – a Biography excerpt

Maggie Bissmeyer Gr. 6

When Cat was only 15, she went to her father with a business plan. She applied to many cooking institutes but couldn’t get in to any. Finally, the culinary institute of America accepted her, and she decided to go. At first when she went, she dropped out because she wasn’t prepared enough. During that time, she went to work at a restaurant and washed dishes. After about 2 years she went back to the Culinary Institute. She was the only girl in her class and when she graduated, she finished at the top in front of all the boys. Cat went to London and got a job at a restaurant as a Sous chef. She was struggling with money but had to keep going. In 2010 she joined Michele Obama in the movement for making lunches healthier at schools all over the world. Throughout Cat Cora’s life she has been a great example of perseverance. She has hit many challenges like dropping out of the Culinary institute the first time she went. She graduated at the top of her class. She went off to London and worked at many restaurants before becoming the first female iron chef.

Cat Cora was born in Jackson, Mississippi. Her mom had her when she was 16 and put her up for adoption. Before she was adopted her name was Melanie. A week later she was adopted, and she became Catharine Ann Cora, but everyone called her Cat. She lived with her mom, dad, and her grandmother. When Cat was young her best friend was Helene Gregorich who lived 3 doors down from her. She would go over there all the time because Helene’s mom made the best goulash. Helene and her family were rich and were one of the only people in her neighborhood with a pool. She would always hope to get asked to come over and swim because it was so hot always. In grade school she loved tea parties and didn’t have many friends.

After reading Cooking as Fast as I Can I have learned a lot about overcoming obstacles and persevering through hard times. Cat is the founder of a charitable organization called “Chefs for Humanity” and has developed a brand that includes food lines and cookware. Cat also owns restaurants around the globe. She lives in Santa Barbara with her 6 sons. Cat Cora is a very good example of perseverance.

Checked – a Book Review

Trey Lippert Gr. 6

Checked is about a boy named Connor who lives with his dad in a small house. His dad is a cop, and his soulmate is a dog named Sinbad. Connor loves hockey, it’s his life and he dreams of going to the NHL. Connor’s life is almost perfect until he finds out Sinbad has cancer. Sadly, Connor and his dad start having trouble because hockey costs a lot of money and medicine costs a lot of money too. Connor has a lot of hard decisions to make about what is more important, Connor’s hockey career or Sinbad. Connor works for his neighbor Mr. Reynolds to help pay for Sinbad’s medicine. Sinbad’s cancer goes into remission, but the veterinarian isn’t sure how long he will live. Connor is very relieved Sinbad is better. Connor tries out for the AAA hockey team with his friend, Jae-won. Afterwards, Connor and Jae-won both make the team. Connor keeps playing hockey and his team happily gets second place in the championship. Connor will always stay where he belongs, with his dog and in his house.

Chris Van Allsburg’s The Stranger

Nate Gockerman Gr. 4

In Chris Van Allsburg’s book, The Stranger, I believe that the stranger represents winter. The author gives many hints about the stranger’s identity throughout the story.

The story begins with the stranger in odd leather clothing being hit by a truck. Farmer Bailey takes the stranger to his home, and has the doctor come to check on him. One of the first clues that the stranger is not a normal person is that the doctor’s thermometer does not work. The mercury in it never moves. The stranger’s temperature is so low that it does not register. Also, when having dinner, the stranger blows on his soup, and Mrs. Bailey shivers and says that there is a chill in the room.

Another hint about the stranger’s identity is his ability to communicate with nature. Rabbits came right up to the stranger. Birds flying south also fascinate him. At another point, the stranger looks out at the surrounding area and thinks that the green of the trees is ugly. He thinks the reds, oranges, and yellows of the trees in the distance are better.

The story ends with the stranger leaving one day. As he disappears, the trees on the Bailey farm all turn. These trees had stayed green longer than all of the trees in the area. Every fall, the Bailey’s trees stay green longer, and there is a message written in the frost on the window, “See you next fall.”

I think that the stranger’s cold temperature, his love of fall colors, and his understanding of nature show that the stranger is winter or Jack Frost.

Christmas and Candy

Axel Kindel Gr. 5

I am applying for the position of Candy Chef. I am qualified for this job because I am hard-working, good at cooking and my two favorite things are candy and Christmas. I complete my chores at home better than anyone else. I have experience washing dishes, cooking oatmeal, cereal, and toast. My cleaning and cooking experience will help me when I make candy. Finally, I really like Christmas and candy. I help decorate the house, buy candy for my brother and sisters and always have a role in the Christmas Pageant at Church. I attend The Summit Country Day School and feel my strengths are tasting candy, picking candy out that others will like and coming up with new candy ideas. I have not received any honors for my skills, but if there were an award for liking candy, I would get it.

I am the best person for the job. Nobody likes Christmas and candy as much as I do. I will come up with new Christmas candy ideas like bacon wrapped peanut butter cups and candy bar kabobs.

Coffee

Katie Buckius Gr. 5

I think I’m like coffee because I am productive and organized for an hour until I get distracted. I can taste different depending on what sugars and other artificial preservatives you put in me just like how my mood always changes. I am also energized and excited about my day for only 3 hours until my energy wears off, and I get cranky.

Colorful Leaves

Rocco Quintero Gr. 4

Fall Is…

Colorful leaves covering trees

Dogs running through piles of leaves

Squirrels darting up and down

Leaves crinkling under your feet

Cold air biting your cheeks

Hot cinnamon cider warming your tongue

Big black spiders creeping along Ghosts and goblins coming out to play

Halloween excitement for everyone

Commander Oling: Object X

Bebe Heekin Gr. 4

Commander Oling:

I have observed an item that I am naming Object X. Object X has an outside that is covered in wrinkly red foil. It is shaped like an upside down ice cream cone or a Santa hat. From the pointed tip, there is a small piece of white and blue paper. The foil is shimmery and reflective like a lantern in the night. I carefully removed the outer layer, and underneath, Object X is smooth and brown. The color is flat not shiny. When I run my finger over Object X, it feels firm. It is also solid. When I dropped Object X, it landed with a small thud.

Object X’s outer shell had a crinkly rippling sound when I removed it, but the interior is soundless. The smell of the object after removing the first layer is sweet and delicious. It reminds me of fresh milk and honey. The taste of Object X is rich and creamy. I will bring back Object X for further study. I believe it has potential on the candy market

Counting by 7s – a Book Review

Heidi Crowther Gr. 6

The book, Counting By 7s, by Holly Goldberg Sloan is a wonderful novel. The book is about a twelve-yearold girl, named Willow Chance. She is smart and above average in her grade. Willow started to go to a new school and a student said there was a clean-up in the bathroom because she was dressed like a janitor. When she came to her first class they had a starting test and the teacher thought she cheated because she did above average. Willow’s counselor named Dell Duke said that she was a genius. While Willow was waiting for her counseling appointment, she met a girl named Mai. Willow’s taxi driver, Jairo Hernandez, was inspired by her, so he started going back to school and pursuing his dream. After counseling one day, Dell took Mai and Willow out for ice cream and then took Willow home. When they pulled into Willow’s driveway there was a police car. Willow learned that her foster parents were killed in a car crash. Willow stayed at Mai’s house that night but the next day she went to live in the Jamison Children’s Center. She ran away and called Jairo to pick her up and take her to the library. Mai’s parents took temporary custody of Willow. Dell, Mai, and Willow met up and all went on a walk. They all planted sunflowers in a garden near the apartments where Willow was staying. The garden became very beautiful with palm trees and sunflowers. Willow moved out of the apartments and was now part of Mai’s family. In conclusion, Counting By 7s was an amazing book.

D is for Design

Zaina Kamran Gr. 5

William Beebe is not only a scientist but also an inventor. Beebe always had a love for nature since he was a kid. When he grew up, he became a scientist who studied animals. One of Beebe’s topic he studied was “under the sea.” When he would study the animals, he would have to fish them out and put them in a container. He started to notice that the animals were dying in the container. Once he saw that, he knew he had to find another way to observe animals. Beebe met up with his lab partner and they decided to design a machine that could go deep under water to observe animals in their own habitat. It took Beebe and his partners 4 years to build the machine. Once they designed the machine, they called it “Bathysphere.” When Beebe and his partner took their first dive, they had headsets to report what they saw. Beebe was amazed because he had never seen so many fish in all different colors. It was beautiful. He decided to go deeper in the sea. As he went deeper and deeper, it became pitch black, until 3 large fish came and they started to glow. When this happened, Beebe was in shock. He had no way to describe how amazing it was. Beebe set the record for going the deepest in the sea. Thanks to Beebe’s amazing design we know what’s under the sea.

The Darkest Minds – a Book Review

Anneliese Brouwer Gr. 6

In this alternate world, children suddenly start dying from a disease called IAAN or Idiopathic Adolescent Acute Neurodegeneration. There are five levels of abilities that children get if they do not die. They are grouped into colors. Green, blue and yellow are the safer colors. Those kids are very smart, can control objects with their minds and can control electricity. The orange and yellow kids are killed on sight. The orange can control minds and the red can shoot fire out of their mouths. Ruby is an orange and was captured and going to be killed.

She told the scientist “identify me as green” and so he did. She later escaped the camp, and the doctor who helped her escape was part of a group called the League that wanted to help the kids. Ruby went to a gas station where she met Liam, Chubbs and Zue. She started to fall in love with Liam. Then she ended up at a camp where only children with powers were called East River. There was a boy named Clancy who agreed to help Ruby with her powers, but she found out later he was just using her to kidnap all the kids to form an army against his father. Clancy’s father is President of the United States and created the camp which separated and killed some of the kids. Clancy was even more evil than his father and wanted to kill his father and control everything. His plan was to capture and mind control red kids and kill his father and control the country.

Ruby was able to escape but had to erase Liam’s mind to save him because he knew too much about the League. Ruby then started to lead the kids who were in the League to try and defeat the evil group controlled by Clancy.

David Ortiz – a Book Review

Luke Pappano Gr. 6

David Ortiz had to overcome challenges and persevere during his life. He was born on November 18, 1975 in the Dominican Republic. He had a sister named Albania. His parents were Enrique Ortiz and Angel Rosa Arias. His mom was a secretary and his dad sold auto parts. David loved baseball and wanted to play in the big leagues. During David Ortiz’s lifetime he overcame many challenges. He had to give up baseball and sell auto parts as a kid. He overcame these challenges by striving for greatness. David worked very hard every day and became a three-time world series champion.

As a kid David loved baseball. He worked very hard and wanted to play in the majors. He was very poor, so he had to give up baseball and work in his dad’s auto shop. When Ortiz turned 15, his family moved again. There wasn’t much to do there so Ortiz played baseball constantly. He didn’t play with any equipment. He had no glove, no bat, and no ball. He usually used a broomstick as a bat and a doll head, or cap as a ball. This is how David Ortiz grew up.

In 1994 David Ortiz was signed by the Seattle Mariners. In 1996 he was traded to the Twins and played for them for six seasons. In 2003 David got traded to the Red Sox. In 2006 Boston’s David Ortiz lead the AL in homeruns. David was in 10 All Star Games and won three World Series. He is a seven-time Silver Slugger winner. David said he was always able to hit the curveball. He said he thought the reason he was able to hit the curveball because he had to hit a cap with a broomstick as a kid. This is how David Ortiz adulthood was like.

Decreasing Homework – a Persuasive Essay excerpt

Kali Smith Gr. 6

We should not have a lot of homework. Homework takes a lot of time to complete. Most people don’t get enough sleep and are tired at school. Homework also takes a lot of time to do and think about. Homework should only be review from school not a load of topics we already learned. Homework takes time from children’s lives and sleep time.

Homework takes a lot that it’s hard to get enough sleep. My evidence is on Wednesday. I have gymnastics till 9:00 and I don’t get home till 9:30 or 9:45. And I still have to do homework, eat dinner, and get ready for bed. This takes a long time. Then I get to bed late. Then I have to get up early for school.

Homework also takes a lot of time to think about. Such as reading a long chapter in a book then having to write sentences. We have tests to study for then have a lot of homework. So now I can’t go places or do anything because I have to do homework.

Desmond Tutu – a Capstone excerpt

Sabian Swan Gr. 5

When Desmond Tutu was in England, he taught theology also known as the study of religion. He taught high school and shared his Anglican religion with friends and his students. When Desmond Tutu was in England, he learned the Christian religion. Tutu moved back to South Africa and taught the Christian religion to high schoolers instead of the Anglican religion. When he got back to South Africa, South Africans were being treated unfairly.

One of the many courageous things that Desmond Tutu did was win a Noble Peace Prize. Tutu won this Noble Peace Prize for helping stop the Apartheid. Tutu called for an international boycott. He told all the foreign countries to stop trading with South Africa until the Apartheid was over. He did this because he knew that the government would have to call the Apartheid off. Tutu told the foreign countries that they could continue to trade their goods after the Apartheid was over.

E is for Engineering

Blake Hollenbeck Gr. 5

Léon had a hard childhood he was slower than anyone but being slow and careful helped him. When he was engineering, he could do things exactly how he wanted because he was careful. He went to medical school to become a surgeon because of his hands, but he didn’t like the blood. Later he quit medical school. Later when he was an adult there was a machine that spun a pole around. When it was spinning the pole, he accidentally bumped it and it continued to keep moving from side to side. So, because of his discovery he could now engineer a device that proves the earth is spinning. He created invitations to see his contraption that he engineered work and so he could prove the earth is spinning. That is how Léon Foucault engineered a device to prove the earth is spinning.

Easter

Lily Gentes Gr. 6

We often associate spring with Easter and Jesus’s resurrection. I celebrate “spring” in many ways. I go outside to play tennis in the spring which is always better than playing inside. I have a big end of year volleyball tournament in the spring. I celebrate spring in many ways these are just a few of them.

I also celebrate “new life” in many ways. As a family we usually go to church on Sundays more often. We usually have lots of family come around the Easter time period. During Easter we also give our neighbors chocolate and candy, so they have a very Happy Easter. These are just some things we do during the Easter or the “new life” time period.

Elf – a Job Application

Jillian Chavez Gr. 5

Dear Slim Hope:

I am applying for the health trainer position. I am qualified for this job because I have experience of training in many different things. I have also been trained myself involving something to do with keeping me heathy (sports). I always push people to their best self. I have trained and taught my sisters basketball and soccer skills. I train at least five times a week for sports. I also eat healthy. I could put Santa on a healthy, but delicious diet in no time.

I attend The Summit Country Day School and feel my strengths are setting goals and planning out a schedule so I know what I can do, what I already did, and what needs to be done. I am in a club soccer and basketball team in addition to my school teams.

I feel I am the best person for this job because I have experience receiving the training by many different people so know what to do and what not to do. I have been a trainer and lastly, I am very passionate about this job and I’m willing to give it my all. I look forward to hearing from you.

Eva Perón – a “Wax Museum of Courage” excerpt

Carolyn Federle Gr. 5

Perón was born May 7, 1919 in Los Toldos, Argentina. She was a great actress. Her father died in a car accident and she had three siblings. Eva Perón was the first lady of Argentina. When she was the first lady, she decided to change her name to “Evita.”

Evita Perón became an advocate for women’s rights and earned for Argentine women the right to vote. Her hard work helped the poor and improved education. Doing that, she started an Eva Perón foundation. She worked non-stop on improving the terrible conditions of the poor Argentina by providing health care, homes, and food.

Sister Evelyn – a “Sisters of Notre Dame Historical Fiction” excerpt

Sophia Nery Gr. 6

I woke up to a cool, crisp morning. It was my birthday! My name is Sister Evelyn. I am turning twenty years old, today! My cat, Eclipse, trotted by and meowed. She was pure black, one eye a frosty blue, the other a bright amber. Sister Julie had called us to live in America, and we were leaving very soon. I’m very excited to go, but sad as well. I looked out of the windows, toward the small cramped buildings of Namur, Belgium. I am excited to make a difference, though.

We left for the ship, the Eliza Thornton. As we boarded the ship, Eclipse gave a content meow as I carried her. The journey took six weeks, and during that time I got sick with a cold. I had never been on the water before, and it was an exciting, exhilarating, and nerve-wracking experience at the same time. Eclipse, meanwhile, would stare deep into the ocean, her form shifting on the waves. The others and I hated the voyage. The food was terrible, and many of us got sea-sick. There was nothing around us but water, yet it was beautiful, in a way.

We arrived in Cincinnati in October of 1840. The tiny, cramped buildings reminding me of Namur. The riverboat ride had not been enjoyable. It wasn’t as bad as the Eliza Thornton, though. Eclipse purred and trotted right beside me, and when the dogs barked at her, all she had to do was hiss, and they learned their lesson. The people watching laughed, and a few came up to us, thanking us for coming to give their children an education. “Thank you, Sister!”

Expression – a Persuasive Writing excerpt

Esmé Gonyo Gr. 6

All of us have opinions and beliefs that we should be able to express, but we can’t. In this day and age there is so much hate. No one can respect each other. If I have dark skin and a kind heart, people will hate me. If it’s flipped, people would respect and like me more. If I like certain things, people, or genders, I could be threatened or killed. I think that elders and teachers should teach us how to respect each other’s opinions. Not by forcing beliefs, but just teaching them respect.

It’ll teach people to have a voice. Many people are scared to say things because they could get hurt. If teachers in school can teach us to express ourselves and our opinions, we will have a voice instead of hiding in small dark closet filled with anxiety, stress, and hatred. This will make everyone happier.

Eyes

Gabby Knight Gr. 5

The best part about me is my eyes. My eyes helped me read a book and all the tiny details. My eyes help me see colors on paintings. My eyes are helpful when I’m taking a test and solving the answers. My eyes help me see faces like my teachers and my friends. My eyes are special.

Fall Is

Jacob Heimbouch Gr. 4

Fall Is…

Trees waving in the wind

Leaves dashing to the ground

Pumpkins smilingly back at you

Little ghosts shouting, “BOO!”

Leaves crumbling under feet

Bags opened for a treat

Crows cawing in the night

Trick or treaters screaming in fright.

Fiona

Natalie Neyra Gr. 4

Fiona is a little hippopotamus born at the Cincinnati Zoo. Fiona was born 6 weeks premature, and when she was born, she weighed half of what a normal hippo baby should weigh. Fiona was the smallest hippo born to every survive. Her lungs were not fully developed, so she had to have breathing tubes. She need extra help, so the zookeepers asked Cincinnati Children’s Hospital for assistance.

Fiona had a strong will to live, and people loved her story. Fiona even has her own Facebook page. She is very adorable with big eyes, wiggling ears, and silly personality. Fiona is now two years old and doing great. She weighs over 1000 pounds. Fiona and her mom, Bibi, love seeing visitors at the zoo. You should visit them and the other animals at the Cincinnati Zoo soon.

Flying Over the Rainbow for 80 Years

Rowan Cosgrove Gr. 4

The movie, The Wizard of Oz, should be honored with a stamp. Over the weekend of January 27, 2019, The Wizard of Oz will be shown in theaters across America in honor of its 80th anniversary. The movie was an instant sensation when it was released in 1939. It was one of the first movies filmed in Technicolor. This was a process that created color movies. The Wizard of Oz was nominated for six Oscars at the 1940 Academy Awards. It won three, including one for best song, Over the Rainbow. The film was based on a book by L. Frank Baum, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. The story emphasizes how important courage, teamwork, and friendship are. Most importantly, its message is to believe in yourself. That is why I believe that the Wizard of Oz should have a commemorative stamp.

Four Day School Week – a Persuasive Essay excerpt

Allen Wang Gr. 6

If we had four days of school, it would help kids. This could help keeping kids more relaxed. Doing this also helps kids to relieve stress. It can also help families spend more time together for longer. If doing it, it won’t affect school as much because they can just add more time to the school day. That is why we should have four days of school in a week.

In four days students can have the same amount of time as in five days. Schools that have already adapted it have been avoiding having more days. They avoid it by adding more time to the days. Doing this they make it, so they have 144 days instead of 188 so they make school 44 days less with the four days. Also, the students can learn as much. We could make schools 4 days with more time each day.

Friday Afternoon – a “Pepper and Midnight Chinchilla” essay excerpt

Brenden Hamilton Gr. 6

It was Friday afternoon and Mrs. Rademacher just left her room. Pepper and Midnight are indignant at each other most of the time. They found the key next to their cage, broke out and heard the janitor say,” I’m going to this room.” So they left quickly. They started talking as soon as they left the room and they decided to go to the playground.

Pepper and Midnight got all of the balls out and threw them on the playset. First, they played gaga ball and Pepper won with a hit from her head. Then they tried to play basketball and Midnight won the game by three points. After that Pepper and Midnight played tetherball and they both got tired, so nobody won in tetherball. Finally, they did the obstacle course and Midnight had a faster time by one second. They got bored after a while, so they headed to the art room.

Pepper and Midnight had just entered the art room. They decided to do the shoe project first since they saw everyone’s shoes. Instead of painting shoes (because they didn’t wear shoes) they just painted their feet with permanent paint. They painted their feet orange because they both love orange. They took off other people’s 3D prints and glued them on their feet. They put a bunch of stains in the art room and it was messy.

Ghost Dog Stories – a Book Review

Ethan Traiforos Gr. 6

Ghost Dog Stories is about a twelve-year-old boy named Rusty with his friend Andrew and Ra, a mistreated dog. Rusty and Andrew found Ra locked up on a chain outside a man’s house named Mr. Myers. Rusty and Andrew took Ra and treated him very generously and Ra lived inside their secret hideout. The problem was Mr. Myers got angry at Rusty and Andrew because they took his dog, so Mr. Myers tried to go to court with them and take Ra back. When this didn’t work, Mr. Myers stole Ra back. Rusty was walking to Mr. Myer’s house to try to see if Ra was still there but then Rusty smelled something illegal being made in the house, so he told the police and Mr. Myers went to jail and was guilty. Rusty got full custody of Ra and adopted him. Ghost dog stories was an exciting book.

Rusty is the main character of Ghost Dog Stories. Rusty has blond hair, and he combs it back. Rusty wears a sweatshirt and sweat pants to school with running shoes. He is average height for his age and average weight. Rusty is an adventurous twelve-year-old boy.

Going to America – a “Sisters of Notre Dame Historical Fiction” excerpt

Kwadwo Karikari Gr. 6

I was 18 when I joined the Sister of Notre Dame. When Sister Julie called me into her room I wasn’t afraid. So, I just skipped to Julie’s Room and when I got there I knew something good was going to happen so when she told me I was going to Cincinnati I screamed so loud that Sister Concilio and I are going to America. I couldn’t believe it. Finally, I could leave Namur, Belgium and move to the quiet new town called Cincinnati. My how beautiful Ohio is if only we could get there faster. When we finally got to Cincinnati we were bone tired and ready to sleep. But first we wanted to see where we could live so we walked around. As we walked around, I ran into a nice woman that showed me a cute kitten that no one wanted because it had one green and one red eye. So, I showed pity on the animal and bought it for free (she gave it to me on my kindness). When I got back to my sisters, they were looking out over a great hill. My how beautiful it was. I could not wait to start a school and teach children.

Many years later, diary-this will be my last entry before I die. I just wanted to reflect on what I did in this world. I will miss the children and this world. But of course, I am all but a messenger of God. Now all I can do is wait for death to wrap around me and pull me in to its dark and evil hands. Now I can finally rest with peace and me both knowing that our time in the world is gone so as I heave my final breaths I see Sister Concilio just waiting for me just like she promised. I smile and let God take me back to which I came. So goodbye world, you great bountiful world. Goodbye Earth and hello heaven. Forgive all even those who have wronged us.

Goldfish

Wyatt Gockerman Gr. 4

Sandy Skoglund created the surrealistic tableau titled Revenge of the Goldfish in 1981. After completing the installation of this piece, Skoglund photographed it, allowing her creation to be preserved. Within the artwork, 120 terracotta fish swim around a flat monochromatic blue bedroom. At first glance, the room appears to be an aquarium. It is only after looking more closely that the elements of a bedroom appear. The placement of the goldfish above and below the image of the boy sitting on the bed draw the viewer in to the image. The triangulation of the goldfish focus the eye on this illuminated figure. The fish spiral toward the boy as if they are trying to attack him. In addition, Skoglund’s use of orange on the goldfish makes them seem to jump from the photograph. This “popping” occurs because of her use of complementary colors. In the image, the mirror is a different shade of blue than the rest of the room. It is darker and deeper. The mirror looks like it is a portal allowing the fish entrance to the room.

The parent in this puzzling piece of art seems to be asleep while the goldfish invade. It seems that she is unmoved by the situation surrounding her. I believe that this image tells a story of caution. The title of the artwork makes you think of a strange world where goldfish can take revenge. This thought seems impossible, but in Sandy Skoglund’s creation, it is reality. I think that the message is to consider being captive. No one wants to live in a world that is enclosed. Skoglund is making the viewer think about what it would be like if humans were forced to live in a fish bowl.

Government Shutdown – a Persuasive Essay excerpt

Kate McLane Gr. 6

The government shutdown is over, but it has ripple effects on the people. I don’t think the government was considering who they are governing when they started the shutdown. The shutdown has hurt more than jobs, it hurt children. When the government shut down, the funding for free lunches at school stopped, this means all the children who can’t afford to eat at home went hungry. It also means that the jobs any parent or relative had, no waiting for government were suspended. None of those parents were getting paid, so some kids might not eat. The government is hurting lives, children, sources of income, and businesses, all because of the wall.

Hurting many jobs is one thing, hurting kids is another. Some parents with government jobs might not be able to keep their kids in school because of lack of money. Why do some parents have to choose between food or bills, eating or feeding the kids? I can’t even imagine going without food or dropping out of private school because my parents can’t afford it. Why does the government get to the debate, sitting in comfy chairs, while some people are starving? Today, some kids will still go hungry, just another ripple effect.

Furthermore, this shutdown was periodically making our country dangerous. Some flights at LaGuardia were canceled, leaving people stuck, because of a lack of staff. If the TSA agents can’t eat, they get tired. If they get tired, they don’t do their jobs as well and have the potential to miss a weapon. If they miss a weapon, people could get killed, or an airplane could explode, leaving catastrophic damage in its wake. This shutdown has left people without money, so some people rebelled, rebellion can lead to riots, riots to death.

Gym

Noah Berhanu Gr. 4

One day I was going to gym class, and I looked around and noticed the whole fourth grade was coming too. I wondered why everyone was coming to gym instead of going to their regular specials class. I asked one of the teachers, and they said that we were all going to gym to play ultimate dodgeball. When we all arrived in the gym, we rushed downstairs to change. Everyone was so excited. After a quick change, we all sat on the steps waiting for everyone to get finished. The teachers split us into teams, and we were ready to play. Our game was going by really quickly when our teacher told us to stop. “No!” everyone screamed but gym wasn’t over. Instead, it was going to be the teachers versus the students. To make it easier on the students, only the gym and art teacher played. They both had a really firm throw and got a lot of people out. The gym teacher aimed at me, and I was out. It was the best gym class.

Hana’s Creed of Me

Hana Conte Gr. 5

I believe in environmentalism, that people should help the environment, not litter, not pollute the air and water and should try keep the earth in a clean, beautiful and natural state I believe in creativity, that people should express themselves and they should find creative ways to do it and think a little outside the box.

I believe in imagination, that no one is too old to use their imagination and that they should sometimes draw a little outside the lines.

I believe in world peace, freedom, equal rights and that wars are silly and everyone should be kind no matter race, gender or beliefs.

I believe in friendship and positivity, that people shouldn’t exclude or bully and that people should always think on the bright side, be happy for what they have and that the world should be colorful not dull and dreary.

Health Trainer – a Job Application

Callie Karageorges Gr. 5

I am applying for the position of Health Trainer. I am qualified for this job for many reasons. First, I have studied Health at one of the top preparatory schools in Ohio, The Summit Country Day School, Second, I am formally trained in soccer, cheerleading, and dance. Third, I exercise regularly and use my Peloton at my house very frequently. I am good at motivating and bringing out the best in people. I also work hard to show people the fun in exercising.

I attend The Summit Country Day School and feel my strengths are healthy eating, cycling on my Peloton, and getting a good workout through dance. I have received good sportsmanship awards on my soccer team and I also get high scores on the Peloton leader boards when I ride.

I feel I am the best person for this job because I am hardworking, a strong motivator, and an active and healthy person. I am also a lot of fun.

Healthy Food Choices – a Persuasive Essay excerpt

Lily de Lacy Gr. 6

Our school cafeteria should have healthier options. Currently when I visit the cafeteria there are too many chips, unhealthy drinks such as- Snapple, Arnold Palmer, Crystal Light, ice cream, and pizza every day. All these unhealthy options are making children obese and overweight. It also puts a stop on children’s growth and development which is bad because middle school is the biggest years for growth and development. Our school should have items such as veggies, fruits, and smoothies.

I think Summit should serve more veggies to all the students. They should be served in a variety of ways and forms-such as hummus dish, avocado toast, more soups, veggie pasta, and veggies to sauces, smoothies, omelets, lettuce wraps, and veggie burgers. Instead of serving unhealthy chips, you could serve veggie sticks. Instead of serving unhealthy drinks such as Snapple, Arnold Palmer, you could serve freshly squeezed veggie juices.

I also think the Summit Country Day School should serve more fruits. There are many ways you could serve fruits to kids and teens. For example, you could serve fruit bars, bags of dry fruit, organic fruit popsicles and ice cream, freshly squeezed juice, fruit salad, etc. Summit needs to get rid of all the cookies, brownies, ice cream, chips, and pizza. Many teens like fruit just not plain fruit in a container. Try and be more creative. Serve fresh fruit, not old mushy fruit. Make sure it’s ripe too.

Heart

Jackson Curt Gr. 5

The best part of me is my heart. If I didn’t have a heart, I wouldn’t be alive. My heart also pumps blood to the rest of my body to keep it moving. My heart is also trustworthy because it never stops beating. My heart is the key piece of my body in so many ways

Heart Disease

Cameron Lorentz Gr. 5

Heart Disease is also called cardiovascular (say: kar-dee-oh-VAS-kyoo-lur) disease. The heart is the center of cardiovascular disease. The heart pumps blood to all the cells in your body. Heart disease is caused when the heart and blood vessels aren’t working together like they should. More than 60 million Americans have some kind of heart disease. Here are some problems that go along with heart disease.

Heart Disease isn’t contagious like the flu. Instead, certain things that people do can cause Heart Disease. For example, smoking, being overweight, high blood pressure, and not exercising enough. Kids don’t usually get Heart Disease, but that doesn’t mean you can’t eat healthy or exercise because it might benefit you in the future.

Hot Chocolate

Kaitlyn Rassi Gr. 5

What beverage am I? I think I’m a hot chocolate because like a hot chocolate it warms you up like I can help you feel better and warm. But like hot chocolate it’s hot and sometimes I’m hot like made, anger, foresee to. The whip cream on the hot chocolate is cooling it down and it’s so fluffy, soft like I’m cooling to help you calm down, and I do it soft, and I don’t get hot easily like the whip cream that cools down the hot chocolate. Also, like hot chocolate I’m sweat, kind, nice, helpful, and other things, and other things. Hot chocolate is also thick like I am. I can be hard to get to or irony. Those were reasons why I think I’m hot chocolate.

Humaira Bachal – a “Wax Museum of Courage” excerpt

Emily Bolan Gr. 5

Humaira Bachal is a courageous Pakistani woman who defied culture to help others and put her life on the line to do it. Bachal was born in Pakistan where it was believed that girls shouldn’t go to school because they were supposed to work and get married. She helped many girls get educated and stood up for herself to become educated. Bachal helped girls achieve dreams girls would never have made true without her.

Ice-Cold Lemonade

Sydney Brinkman Gr. 5

I think I am an ice-cold lemonade. I think this because sometimes on a hot day lemonade is refreshing and I am very refreshed in a way after practices. Lemonade sometimes gets too sour, sometimes I get a little sour with my brother. Some of the time lemonade is overly sweet and that represents all my energy. Most of the time lemonade is just perfect with a little sweet and sourness. That is how I think I am balanced. I think I am a lemonade.

Installation Artwork: Revenge of the Goldfish

Madelyn Smith Gr. 4

The installation artwork, Revenge of the Goldfish, was created by Sandy Skoglund in 1981. The tableau is an example of surrealism. This is truly an amazing piece of art from the name, to the color, and even the tiny details that make it whole. That is why I am writing this criticism. When you think about the name, you are pulled in. The use of goldfish makes the viewer wonder why these tiny, harmless goldfish are not only mad but want revenge. Now, if you think about revenge it is a big thing. It is not anger or being mad. It is revenge. It is scheming, plotting, and waiting. It is timing out the perfect way to get back. In addition, these tiny insignificant goldfish are in the act of doing it. Not sharks or bears or wolves, but goldfish seeking revenge. Another way that Sandy Skoglund pulls the viewer into her artwork is through her technique. The goldfish swim in a triangular form above and below the bed located in the center of the room. They pull your eye into the picture to the focal point of the boy sitting on the side of the bed. The boy’s pale glowing skin also stands out against the flat monochromatic blue of the bedroom. The 120 terracotta goldfish, painted a vivid orange, pop out of the image making the viewer take a closer look. The use of complementary colors makes it so no one would just walk past this artwork. You would take a minute to look at people in a room full of goldfish.

I think her message to all of us is that goldfish are very fragile. I can relate I had one. He died quickly. The goldfish seeking revenge is meaningful. The people seem to be in some sort of enclosed room like a goldfish. There are no doors. It is as if the goldfish are taking their revenge by trapping the people inside the room. The person sitting up has a goldfish in his hand like he is starting to realize that there are goldfish in this room encircling him. The person that is laying down in the bed does not seem to notice yet. I think they are taking their revenge by trapping these people in this room and then surrounding them daring them to take revenge.

Jane Goodall – a “Wax Museum of Courage” excerpt

Sophia Blackshaw-Brown Gr. 5

Courage is defined as strength in the face of pain or grief. Jane Goodall was courageous throughout her life. She was only 23 years old when she sailed to Mombasa, Africa to meet a famous anthropologist named Dr. Louis Leakey.

Jane Goodall has overcome obstacles throughout her life. She was born in 1934 on April 3rd in London. She earned a PhD degree from Cambridge University in England when she was 18 years old. She is still alive today and she’s 85 years old. Now she donates her time to the Jane Goodall Institute, traveling around the world to speak what she has learned about dangers that chimpanzees face and about taking care of the environment.

Jane Goodall accomplished so much during the years of her research. One of her important discoveries while living among the chimpanzees was that they made tools from grass and twigs. Her research helped people understand the relationships between humans and animals. In 2003 Goodall was made dame commander of the British Empire. She became known as Dame Jane Goodall.

Joan of Arc – a “Wax Museum of Courage” excerpt

Elsa Hobbins Gr. 5

Courage is doing what nobody else is willing to do. Joan of Arc showed courage by dressing as a man and going to war. She was very courageous because she did that even though she knew it was dangerous for her. She was a very outgoing person and she went to war for her country. She believed she could win the war and she did just that.

Joan of Arc was born in Domrèmy, France, in 1412. She grew up in a village divided between the king’s territory and that of the dukes of Bar and Lorraine. She began to hear voices when she was thirteen or fourteen. She claimed the voices were Saint Catherine, Saint Margaret, and Archangel Michael. She said she had visits from them and soon they became her best companions. They controlled her every move. According to Joan of Arc, they were the ones who told her to go save France from England.

Joan of Arc contributed to society by joining the Lancastrian Phase of the Hundred Years War. She wanted to help France because she didn’t want France to be conquered by England and become one of their colonies. They won the Hundred Years War. She then went to war in Orléans and she was very popular there. Her troops were losing men in that war, but she didn’t panic, she just kept going and eventually won the war.

Jobs After Jail – an excerpt

Mirabella Bosse Gr. 6

I believe that there should be jobs after jail because we all make mistakes. While going to jail is a big deal, sometimes what someone needs is a second chance to make things right again. We have all made mistakes as kids and sometimes that is what happens. Kids make a mistake and go to jail. Then that goes on their record. In some cases, people are just trying to get food for their family. While it isn’t right, people will do anything for their family and all they need is a job, so they won’t have to do that again.

There should be jobs after jail because 76% of inmates end up back in jail after being released. Most of the time it is because they can’t get a job because of a onetime felony. Even the smallest of crimes can cost you a job. “I believe there needs to be some sort of Statute of Limitations on how long a person can have a felony on their record,” said Vox.com.

While they might find a high paying job, they are more likely to get laid off because of their criminal record. Most employers don’t want a felon in their business. Even people who have been out for years, people still won’t hire or keep them. The worse their crime was the more likely they are to get laid off. Sometimes when employers do a background check and they see a crime they won’t even do an interview.

Lakshmi Bai – a “Wax Museum of Courage” excerpt

Meghana Curran Gr. 5

Rani (Queen) Lakshmi Bai showed tremendous courage throughout her life. She was most known for fighting in battle and helping those who were injured. Her legacy continues to this day.

She was born on November 19, 1835 to the household of ruler Baji Rao II. At a young age, she had a love of reading and writing. She liked to study with boys and purchased many books to read when she was older. She was married at the age of 11 to Gangadhar Rao, the Maharaja (great king) of the Princely State of Jhansi and had a son, but tragically, the boy died at 3 months of age. To have someone to inherit the throne of Jhansi, a son was adopted. The Maharaja died a day later. The boy was too young to become king, so Lakshmi Bai became the ruler of Jhansi.

Leaves

Ama Karikari Gr. 4

Fall is…

Apples as sweet as candy

Leaves crumbling under you shoe

Coldness seeping into your bones

The wind whistling a sad tune

Cozy nights watching movies

Trick or treaters rushing to the door

Family devouring a Thanksgiving feast

Bare branches waving in the breeze

Locomotion – a Book Review

Annette LaLonde Gr. 6

When Lonnie was seven years old, his parents died in a fire. Now as an eleven-year-old, his teacher Ms. Marcus is making him do poems about his life and everyone in his class doesn’t know what happened to his family. This is the way he can show what his background is and what his life was. He shows what he had to deal with after the fire and when he was separated from his sister. After he was separated from his sister, he went to a foster home. He never felt the same, and his foster mom even spoke up about it. One day she was saying that he would be crazy and funny and always have a smile on his face when his sister was around and how she would be like be quite Lonnie! You’re making too much noise. Now, Lonnie doesn’t say a thing and never has a smile. His sister was the only thing he had after his parents. He went into the world of writing and wrote down everything he remembered. Like one time he wrote about his mother.

His mother always had the same scent on her every day and when he was lonely and missing her, he would walk over to the store and smell the perfume to remind him of her. He wrote when he smelled it, he felt like she was right there. While Lonnie was writing about his life, he opened-up to people in his class and started to make friends.

The Mighty Miss Malone – a Book Review

Ryka Woodruff Gr. 6

The Mighty Miss Malone is about a twelve-year-old girl, Deza Malone. She lives with her Mom, Dad, and brother in Gary, Indiana. Deza is the smartest in her class. On the other hand, her brother, Jimmie, doesn’t do very well in school. But Jimmie is a great singer. People always stop to listen to Jimmie sing. The Great Depression hit Gary hard. It was hard to find jobs especially for Mr. Malone and for people of their race. Mr. Malone went off to Flint, Michigan to find a better job after being released from his previous job. Deza, Jimmie, and their mother set out on their journey to find their father in Flint. Their mother was worried because their father has been through so much pain and tragedy and was hoping he was okay. In conclusion, I recommend this book because it has so many adventures and journeys.

The Malones family motto is “We are a family on a journey to a place called Wonderful.” Deza Malone hears a whole lot of earful but she still stays cheerful! Deza, Jimmie, and their mother go on long journeys. Deza and her mother have lots of worries.

Lopez Lomong – a Perseverance Essay excerpt

William Bishop Gr. 6

Lopez Lomong showed incredible perseverance throughout his life. He survived a civil war in his home country of Sudan. He was able to overcome all of these challenges through faith, hard work, and perseverance. This led him to a successful life in the United States. He was able to earn a college degree and become a track Olympian.

Lopez endured many difficulties in his childhood. He was kidnapped on a Sunday at church by rebel soldiers when he was six years old. He was taken to a rebel prison camp where it was very hot, and they were given very little food and were not allowed to leave the tent. Many boys died. Eventually, Lopez escaped with three mysterious boys and rain in bare feet all the way to the Kenyan border where border guards brought them to a refugee camp in Kenya. They were trying to run home but ended up in Kenya instead. The refugee camp is where he spent 10 years of his life. Lopez showed perseverance in his early life during difficult times. Lopez had some successes and setbacks when he got older. He was able to come to the U.S. through winning an essay-writing contest about his life. Lopez lived in America for his adult life and still lives in the U.S. today. His hard life set him up to be a great runner. By training and practicing for many years, he ran for his college, which was Northern Arizona University. He did get injured, but he was able to get through it. He liked the 800m and the 1500m and by placing in the top three for the 1500m, he made the U.S. Olympic team. He started The Lopez Lomong Foundation that helps provide clear water, nutrition, healthcare, and education for the children in Sudan.

Making Music

Parker Sougstad Gr. 4

Dooby, Dooby, Doo…stomp, stomp, snap…

An hour earlier, I am in science/social studies class, and it is about to end. Then, I can head to music. Yes! I know that it is going to be a fun class today. My brother already told me all about what we are going to do, and I cannot wait. We lined up and headed to the middle school. On the way down the stairs to the music room, I could hear music. When we got to the room, there were many people there to show us different instruments and other musical items. The best part was toward the end when two of the people got up to perform, and my class got to be part of it. The girl told us that we were going to sing, stomp, and snap while the boys played piano. We practiced a couple of times, and then we were ready. Dooby, dooby, doo…stomp, stomp, snap…

Martha Stewart – a Biography excerpt

Jocelyn Lauckner Gr. 6

The book, Being Martha, is the story of Martha Stewart, one of the world’s most successful businesswomen. Throughout her life, Martha Stewart shows perfectionism and perseverance as she masterfully builds her lifestyle brand. Martha’s drive to succeed leads her to flourish in the fashion, cooking, and media industries. She faces many setbacks and challenges including a career change from stockbroker to chef, divorcing after twenty-nine years of marriage, and being found guilty on four counts of obstructing justice and lying to investigators about a stock sale. Martha triumphs over these setbacks with creativity and determination, building a multi-million-dollar company. Her charisma and entrepreneurial spirit revolutionize simple living.

As a young adult, Martha excels in school turning down a full scholarship to New York University to attend Barnard University. Martha’s college years expose her to opportunities, as she pursues modeling, gets introduced to French cuisine and meets her future husband. She finishes college, becomes a stockbroker on Wall Street, and marries her husband, Andy. Martha quickly realizes that working as a stockbroker isn’t for her and faces the challenge of a career change. Andy and Martha purchase a farmhouse, in the small town of Westport, Connecticut. Martha names her property, Turkey Hill, and begins her career as a chef.

It is during her university years that Martha falls in love with international cuisine. When she moves to Westport, Martha establishes a catering business. Martha’s business gains popularity by catering prestigious events with her team of assistants and chefs. It isn’t until Martha’s only child, Alexis is grown, and she achieves a six-figure salary that her husband of twenty-nine years files for divorce. Martha is shell-shocked by Andy’s decision and struggles to cope with the failure of her marriage. She puts the past behind her and focuses on her business, friends, and family. The popularity of Martha’s cooking business leads to the creation of a daytime television show, “Martha Stewart Living.” Sadly, a poor business decision threatens to unravel Martha’s empire, and she must overcome the biggest challenge in her life. As Martha heads to prison, after being found guilty on four felony charges, her show is taken down from national broadcasting stations. Five months in federal jail and five months of home arrest later, Martha perseveres and is back up producing multiple television shows and continues her catering business.

Sister Mary Ellen

Claire Lamarre Gr. 6

Mary Ellen

Peaceful, Gentle, Kind

Who has an important relationship with her sister Rosemary, her best friend Sr. Barbara and her nephew, Matthew

Who loves nature, camping, and music

Who fears violence, meanness, and pollution

Who accomplished 59 years of teaching while she strived for equality for all people

Who wishes to see peace in the world and respect for everyone

Who taught in Arizona, Chicago and The Summit Carinato

Ministry – a Sisters of Notre Dame Biography Poem

Jonathan Grooms Gr. 6

My Sister is Sister Anne.

She is gentle, a good listener, and caring.

She loved her younger brother and twin brother.

She experienced feelings with the Sisters of Notre Dame, ministries, and nature. Her fears are losing dignity, and that people will become hopeless.

Sister Anne’s accomplishment was helping students that were struggling. She wanted to see all of us, and people serving others.

Muhammed Ali – a “Wax Museum of Courage” excerpt

Connor Schaaf Gr. 5

Muhammed Ali contributed greatly to society. Ali stood up for civil rights and was very important in the civil rights movement because he spoke out. He also encouraged many other people to stand up against segregation and racism. Muhammed Ali also helped our government with political issues. His contributions still help us today.

Ali demonstrated courage many times during his life. He was unwilling to fight the Vietcong because it went against all his beliefs and stood by his decision even when the government stripped him of his boxing titles. Muhammed Ali was also the first Islamic boxer to win a world title, so people were racist against him, but he never backed down. Ali supported civil rights even when it was violent, and people were racist. No matter how many people were racist he kept fighting. He was very courageous.

Muscle Girl

Leelah Mason Gr. 4

There once was a superhero named, Muscle Girl. She had red eyes that glowed like laser beams and long blue hair that flowed in waves. Her face was covered with symbols and markings, and she wore a red and blue dress. Her boots were blue with MG in red on the toe. Her eyes were the source of her power, super human strength. Muscle Girl could lift anything. There was nothing too heavy for Muscle Girl. If Muscle Girl every encountered someone in need or a disastrous situation, with a quick spin and the shout, “Gold!” Muscle Girl was transformed from an everyday kid into a superhero.

One seemingly normal day, Muscle Girl heard cries of distress. Spinning quickly, and shouting, “Gold!” Muscle Girl was transformed. She ran toward the screams, and saw a skyscraper rocking back and forth. The people inside had their faces pressed against the window, and the people on the street below were running in fear. Muscle Girl to the rescue! She ran to the building and held it up so that everyone could get to safety. Muscle Girl saved the day…for now.

My Eyes

Ava Dona Gr. 5

My eyes are the best part about me. My first reason why I picked my eyes is because they help me see. I can see where my family is, also they are very helpful when it comes to seeing where I am going, who I am talking to, and school. I am also very thankful to have sight because some people are blind and can’t see all the beautiful structures and colors in the world. My eyes are probably the prettiest feature that I have on my body. My mom said I have pretty eyes because of my eyelashes and how big my eyes are. My eyes can do cool tricks, like I can make my eyes go cross eyed. My eyes are probably one of the most important parts on my body.

My Mouth

Harper Wood Gr. 5

The best part of me is my mouth. It is like a shield. It can protect and defend others. It is like a bandage and can heal other’s hurting. My mouth always knows what to say to help someone. Sometimes, it even helps me. If I were without my voice, my mouth would still find a way to help people. My mouth is the best part of me.

Nelson Mandela – a “Wax Museum of Courage” excerpt

Braden Bricking Gr. 5

Nelson Mandela was super courageous. He showed courage by being brave enough to run for president. This was difficult because he was black and was running for president after being thrown in jail. Another courageous act was being the first black president of South Africa. Many people in South Africa did not want a black person running their government. Mr. Mandela also showed courage by standing up for equal rights for all people even when it meant he had to go to jail. Nelson Mandela was very brave and courageous.

Namur to Cincinnati – a “Sisters of Notre Dame Historical Fiction” excerpt

Benedict Domville Gr. 6

My name is Sr. Marie and I love the convent in Namur, but my calling is in America. I heard the boat ride is short though. I must be on the boat on my birthday or Sr. Julia will be mad. My parents aren’t even allowed to come. I spent my last moments in Namur in the chapel praying and laying in the river.

I saw Sr. Eve on the boat, and she came up to me she said, “Hi.” We struck a conversation. The last time I talked to her was when we were young. I last spoke to her just before I left for boarding school. Also, the journey was a lot longer than they said. You should have seen the ice chunks on the Atlantic Ocean. It wasn’t a gift it was a punishment.

Good news, I got to teach the same grade. I am teaching English and Eve is teaching Religion. I’ve started missing my parents. People have very drab clothes. We are teaching people who are poor, African Americans, and young boys. We are also teaching night classes here in Cincinnati.

Nick Allen’s Character Development

Abby Bastos Gr. 4

Nick changed throughout the story Frindle. One of the ways he changed was in taking responsibility for his actions. In the beginning of the book, Nick wasted time and was often insulting to his teachers. He may not have always been mean, but his behavior was distracting to others and sometimes disrespectful. Because of Nick’s choices, his entire school was at war, and Nick and his language arts teacher, Mrs. Granger, were the generals.

As the story progressed, and Nick realized that his actions existed outside of him. Nick began to understand how what seemed to be little things could grow into something much larger than he expected. This realization led to Nick holding back some of the ideas that he would have openly shared. It also stopped him from encouraging other students to join in his ideas. One of the ideas that Nick resisted sharing was a plan to boycott the school cafeteria. After the experience he had with the word frindle. He knew that he might start something that he would not be able to control.

Overall, Nick changed a lot, but I feel that the main way he changed was in taking responsibility for his actions.

Nightmares – a Book Review

Margaret Hobbins Gr. 6

Cypress Creek appears to be a picture-perfect village, with flower filled parks, tasteful white and beige homes and quaint storefronts up and down the streets, however the sleepy town of Cypress Creek isn’t just as perfect as it sounds. The book Nightmares is about a boy named Charlie battling his nightmares. Charlie has always had a fascination with the huge purple mansion towering over Cypress Creek, but as soon as the sky turns dark and the house disappears with the day it’s one tower with only two windows. One day he saw a shadowy figure standing in the supposedly vacant home. This made Charlie’s imagination run wild and he began to write stories and draw pictures. Charlie finally asked what’s wrong and his Mom admitted to being in the house when she was a child, and this made Charlie even more curious and he started to ask was it cool? Was it scary? His Mom cut him off to say that the tower belonged to a girl and that she would tell him more when he was older. His Mom however could never fulfill this promise because she fell very ill and died four days and three hours before Charlie’s ninth birthday. When a new woman moves into the purple mansion her name is Charlotte DeChant. When Charlie helps her unpack, things take a turn for the worse. He gets a tour of the house in return for helping her move in and because he was gone for so long his father and brother came out to find him. When they saw his bike in the street they stopped to ask if he was there. To Charlie’s surprise this is how he got his new step-monster as he says. The book’s theme then changed dramatically as he must chase his brother and his nightmares through the netherworld.

No Homework – a Persuasive Essay excerpt

Lennard Mellin Gr. 6

Homework. We all know it can be boring. It sometimes takes away from physical activity. People want to play sports, but homework prevents us. 58% of kids in the U.S have weight problems because of homework. People also want to have more physical ability, but homework prevents that. Homework is important but it takes away from free time.

Huge essays take away a lot of time like this one. At home you also must do chores. Friends can barely come over for sleepovers or playdates. The fun and free time is getting less and less due to homework.

It’s true you can’t have endless free time. Homework is important. Homework should be put up in advance. When we have tests, we should only have homework to study. Students get stressed if we have tests and extra homework. Homework that is the most stressful is essays, packets and more.

Object

X

Olivia de Lacy Gr. 4

Greetings Chief,

This is Agent Liva reporting about an object I have discovered. I call it Object X. When I first saw Object X, it looked like a glimmering teardrop. It was shining silver reflecting the sun. On closer examination, Object X was wrinkly in appearance and seemed to have a foil like outer covering. I touched Object X and found it hard and rough. Peeling away the outside wrapper, Object X was smooth and a deep rich brown color. The shape was more curved and an aroma was coming from it. I breathed deep and smelled a creamy sweetness. I could not resist tasting Object X. It was sweet and milky. The flavor coated my tongue. It was like creamy fluff. Object X was delicious. I will hunt for more samples to bring home on my return voyage.

Agent Liva signing out.

Office Assistant – a Job Application

Kylie Eastman Gr. 5

I am applying for the Office Assistant position. I am qualified for this job because I enjoy typing. Every Friday I get to use the computer to discover new parts of Read Works, No Red Ink, and Type to Learn. I also love to read, especially scary books and books expressing emotions. I lose myself in the book and I always remember what I read. Furthermore, I am nosy, so I am excited to read all the kids’ letters to Santa. I attend The Summit Country Day School and feel my strengths are neatness, punctuality and dependability.

Open Cage – a “Pepper and Midnight’s

William Hartmann Gr. 6

Misadventures” excerpt

Mrs. Rademacher left the Chinchilla cage open Friday night and the chinchillas got out. They are talking about what they are going to do that weekend because they are out of their cage.

They decided to go to the gym to play basketball. After all of that they went to the lunch room to get a snack because they were hungry after being in the gym for a while.

They went back to the gym. They open the garage door in the gym and they got out a basketball again. They played one vs. one. Pepper hit a three and won against Midnight. They were putting the balls away and the janitor came in. Pepper and midnight were trying to hide but the janitor found Midnight not Pepper. The Janitor took Midnight back to his cage. Pepper is all alone in the gym. Pepper tries to help Midnight by looking for him in the school. Pepper found Midnight in the cage. Pepper tries to get him out but he can’t. He found a ruler to open the cage and he got it to open. Midnight got out and they laughed.

They said that they are going to go to the lunch room for some food. They got food in the lunch room. They sat an ate and talked. After they were done they watched a movie and played video games.

After all of that they scurried back to Mrs. Rademacher’s room because it was already Monday and school was about to start

Plaster

Jack Reynolds Gr. 4

One day in art class, we were making plaster masks. There were a lot of parents that came to help us. Two of my friends went first. They slathered their faces with plaster, and it looked so funny. Their eyes were closed, and they could not see anything. Finally, it was my turn. I was so excited. Sitting in the chair with my eyes closed, I was ready. A cold sensation covered my face, plaster! I had to sit still and wait for the plaster to dry while my friends were already finished. I had ants in my pants I was so anxious for my mask to be ready. At last, the plaster had dried, and I had a mask that I could wear. That was an awesome art class.

Playground Land

Jefferson Campbell Gr. 4

At the beginning of fourth grade, we had a sub for gym class. Instead of heading to the gym, the sub told us we were going to the middle school playground. We were going to play gaga. I won one of the rounds. After playing for a while, I decided to explore the rest of the playground. There was a parkour feature that I jumped around on and ropes with platforms to walk across. It was really hard but so much fun. There was an obstacle course with the parkour feature, the ropes, a ring swing, and bouncy chairs that I did too. I knew gym was going to be a lot of fun.

Rewarding

Jaron Richter Gr. 4

In my opinion, kids should not get a participation award. First, you should only get an award for first or second place. The people that win should stand out from everyone else for their hard work and effort. Next, if you get an award for participation for one event you may expect an award all the time. This is not realistic. There are times that you will not get recognition. Also, if you believe that you will be getting a participation award and you do not, that may make you sad. Finally, people do not care about awards as much if everyone receives them. Kids do not have any reason to practice or try their best. Children do not have anything to aim for if they are already guaranteed an award. Giving awards to everyone makes the award worthless. That is why I do not believe in giving participation awards.

Revenge of the Goldfish – Photograph

Gabe Gamboa Gr. 4

This piece of art by Sandy Skoglund is titled, Revenge of the Goldfish. It is installation art in the surrealistic style. Sandy Skoglund created this tableau in 1981, and then photographed it. The photograph is what remains.

In this image, the goldfish frame or border the bedroom. The focal point of this artwork is the boy. He looks miserable with his head down. The boy’s skin appears to shine as the lightest point in the room. He looks like he is shining. Aside from the boy, the room is entirely a monochromatic blue. The orange of the terracotta goldfish stands out against the aquarium like room. Blue and orange are complementary colors. The arrangement of the goldfish in a triangular way brings the viewer into the image.

This artwork makes me feel sleepy because the colors are relaxing. There is also a hopeless feel to this image also. I think that the artist is trying to tell us to care for the environment.

Refugee – a Book Review

Kira Njegovan Gr. 6

Refugee is a compassionate and heartrending novel. It has showed me that I am very lucky to have a roof over my head and a bed to sleep in. This book is made up of three different stories. One includes the story of a girl named Isabella. She is from Havana, Cuba, and is suffering through food shortages, nasty violent riots, and her father being put in jail. The second story consists of a boy named Joseph. He is a Jewish boy living in Germany during World War II. His father was taken away from his family by the Nazis. When Joseph’s father returned he became madly paranoid, and scared that Nazis were coming for them everywhere they turned. The Nazis did such unspeakable things to his father, and this made a mental impact on him for the rest of his life. The third story is about a boy named Mahmound. He lives in Syria during 2015. He is surrounded by terrorists who have viciously threatened and killed many people. His family must flee quickly and quietly, after being hit with multiple bombs in their apartment. All of these stories have taught me to be thankful for my safety, and to always be kind to others, no matter their culture.

Responsible – a Biographical Poem

Lilly Ann Sievering Gr. 6

Sister Liz

Happy, Responsible, Aging

Loving sister of Mary, best friend of loving Sister Mary Ann

Nature, Easter, Being around good people

Peaceful, calm, happy

We will be alienated from one another, not able to accept each other, equality won’t happen

Influencing students’ lives in many ways

To have a human community of people that care for each other, that we respect our differences

Cincinnati Bowyer

Revenge of the Goldfish

Megan Bastos Gr. 4

In 1981, Sandy Skoglund created Revenge of the Goldfish. This artwork is a surrealistic tableau. Skoglund’s artwork features a monochromatic blue bedroom inhabited by two people and 120 terracotta goldfish. The room is a cool monochromatic blue, and the goldfish are a bright warm orange. These complementary colors make the goldfish jump out of the image. The artist arranged the goldfish around the perimeter of the room framing the bed. Above and below the bed, the fish float in a way that draws the viewer’s eyes in to the image. The boy sitting on the edge of the bed is the lightest and brightest element in the room.

I notice that there are many shapes in the image. The inverted triangle above the bed, the lines that are created by the furniture give the illusion of triangles and squares. The fish on the floor create a triangle that mirrors the one above the bed. These shapes all point to the focal point of the image, the boy that sits, head bowed, on the bed.

I believe that Sandy Skoglund made Revenge of the Goldfish because she was feeling upset that people treat the environment badly. She created Revenge of the Goldfish to show how she feels about it. In Skoglund’s artwork, goldfish have revenge on humans for how we treat them. This is why I think Revenge of the Goldfish is an interesting work of art.

Root Beer Float

Emma O’Brien Gr. 5

I would describe myself as a root beer float with extra whipped cream. I chose a root beer float because I have some of those really good elements. I am a little thick on the inside and you can have different flavors of ice cream on me and some can be bitter, and some can be sweet. The wiped cream represents all the soft stuff that I love because if you place it on your tongue perfectly then you have that fluffy and the creamy and all the goodness mixed together. There is a cherry and that represents when I have been angry sometimes when it’s really red my sister has been bugging me. Sometimes there are sprinkles and they represent all of my family members. The drink is the actually me because sometimes it can be thick and sometimes it can be smooth.

Rosa Parks

Jordyn Lauckner Gr. 6

In the 1900s, segregation laws in the southern United States created an unfair divide between African Americans and Caucasians. It would be the courageous actions of one woman, Rosa Parks, a civil rights activist, that would shine a light on segregation injustices and elevate the civil rights of African Americans. Rosa Parks was born and raised in Tuskegee, Alabama, a state that was heavily segregated. Her family lived in constant fear because of the violent actions of white supremacists. After forty-two years of living in fear and suffering civil rights injustices, Rosa decided to take a stand against segregation. She refused to give up her bus seat to a white man, and according to the law was arrested. Her arrest was a rallying cry to end segregation on buses in Montgomery, Alabama. African Americans, led by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., joined together in non-violent protests, boycotts, and marches paralyzing the busing system in Montgomery, Alabama. These actions, along with a lengthy court battle, led to the U.S. Supreme Court ruling that segregation on Montgomery buses was unconstitutional. On December 21, 1956, Rosa sat in the front seat of an integrated Montgomery bus. Her brave stand against segregation will forever make her a hero of the civil rights movement.

One Woman Rosa was fearless. Rosa fought for righteousness. Rosa is selfless.

The Ruby Bridges Stamp

Faye Edmondson Gr. 4

I think that Ruby Bridges should be recognized for her courage by being placed on a stamp. As a little girl, Ruby Bridges was given the opportunity to attend school with white students. She was asked to go because Ruby was very smart. At the time, schools were separate for white and African American students. Ruby would be the first African American at the school if she decided to go. Ruby made a hard decision and said yes. This was a very brave act and showed a lot of courage.

Not only was Ruby brave because she decided to go to a new school, but she also did not give up when people treated her bad. Every day, she would get booed and have mean things said to her. Instead of switching schools, Ruby continued going and even prayed for the people that were mean to her. This must have been very difficult because people were very mean.

Another reason why Ruby Bridges should have her own stamp is because she did something very hard, and her choice has made things easier for others. Ruby Bridges changed the way that many people were educated. Ruby Bridges is hero that should have her own stamp.

S is for Scientist

Coleton Chadwell Gr. 5

I chose to write about Eugenie Clark, also known as the Shark Lady. She began observing sharks and fish at the age of 9. She continued to observe the behavior of sharks. To learn more about their behavior, she performed many experiments. Her observations led to the discovery of a natural shark repellant from the Moses sole, a fish. She actually rode on the back of a 50 foot whale shark during one of her dives! Eugenie received many awards for her work with sharks and fish.

Sandy Skoglund: Revenge of the Goldfish

Beatrice Nery Gr. 4

In 1981, Sandy Skoglund created this installation artwork and named it Revenge of the Goldfish. She made 120 terracotta goldfish and placed them around this room that she painted a monochromatic blue. She made the goldfish orange so that they would stand out against the blue because they are complementary colors. This makes the goldfish seem to pop out of the image. The fish form triangles above and below the boy so that your eye is drawn to him. The boy is illuminated against the room. It seems as if the house has sunk under water, and the goldfish are coming in, crowding the house. The boy on the edge of the bed might be imagining the fish coming to avenge themselves against people. There is a mirror in the back of the room that is darker blue, almost like a door the goldfish are going through. The windows behind the bed are blocked, so you cannot see out of them. A goldfish is lying on the sleeping person’s neck. The boy does not notice or care that all the fish are swimming toward him. The fish are swarming into every corner in the room as they swim to the unsuspecting people. Some of the fish on the floor are lying on their sides. They are all seem to be drawn to the boy on the bed.

I like this artwork a lot. Sandy Skoglund’s use of color makes this photograph interesting. It is impossible not to wonder about this underwater world and why the goldfish want revenge.

See You in the Cosmos – a Book Review

Mason Butler Gr. 6

See You in the Cosmos is about an 11-year-old boy named Alex who is using a golden I-pod to record what Earth is like. Alex planned to send his recordings to space on his mini rocket. He goes to the Southwest High-Altitude Rocket Festival known as SHARF, alone with his dog named Carl Sagan, so he can launch his rocket into space. At SHARF Alex meets two teenage boys named Zed and Steve. Zed can’t talk because he made an “oath of silence” so he writes on a chalk board. Alex then goes to Los Angeles with Steve because ancestry.com said there was another person in LA that has the exact same name and birthday as his dad. When they get to Los Angeles, Alex loses Carl Sagan. He checks the house his maybe dad lives in, but it was only a teenage girl. The girl asked Alex how he knew the name and Alex said it was his dad’s name. After a little bit of questioning it turns out that the teenage girl named Terra was Alex’s step-sister. Together they found Carl Sagan and drove back to Alex’s house. The next day Alex fell of his roof while watching the stars and landed on a fence and was impaled by the fence. They raise money to pay the medical bills by sharing Alex’s story on the SHARF forum. In the end, they raised enough money to pay the bill and now Alex is even more determined to send his recordings into space.

Shiny Red Triangle – Object X

Vivie Lyons Gr. 4

Object X looks like a small shiny red triangle. At the top of the triangle is little strip of paper that blows in the wind like a miniature flag. There are letters on that must explain something about Object X, but they are unfamiliar to me. When you unwrap, the object there is a rustling sound. Under the wrapper is a smooth brown droplet. It resembles a tiny mountain. The bottom is flat and the side curves to a point. The smell that is released when the covering is removed is sweet and milky. It tastes like sugar and cream. Object X is a solid piece of delicious goodness. I hope that I will discover more to bring back on my return.

The Shirley Chisholm Stamp

Leah Berhanu Gr. 4

The person that I believe should be honored by having a commemorative stamp is Shirley Chisholm. I think that she should be recognized in this way because she was tough, smart, and courageous. She was also history making as the first African-American woman to be elected to the United States Congress in 1968. She even ran for president in 1972. She was the first African American to run for the office as a Democrat. Shirley Chisholm is not often recognized, and most people do not know who she is.

Over one hundred women were elected to congress this year. Their success is because of women like Shirley Chisholm. Women who dared to change things with their bravery and courage. Shirley made it possible for all women to be confident enough to run for government offices, even the presidency. Shirley Chisholm is someone that we should all look up to and honor. A stamp commemorating her would be a perfect way to honor such an important woman and American.

Sir Edmund Hillary – a “Wax Museum of Courage” excerpt

Charlie Ritch Gr. 5

Edmund Hillary was born June 20, 1919 in Auckland, New Zealand. Growing up he attended Auckland Primary School and graduated at age 12. After he finished high school, he decided to go to Auckland University. After two years in college he needed to go home to his father’s farm and help him as a beekeeper. He was married twice to two women named June Mulgrew and Louise Mary Rose. Sir Edmund died on January 11th, 2008.

Sir Edmund contributed to society in many ways, including reaching the summit of Mt. Everest. He helped to create and protect Sagarmatha National Park near Mt. Everest. He planted trees on harvested hills for nurseries, and visited Khumba, Nepal annually to discuss land maintenance with Sherpa leaders.

Sister Anne – a Bio Poem

Alaric Jones Gr. 6

Sister Anne Gentle, good listener, and loving Twin brother, family, friends

Family and roller skating Happiness, sadness, and hope Fear of what people have become, their hopelessness, and despair Teaching in the United States and being a Sister World peace and everyone helping each other From Illinois to Ohio Flanagan

Sister Jane – a “Sisters of Notre Dame Historical Fiction” excerpt

Tanner Berry Gr. 6

Sister Jane was about to travel on the sailboat, the Eliza Thornton. Sister Jane was a teacher at the convent. It was a six-week journey to New York. It was a very bumpy ride. She got seasick on the way. Then from New York to Cincinnati it took six days. It was a very unpleasant journey to America.

The Eliza Thornton was a very large ship. It looked like a pirate ship said one sister. It had to be very large enough for all the sisters to fit. In total, the trip took about seven weeks to reach America. The trip was not enjoyable. Many people were getting sick.

When Sister Jane arrived in Cincinnati, she noticed how all the buildings were not very tall. None of them were over two stories. The city was once nicknamed Porkopolis because there were many pigs there. That is what Cincinnati was like in 1840.

When the Summit was first built, it was very different. Sister Jane loved to teach math to fifth graders. She would let people talk if they wanted to. That would be their fault if they didn’t listen because they wouldn’t do well on the tests. That was her classroom management.

Sisters of Notre Dame – a “Sisters of Notre Dame Historical Fiction” excerpt Carlo Quintero Gr. 6

September 1, 1840 Namur, Belgium

At the covenant I have been praying, worshiping, and giving to God. I’m not too excited to go to the United States of America only because it’s only been like 100 years since someone founded America and I don’t really trust them yet that it is safe. When I go over there, I can try to make it fun though. there I will make a big difference and change a lot of people’s life. I will make a change by teaching people the way of life.

My six-week journey wasn’t the best boat ride of my life. A lot of the people on the boat were not feeling too well, one even ended up dying on the boat, but I’m sure it’s because of old age hopefully. I even got sort of sick one day, but it wasn’t that much though. On the boat I saw fish, sharks, whales, ad my personal favorite was the octopus. I wasn’t so much home sick only for two reasons, one I love to travel to new places and two I love ship rides.

I’m finally in this place call Cincinnati, which looks like the wild west that you would see in your favorite old-time movie, with less crime. When I got to Cincinnati the only thing people were talking about were going on this boat called the Eliza Thornton. Nothing else in Cincinnati really caught my eye now. This country is very different from Belgium because there they speak French. The 12-day boat ride sounded terrible, but at the end it wasn’t that bad.

Sledding

Nabil Sinno Gr. 5

Sledding down the hill snow in my face

The snow is so fluffy like marshmallows and pillows When I sled down the hill, I feel like flying to space and that is why I love sledding

The Smell of Hot Chocolate

Tom Hobbins Gr. 5

Outside getting cold, I think I’m dying but I’m not that old. The smell of hot chocolate drifts through the air a friend comes over with some hot chocolate to spare. I put the hot chocolate up to my lips, and the marshmallows begin a steady drift. So, hot chocolate never brings you greed, and in the winter, I think it’s all you need.

S’Mores Frappuccino

Natalie Kenter Gr. 5

I think if I were a drink, I would be a Starbucks S’mores Frappuccino. I am sweet like the marshmallows. I have a kick like the caffeine. But when I lose my sweetness, I can be bitter like the graham crackers. On the outside I look plain like the whipped cream, but on the inside, I am full of personality like the chocolate and vanilla. Sometimes when I work too hard, I can get tired like when you get to the bottom of the Frappuccino.

Snowball Fight

Charles Healy Gr. 5

Packing a ball of snow

Throw it at a friend

They throw back

Duck and try not to get spheres of snow are flying through the air

Trying to hit everyone there

What a fun sight to throw at your friends

And have a nice fright

Soccer Perseverance

Charlotte Thompson Gr. 6

My team and I made a pact to always play our best and at least try to win. I remember when we played a team and we were both adequate teams. At the beginning we flipped the emblem, we had kickoff. There was someone on their team who was very infamous. When I was in goal by accident, I stepped over the line going to punt the ball. So, then they had a free kick for a goal. Thankfully they didn’t score a goal. One person tried to mar me when I jumped in the air to get the ball. I then fell to the ground, and that made the referee blow his whistle. He told the other girl if she did that again she would get a red card. She didn’t get a red card, but at least we won.

Sophie – a Bio Poem

Sophie Brouwer Gr. 5

Lucky, silly, creative, fun.

Who enjoys reading, family, friends, playing anything, and cheetahs, Who feels zest when playing with friends and family,

Who wonders if portals are going to be real, Who fears spiders, ghosts, and heights,

Who cares about life,

Who can read 8th grade books, do tricks in the water and draw good drawings

Who dreams to be a great famous person, to be a great baker, and to have her own shop with a humongous mansion and lots of cats

Special Drink

Rosie Gieseke Gr. 5

If I was a drink, I would describe myself as a cooling and refreshing cup of apple juice. I am relaxing and always try to make you feel happy. I can make you feel better emotionally and physically. When you are sad, just open the fridge, pour me in a glass, and take a sip, all your pain, and troubles start to soften once you feel a drop go down your throat. Inside your mind you are thinking, “Ahh this is so refreshing.” I compare myself to this drink because I am happy and always in the mood for conversation. I like to see smiles spread across people’s faces.

Sprite

Sasha Woodard Gr.

5

The drink I describe myself as is Sprite. I am Sprite because I am fizzy and sweet. I am sometimes sour but that’s rare. I give someone that funny feeling that is so funny it hurts. When I am angry I sometimes explode just like if someone shakes a Sprite and it explodes. If I am bored or left out of the fridge I go bad and I am only sour. Just like how I am not a morning person a Sprite rarely tastes good in the morning. A Sprite has a big amount of sugar just like me but, I have a big amount of energy.

My Stamp

Shriyan Masineni Gr. 4

I believe that the Cuban Missile Crisis should have a stamp commemorating it. The Cuban Missile Crisis was a major confrontation between the United States of America and the USSR during the Cold War. The crisis happened from October 16 to 28, 1962. The crisis began when the United States tried to overthrow Fidel Castro. The CIA plan failed. The Cubans made an agreement with the Russians to become a nuclear missile base to try to prevent future attacks from the USA. The USSR secretly shipped missiles to Cuba. This created a major threat to the eastern part of the USA.

When the USA realized that bases were being developed in Cuba, it started a blockade of Cuban ports. It also blocked all Russian ships from getting to Cuba. The USA also pressured the USSR to remove missiles that were already in Cuba. The United States came to an agreement with the USSR to remove the missile by promising to never attack Cuba. President Kennedy also agreed to remove some missiles from Turkey and Italy.

The Cuban Missile Crisis could have been a tragedy. The United States and the USSR could have started a war. There could be nuclear missiles in Cuba. Because of the agreements made, war did not happen and there are no nuclear missiles in Cuba. This is why I believe that he Cuban Missile Crisis deserves a commemorative stamp

Starbucks Santachino

Carson

Dwyer Gr. 6

On Christmas Eve, I saw Santa at Starbucks. I knew that he must have ridden something to Starbucks, and I wanted presents now. So, I went outside, and Santa’s sleigh was parked in the parking lot with cops around it guarding it. I distracted the cops and stole Santa’s sleigh. But the sleigh wouldn’t fly so I called my sister on my phone to steal Santa’s key out of his pocket. So she snuck behind Santa and stole his key and there was a drive thru window that was open so she threw it but it was a bad throw and I jumped and caught it one handed. Then I put it in the ignition, and it wouldn’t go at first but then it sped up super-fast, but the reindeer wouldn’t jump so I untied the rope to the sleigh, and they fell to the ground. Then I flew away across the Ohio River but Santa’s sleigh didn’t have enough gas in it and it fell in the Ohio river. I was sitting in the water almost drowning and then an anaconda jumped out of the water and swallowed me whole.

Steve Jobs Biography – an excerpt

Joey DiPaola Gr. 6

Steve Jobs showed perseverance throughout his lifetime. He showed perseverance when he was a child. He was bullied as a child but got through it. He showed perseverance as an adult when Apple fired him and later re-hired him. Overall, Steve Jobs was a great model of perseverance.

Steve Jobs was a model of perseverance as a child. He was testing at a tenth grade level in fourth grade, so his parents moved him up a year. He started getting bullied because he was with kids a year older than him. It got so bad that he moved to another school. He still loved electronics and continued to learn about them.

Steve Jobs met Steve Wozniak in college and started a business together. They made and sold circuit boards for computers. They needed money so Steve Jobs sold his car. Jobs and Wozniak’s first transaction was fifty circuit boards for $15,000. Later, Wozniak got in a plane crash, so Jobs had to run Apple alone.

Most people weren’t happy with the way Jobs ran Apple, so they stripped him of management powers in 1985. Jobs left Apple and started a new company called NeXT. He also had a contract with Pixar until it was bought by Disney. While Jobs was doing well, Apple bought NeXT for $400,000. Apple made Steve Jobs CEO again.

Stitches

Trey Berry Gr. 4

I was in gym class playing sharks and minnow. I was the last one left. Running as fast as I could to make it safely across, Bam! I flew headfirst into the gym wall. Down I went. I blacked out. The next thing I knew, I was in the hospital. My head had a gash in it, and I had to get 6 stitches.

At school the next day, everyone had gym for specials. Thank goodness we were playing kickball. I was up, and I kicked the ball. Around the bases I ran. I was almost home when I nearly flew into the wall, AGAIN! Luckily, I was able to jump over a metal bar near home plate and not need stitches for the second time. I will not forget that gym class.

The Stranger

Andrew Lam Gr. 4

Chris Van Allsburg’s story, The Stranger, is a strange and magical tale. The story takes place on the Bailey farm where the seasons are beginning to change. Farmer Bailey was driving his truck when he hit something. He believed that it was a deer, but to his surprise, it was a man that seemed to appear from nowhere. The man was dressed in odd clothing and did not speak. This is the first way that we know that there is something different about the stranger. Farmer Bailey brings the stranger home, and things continue to be unusual.

While the stranger is with the Baileys, many peculiar things occur. The stranger never speaks. His temperature is so low that a thermometer does not work on him. He is fascinated by steam coming from food. He can hold and pet wild animals. His breath changes a leaf’s color. He feels that there is something wrong with the trees being green and longs for them to be the colors of fall.

After several weeks, the stranger seems to realize what is wrong, and he tearfully says goodbye to the Baileys. He leaves as magically fast as he appeared. The trees had turned to reds, oranges, and yellows. The stranger represents fall. As he moved across the countryside, he left behind colder weather, crops ready to be harvested, and animals migrating.

Technological Growth – a Persuasive Essay excerpt

Elena Stone Gr. 6

As the world of technology grows and evolves, it is becoming more and more important that we learn how to use it. Technology is a very important part of our lives. At this day and age, kids start using technology as early as the age of two. From that age on, they will most likely continue to use technology for the rest of their lives. While in school, technology is used. In an adult’s profession, technology is used. Almost everywhere you go, you see and experience technology. For children to know how to use technology is important because they will use it in everyday life, for a very long time to come. In our future, there will be much more sophisticated and more advanced technology. It is important that kids start learning how to use the technology we have now so that they will not be behind when the time comes for the more advanced technology to be used daily. Long story short, kids should be exposed to technology in order to succeed in and keep up with the technology expected to appear in later life.

Many businesses use technology to stay organized and to operate. One of the reasons that it is important for children to be exposed to technology is that many businesses use technology to be able to stay well organized, run their business well, and, if it is a company that creates consumer products, create products and machinery, and keep confidential client information secure. Because of how technology and technological security is evolving, many companies are starting to go paperless, and do more work online. They are starting to trust technology more to secure client information, and projects. If you are unable to properly use this sort of technology and the systems involved, it would be hard to operate the equipment. You would most likely be expected to know how to use this technology and equipment. This is just one of the reasons why it is important for kids to be exposed to technology.

Technology can help improve and enhance learning experiences and creativity for children. This is another one of the reasons that it is important for kids to be exposed to technology. It helps enhance learning experiences and gives many different ways that you could learn. It is a way for children to to learn in a different way. Creativity is an important part of a child’s mind, and how they learn. In order to be creative, new ideas and experiences need to be given to them.

Tennis Perseverance

Katelyn Bastos Gr. 6

I started tennis when I was 2. I have always thought it was a difficult sport because you must mull where the tennis ball is going. Lily and I always have a dialogue about who’s better, but it’s obviously me. The worst part of the game is when the opponent creates some havoc and starts getting mad. Players often have a pact about listening to the rules and not arguing. After the game and since I won and the opponent thought she won, it was a stalemate. Some games people get so mad that they throw their racket on the ground and break it. Then the helpers get a new racket for them, they also give the tennis pro a ball so they can play the point, and they give them towels to wipe off all the sweat and cool them down. There is also a score keeper sitting in a tall white chair to call out the score, say if the ball is in or out, or say what’s going on in a game.

Terracotta Goldfish: Revenge of the Goldfish

Isabella Soper Gr. 4

The style of Revenge of the Goldfish is surrealism. This artwork was created in the year 1981. There are 120 terracotta goldfish in this artwork. The goldfish look like they are trying to swim into the room from the dresser and mirror. They are covering the floor and floating on the ceiling.

The artwork is entirely blue, a primary color, and orange, a secondary color. The orange stands out on the blue background because they are complementary colors. The girl looks like she is cuddling a fish.

This piece of art is very creative and nice. I really like the way that Sandy Skoglund used color to draw the viewer into the image.

Thankful

Paige Kropp Gr. 5

Thanksgiving reminds me of all the things I’m thankful for. I appreciate family, friends, and pets. I’m especially thankful for family because they are always around. My parents work hard so we can go to fun places and do activities. My family supports me when I do sports. My sister lets me play with her toys when I’m nice to her. I’m thankful for my family.

I also appreciate friends because they make me feel better. My friends are nice to me and cheer me up when I’m sad. They like playing with me. Also, they like being around me. I’m thankful for my friends.

Finally, I’m grateful for pets because they make me feel happy. Ellie likes playing with me. Also, she likes snuggling with me when I’m sad. Sidney likes me rubbing her belly when she is lonely. I’m thankful for pets. As I enjoy this holiday season, I realize that I have many reasons to be thankful. Family, friends, and pets are very important to me

Thanksgiving

Leo Lyons Gr. 5

Thanksgiving reminds me of all the things I’m thankful for. I appreciate gaming, my dog, and shelter. I’m especially thankful for gaming because it is a lot of fun. For example, I can play with friends. I can do all kinds of things, just like it is a whole new world. I can play all kinds of games and have a great time. I am thankful for gaming.

I also appreciate my pet dog Louie because I can love him. I can play with him whenever I want. He helps me when I am feeling down or mad. I can play catch with him or mess around with him.

Finally I am grateful for shelter because it keeps me safe and dry. It protects me from cold and hot weather and lightning and thunder. I am safe from floods. It brings my family together. Gaming, my dog, and shelter are very important to me.

The Town

Abigayle Penote Gr. 4

The town is called Greenville, but this is something of a joke to its residents. Greenville is not green at all, not even close. Greenville is the desert. A little town with a lot of cacti and tumbleweeds. On the edge of town, there was a fence. The fence was made of worn rock. It had been there for a very long time. The sand and dust had polished the stones, and they shone in the blazing sun. In the middle of the fence stood a large metal gate. The gate was rusty and old.

No one ever seemed to notice the gate or the wall. People walked past it every day. How they did not see the beauty behind the wall I do not know. Every day, I tried to get through the gate or over the wall. I rattled the lock. I tried to climb over, but I couldn’t hold on to the smooth rocks. People just stared at me when I tried. It was like they did not see the wall or the gate.

One day, I saw a man watering the grass on the other side of the gate. I asked him to let me in, but he ignored me and kept watering. I went back day after day, but I never saw the man again. Finally, one day I passed the gate and tied to the lock was a note and key. The note said, “This is the place of green. Continue my job for me.” I finally was able to open the gate. I picked up the watering can and began my new job. As I walked, I came open a stone that said, Rest in Peace, Greg N. Reynolds. Was this the watering man? I still do not know, and I don’t think I ever will.

Triangular Object X

Wyatt Miller Gr. 4

Object X is a very shiny crumbly looking triangular object. It has a small white flag waving from its top like a miniature mountain. On the flag are the light blue letters K I S S E S. This most likely stands for something that I will further explore. The small pyramid shaped object has rounded edges. When touched, Object X is smooth on the bottom and rolls when placed on its side. The object is coated in a rough layer, but inside it is smooth and cool. Object X sounds and feels solid. It makes no other sound except for the crinkling of the outer layer being removed. The taste of Object X is wonderful. It is creamy, sugary, and rich. A specimen of Object X will be included in my final report.

Tundra

Anna Grace Sanders Gr. 6

Outside on a snowy morning, Rolling in the tundra, Never gets boring, On a snowy morning.

Outside on a snowy afternoon, Making angels in the tundra, Spotting the midday moon, On a snowy afternoon.

Outside on a snowy evening, Playing trumpet in the tundra, Marching bands need reasoning, On a snowy evening.

Inside on a snowy night, A house engulfed in the tundra, Turning out the light, On a snowy night.

Unicorn Frappuccino

Lucy Hayes Gr. 5

I would describe myself as a Unicorn Frappuccino. I would consider myself that because I am very colorful with my clothes choices just like the base of the drink. I can always be sweet but after a while I can become over powering and too strong for your taste buds when I am mad or sad. I’m cold and frothy when it comes to someone being mean to me or others, but I am smooth and creamy when you do something kind or generous. Just like the whipped cream I have a different personality that makes me, me! The colorful drizzle is like my persuasive attitude that makes me as wonderful as I could ever wish to be. All the sugar in the Frappuccino is like my CRAZY amount of energy. I am always filled with energy and eagerness to try new things! I would make an amazing Unicorn Frappuccino!

Vanilla Bean Frappuccino

Jasmine McCarter Gr. 5

I would consider myself to be a Vanilla Bean Frappuccino. I chose a Vanilla Bean Frappuccino because I like cold drinks especially when it is a hot day. I also consider myself to be a Frappuccino because I am sweet child, and I deserve treats when I get back from sports that I’ve been doing since after school. The beans that are in the Vanilla Bean Frappuccino represent me because I am a person that works hard in school. And the milk and ice represent me because I am a person that grows fast and I am strong. Another reason why the Vanilla bean Frappuccino represents me because I am tall.

Who is the Stranger?

Javi Beatty Gr. 4

In The Stranger by Chris Van Allsburg, it seems that the stranger is not really human. He is more like a spirit or essence of something else. Several things that happen in the book show that the stranger is different. The stranger helps on Farmer Bailey’s farm and never tires. He works all day without needing a break. In addition, the stranger never sweats. Farm work is hard. Farmer Bailey sweats and takes breaks, but not the stranger. In another part of the book, the stranger is able to pick up a bunny that hopped right to him. To be able to pick up a wild animal is pretty strange. Usually, if you try to pet a wild rabbit it will hop away. That does not happen. The stranger also seems to be interested in nature. He watches the birds fly south and observes the surrounding land. At first, he loves the green of the leaves, but when he sees the trees in the distance, he changes his mind. He thinks the green is ugly and disgusting and that everything is prettier in yellow, red, and orange. The stranger is also colder than a normal person. He does not have a temperature. When he blows on soup, the room gets chilly. He picks up a leaf and causes it to change colors by blowing on it. This is not something that everyone can do.

The stranger in Chris Van Allsburg’s story is very different. He has what seem to be magical powers. These powers are things that are associated with fall and winter. I believe the stranger represents the spirit of fall.

Winnie Madikizela-Mandela – a “Wax Museum of Courage” excerpt Kendall Northern Gr. 5

Courage is being strong in times of sadness and pain. Winnie Madikizela-Mandela showed tremendous courage throughout her life. She had a storied life, fighting for what she believed and helping many in her community.

Madikizela-Mandela worked hard to improve the lives of others. Born in Bizana, South Africa, on September 26, 1936, her parents were Columbus and Gertrude Madikizela. After attending graduating from the University of Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, she attended Jan H. Hofmeyr School of Social Work. At age 22, she met and married Nelson Mandela, an anti-apartheid activist, and future President of South Africa. While living a full life in service to others, Mrs. Madikizela-Mandela succumbed to diabetes, on April 2, 2018. A year following her death, she still inspires people to fight for human rights and equality.

Winnie Madikizela-Mandela made many contributions to South Africa. Following the imprisonment of her husband, Nelson Mandela, in 1963, she became the face of the anti-apartheid movement. As a result, she was beaten, tortured, and subjected to months in solitary confinement. Despite this, she continued to fight against apartheid, helping to enable her husband’s release from prison after 27 years. Mrs. Madikizela-Mandela became president of the Women’s League for the African National Congress, a political party in South Africa in 1993. A year later, she was elected to South Africa’s Parliament. Her life and work helped to end many racial inequalities in South Africa.

The Worst Day Ever

Rylee Jewell Gr. 4

Today was my worst day ever. This morning when I was reading, I lost my page in my favorite book. I was really upset, so I decided to use my stress-ball. After a few minutes of swishing, it broke open, and the stuff inside spilled in my lap! I was raging with anger like an angry bear. Then when I got to school, I fell off my crutches, landed on my bad foot, and broke my toe. Today is the worst day ever!

On top of that, a pipe leaked in the cafeteria, and we had to eat lunch in our classrooms. When we were done, we had to go back down stairs and throw our lunch away. This was so annoying! This is the worst day ever!

In social studies, I lost my whole essay and had to write it again. After I rewrote my essay, I asked to go to the restroom. When I finally made it to the door, I could not open it. I had to ditch my crutches and hop into the bathroom. This day is awful!

When I got home, I asked my mom if I could make a cake, but she said, “No, if you want to bake, you have to make cookies.” As I was adding the eggs to the cookies I was making, five tiny eggshells fell in the dough! This was the worst day ever!

It’s Skyline Time Thomas Hobbins

Unicorn Shoe Lily de Lacy

Hummingbird Claire Lamarre

Black and White Wolf Kaitlyn Rassi

Butterfly in the Wind Mirabella Bosse

Detroit Skyline Nabil Sinno