epitaph
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HOMESTEAD HIGH SCHOOL
Lessons we never learn in school
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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2012 VOLUME 50 ISSUE 1
Algebra 1 tutors lend a helping hand By Leona Rajaee and Roni Stok News Editor & Reporter
On the first day of school this year, Homestead’s algebra 1 students noticed a significant addition to their classrooms. Their teachers explained that this year, Homestead’s math department introduced a new program, which encourages in-class algebra 1 tutors to assist students. These tutors consist of upperclassmen that have volunteered to aid students and provide role models for good learning habits. Last spring, 37 students volunteered for the new program after various math teachers promoted the program in their classes. Part of their commitment includes attending the algebra 1 class as part of their schedule. “At first I was hesitant to commit to adding another class to my schedule,” said senior tutor Claire Lee, “but the work seemed rewarding and unlike most classes I take.” In class, the algebra 1 tutors spend much of their time like any other student. However, as soon as the classwork beings, the tutors take effect and begin to play a larger role in the classroom environment. “It’s important to talk to the kids and get to know them before helping with whatever they’re struggling with” explains senior tutor Ryan Wales. Algebra 1 tutors aid teachers in addition to students. For many tutors, the duties of being both a tutor and a teacher assistant are a unique aspect of the class. “I wasn’t expecting to work with the teachers, but it’s fun to have dual roles,” Lee explains. The program originated with volunteer tutors. “A couple of years ago we tried to put calculus students who were done with their AP exam in a volunteering program for a few months, and this year we decided to see if we can create a year-long program,” explained math department chair Connie Murray. According to algebra 1 teacher Matt Guevara, students benefit from this program because they obtain special attention and one-on-one help that teachers can’t accomplish alone. Freshman algebra 1 student Isabella Jones agreed, “they go around and help us if we have questions, and they don’t just give [us] the answer, they help go through the steps.” Additionally, both students and tutors get a chance to form a special relationship. “Sometimes you have to be the bad guy and tell them to stay focused, but I think they still like you in the end,” admitted Wales. Entertainment:
Cafeteria cuisine reviewed one plate at a time
SEE PAGE 9
Sports:
The all-American sport that is stealing the spotlight from other Homestead athletic programs
Not just another year
Homestead undergoes preparations for its 50th anniversary By Sanjana DeSilva and Morris Yang Reporters
Fifty years after Homestead High School was established, the school begins to celebrate the past by looking to its students, past and present. Preparations are underway to celebrate its half-century anniversary with the help of several clubs and organizations and a series of events that will ref lect on its past. FBLA Community Service Project Chair and senior Nicole Schmit is one of the primary students involved with planning the 50th anniversary celebration. According to Schmit, the events are to be held in early March. “We are going to have one event for students which will be similar to a rally with added features,” Schmit said. In March, a ceremony will be held for parents and alumni along with students. “We are looking at holding the celebration in the large gym,” said Schmit, and “plan on having tours of the campus for alumni and parents.” Schmit’s partner, FBLA Community Service Project Chair and sophomore Cedric Nixon, is currently working on a documentary that will be featured as part of the celebration. “We are trying
to contact alumni to get them involved in our celebration, trying to reconnect people who have been to Homestead,” Nixon said. According to Principal Graham Clark, the documentary will be primarily sentimental. “We are actually looking to make documentary-movies that would [show] Homestead through the decades [by] looking at different photos and the different history of the school.” Clark explained that FBLA is currently developing a Hall of Fame for Homestead High School. This would be similar to that of Cupertino High School’s Hall of Fame. However, instead of having the Hall during after-school hours as Cupertino has done in the past, it would be during the celebration. Nixon explains that in addition to celebrating the 50th anniversary of Homestead, the producers of the documentary seek to highlight Homestead’s diversity as well. “We want to get the students a bit more aware of culture at Homestead,” said Nixon. Although the Homestead community can look forward to FBLA’s events, there are other upcoming events for the 50th
anniversary as well. “Every year [the band] does a home show, and this year they are trying to make it a bigger home show that would include the Equestriettes and the cheerleaders,” explained Clark. “They may talk about that in the home show in November so other regular events may reference it, but the big event is in the March time frame.” Homestead’s Associated Student Body (ASB) has also been planning preparations for the upcoming year. Last year, ASB’s public relations committee considered the possibility of a carnival or fair in order to get more people involved with the celebration. “We were hoping to do something to benefit people related to Homestead who don’t always get the chance to participate in our events,” said senior Leila Miller, a member of last year’s committee. Homestead is one of the oldest schools in the district, third only to Fremont and Monta Vista, and in its 50th year, is celebrating its past with organizations that will affect the future of the school.
SEE PAGE 11
The Last Word: Students divulge their greatest freshman fears SEE PAGE 12 In-Depth: New students and staff transition to Homestead SEE PAGE 6-7
Inside:
News Opinion In-Depth Features
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Entertainment 9 Sports 10 The Last Word 12 PHOTO ILLUSTRATION AND PAGE DESIGN BY CAMILLE MILLER