THE TILLERS NEWS
T-TOWN’S NEWSLETTER, PRODUCED BY STAFF AND STUDENTS
February 19, 2021
IS VIRTUAL T-TECH POSSIBLE?
By Ed Hernandez, T-Tech Academy Director
When you have a program that is 90% hands-on, the current pandemic has the potential of having a devastating impact on T-Tech students. So, what to do? Luckily, technology has come to the (partial) rescue. Although nothing can truly replace the hands-on experience, our T-Tech students have been able to continue their CTE path using various software tools and other computer-based simulations. Take freshmen for example. instead of making actual structures by hand, students can "build" and simulate virtual bridges using WestPoint's Bridge Designer. They're also getting a head start on 3D modeling with TinkerCAD's geometry-based program. Albeit at a slower pace, 10th graders continue to improve using SolidWorks professional 3D modeling tools. Our juniors can now use Autodesk’s Circuits to design, build and simulate electronic circuits nearly identical to their physical counterparts. Lastly, the biggest lessons for 12th graders are always collaboration and time-management. As it turns out, Zoom happens to be the collaboration tool of choice for corporate America, so we’re pivoting to Zoom-based design reviews and meetings! It takes more effort to get technical ideas across virtually, but who knew it would become a vital skill?
TILLER SPOTLIGHT: DYLAN SHEA
Submitted by Erin Swanson, Tustin High Counselor
Hey Tillers ! Did you know we had a Rock Star amongst us? Dylan Shea (senior) is already an accomplished musician who was chosen from 10,000 musicians to go on tour during the summer of 2019. He played the drums with his band all through the Midwest where he even played at Lollapalooza (in Chicago). He has also played at Chargers’ games as well as the House of Blues and the Troubadour. Make sure you watch out for this rising Star! Congratulations, Dylan.
TUSTIN HIGH SCHOOL ENGLISH PILOTS LEXIA
By: Ryan Miller, Tustin High English Department Instructional Coach
The THS English department is piloting a new program called Lexia at all levels. It is specifically focused on addressing learning gaps in reading comprehension, grammar, and vocabulary. Students test, get questions at their level, and work toward grade-level proficiency and beyond. Students get to choose their focus for the day, and the program has many built-in tutoring opportunities for students to relearn challenging material. Teachers are hopeful that this program will help bring valuable learning to students at every level of proficiency. This program should be especially important for our English learners and newcomers who need extra help with academic vocabulary, reading strategies, and grammar rules. TUSD’s district-wide push to try Lexia is part of our larger goal to address the needs of this population alongside the academic demands of the high school curriculum. This program is designed to improve their competency in English and in all other subjects by improving reading comprehension and academic vocabulary. It should be instrumental in helping all of our students, especially English language learners, to meet the demands of high school and be prepared for college.
ASB Chick-Fil-A Fundraiser
Please come between 4pm and 8pm and either show your flyer (found on Instagram) or mention Tustin High School ASB to help us raise funds for the students of Tustin High School. We will see you there! Follow us on Instagram @thsasb !
Monday, Feb 22, 2021, 04:00 PM
Chick-fil-A, Jamboree Road, Irvine, CA, USA
About us
Email: THSInfo@tustin.k12.ca.us
Website: https://www.tustin.k12.ca.us/tustin-high
Location: 1171 El Camino Real, Tustin, CA 92780, USA
Phone: 714-730-7414
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TustinHighSchool/
Twitter: @TustinHS