The Redwing Quarterly
Happenings from Marking Period 1
Principal's Message
Greetings Redwing Family!
One down and three to go. Congratulations to the students at Hoboken High School for making first marking period such a fabulous one. Students did a great job at meeting the challenges of their courses, and using the resources that are available to them. I believe the first marking period is difficult, especially for our freshman as they transition from middle school to high school. This is the time for all to reflect on what went well and what did not work, and adjust to ensure we have a successful second marking period. The critical piece is being present in school and utilizing the resources in place. Everyday our after school tutoring is open in the library from 3:00 - 4:00 pm and the Academic Support Center, led by Mr. Benway, is also available after school. During the day the Academic Support Center has Steven's tutors to assist. Please encourage your child to take advantage of these opportunities.
I am looking forward to a strong second marking period at Hoboken High School. As always I am available to answer any of your questions, just reach out to me at robin.piccapietra@hoboken.k12.nj.us.
Wishing you a happy and healthy holiday season.
All the best,
Ms. Picc
Driver's Education
Buckle up, because the world of Sophomore Driver's Education is an exciting journey through the realm of health and safety, all while paving the way to master the art of safe driving. With a curriculum aligned to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) manual, this course takes students on a riveting road trip through topics that include the intricate NJ license system, the ins and outs of road rules and regulations, and the tantalizing world of privileges and penalties. It's not just theoretical; they also dive deep into the nuts and bolts of vehicles, covering all the essential vehicle information that sets the stage for their motoring adventures.
But the thrill doesn't end there. In "Part One" of the driving process, cleverly named "Early Bird Road," students set their sights on acquiring their Special Learners Permit, with the journey just beginning. To ensure they're fully equipped for this exhilarating ride, they also tackle the written and online segments of the test, where they must rev their knowledge engines and hit a minimum score of 80% to conquer this crucial milestone.
As a parent, you play a pivotal role in this saga of driving discovery. It's not just about knowing what your child is up to but understanding the profound significance of safe driving. Your encouragement and support during this voyage can be the wind in their sails, steering them toward mastering the skills they need to become safe and responsible drivers. If you're curious about the next steps in this thrilling driving process, don't hesitate to reach out to Mrs. Bevacqua, Ms. Pogo, or Mr. Fernandes. The road ahead is full of possibilities, and together, we're ensuring that every student becomes a safe and confident driver.
Physical Education
During the first marking period, our students have been on a whirlwind adventure of activities that keep them on their toes.
Imagine using the expansive stadium field as their playground for exciting outdoor activities. They've pushed their limits, wrapping up an intense round of fitness testing that includes push-ups, sit-ups, and the heart-pounding pacer tests. But it doesn't stop there – they've been diving headfirst into the world of fall sports, mastering the art of soccer, football, volleyball, tennis, and even the art of power walking.
Participation isn't just encouraged; it's a requirement throughout the entire duration of their physical education class. Why? Because it's the key to unlocking the incredible physical fitness benefits that come with this exhilarating journey. It's not just about breaking a sweat; it's about forging bonds of teamwork and camaraderie with their fellow classmates.
So, as we venture through the world of physical education, remember that it's not just important – it's a fun and essential part of every student's educational experience, shaping them into healthier, more coordinated, and more spirited individuals.
Art
In Elements of Art classes, students embark on an exciting creative journey that explores fundamental artistic concepts. Color theory is a cornerstone of their learning, as they discover the magic of mixing primary colors to create an array of secondary and tertiary colors. This not only sparks their imagination but also enhances their ability to apply color harmoniously in their artwork. Furthermore, students delve into the world of monochromatic painting, where they create value scales by skillfully mixing a chosen color with white or black, allowing them to grasp the nuances of light and shadow.
Portfolio classes provide an opportunity for students to refine their skills and develop a diverse body of work. They learn to create graphite pencil scales, gaining a deep understanding of different degrees of hardness, which empowers them to master the delicate art of shading and texturing. These skills enable students to create the illusion of depth through tonal value and comprehensive color blending, enhancing their ability to bring their artistic visions to life in a multidimensional way. Encouraging your child's exploration of these foundational elements of art will not only nurture their creativity but also equip them with invaluable skills for their artistic journey.
English
In the exciting world of Ms. Weaver's 10th grade English class, the Into the Nightmare unit is hurtling towards its electrifying conclusion as the first marking period races to an end. Students have delved into intriguing short stories, dissected enigmatic photos, and next week, they're set to embark on a literary adventure, crafting a narrative that offers an alternative ending to the gripping short story, "The Lady, or the Tiger?" But the excitement doesn't stop there! Alongside these creative endeavors, they're honing their English Language Arts prowess by tackling a range of reading comprehension challenges and grammar exercises on the dynamic online learning platform, IXL. Furthermore, they're arming themselves with a treasure trove of academic vocabulary by eagerly engaging in vocabulary.com's study sessions and practice activities.
During Native American History Month, students in Ms. Malenda’s ELA 9 and ELA 11 use literature to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures of Indigenous peoples. Both classes focus on honoring this heritage by delving into poems and novels that provide insight into Native American experiences. A particular favorite is "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" by Sherman Alexie. This compelling novel tells the story of Arnold Spirit Jr., a young Native American boy who leaves his reservation to attend an all-white high school, offering a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of Native youth.
In 9th grade ELA, students eagerly flip through the pages of this book, absorbed by Arnold's witty narration, his struggles with identity, and the vivid portrayal of life on the Spokane Indian Reservation. It sparks discussions on cultural diversity, resilience, and the importance of storytelling. The book's themes resonate with young readers, encouraging empathy and understanding.
In 11th grade ELA, students are reading the play “The Crucible” and Native American poetry to study the disparities between Native American beliefs and Puritan ideas, which offer a profound glimpse into the cultural and spiritual diversity that shaped early American history. Native American belief systems often revolved around a deep connection to the land, spirituality, and diverse pantheons of deities, in contrast to the Puritans' rigidly structured, monotheistic Christian faith that emphasized predestination and strict moral codes. Exploring these differences not only fosters a greater appreciation for the richness of indigenous cultures but also sheds light on the complex cultural exchange and conflict that marked the early interactions between Native Americans and European settlers in the New World.
Students organize discussions, art projects, and presentations centered around these texts. These activities not only foster a deeper appreciation of Native American culture but also provide a platform for open dialogue about the historical and contemporary issues faced by Indigenous communities. In doing so, students contribute to a more inclusive and respectful society that values the heritage and contributions of Native Americans throughout the year, not just in November.
In Ms. Gomez's 12th grade English classes, students are currently immersed in a multifaceted learning experience. The focus of their writing unit has been the meticulous crafting of personal statements and college essays, encouraging seniors to express their unique narratives and aspirations. Simultaneously, the class has delved into the works of Edgar Allan Poe, engaging in close readings that dissect the nuances of mood, tone, and point of view, fostering a deeper understanding of the literary elements that shape storytelling. Vocabulary skills are being honed through the interactive platform Vocabulary.com, providing students with a dynamic tool to expand their lexical repertoire. Additionally, the class is embarking on the epic journey of reading Beowulf, with a particular emphasis on exploring themes of bravery and dissecting the hero trope within this classic piece of literature. Ms. Gomez's 12th-grade ELA classes are thus creating a rich tapestry of literary exploration, writing prowess, and language enrichment.
In the thrilling realm of Ms. Weaver's 12th grade English class, the marking period is drawing to a close with an exhilarating dive into the captivating science fiction universe crafted by none other than Ray Bradbury. With relentless enthusiasm, they've embarked on a journey through Bradbury's literary masterpieces, dissecting and annotating tales like "All Summer in a Day" and "A Sound of Thunder." Through these absorbing stories, they've delved into the intricate world of the Butterfly Effect and Chaos Theory, expanding their understanding of the enigmatic forces that shape our universe.
Earlier in this action-packed marking period, the seniors displayed their intellectual mettle by putting the finishing touches on their college entrance essays, setting the stage for the next chapter of their academic odyssey as they prepare to submit them to the Common App in the coming months.
But that's not all; they've delved into the timeless question of heroism, drawing inspiration from the awe-inspiring saga of Charles Sullenberger, the heroic US Airways pilot who skillfully landed his jet on the turbulent waters of the Hudson River in that fateful January of 2009, saving countless lives. Their journey through the annals of heroism continued as they unraveled the epic tale of Beowulf, the original superhero from over a thousand years ago, by immersing themselves in the dynamic world of a graphic novel adaptation.
Ms. Weaver's senior English class is an ever-evolving epic of knowledge and discovery, and there's no telling where their intellectual adventures will take them next.
Science
In the Honors Physics 1 course, students delve into the fascinating world of physics, where the fundamental principles of the physical world intersect with everyday phenomena. This dynamic course employs a practical approach, applying basic physics concepts to real-world scenarios through a combination of engaging demonstrations and hands-on laboratory work. While the curriculum follows the classical sequence of topics covered in Physics 1, it delves even deeper, embracing a more mathematical perspective to challenge and inspire students.
In the Motion Physics (MP 1), we explore three fundamental areas: Kinematics, Newton's Laws of Motion, and Momentum. Kinematics allows us to calculate the velocity, acceleration, and position of objects, making it a crucial tool for understanding and analyzing motion in various contexts, from walking to throwing a ball. Newton's Laws of Motion, established by the brilliant Sir Isaac Newton, provide the foundational framework for comprehending the intricate relationship between physical objects and the forces acting upon them, thus serving as the cornerstone of modern physics. Finally, the study Momentum, a concept not only confined to textbooks, but also vividly present in our daily lives. Whether it's the immense momentum of a large truck cruising on the highway or the momentum of an athlete sprinting in a race, these examples illustrate how the principles of physics extend their reach into the tangible world around us. The Honors Physics 1 class equips students with a profound understanding of these concepts, fostering an appreciation for the intricate web of physics that underpins our reality.
In Ms. Nellin's CP Chemistry classes, students have embarked on an exploration of the fundamental building blocks of the universe. The academic year kicked off with an in-depth study of matter, unraveling its classifications and delving into the mathematical relationships that underpin its properties, all while wielding the essential tools of the trade. The journey then delved into the heart of the atom, with students actively modeling the intricate arrangement of subatomic particles. Presently, the class is navigating the complicated realm of electron configurations and orbital diagrams, decoding the enigmatic dance of electrons to foster a profound comprehension of how and why atoms engage in intricate interactions.
Laboratory sessions have added a practical dimension to the theoretical understanding, as students engage in experiments that scrutinize the chemical and physical metamorphoses of matter. The meticulous calculation of the average mass of an element and precision in measurement have become second nature, honing their skills as budding chemists. Ms. Nellin's CP Chemistry classes are not merely learning about chemistry; they are actively participating in the scientific process, from theoretical exploration to hands-on experimentation, forging a dynamic and comprehensive understanding of the molecular world.
Ms. Jones' Life Skills Program wades into an immersive hydroponics journey, thanks to a generous grant from Greenourplanet.org, transforming the learning environment into a vibrant, hands-on, and sensory-rich natural laboratory. In this innovative space, students not only gain insights into STEM concepts but also develop a deep understanding of nutrition and conservation through the Hydroponics STEM Program, accredited by STEMworks. Engaged in daily monitoring, the students actively touch, observe, and test the water levels and pH balance, fostering a tactile connection to the growing process. The greenery burgeons with life, emitting a fresh, earthy scent that permeates the classroom. Anticipation builds as the plants flourish, promising a bountiful harvest slated for mid-December, a timely and festive culmination just as the Christmas Break approaches. The immersive hydroponics experience not only instills academic knowledge but envelops students in a multisensory tapestry, fostering a profound connection to the natural world around them.
In Ms. Nellin's Pre-AP Chemistry classes, students are involved in a comprehensive exploration of the intricate interplay between matter and energy, transforming theoretical concepts into tangible models and calculations. The academic journey commenced with a deep dive into the mathematical relationships governing particle interactions, skillfully represented through both diagrams and mathematical expressions. Delving into the realm of calorimetry, students honed their ability to quantify the energy exchanged between a system and its surroundings, applying this knowledge to real-world scenarios in farming and biology.
Building upon this foundation, students have studied the dynamic world of particle movement, leveraging the Kinetic Molecular Theory to model and predict behaviors. This understanding is fortified by observations of real-world phenomena, allowing students to validate predictions through meticulous calculations of diverse physical properties, ranging from the density of solids and liquids to the fundamental parameters governing gasses, such as pressure and volume. Currently immersed in the study of gasses, students have engaged in exhilarating labs, witnessing the fascinating effects of heating and cooling gasses, from cans imploding to hard-boiled eggs being drawn through small openings in bottles. Ms. Nellin's Pre-AP Chemistry classes are not just decoding scientific theories; they are active participants in the experimental verification of these principles, bridging the gap between the theoretical and the experiential in the captivating realm of chemistry.
In Ms. Nellin's AP Chemistry classes, students are navigating a rigorous and intellectually stimulating exploration of the intricacies that govern matter. The Atomic Structure unit serves as the bedrock of their journey, immersing them in the atomic theory by making astute observations of chemical properties on atomistic collections. This microscopic lens lays the groundwork for understanding the vastness of macroscopic systems, necessitating the conceptual tool of moles for meaningful comparison.
Transitioning into Unit Two, students seamlessly apply their nuanced knowledge of atomic structure to decipher macroscopic properties of substances. The class adeptly connects the dots between the particulate level and macroscopic behaviors, unraveling the chemical and physical properties of materials by delving into the structural intricacies of atoms, ions, and molecules, as well as the forces that bind them. Here, electronegativity emerges as a powerful predictive tool, enabling students to forecast the nature of bonding between atoms with precision.
The culmination of the quarter brings students to a dynamic exploration of Intermolecular forces in the final unit, providing a lens through which to scrutinize the properties of solids, liquids, and gases. This unit unravels the captivating transformations of matter, categorizing them as either chemical or physical changes. Ms. Nellin's AP Chemistry classes are not just studying science; they are decoding the language of molecules and bonds, weaving a comprehensive understanding that spans the microscopic to the macroscopic, establishing a solid foundation for advanced scientific inquiry.
Guidance
Hoboken High School Guidance Counselors Contact Information
James Terry - Grades 9 & 11
(201) 356-3719
Stacie Gleason - Grades 10 & 12
(201) 356-3715
College Visits
During the first quarter of the year we have had visits from representatives of the colleges and universities below. The reps came to speak with any students who were interested in finding out more information about these specific schools and/or ask any questions they may have had!
Roger Williams University
Seton Hall
Emmanuel College
Drew University
William Paterson University
Princeton University
Wagner College
Pace University
Albertus Magnus College
Fairleigh Dickinson University
Manhattan College
Western Connecticut State University
St. Elizabeth University
New Jersey City University
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Albright College
Stockton University
Field Trips
Villanova University Campus Tour
Montclair State College Fair
Ramapo University Campus Tour
Kaplan SAT Prep
Attention JUNIORS!! We are partnering up with Kaplan who runs a program that is designed to help prepare students for the SATs. This is a FREE program and there are only 60 spots available, so if you are interested, complete this form as soon as possible! Please be aware that this is a VIRTUAL program and will only be available online. Upon completing the registration form, you will have to select ONE course from the dates below.
Oct 22-Mar 3 Sunday 6:00PM to 8:00PM
Dec. 3- Mar 3 Sunday 5:00PM to 7:00PM
Dec 26-Mar 5 Tuesday 7:30PM - 9:30PM
Dec 27- Mar 6 Wednesday 6:00PM -8:00PM
Steps for Naviance
Anyone looking to sign up for upcoming college and US Armed Forces visits, please complete the following steps:
1. Click on your google 'waffle'
2. Select Naviance (typically at the bottom)
3. Click on the 'Colleges' tab at the top of the home screen
4. Select 'College Visits'
5. 'Register Now' for any information session you would like to attend.
Leadership Conference for HER
All students and staff from our partner schools are invited to attend the 2023 LeadHERship Conference — a biennial gathering dedicated to reshaping STEM by empowering women and gender minorities, and championing social justice and equity. This conference unites individuals from diverse backgrounds for a day of motivation, networking, skill-building, and professional development. We ask that those interested utilize our Partner School register link here.
Scholarships
Elks Scholarship is now available to our seniors. Every year, the Hoboken Elks Club awards 4-6 Hoboken High School students this scholarship. The amounts range anywhere from $200-$500. If you plan on applying, you must let me know asap as there are documents I must provide by the deadline which is November 13th. The link is here: Elks Scholarship
Math
In Ms. Caradonio's Algebra 1 classes, students have embarked on a mathematical journey that seamlessly blends theory with real-world applications. The academic year commenced with an exploration of diverse function relationships, where students dissected the intricacies of tables, equations, and graphs to articulate and predict these relationships. Going a step further, the class delved into the nuanced distinctions between linear and exponential relationships, employing tables, graphs, equations, and real-world scenarios to create their own equations mirroring these mathematical models.
As the semester progressed, the focus shifted to the art of solving linear equations with a single variable. Students grasped the concept that each step in the process generates equivalent equations sharing the same solution—a realization that unveiled the true value making an equation authentically true. Skillfully employing properties of equality, students honed their ability to isolate variables, setting the stage for upcoming lessons where they will craft their own linear equations, a practical skill to unlock solutions to real-world predicaments. Ms. Caradonio's Algebra 1 classes are not just solving equations; they are deciphering the language of mathematics to unravel the secrets of our quantifiable world.
In Mr. McKenzie's Computer Science Essentials course, within the PLTW program, students are immersed in a dynamic journey that marries theoretical concepts with hands-on application. Beginning with block-based programming, students collaboratively venture into the realm of creating mobile apps, fostering both individual creativity and collective problem-solving. The course serves as a gateway to a plethora of computational thinking concepts, providing a solid foundation for students to explore, develop, and effectively tackle a spectrum of challenges.
The curriculum unfolds with a deep dive into coding fundamentals, emphasizing decision-making processes and instilling skills to recognize and rectify errors through the art of debugging. As the course progresses, students are currently engrossed in showcasing their creative prowess, tasked with designing their own programs. This process encourages them to either expand upon previous projects or embark on entirely new endeavors, fostering an environment where innovation thrives. Mr. McKenzie's Computer Science Essentials course is not just about coding; it's a dynamic exploration that cultivates problem-solving skills, creative expression, and a profound understanding of computational principles, laying a robust foundation for the tech leaders of tomorrow.
In Ms. Caradonio's Geometry classes, students have begun a dynamic exploration of spatial relationships, seamlessly blending theory with hands-on applications. The academic year kicked off with an in-depth focus on the measurements and properties of line segments and angles, transforming abstract concepts into tangible realities. Harnessing the power of the distance formula, students engaged in a real-world scenario, calculating the trajectory of a baseball from the pitcher's hand to the batter and onward to the shortstop, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
The journey continued with an exploration of basic reasoning, employing both inductive and deductive forms, laying the groundwork for the exciting world of proofs. Now in Unit 2, the class is navigating the intricacies of Parallel and Perpendicular Lines, unraveling the mysteries of angles and their relationships when intersected by parallel lines and a transversal. Applying this newfound knowledge, students have explored the world of construction, scrutinizing the alignment of vertical boards in gate-building projects. Ms. Caradonio's Geometry classes are not just mastering geometric principles; they are architects of their own understanding, building connections between theoretical concepts and the tangible world around them.
In Ms. Caradonio's Algebra 2 classes, students have embarked on a fascinating journey through the complex landscapes of functions, unraveling the rich tapestry of mathematical modeling. The academic year commenced with a comprehensive review of key features within the realm of linear, quadratic, absolute value, and piecewise-defined functions. Armed with this understanding, students seamlessly transitioned to interpreting and comprehending graphs representing real-world scenarios, injecting a practical dimension into their mathematical toolkit. For instance, tackling a piecewise-defined function within the context of real-world data empowered students to discern the intricate relationship between hours worked and corresponding pay rates.
Venturing into the second unit, the focus intensified on Quadratic Functions, unlocking a realm where the predictable cadence of linear functions gives way to the dynamic and unpredictable trajectories of quadratics. Students are now poised to explore the far-reaching applications of quadratic functions, from modeling the trajectory of a rocket to the graceful arcs traced by a thrown baseball or kicked soccer ball. Ms. Caradonio's Algebra 2 classes are not just mastering equations; they are architects of mathematical narratives, revealing the profound connections between abstract concepts and the tangible world they inhabit.
History
Mr. De Benedetto’s World History, Geography, and Cultures classes completed two units in the first marking quarter: “Africa and Pre Columbian America” and “Exploration, Distraction, and Disruption. They began a third, “Enlightenment, Revolution, and Nationalism.” In dealing with these units, students have created visualizations for vocabulary words, analyzed primary and secondary documents, gathered and corroborated textual evidence, constructed information and comparison charts, examined and created maps with legends, created multimedia presentations and made value judgements based on the synthesis of sources.
In their comprehensive historical exploration, students engage in a multifaceted analysis of pre-Columbian American civilizations, meticulously mapping the extent of these societies. They delve into the intricate adaptations made by these civilizations to their environments, scrutinizing relationships with neighboring peoples, encompassing elements of warfare, tribute, and trade. Simultaneously, they navigate the complex interplay between religious beliefs and political power, unraveling the cultural tapestry woven in the pre-Columbian Americas.
Shifting their focus to Africa, students meticulously locate the Songhai and East African states, unraveling the cultural nuances, customs, and relationships with neighboring peoples that thrived within these African civilizations. The analytical journey then leads them to draw insightful comparisons between the pre-Columbian civilizations of the Americas and those in Africa, unraveling the threads that connect and distinguish these rich historical narratives.
Expanding their purview, students analyze maps featuring trade routes and documents chronicling commercial transactions, providing a panoramic view of the interconnected world before the Age of Exploration. As they trace the motivations propelling European interest in exploration and oceanic trade, the influence of monarchies emerges as a pivotal force, shaping the course of historical events.
The exploration continues into the development of European maritime empires and mercantilism, casting a spotlight on their profound influence on colonialism and the slave trade. Individual explorers take center stage as students critically evaluate their roles, achievements, and global impacts, contributing to a nuanced understanding of the Age of Exploration.
Zooming out to a global perspective, students probe the impact of this era on trade networks worldwide, assessing the intricate power dynamics at play as European powers sought to establish dominance in both the eastern and western hemispheres. Finally, the students reflect on the far-reaching consequences of European exploration on civilizations and populations around the world, completing a comprehensive examination of a transformative era in human history.
Students in Mr. Munoz’ Diversity, Equity and Inclusion classes are working on our Mexican-Chicano Unit by studying the 1968 East LA Public School Walkouts.
Discrepancies in the education of Anglo and Mexican-American students surfaced in Los Angeles during the 1950s and 1960s. Mexican-American students experienced a 60% dropout rate from high school, and those who did graduate averaged the reading level of an 8th grade Anglo student. In some schools, teachers prohibited students from speaking Spanish, and in others, school staff recommended Mexican-American students educational curriculum meant to help students with learning disabilities. These schools funneled many Mexican American students into vocational programs and discouraged them from post-secondary studies. In response, students, teachers, parents, and activists began to organize.
The East Los Angeles Walkouts, also known as Blowouts, reflected a mass response to these discrepancies. From March 1-8, around 15,000 students walked out of their classroom in protest.
The East Los Angeles Walkouts represented a call to action for civil rights and access to education for Latino youth in the city. Even with the rejection from the Board of Education, the event remains one of the largest student protests in United States history.
Students evaluated policies that led to the Walkouts, studied first person accounts, evaluated articles from the L.A. Times, and debated the merits of the Walkouts and its ongoing effects on education in the United States.
World Language
In Senor Wooly, Our World Language students continue progressing and focusing on their reading skills in our classes. They completed one novel and began to read their second graphic novel, “ Billy y las Botas” by Juan Carlos Pinilla, in Spanish; they love the characters and the storyline. The graphic novel is an adaptation of the Billy y las Botas music video. The book is about the complicated love between Billy La Bufanda and Las Botas. Things are not going well for Billy La Bufanda. Unlike others in his house, Billy remains stuck inside, never worn, never loved. But one day, Billy embarks on an epic adventure where he finds freedom, terrible danger, and a romance that will forever be written in the stars.
In our Vista textbook, each class is making progress and learning new vocabulary and grammar to continue their journey into language acquisition. Spanish 1 is finishing the unit Hola, ¿Que tal?, Spanish 2 is working on the Family unit and Spanish 3 is completing the unit about Pasatiempos. Our AP Spanish students have been practicing their reading comprehension and cultural perspectives in our Temas textbook, as well as learning about different cultural products.
To commemorate and celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, Our Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica took students out of the classroom to explore Hispanic culture and the history of Latino identity in the USA. We explored the topics of diversity, contributions, and art across cultures as a mode of communication and expression. Artists throughout time have used art-making as a way to examine important issues and questions in their lives and the world. Students considered this as they investigated artworks on display in the galleries. We visited exhibits and participated in activities, including the unique spiral ramp and its current exhibition about personal identity.
In Spanish class, students had a memorable cultural experience as they learned more in-depth about a colorful and emotional Mexican tradition, “El Día de Los Muertos.” Our students learned that El Día de los Muertos has been acknowledged as on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. This emblematic Mexican holiday has pre-Hispanic origins, that is, prior to the colonization of Mexico.
Students were able to visit some different “virtual stations” via Google Classroom to learn about this tradition. Each station was focused on a different topic related to El Día de Muertos. There were six stations in total, and each student had to visit at least four. They got to choose which four they wanted to visit! The stations included ¿Qué es el Día de Muertos?, Las calaveras, El altar de Muertos, La Flor de Cempasúchil, and Las Mariposas Monarca. At each station, they read a short article and/or watched a video. The students completed reading and comprehension questions about the Día de Los Muertos. We will continue to learn about the Day of the Dead by learning about La Catrina, Señor Zapata, and Ojos de Díos.
Child Study Team
Step into the heartwarming world of inclusivity and shared experiences with a remarkable story from one of our own Hoboken High School students, Jordan Getz. This past summer, the junior volunteered at PALS Programs, a transformative summer camp catering to teens and adults with Down syndrome. Jordan's compassionate spirit came alive as she spent a week at the Hunter School in Princeton, NJ, acting as a devoted "pal" to Bobby, a 16-year-old with Down syndrome. Throughout the week, Jordan seamlessly integrated into Bobby's world, guiding him through daily schedules, engaging in activities, and ensuring timely meals and evening rituals. Reflecting on the experience, Jordan expressed, "It showed me that helping others can actually be fun and makes you feel good. I learned so much from my partner, Bobby. He has such a positive outlook on the world. I think I was more inspired by him than he was by me." This impactful experience has sparked Jordan's passion for volunteerism, as she plans to dedicate her upcoming winter break to PALS Programs once again. As she envisions her future, Jordan is setting higher academic standards, contemplating majors in psychology and social work, fueled by the transformative power of inclusivity. PALS Programs, appreciative of Jordan's invaluable contribution, welcomes more students from Hoboken High to join in creating enriching experiences for both campers and volunteers. Jordan's journey exemplifies the profound impact volunteerism can have on shaping minds, fostering diversity, and building lasting connections. For those interested in fostering an environment where individuals with Down syndrome can thrive, learn, and build connections, a visit to Ms. Drumgoole in the Child Study Team office awaits. To delve deeper into PALS Programs, explore their website and social media platforms, and don't miss the heartwarming end-of-year video capturing the essence of this inspiring journey.
Student Government
The 3rd Annual Hoboken High School Student Government Induction Ceremony took place on Thursday, October 19, 2023, at 7 pm in the Hoboken HS Auditorium. This prestigious event witnessed the induction of a dedicated team of officers and members who will play pivotal roles in shaping the school's student government. Led by President Alexa Bracero, the inducted officers include Vice President Kendall McDonough, Secretary Madison Walia-Peters, Treasurer Morgan Walia-Peters, and School Board Representative Jenna Sirio. The ceremony also welcomed the members of the 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th Grade Class Councils, each contributing unique perspectives and leadership. Under the guidance of advisor Christopher Munoz, the Student Government aims to foster a spirit of collaboration and empowerment. With a diverse roster of current members, the ceremony was a celebration of student leadership and commitment to the school community.