Being Earnest - Fall 2024 by Tampa Preparatory School

TERRAPIN TAG ALONG

EXPERIENCE A TYPICAL DAY AT TAMPA PREP AS WE TAG ALONG WITH 6TH GRADERS JACK AND GABI!

PLUS MIDDLE SCHOOL CLUBS “TAKE IT FROM US” AND MUCH MORE!

what does it mean to be earnest?

“As Tampa Prep celebrates our 50th year, we are proud to introduce you to our Terrapin mascot, Earnest. Earnest is brave, loyal and kind. He embodies all of the qualities of our diverse student body. He encourages our Terrapins to think, create, be yourself, aspire to excellence and go beyond! We hope you enjoy this issue of Being Earnest, a Tampa Prep publication for Middle School students. Welcome to Tampa Prep!”

Kevin M. Plummer Head of School

A PREPARATION FOR LIFE, WITH A HIGHER PURPOSE THAN SELF.

in

07 TERRAPIN DAYS

Read all about how Terrapins give back to our community through volunteer work.

DECLAMATIONS

Meet last year’s 6th grade Declamations winner and learn more about this important Tampa Prep tradition.

ESCAPE GAMES

Learn about the fun and teamwork of Tampa Prep’s Middle School Games!

@tampa_prep

tampa preparatory school

terrapin tag along

Let’s tag along with Jack and Gabi, Class of 2030 Terrapins, on a typical day in 6th grade. At Tampa Prep, class schedules rotate, so each day students skip one period, which could be an academic class or an elective. Let’s Go!

8:50 AM

EARTH SCIENCE

The Tampa Prep day starts a little later than some schools, to make sure that students are rested and ready to learn. Jack and Gabi both have Earth Science first period. Today’s lesson is a review for their physics quiz, including motion, acceleration, forces and potential & kinetic energy.

9:50 AM

MATH

Gabi’s in Math class for second period, where she and her classmates are busy learning how to analyze data using statistics and bar & line graphs.

PRIMA LINGUA

All 6th graders get to experience Prima Lingua, an introduction to Latin and word origins. On this day, Jack is working on his Mythology Fair project. Students are challenged to create their own mythology and show how the language and story affect the world. Jack is busy creating Flytomis: the God of Flight.

MIDDLE

SCHOOL LUNCH 10:55 AM 11:50 AM

Lunch time is the best time to catch up with friends and recharge for the second half of the school day. Students have the choice to order food from local restaurants or bring their own food from home. Today Gabi chose to order in from one of the approved restaurants (and share a pizza!), while Jack usually likes to bring his lunch from home.

12:30 PM

WORLD GEOGRAPHY & HISTORY

Today’s lesson in Geography includes the “Whodunnit” game, where students walk around the room and solve posted clues to learn more about India. For example: “What type of government does India have?” and “How is the Hindu belief in Karma related to the Caste System?” In Tampa Prep classrooms, students don’t have to sit still. We encourage you to move, pivot and swivel!

1:30 PM

ENGLISH

It’s getting close to the end of the school day! In English, Jack and his classmates get to have a Harkness discussion about the book they’re reading. Harkness is when students lead a discussion (with a teacher facilitating), to encourage everyone to participate and contribute their own unique thoughts and point of view.

2:30 PM

ATHLETICS

At Tampa Prep, we know how important physical activity is for

2024-25

MIDDLE SCHOOL SPORTS SCHEDULE:

FALL

Boys & Girls Cross-Country

Boys & Girls Diving

Boys & Girls Golf

Boys & Girls Rowing (Club)

Boys Soccer

Boys & Girls Swimming

Girls Volleyball

Boys & Girls Bowling

WINTER

Boys & Girls Basketball

Girls Soccer

Boys & Girls Golf

Boys Baseball

Boys Lacrosse

Boys & Girls Rowing

Boys & Girls Tennis

Boys & Girls Track & Field

Boys & Girls Pickleball

terps

give back

Terrapin Days help Prep students live their mission of “A Higher Purpose Than Self” by volunteering in their community

At Tampa Prep, we pride ourselves on having a “higher purpose than self.” This means that we think it’s really important to contribute to a cause or purpose beyond personal gain. A higher purpose than self is about making a positive impact on others, society or the world, driven by a sense of responsibility and a desire to create meaningful change. So, once a month, all middle school students participate in Terrapin Days, when we spend a day away from the classroom and volunteer to help make our neighborhoods a nicer and better place to live, while helping others. You might get to spend time reading and playing games with seniors, help prep meals at Metropolitan Ministries, sort and organize donations at Feeding Tampa Bay or do a playground clean-up at local underserved schools. Terrapin Days are a great way to give back to our community while having fun and building bonds with your classmates!

“ Our students really love Terrapin Days - it’s so nice to get away from the classroom for a day and let them see how good it feels to help others.”

Joe Fenlon Head

the Middle School

join the

“

“In Yarn Club, we meet every Thursday and we crochet, knit and sometimes embroider, depending on what different people want to do. We decided to start the club just for funsies. I really enjoy having a little group of people to yarn with!”

Brooklyn N. ‘29

club!

Middle School is all about trying new things, discovering what you like (and what you don’t) and at Tampa Prep, you get to do that in a safe, nonjudgmental space, surrounded by friends!

Every year there are dozens of Clubs to choose from, including academic, athletic and “just for fun.” And most Clubs meet at lunchtime, so you can talk about Taylor Swift, Science, Harry Potter or the Tampa Bay Lightning, while enjoying a PB & J.

And, if you don’t see a Club that you want to join, you can start your own! All you have to do is find a teacher to be your Club’s advisor and then stand up at the weekly Middle School assembly during “student announcements” and let your classmates know the Club that you want to launch, when your Club will meet and how your classmates can join.

“I joined a club because I wanted to be a part of new experiences and interesting things.” Nate B. ‘30

“Ping Pong Club is the absolute best way to spend your lunch time!” Owen S. ‘29

“In Dungeons & Dragons Club, we meet every Tuesday in the Library and play D&D, a role playing game where you can do anything you want, from challenging monsters to overthrowing the king. I was in the Club last year and had so much fun that I decided to start it up again this year. We have a great time, working together to achieve the game objective.” Jonah G. ‘30

“ I love helping kids make connections in math and doing everything in my power to make math ‘fun’ for students who have not enjoyed it in the past.”

Mr. WOLKENHAUER

the math you do

If math isn’t your favorite subject, then you haven’t been taught by Mr. Wolkenhauer! This Middle School math teacher, starting his 3rd year at Tampa Prep, loves to include creativity into his lessons, including using his dog Lucy to teach circumference and taking students grocery shopping to teach algebra. We caught up with Mr. W. recently after he returned from chaperoning the 7th grade trip to the Florida Keys.

Experience

“I am a proud USF alumni! While at USF, I was given the chance to teach at numerous schools while completing my degree, including in England. I graduated with a degree in Elementary Education and was awarded the Graduate with Distinction award. I have built curriculum, trained teachers and created summer programs but what I really love is being in the classroom. So, in 2022 I accepted a faculty position at Tampa Prep, teaching Pre-Algebra and Algebra in the Middle School.”

Love of Teaching

“I believe that building appropriate and meaningful relationships is one of the most important things about education. I truly enjoy getting to know my students, understanding what makes them tick, and being a mentor in times of need. I am a very goofy teacher. While I have very high expectations, I love to make jokes, be creative with lessons, and show the kids who I am as a person. The lifelong relationships created each year are what make teaching the most fulfilling job in the world.”

Creative Learning

“When subtracting integers, students are actually asked to keep the sign of the first number, switch the subtraction sign to addition, and flip the sign of the second number (keep, change, flip). In other words, when you are subtracting integers, you aren’t actually using subtraction at all. To accentuate that point, we actually hold a ‘funeral for subtraction’ because it won’t be used in these types of problems. We dress in black, play somber music, and complete the lesson in only the light created by the fake candles around the room. The students write memories of subtraction using as many

math words as possible and, per subtraction’s wishes, we complete numerous problems using the “keep, change, flip” method. Finally, as students take turns completing examples and explaining their thinking, they are given tissues and speak in hushed tones. This lesson is one that the kids talk about all year.”

Tampa Prep

“

Personally, Mr. WOLKENHAUER is the best teacher I’ve ever had. He is the main reason why math is my best subject and I am always looking forward to seeing him and to go to his class.”

Vik J. ‘28

“My favorite thing about Tampa Prep is the faculty. My colleagues are an incredible and diverse group of people. We learn together, laugh together, and support one another in both personal and professional goals. I am a significantly better teacher because of those around me and I learn from them every day. I genuinely believe that our team at Tampa Prep is something special that doesn’t come around very often. The community within our faculty, staff, and administration is what makes our school such a wonderful place to be.”

SHOW running the

“ Middle school is a great time to explore opportunities outside of the classroom, have some fun with friends, and try something new!”

Kerri-Ann Grosso Middle School Director of Athletics

Olivia Hart ‘24 shares how her Tampa Prep volleyball journey helped prep her path to collegiate committment!

When did you start playing volleyball?

I started playing volleyball when I was eight years old. I played and tried a lot of sports, but nothing really stuck until I stepped on a volleyball court. Being with a team, creating friendships, and working together made it easy to enjoy.

Where are you going to college and what are your hopes/goals there?

I’m going to college at Florida Atlantic University where I will be continuing my academic and athletic career. My goal is to be the best student athlete and earn my spot on the court. As I stay on track to earn my bachelor’s degree to be a K-6 teacher, I want to obtain NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals because I love advertising and it helps to build a platform.

What brought you to Tampa Prep?

Through volleyball, I’ve known Ms. Grosso, a middle school teacher here at Prep, since I was eight years old. She consistently said nothing but great things about the community and opportunities at Prep. This prompted me and my family to go on a tour. I was absolutely amazed at how welcoming, friendly, and attentive everyone was. I knew Tampa Prep was the place I needed to be because I could picture myself thriving, both athletically and academically there.

How did playing for Prep help your volleyball aspirations? Playing volleyball at Prep motivated me to want to play in college even more because I love to compete. It also taught me how to balance schoolwork and practices/games

which is key to being successful.

What’s one of your favorite volleyball-related memories?

My favorite high school volleyball related memory was when we became district champs my sophomore year. It was a home game against our rivals and the crowd was going crazy. It was the fifth set and we were down by a good amount of points, but we were able to limit our errors and

make a huge comeback. It was such a great feeling because our whole team wanted to win so badly and had an indescribable energy. We were truly playing for each other.

What advice would you give to someone who is interested in playing a sport in college?

Time management, being independent, and taking care of your body are essential steps to

preparing yourself if you want to play a sport in college. Create a routine that works best for you, continue developing your skills, and trust the process. It’s a lot of work creating highlights and reaching out to college coaches, but don’t compare yourself to other people because everyone has a different timeline. Most of all, have fun! After all, you get to play the sport you love.

big & bold

Up and Coming: BOLD Building opening FALL 2024: We’re so excited about our new BOLD Building (the Genshaft & Greenbaum Building of Learning and Discovery)!

Tampa Prep is expanding and improving our campus because where and how our students learn matters. Want to learn more and see some sneak peeks? Head to tampaprep.org/capital-campaign/ So grab some BOLD markers or colored pencils and have some fun - be sure to add in plenty of red & gold!

yourself speak for

Alex M. ‘30 6th Grade Winner

Performed Clean Gene by Shel Silverstein

How did you choose your Declamation passage?

“I found “Clean Gene” by Shel Silverstein in a poem book. It was the right length (it had to be over a minute long) and I just liked the way it sounded and felt when I read it out loud. Plus, I’m kind of like Clean Gene - I brush my teeth before and after every meal!”

How long did it take you to memorize your Declamation? How much did you practice?

“It took a couple of days to memorize

Giving a Declamation is a rite of passage here at Tampa Prep. We know public speaking can be scary, so why do we do this year after year? Declamations give you the chance to share a story, to hear one another & connect with an audience. This long-time Terrapin tradition gives you confidence in your own voice and the belief that your words are worth sharing!

- not too long. I play the piano, so I’m used to memorizing. I practiced in front of the mirror and in front of my family so I felt more comfortable.”

How did you feel when you first learned about what a declamation is?

“At first, I felt excited, but then I got nervous. I figured that the kids who are used to performing would be the ones that did really well, but I’ve never been on stage once in my whole life. I really like declamations now. It was a fun experience, getting to be up in front of an audience.”

How did you feel when you learned that you would be presenting in front of the entire school? How did you deal with nerves?

“I was sitting in math class when I heard the announcement. I was surprised and shocked but really excited - my friends started jumping up & down and celebrating with me. I did have nerves, before, during and after giving my declamation in front of the whole school. I was trembling and my legs were shaking. But, I powered through and felt really proud of myself, relieved and happy.”

What advice would you give to an incoming 6th grader about giving a declamation?

“Whenever you feel nervous, always power through. Also, the definition of being brave is to do something, even though you’re scared to do it. So, you have to be scared in order to be brave!”

What’s the deal with the

6th Grade

All Tampa Prep incoming 6th graders get to experience the 6th Grade Wheel, which means you get to try robotics, art, band & chorus throughout the year. You never know when you might discover a new talent or interest!

Band & Chorus

Band Teacher: Mr. Ben-Zvi

If you’ve always wanted to try out the sax, flute or trombone, now’s your chance! All 6th graders get to experience playing an instrument, even if they’ve never had a single lesson.

“My favorite thing about band is that Mr. Ben-Zvi is very nice and you learn a lot of fun music. And if you’re having trouble you can come after school and he will help you. At the beginning of the year I didn’t play any instrument, but when I started to play the saxophone, I loved it. I would stay after school to practice it, and I would go home and practice it. Band gave me an opportunity to try something new.” John C. ‘30

Chorus Teacher: Mr. Hoy

If there’s a singer inside you, dying to get out, then Chorus will give you that chance! Every 6th grade student will get to learn new songs along with basic music history and theory - it’s a great way to express yourself and have fun, even if you can’t carry a tune.

“I LOVE chorus! My favorite thing about chorus is meeting Mr. Hoy and learning new songs, like “Shy,” “A Million Dreams,” and “Demons.” I love chorus so much and Mr. Hoy is such an awesome teacher! I am definitely doing chorus again for 7th grade!” Ava G. ‘30

Wheel ...

Art

Art Teachers: Ms. Ashworth & Ms. DeAmbrose

Whether you love drawing, painting, print-making and sculpting or don’t know a paintbrush from an easel, all incoming 6th graders will have the opportunity to discover their inner artist.

“I really loved having the chance to take art class. It was so much fun being able to be as creative as I wanted. And, Ms. DeAmbrose’s classroom is just really nice. She’ll sometimes play music or dim the lights and she was always really encouraging with whatever we made.”

Ellie C. ‘30

Robotics

Robotics Teachers: Ms. Lassacher & Mr. Quah

Every 6th grade student will get to gain an understanding of simple machines, including the lever, wheel & axle and pulley systems. Oh, and did we mention the robots? You also get to build a robot and learn how to operate it.

“I really enjoyed robotics this year. My favorite part was building the robots, plus Mr. Quah and Ms. Lassacher are both very nice. It was a fun experience!” Sofia B. ‘30

trip! have a nice

In Middle School at Tampa Prep, everyone looks forward to their class trips! For many students, this is the first time they have spent time away from their families, traveling with peers and trusted chaperones, so it’s a great opportunity for growth, to gain some independence and to make new friends.

6th Grade

FLORIDA ADVENTURES

Starting out on the right foot! 6th graders get to enjoy a Florida Adventures Trip in the Fall. Students spend three days touring local Florida sites, including Disney’s Magic Kingdom, Medieval Times and TreeTrek Adventure Park & Zip Line. This trip is strategically timed to happen at the very beginning of the 6th grade year, which gives everyone a great opportunity to meet & make new friends, while bonding through teamwork and lots of fun!

7th Grade FLORIDA KEYS

7th graders spend four days in the Spring exploring and studying wildlife in the Florida Keys. The Keys trip is a culmination of the Science 7 curriculum. After studying plant and animal organisms, kingdoms, species and their habitats and characteristics, students interact with these animals in their native environments. Activities include learning about and swimming with dolphins, kayaking through the mangroves, visiting the Turtle Hospital on Marathon Key, snorkeling in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and taking an airboat ride through the Florida Everglades.

8th Grade

BOSTON

8th graders spend four days in the Fall touring New England, tracing the roots of the American Revolution by walking Boston’s historic Freedom Trail. Major stops include Bunker Hill, Old North Church and Paul Revere’s home. Students visit the towns of Lexington and Concord where the first battles were fought, and take time for reflection at Walden Pond where Henry David Thoreau wrote his masterpiece, Walden. In the town of Salem, students visit the Salem Witch Museum, the Salem Witch Memorial and the spooky House of the Seven Gables. On the last day of the trip, they are transported to the year 1627 and live the life of a pilgrim at Plymouth Plantation.

gamesbegin! Let the

Middle school students race to solve

the “Case of the Missing Earnest”

Every year, 6th, 7th & 8th graders are divided into teams to compete in the Middle School Games. These ‘games’ promote real world skills such as leadership, collaboration, communication and problem solving. The cross curricular games include art challenges, academic features, STEM and of course, FUN!

The themed “Escape Games” challenged students to solve the Mystery of the Missing Mascot. As teams broke out of their escape room challenges, they solved clues and gathered information in an attempt to discover who stole our beloved mascot, Earnest. While each

team had access to different clues, they had the opportunity to exchange information while making predictions during the board game round. Players moved around a giant version of the game Clue reflecting various locations in our school. As the teams moved into the art round, students tapped into their creativity to create a Detective Agency, a mastermind criminal and identify art to gain more points. During the STEM round, teams harnessed their critical thinking and team work to successfully complete each challenge. Thankfully, our middle schoolers proved to be excellent case solvers as Earnest was returned!

“

I loved the Escape Games because, on your team, everyone can have something to contribute. One person can search for clues, one person can work the locks, one person could manage the clue sheets, and at least one person can come up with combinations.”

Juliet S. ‘30

“

I thought everything was fun because some people that were on my team, I didn’t really know and it was fun to hang out with them and get to know them better!”

Charlotte D.

‘30

VEx worlds Gearing up for

Tampa Prep robotics teams, led by Mr. Quah, have created a legacy of excellence here at Tampa Prep.

In the 2023-24 season, Tampa Prep robotics teams won a total of 11 trophies (more than any other season!) and at this year’s VEX Robotics World Championships, Upper School team 727 Gold ranked 18th out of 13,600 teams, competing from all over the world!

“

This is my third year on the robotics team and my third year in a row going to VEX Worlds. I love being on the robotics team because it is a great way to express scientific creativity and meet people who have similar interests as me. VEX Worlds was a lot of fun to attend and getting to see how everyone from around the world solved the same problem as me in their own way.”

Lauren B. ‘27

The Middle School team, which started in 2015, has had 6 appearances at VEX States and has been to VEX Worlds an impressive three times. Middle School team 727 Bale made it all the way to the semifinals of VEX Worlds in 2021!

Overall, our teams have:

• Been to the VEX Robotics Worlds Competition a total of 6 times, 4 times in the last 4 years.

• Won 8 VEX State banners (four in the last 4 years).

• Never failed to make it to VEX States, in 12 years of competition.

• Collected 50 trophies from Regional and State competitions and 2 trophies from VEX Worlds.

• Grown from a team of 1 (in the first year) to five Upper School and one Middle School teams in the 2023-24 season.

take it from us!

Meet

your 2024-25

Student Body President

Hunter D. ‘25 & Vice President Anna B. ‘25, who both took a few minutes to share some of their insight on the Terrapin experience!

What was it like, for you, as a new/incoming student at Tampa Prep?

Hunter: “As a new student at first I felt overwhelmed, but once I started to get more involved with student life, I quickly began to enjoy my time here. I started at Tampa Prep in 9th grade and everyone I met was very welcoming and encouraged me to get involved. Additionally whenever I had questions, my advisor was always happy to help.”

Anna: “I also transferred to Tampa Prep my freshman year and was a bit nervous. But, I was welcomed with so much love! Everyone is so kind and helped me so much anytime I had any questions. It was such a great transition because of the people!”

Is there anything you wish you would have tried or done differently, as a new Terrapin?

Anna: “I would definitely have just been comfortable being myself. If I could do over my first year or two I would have been original to me and who I am.”

Hunter: “For my first year on campus I didn’t make an

effort to talk much in class or join many clubs. But once I finally tried some things outside my comfort zone, I really started to enjoy my time here and feel like a part of the school community.”

What is one of your favorite things about Tampa Prep?

Hunter: “Definitely the people and the sense of community. Everyone on campus is so nice and fun. All of the teachers are great at their job and are looking out for your best interest, and the overall feeling of community on campus is very strong.”

Anna: “On a good day or a hard day, there is always someone to talk to. When you’re walking through the hallways, people smile and make small talk - and show that they care about you. I also love how much teachers communicate with students. Any time I have a question or need to reach out they are always so good about getting back to me and helping with whatever I need.”

Tell me about your experience, overall, at Tampa Prep.

Anna: “Everyone is so kind, the teachers are always happy

to help, and the students are hard working and so much fun to go to school with! Tampa Prep always puts their students first which is so encouraging when going out for sports, theater or STEM, because they truly care about your interests. I have loved all my years at Tampa Prep and I wouldn’t trade them for anything!”

Hunter: “I’ve had such a great experience at Tampa Prep, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunity to attend school here. I have lots of fun memories here and feel that I have genuinely grown as a student.”

What advice would you give to an incoming 6th grader?

Hunter: “Put yourself out there, make a point to

talk to new people, join different clubs, if you have an idea for a club start it. Tampa Prep does a great job at giving students lots of opportunities to try new things and I’d recommend all new students take advantage of that opportunity. Everyone on campus is very friendly and wants what’s best for one another, so I’d also recommend any new students to try and make friends and become close with their classmates.”

Anna: “Be yourself! And, middle school is such a fun time - you should enjoy it to the fullest. I would also recommend going out for sports, even if you have not played before, putting yourself out there and getting involved with a team or theater so that you can get in a community! Most importantly, be yourself and stay kind.”