HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
Congratulations on another wonderful program from the Shubert Summer Arts Camp at Co-op. Click the photo for more.
Music Theory Students Compose for NHSO
Katherine Roque, Ade Ben-Salahuddin, and Kevin James composed for a string trio comprised of NHSO musicians. (Photo by Mr. Smith)
By Mr. Smith (5/20/13)
Three Co-op Music students celebrated the completion of their year-long journey of studying music theory and composition in a special workshop made possible by the New Haven Symphony Orchestra. Katherine Roque, Ade Ben-Salahuddin, and Kevin James composed for a string trio comprised of NHSO musicians. Their completed pieces were premiered in a 3 pm concert on Sunday May 19, 2013 in the historic Sudler Recital Hall at Yale University. On a historical note, Sudler is the very room where Paul Hindemith, a compositional giant of the 20th century, taught his theory and composition classes during his many years at the Yale School of Music. Kevin James’ piece, Seasons, told a story of his journey in music and the experiences that he had along the way. Katherine Roque’s, Symphony of the Strings, explored the interplay of instrumental voices and ensemble listening and cooperation. Ade Ben-Salahuddin’s, Images of the Islands, was an homage to his family members who still live in “the islands”. Next year our Coop composers will continue their studies by expanding their sound-scapes to include a full symphony orchestra. Bravo and congratulations to Kat, Ade, and Kevin. |
Graduation JittersBy Taisha Lopez (5/1/13)
Today is May 1st, 2013: the four numbers on the burgundy freshman t-shirts we were given as we entered Co-op. Less than two months till graduation. After a long four years I have accomplished something I didn’t think I could. I broke the cycle of high school dropouts in my family. My time at Co-op has changed me tremendously. I started by participating in after school activities and making good educational decisions. Over time, I became a mature young lady. Not only that; high school has been fun. Even small things became, like a day of fun during CAPT week became a chance to bond with friends. With everyone getting along, there have been a lot of good memories. There are 29 days before prom and 62 days before graduation. With studying and consistent work we can all make it across that stage. Graduation is a moment of celebration. I hope for the remainder of the school year we all begin to contemplate our future and success. I hope we're all continuing strong. Create96 Visits Coop Creative WritersBy Taylor Mansfield
Jeff Kubarych and Mason Rabinowitz, founders of Create 96--an organization that promotes creativity--visited the Sophomore creative writing class in March. The idea of the organization is to encourage people to be creative, and to display their talents in a way that is exciting and interesting. They offered the class a creative challenge: To create anything in one week. The idea was to take an idea in your head and put it out into the world, influencing yourself and others to become "makers." “It’s not about what you create, it’s about what you become when you create,” said Rabinowitz. “If you’re not excited to do something, then don’t do it.” Many of the students were wondering about the inspiration about the title of the group. When questioned about the name Create96, Kubarych and Rabinowitz explained that the term “Eighty-six (86) it” means to take something away, to remove it. In act of cleverness, the two used “Ninety-six (96) it” to add something, to bring something into the world. After a week, students presented a fascinating and diverse array of projects, from a "pie dispenser" to a video to homemade muffins to written work and more. For more information on Create 96, and inspiration on how to be creative, visit Create96.com! |
"The Drowsy Chaperone": A Riot of Relevant Jokes From a Star-Studded Cast
By Jeremiah Bromell (5/3/13)
"The Drowsy Chaperone," with music by Lisa Lambert and lyrics by Greg Morrison, was recently performed by Co-op students. The 1928-based musical comedy is a tale of the wedding of Janet Van De Graff, played by senior Ally Olinyk, and Robert Martin, played by senior Kennedy Hampton. From beginning to end this musical is a riot of relevant jokes. The play is all tied together by "Man in Chair," played by sophomore student Joey Mulvey. His colorful commentary and remarkable timing made him perfect to play the narrator. Even staying on stage and in character during intermission, his performance was a full two hours long and he didn’t disappoint. The sub plot of the musical involved the producer, Feldzoeg, played by first time stage performer Isaac Bloodworth, trying to break up the wedding of Janet and Robert to ensure that she stayed in his show, because without her there would be no show.
Feldzoeg is pressured by two gangsters, played by two theater veterans, Rashaan Blackwell and Benjamin Tramal, to ensure the wedding doesn’t go as planned. This funny duo--with their outlandish voices, overplayed 1920’s walks, and physical humor--played seemingly intimidating thugs. Feeling pressured, Feldzoeg acquires the help of self-proclaimed ladies' man and seducer, Adolpho, performed by junior dancer, Ernest Stewart. Adolpho's mission is to seduce Janet, but he ends up seducing her drowsy chaperone instead. The chaperone, played by Kameesha Collins, is a drunk, overbearing, self-centered woman with her focus on drinking more than on being a chaperone. Kameesha gave a great performance. Usually known as quiet among most of her friends, this role showed her versatility.
The star-studded cast and the beautiful musical ensemble came together to make a great play with many laughs.
"The Drowsy Chaperone," with music by Lisa Lambert and lyrics by Greg Morrison, was recently performed by Co-op students. The 1928-based musical comedy is a tale of the wedding of Janet Van De Graff, played by senior Ally Olinyk, and Robert Martin, played by senior Kennedy Hampton. From beginning to end this musical is a riot of relevant jokes. The play is all tied together by "Man in Chair," played by sophomore student Joey Mulvey. His colorful commentary and remarkable timing made him perfect to play the narrator. Even staying on stage and in character during intermission, his performance was a full two hours long and he didn’t disappoint. The sub plot of the musical involved the producer, Feldzoeg, played by first time stage performer Isaac Bloodworth, trying to break up the wedding of Janet and Robert to ensure that she stayed in his show, because without her there would be no show.
Feldzoeg is pressured by two gangsters, played by two theater veterans, Rashaan Blackwell and Benjamin Tramal, to ensure the wedding doesn’t go as planned. This funny duo--with their outlandish voices, overplayed 1920’s walks, and physical humor--played seemingly intimidating thugs. Feeling pressured, Feldzoeg acquires the help of self-proclaimed ladies' man and seducer, Adolpho, performed by junior dancer, Ernest Stewart. Adolpho's mission is to seduce Janet, but he ends up seducing her drowsy chaperone instead. The chaperone, played by Kameesha Collins, is a drunk, overbearing, self-centered woman with her focus on drinking more than on being a chaperone. Kameesha gave a great performance. Usually known as quiet among most of her friends, this role showed her versatility.
The star-studded cast and the beautiful musical ensemble came together to make a great play with many laughs.
Blizzard of 2013 |
Mr. Neumann and Band Play for Teachers!
Jesus Cortes Accepted to CMEA Music Festival
By Ms. Antonucci
The Cooperative Arts & Humanities High School Music Department is proud to announce that Jesus Cortes (band) has been accepted to the 2013 Connecticut Music Educators Association (CMEA) All-State Music Festival. The students will spend two full days in rehearsals in Cromwell, CT before concluding with a concert featuring all ensembles held at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford, CT on April 4th at 7:00 pm. Read more in the School News Section. To be considered for acceptance into this festival, students had to audition for and perform in the Southern region festival held in January at Maloney High School in Meriden, Connecticut. After this festival, a second round of auditions was held on February 2nd at North Haven High School for the purpose of selecting the top musicians from the four regions in Connecticut. Students who are accepted into the All-State festival have consistently demonstrated a high degree of musicianship and technical facility. The students will rehearse and perform with top conductors from around the United States as they prepare advanced repertoire and develop ensemble skills. The band will be conducted by Dr. Jack Stamp of Indiana University of Pennsylvania; the Orchestra will be conducted by William Boughton, music director of the New Haven Symphony Orchestra. Dr. Patrick Walders of San Diego State University will conduct the chorus and Ronald Carter of Northern Illinois University will direct the jazz ensemble. This festival is an annual event for the high school music students of Connecticut under the auspices of the Connecticut Music Educators Association. Tickets may be purchased at the door. |
Post-Newtown: Call to Action in New Haven
By Ariela Martin (2/3/13)
On February 30th, the Newtown community and beyond came together once again to reflect on the tragic December shooting, and discuss the necessary steps of action to improve gun laws, mental health, and school safety. New Haven also held its very own forum, televised and live-blogged, on Coop’s very own Main Stage.
WTNH and the New Haven Independent co-sponsored the event. The forum featured a panel of ten people, including a state legislator, New Haven Police Chief Dean Esserman, mental-health experts, high school students, a New Haven mother whose son was killed by gun violence, and more. On the live-blog panel was Mayor John DeStefano and other New Haven journalists, including myself. The panel discussed a variety of issues, such as the effects of video games and technology on kids and teens, the effectiveness of New Haven schools safety and security measures, and the necessity of changing gun culture in the inner city, where gun-related incidents are much more common than in suburban towns.
Thomas MacMillan, a reporter for the New Haven Independent, wrote on the live-blog, “Steven Marans, who works with traumatized children through the Yale Child Study Center and the National Center for Children Exposed to Violence, says: What kind of society do we want to live in? There are lots of obstacles.” Dr. Marans and his team were among the first to respond to the Newtown incident, and remain actively involved with the families and children affected.
The meeting was an opportunity for discussion and dialogue, though no evident tangible solutions arose from it. This was one more step in a long journey of reform for gun laws and safety measures. The process will inevitably be bumpy, due to the NRA and gun activists, yet forums like this prove that these issues are time sensitive and critical to address. Change is needed, and the time is now to take the necessary steps of action.
Kenyena Amiker, a Hillhouse High School student on the panel, said she's always felt safe in school, despite Newtown. How did you react to the Newtown incident? Do you feel safe in your school? Do you feel safe in your community?
On February 30th, the Newtown community and beyond came together once again to reflect on the tragic December shooting, and discuss the necessary steps of action to improve gun laws, mental health, and school safety. New Haven also held its very own forum, televised and live-blogged, on Coop’s very own Main Stage.
WTNH and the New Haven Independent co-sponsored the event. The forum featured a panel of ten people, including a state legislator, New Haven Police Chief Dean Esserman, mental-health experts, high school students, a New Haven mother whose son was killed by gun violence, and more. On the live-blog panel was Mayor John DeStefano and other New Haven journalists, including myself. The panel discussed a variety of issues, such as the effects of video games and technology on kids and teens, the effectiveness of New Haven schools safety and security measures, and the necessity of changing gun culture in the inner city, where gun-related incidents are much more common than in suburban towns.
Thomas MacMillan, a reporter for the New Haven Independent, wrote on the live-blog, “Steven Marans, who works with traumatized children through the Yale Child Study Center and the National Center for Children Exposed to Violence, says: What kind of society do we want to live in? There are lots of obstacles.” Dr. Marans and his team were among the first to respond to the Newtown incident, and remain actively involved with the families and children affected.
The meeting was an opportunity for discussion and dialogue, though no evident tangible solutions arose from it. This was one more step in a long journey of reform for gun laws and safety measures. The process will inevitably be bumpy, due to the NRA and gun activists, yet forums like this prove that these issues are time sensitive and critical to address. Change is needed, and the time is now to take the necessary steps of action.
Kenyena Amiker, a Hillhouse High School student on the panel, said she's always felt safe in school, despite Newtown. How did you react to the Newtown incident? Do you feel safe in your school? Do you feel safe in your community?
Tribute to Our Helping Hand:
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Annalise Besant, Richard Romero, Jesus Cortes, Kristine Tortal, Jesse Bouchard, Jocelyn Hernandez, Kimberly Hokanson, Brionna Ingraham, Maryana Dumalska, Michael Gritzbach, Leyla Heredia
Students Perform in CMEA Music FestivalBy Ms. Antonucci
Eleven New Haven Public Schools students participated in the 2013 Southern Region High School Music Festival on January 11th & 12th. Students were chosen for the various ensembles by audition last November and selected students may now elect to audition for the All-State Festival, which takes place in April. The Connecticut Music Educators Association sponsors the festival. Two Cooperative Arts and Humanities students performed in the Festival Chorus under the direction of Daniel Perkins of Plymouth State University. Senior Leyla Heredia and junior Jesse Bouchard performed songs in several languages, including Russian! Nine students represented New Haven Public Schools in the Concert Band under the direction of Hartt School of Music professor, Mr. Glen Adsit. Hillhouse juniors Annalise Besant and Richard Romero; Wilbur Cross freshman Maryana Dumalska; and Cooperative Arts and Humanities seniors Kristine Tortal and Brionna Ingraham, juniors Jesus Cortes, Jocelyn Hernández, and Kimberly Hokanson, and sophomore Michael Gritzbach performed with top students from over 40 schools in southern Connecticut. |
Co-op's Fourth Annual Fashion ShowBy Radiant Holly (1/13/13)
This year's fashion show was on TOP! It was the best fashion show I ‘ve seen all year, and I’m here to give you the 411 on this year's designers: Will Chils, Najah Josie, Emily Messinger, Salina Ortiz, Jemar Perez, Shayana Ritchie, Adrianna Robles, and Alex Williams. Their creations were a great success, and I was surprised at the talent and dedication of each of the students, especially because some of them don’t act like fashion designers in the classes I have with them! There was lots to see, from Jemar’s king-of-the-wild styled guys tank tops to Alex’s remakes of Kanye West’s personal hi-low t-shirts. A lot of designs were very funky, such as Najah's black leather shorts with zebra stripes paired with a pink hi-lo shirt with a pink heart. Also, Emily Messenger designed a creative flapper dress--instead of fringe, she used spoons! The designers created a series of “Go Green” grocery bags rather than making purses designers usually go for. The slide show of the designers working was a great way to begin. The music throughout the event was upbeat and kept the audience interested. Lauren and Ally are phenomenal speakers; they brought humor, which kept the crowd laughing. We want to congratulate Ms. Lee for her hard work. Co-op fashion editors (Paris McGee, Tyniece Blow, and I) were really happy to attend this exclusive event, and we hope to review the fashion show again next year. Graduate On TimeBy Tiranee Blocker
We are entering the second half of the year, which means midterms are around the corner. This is important because the midterm grades, as well as the finals, appear in their own column on your report card. Therefore, do great, not only for yourself but so your can parents see it! FRESHMEN: The very first dance show is coming up! You should be very excited, and a bit nervous. However, being nervous makes you try harder. You may find that either your classes are getting easier of harder. Either way, do not give up; keep striving for success. We only have half the year to go. This also means not hanging out with friends as much as you may have been doing. Better to study now and hang with friends after you pass the test, than to not study and fail the test. It’s your choice! Good luck on your first high school midterm! SOPHOMORE: Another year of stress, anxiety, happiness, and excitement. I know how much you all liked the midterms last year. Well, they’re back--forcing you to study, some more than others. If you’re having trouble with the concepts in your class, now is the time to try harder to understand. Many of you may have received a grade you weren’t proud of last year. This isn’t a normal test that you can fail and throw away; parents see this on your report card, which means you want to try your best. Projects are also being assigned more frequently than they were during the first half of the year. You must try your best because you're half way there. Dance shows are coming up and tickets are on sale. The show is Saturday, January 12th so get your tickets. JUNIORS: We’re almost seniors! Just one more semester and we’ll be there. Survival is for the fittest during junior year. You can either boost your GPA up, or fall down. This year is important. Let try our best on our midterms, because the next important test we will be taking is the SAT, which is about two months away. You can do it, most of you! In addition to midterms, look into SAT Prep work and visit College Board for practice SAT questions. For you phone addicts, there are SAT apps that you will find easily accessible. If you visit the app as much as you visit instagram and twitter, I’m sure you all will pass. Good luck class of 2014. SENIORS: Almost there! You’re so close to graduation, I bet you can almost taste it! Many of you have completed your Capstones, as well as sent out you college applications. Therefore, maybe retaking the SAT, waiting on college acceptance letters, prom, and graduation are what you guys are focused on. The good news is that the hardest stuff has already passed; college applications. What’s next is keeping up with your grades. This means Midterms and finals are still important. The only thing worse than not getting into the college of your choice, is being accepted and later denied because your grades dropped. Therefore, keep up the good work. Do not slack on education because it will not slack on you. I wish you all the best! |
Co-op's Own Crowned Miss Teen CT USA!By Paris McGee
On December 14th through 16th, 2012, at the Hartford Farmington Marriott Hotel, contestants from all across Connecticut competed in interview, swimsuit, and evening gown competitions and Kendall Leary was crowned Miss Connecticut Teen USA 2013. When asked how long she has been competing, I was astonished to hear this was only her second pageants. Kendall’s hard work and great determination prove that there is no such thing as “veteran's advantage.” Kendall said she worked on perfecting her walk, appearance, and speech, as preparation for the pageant. Kendall will represent Connecticut at the Miss Teen USA national competition held later this year. In addition to Kendall’s victory, I'm also proud to report that Jonet Nitchelle competed in the Miss Connecticut Teen USA pageant, and placed in the top 10. Congratulations Kendall and Jonet! Your friends at Co-op are very proud of you. 
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Theater CapstonesHoliday InspirationBy Alicia Avitabile
Who’s ready to be part of a festive Thanksgiving Holiday? I know I am! It’s always a pleasure to gather around the dinner table with family and friends and give thanks for who and what you have in your life. It’s important for us to recognize everything we do have, and to not worry about things we don’t have, because if you look around, there are others who have less. Yes, it’s a fact that a lot of others do have much more than us, but things could be worse. With that being said, be thankful for all that is given to you. It’s important for us to think deeply about what our parents do for us, whether it’s working extra hours or just going above and beyond belief to do anything in their power to make sure we're healthy and happy. Sometimes it’s hard to be thankful for what you do have, especially if you have lost someone or something recently. People deal with different situations in various ways, so I believe that it’s also important for us to help each other get through the hard times, and enjoy the good times. Before you sit down and eat a festive, delicious meal, hold hands around the table, close your eyes, and give thanks. My grandma always tells me to pray before eating because each meal is a blessing. Then, fill your plate with turkey and stuffing. Go for seconds and thirds if you'd like. Where is everybody going for Thanksgiving this year? Well this year, I am going to both of my grandmother’s houses to celebrate. I can only eat for so long until I get full because Thanksgiving night starts ‘Black Friday’ sales; I can’t wait! If you’re into buying electronics such as laptops, Xbox’s, and iPad’s, then you’re in for a long night on Thanksgiving Day! Sales start at 5 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day at Wal-Mart! That is where you’re going to get about 80%-90% off of any purchase you make, so use your time accordingly to spend the holiday with your loved ones early in order to catch those sales! Black Friday at the mall starts the next day--at midnight; don’t miss those sales either because you could be preparing for another wonderful holiday--Christmas. Take advantage of our days off and have fun! Happy Thanksgiving Coop! Enjoy the Holiday!By Tally Martin
Thanksgiving is just about here! I know that everyone is excited about eating all the yummy foods that will be offered at your home. Don’t forget that you can also give back this holiday by volunteering at a local shelter or soup kitchen. There are also opportunities for you to donate foods to the soup kitchens and shelters. Downtown New Haven is hosting an event where you’re allowed to donate a turkey of any size and/or a pie. For more information on this event, please visit www.downtowneveningsoupkitchen.com. Black Friday is also happening this week so don’t forget to get out there and catch all of those good deals. I hope everyone has a splendid break and Thanksgiving. |
Co-op's Biggest and Best Coronation Yet!                                 Photos by Mr. McHugh
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A Letter Regarding the Recent Storms
By Tiranee Blocker
I hope all is well and everyone was okay through the storm. Many had their power tuned off, trees crashed on their streets, and many tragic happenings occurred because of Hurricane Sandy. I was truly happy to see my friends after our days off. The great news about surviving the storm were the excuses many made to get out of doing their homework. The bad news is that in any catastrophic situation, many fare well and others aren’t so lucky. New York and New Jersey were those “not so lucky” places. People living there did not have power, and were locked inside of buildings due to excessive flooding. We must keep these people and these places in our prayers as they recover and rebuild. We were lucky this time around; however it could have been us. We must appreciate the saving grace of protection that surrounded our homes and loved ones, but never stop caring about others who are still suffering. Read more in the National/International Section.
I hope all is well and everyone was okay through the storm. Many had their power tuned off, trees crashed on their streets, and many tragic happenings occurred because of Hurricane Sandy. I was truly happy to see my friends after our days off. The great news about surviving the storm were the excuses many made to get out of doing their homework. The bad news is that in any catastrophic situation, many fare well and others aren’t so lucky. New York and New Jersey were those “not so lucky” places. People living there did not have power, and were locked inside of buildings due to excessive flooding. We must keep these people and these places in our prayers as they recover and rebuild. We were lucky this time around; however it could have been us. We must appreciate the saving grace of protection that surrounded our homes and loved ones, but never stop caring about others who are still suffering. Read more in the National/International Section.
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Jon Goode Visits Theatre |
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From Transition to Transformation
Monthly Column by Mr. Costanzo
With marking period one (Q1) behind us, we can look forward to a new start in many ways. The first quarter is largely about adjustment and change. Most of Q1 this year was unexpected especially with our new scheduling software and hurricane days. Our Freshmen (about 150 of you!) have transitioned into a new school and an unfamiliar culture with new faces and personalities. In comparison, seniors have completed 13 marking periods of instruction at Co-op and have just three remaining before they transition out of high school and into college or work. And for everyone in between, keep in mind how far you have traveled since you began your life at Co-op and what you believe you can accomplish in the time you have left. It is hard to imagine that at the end of this second marking period we will be halfway through the year, deep into winter, but closer to summer and another commencement. With our enrollment at 650 students it becomes increasingly difficult for me to get to know each and every student-artist the way I would prefer. A lot of the work we are doing at Co-op is to personalize learning through flex and advisory, but I feel that this is often not enough for students wanting to know more about me, what I believe, and where I see Co-op going. I feel the change that has occurred here over the past four years is remarkable. I see art going up everywhere. The National Honor Society has enriched our culture and will soon be inducting a new batch of scholars. More and more of you greet me and each other as we pass through the halls. In a way, Co-op is becoming a spiritual place and this is good. There is a feeling and a tone of decency and trust. More of our students and teachers have committed to taking on more challenges that benefit our whole community. To some extent, student-artists seem to be finding their voice more than ever before. I believe when kids and teachers are empowered to craft more decisions, the outcomes are more authentic to who we are and the results are generally better too. Students grow well in environments like this--where there is a focus on improving learning conditions for everybody (students and adults). I believe that the best way to advance the part of our vision that states: "celebrating the arts in each of us and in all we do" happens through Co-op’s culture. Last year, far fewer students failed a course (dropping from 24% to 14% in a single year) and the number of students challenging themselves in advanced placement classes has quadrupled since 2009. Still there is so much more improvement that can happen. One way to become a part of a movement for continued change is to become involved in the school’s governance team. This is an influential group of administrators, teachers, parents, staff, and students. Two years ago, the idea and eventual implementation of advisory and flex evolved out of conversations within governance. Last year, the Senior Transformation Project (which includes upwards of 100 Co-op seniors taking classes during the day at Gateway for dual credit) was born out of governance. School governance will begin meeting this month and will once again analyze our school environment survey before deliberations begin around what we choose to change at Co-op. Issues of democracy and equity for student-artists and the ways in which we rethink and re-imagine how to integrate Co-op’s art and academic worlds are issues worth grappling over. I welcome more students to be at the table as we grapple with these important questions. |
Breath and Soul
Monthly Column By Ms. Holsenbeck
Dear Co-Op, It’s hard to believe we are almost done with the first marking period. I feel like I’m just catching my breath after a whirlwind September and October and I know you are too. It’s hard to find the time to sit down and reflect, but thanks to this regular column and the students who run the Co-op Publishing House and this online magazine, I have an excuse to do so. Lately I’ve been thinking a lot about how we as humans handle adverse or challenging situations, particularly situations over which we feel we have no control. What’s makes the difference between resiliency and failure? I have to say that watching our community these past few months has given me plenty of examples of resiliency, grace, and courtesy. I’ve watched the members of our Co-op community remain remarkably positive through the challenging Power School transition. I’ve watched students step up and be honest about dishonest situations. I’ve watched faculty and staff volunteer to help out again and again when the going gets rough. I watched our Sophomore Theater Students put on the first production of the year and knock it out of the park, even with only two months preparation. I’d like to think that a lot of the positivity and resiliency in our community can be attributed to our artistic selves. Anyone who has written a poem or a song or choreographed a dance piece knows that in the beginning of the creative process, things can feel very big and overwhelming. The ideas cluster and fall away and build back up again. Sometimes the process is painful and we shy away from it. Other times we see a light and continue through the chaos until we’ve hewn something stable and beautiful. It is rare that great work comes without little effort. Great work, artistic and otherwise, takes time, energy and patience. It takes vision and breath and soul. I look forward to witnessing the creative process and resiliency with which we all fill our building going forward into November. |
Graduate On TimeA bi-weekly column by Tiranee Blocker
We are coming to the end of our first marking period. This means that everyone should just about be settled into the year. Here is a bit of information for you to know. FRESHMEN: The first freshman theatre play is coming up. Theatre students receive one free ticket to every theatre production here at Co-Op. If you are not a freshman, tickets will be sold for $2 per person and $10 for a family. CAS is kicking off to a great start and although it is after deadline, if you really wish to be in CAS, go to the library where the CAS headquarters is located and talk to Ms. Pugh or Mr. Zamm to see if you can still get into a desired program. You guys are doing great so far with the process of meeting new friends and getting used to the school. As I said before, once you get into the year, it will begin to go by fast; here we are at the end of the first marking period already. Hope your grades turn out well. SOPHOMORES: Grades will be distributed through the mail soon. Hopefully, you’ve done well. If not, now is the time to get those grades right because the marking period ends November 2nd. Begin asking questions about what you do and do not understand so that testing is easier for you. All tests are important but the CAPT beats all of them. I understand that this is not my first time saying this, but I really want to push you to do your best. Dancers are practicing for the Winterfest concert, theatre productions are being cast and performed; every art has something coming up for them and that is great. However, in the midst of and in school and after school activities, be sure the main focus is on your grades. If you are in any extracurricular activities, including those outside of Co-op, the instructor will understand if you miss a day to stay after with a teacher. Excused absences will be provided for missing an extracurricular activity. Always remember, academics are more important! JUNIORS: Stay on your grind and get your grades right! If progress reports are incorrect, talk to your teachers to make sure your marking period grades are accurate. Do not accept any grade that is lower than the grade you deserve. Understand that mistakes happen, but do not stay mute because this is the year that counts the most. If grades are accurate but not great, then you need to stay after school for more help in the subject. Also, ask for extra credit. If you are looking to go to college, then you must understand how important it is for grades to be accurate and acceptable. Volunteer activities, as well as extracurricular activities, are important as well. If you are a student who has more than enough extracurricular activities on your list and an acceptable about of community service hours, then you are in good shape, but never forget charity has no limit! If you are a student who knows that you haven’t done as much as you would like as far as volunteer and extracurricular activities, then stop by Guidance and ask Anna or your guidance counselor for suggestions in those areas of interest. Colleges won’t choose a student who is lazy or selfish to represent their school. So step up and accomplish all that you can now! SENIORS: College Fair was last Wednesday, October 24th. If you attended, hopefully you found colleges of interest or learned new things. If not, then do not forget that colleges come to Co-Op fairly often and you can attend with a permission slip from Guidance. To find out what colleges are coming and when, check the daily bulletin. Continue planning your ‘Senior Capstones’ and ask friends and teachers for help if you need it. Also, keep your grades up and avoid any drop in your GPA, because colleges do look at consistency. Do not slow down now; you are almost there! The end of the marking period is right around the corner. Three more marking periods to go and you are out of here. Good Luck! |
Sing It LoudWeekly Column by Sarah Farquharson
Dear Teachers, We love you, we look up to you, but sometimes we feel uncomfortable around you too. Like in the mornings, we’re hungry. Our metabolism is so fast and by the time we arrive at school, we’re hungry again. Please, think twice before you eat your cream cheese bagel and drink your hot coffee in front of us starving children. Oh wait I almost forgot-- wardrobe malfunction! Yes, we all have those days of the accidental popped button or the unzipped fly. But to make sure you are dressing professionally, check out this great blog. It is designed to help teachers do the right thing (http://pinterest.com/ mrswhitehair/teaching- clothes-ideas) I hope this week's column doesn't offend any teachers, because remember, we love you! Co-op/Gateway ExperienceBy Taylor Mansfield
In an educational alliance called the Middle College Initiative, Gateway Community College and Co-op have joined forces to provide a joint learning program for students in the Senior class. Psychology and Sociology are the two available classes students can take for college credit at Gateway. Mr. Costanzo, personally selected 50 students to partake in the experience. Not only does the program look excellent on your resume for college, it provides students with college credits. My first class was Tuesday, September 11, 2012. I was enrolled in the Sociology class. My eyes lit up with excitement as soon as I stepped foot into Gateway’s new building. Our professor had us define Sociology in our own terms, then followed with her own definition of the word. She showed us a disturbing picture from the Holocaust and asked us to describe what we saw. She then asked us to put ourselves in the shoes of victims involved in the Holocaust. Our professor explained that most of what we’ll be studying is related to different cultures--how we react to them and how they react to us. To gain a better understanding of racial discrimination in different cultures, our professor plans to show the movie "Crash." The film’s major focuses are race and culture tension in everyday American life, and how they affect people’s lives. This class is an excellent preparation for college life and the different expectations of college professors. |
Behind-the-Scenes: TheaterBy Lashauna Glover
Theater is a very playful and exciting art. You can be yourself and at the same time be your character. You learn about your art in class and on stage. Being in theater helps you grow as a person; it helps you become comfortable with your personality and often gets you out of your comfort zone as well. Being in theater helps you learn about accomplished artists, which helps you discover how to perform and give what you can and more. Focus ard participation are the most important things. Being enthusiastic is very helpful. Theater is a whole different ball game; it’s not just you--it’s a whole class of people and they help you. In theater, you put all personal feelings aside just to be the actor/actress you deserve to be. Theater becomes a part of who you are not just something you do. You find out that you can be something more than what you thought before. Having this experience makes you more than a student in a New Haven public schools; it puts you on the spotlight and helps you own it like you should. Being on stage can be very difficult and challenging. It can also make you get over your fears and it can convince you to take risks. |
Graduate On TimeA bi-weekly column by Tiranee Blocker
The year is settling down with schedules correct and complete. Everyone should be in their proper classes by now, and all periods should be occupied. If you are still not in the appropriate classes, you can stop into Guidance and find a time to meet with Ms. White. Do not wait until the last minute when classes can no longer be changed. For example, AP Classes are just about to be settled. If you are already a student in an AP class, Co-Op strongly discourages any withdrawals from this point on due to a “W” placed on your transcripts. This may be considered heavily to colleges. Here are some things you need to know that are coming up: FRESHMEN: CAS is beginning. This is a great opportunity to get involved with extracurricular activities that many colleges will ask for later. Also, when applying for jobs or scholarships, you will be asked for evidence of community service and extracurricular activities. This way, interviewers understand that you are an active member of your school; therefore you will be a great candidate for the job or scholarship you apply for. You may have heard that freshman year isn’t as important as junior or senior year. This may be true; however, your GPA does combine and average throughout all four years of high school. This means that if your grades weren't great freshman year, colleges will be looking mainly at junior year. Yet, colleges also look at GPAs before considering you. And GPA is all about how you’ve done through all your years of high school. Therefore, every year of high school counts. In order to make sure your GPA and applications are strong, stay focused, because no matter what you may have heard, every year does count--average or not! SOPHOMORE: Hopefully, your schedules are correct and you are on your way to starting a great second year of high school. Aside from being welcomed into the new school year, the PSAT is going to be handed out next month. Although it is only the PSAT, this is the time to see if you are in the right position for the SAT next year. This test will show you where you need help academically. In addition to taking the SAT next year, this is the year you will take CAPT. The PSAT can also prepare you for CAPT. This is not the year to be stressed out or overwhelmed. I would suggest staying after school for help in the areas you need help in, so the CAPT isn’t as hard for you. Do not stay mute if you need help; raise your hand and ask questions now! JUNIORS: Many opportunities to college surf are coming to you this year. There are specific dates as to when certain colleges are coming, and permission slips to attend these college meetings can be found in guidance. Guidance asks that if you know that a college is coming that you are interested in, that you go get the permission slip at least the day before so that you can bring the paper home for parents to sign. Parent signatures are required to ensure that parents understand that you will be missing class. A list of dates and what colleges are coming are the daily bulletin every morning. In addition applying to colleges of your choice, make sure you are looking at SAT requirements. SAT is going to be taken this year and some colleges require different SAT scores. By attending college meetings or researching on the web, be sure that you are on the right track to getting into your desired college. Look at all requirements! SENIORS: Aside from class dues, prom, gradation, and maintaining your grades, there isn’t as much stress on you as there was last year. Some of you are taking the SAT over for a higher grade, which is great because colleges take the best one. And for others, the SAT grade is high and the main focus this year is the senior captstone. Hopefully everyone at least knows what they are doing by now; if not, I suggest staying after school to brainstorm. Senior capstone and keeping grades up for one more year are mainly the only stress you have this year. By now you should have in mind what colleges you are interested in. If not, begin to plan for next year--your freshman year in college. Just like high school, senior year will go by fast. Have a game plan and put it into action. The countdown begins! |
Welcome Message from
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From Our New Arts Director: Ms. HolsenbeckBy Ms. Holsenbeck
Welcome back to Co-op, artists! I am thrilled to begin the 2012-2013 school year as the new Arts Director. I feel so lucky to be part of such a dynamic community of student artists and teaching artists. I look forward to continuing the work of the legendary Mr. Cunningham, and I’m ready to jump in and help continue growing and developing the arts at Co-op. Over the summer, I read the biography of the late Steve Jobs. When talking about how artistry and creativity contributed to making Apple such a great company, he said “Creativity is just connecting things. When you ask creative people how they did something, they feel a little guilty because they didn’t really do it. They just saw something…they were able to connect experiences they’ve had and synthesize new things.” When I walk the halls of Co-Op, visit classrooms, see performances, and talk with students, I see this kind of creative synthesizing happening all the time. I hope that together we can continue fostering a community in which creativity is not just something that happens by accident, but it’s celebrated, encouraged, and fabulously dynamic. The possibilities are endless. I’m excited and I hope you are too. |
Front Office Changes
By Paris McGee
Has anyone noticed a huge change in the main office? Yes, I know what you’re thinking--the green painted floor looks much shinier and attractive compared to the old, brown carpet!
But no, not that change! Here let’s refresh your memory of last year. You walk into the main office trying to avoid class. You hear "What do you want little boy/girl?" and stop in your tracks. These are actually loving words from the amazing Ms. Anna, formerly one of two main office secretaries. Anna is now working in the Guidance Department and I had the chance to talk to her about this change.
“Change brings upon progress," Ms. Anna said when I asked how she liked her new role. "I’m happy I have a job, and if I keep walking these halls I’ll be skinny and sexy.” (Not that she already isn’t!) She then furthered the conversation stating, “I’ve got Ms. Cole. She’s a big help! She knows things about guidance that I don’t. What can I do about it, I can’t change it. It’s already been done!”
I was glad to hear Ms. Anna has positive things to say about her new job, however she does feel some sadness moving out of the office. It’s what she’s done, and what she is used to for many years.
I also had the chance to talk to Ms. Roxy, the former guidance secretary on her switch back to main office secretary.
Ms. Roxy, always known for working hard, and helping numerous students and staff with various problems feels as though working in the office is a breeze compared to Guidance. When I asked Ms. Roxy how she liked working in the main office, she replied, “I loved guidance because I found the work challenging, in a good way."
Lastly, the other Co-op main office secretary, Ms. Heather, says she simply loves her job, and the people she works with!
To Ms. Anna, Ms. Roxy, and Ms. Heather, I would like to wish you luck and great blessings on this school year and many more to come! I hope that you enjoy your new jobs, and thank you for being the greatest secretaries anyone could have! We are very lucky to have great staff like you!
Has anyone noticed a huge change in the main office? Yes, I know what you’re thinking--the green painted floor looks much shinier and attractive compared to the old, brown carpet!
But no, not that change! Here let’s refresh your memory of last year. You walk into the main office trying to avoid class. You hear "What do you want little boy/girl?" and stop in your tracks. These are actually loving words from the amazing Ms. Anna, formerly one of two main office secretaries. Anna is now working in the Guidance Department and I had the chance to talk to her about this change.
“Change brings upon progress," Ms. Anna said when I asked how she liked her new role. "I’m happy I have a job, and if I keep walking these halls I’ll be skinny and sexy.” (Not that she already isn’t!) She then furthered the conversation stating, “I’ve got Ms. Cole. She’s a big help! She knows things about guidance that I don’t. What can I do about it, I can’t change it. It’s already been done!”
I was glad to hear Ms. Anna has positive things to say about her new job, however she does feel some sadness moving out of the office. It’s what she’s done, and what she is used to for many years.
I also had the chance to talk to Ms. Roxy, the former guidance secretary on her switch back to main office secretary.
Ms. Roxy, always known for working hard, and helping numerous students and staff with various problems feels as though working in the office is a breeze compared to Guidance. When I asked Ms. Roxy how she liked working in the main office, she replied, “I loved guidance because I found the work challenging, in a good way."
Lastly, the other Co-op main office secretary, Ms. Heather, says she simply loves her job, and the people she works with!
To Ms. Anna, Ms. Roxy, and Ms. Heather, I would like to wish you luck and great blessings on this school year and many more to come! I hope that you enjoy your new jobs, and thank you for being the greatest secretaries anyone could have! We are very lucky to have great staff like you!
Remembering Gabby Castillo
It is with great sadness that we note the passing of our student Gabriella Marie Castillo. A junior theater student, Gabby passed away on August 21st following a long, courageous battle with osteosarcoma. Gabby was known to many for her charm, courage, and kindness. She contributed so much to the Co-op community when she was here, from her smiles in the morning to running the light board for "Broken Chains." Her positive attitude and amazing work ethic serve as an inspiration to us all.
