Elite Scholars Academy
Royal Knight Newsletter Clayton County Public Schools 2017-2018
From the Principal’s Pen Upcoming Events Greetings Royal Knights!
PTSA Meeting: March 8th
SAT School Day: March 7th
Intersession Break: March 12th-23rd
Spring Break: April 2nd-6th
High School GMAS EOC Testing: April 23rd-May 4th Counselor’s Corner Middle School GMAS EOG Middle School: Upcoming Events Testing: Advisement for Course Requests 2018-2019 (6-8) May 8th-May 21st Pre-Dual Enrollment Interest Meeting (March)
AP Exams: High School: Upcoming Events May 7th-May 18th College Realities/Dual Enrollment Interest Meeting (March)
Dual Enrollment DEADLINES: 8th Grade Promotion Acceptances for 9th GRADE ONLY- June 28th Ceremony: 10-12th GRADES- May 31 (Applied, taken SAT or ACT, met May 31st @ 6pm with Ms. Brown for classes)
Last Day of School: Remember, we are just a keystroke or a phone call away: June 1st Mrs. J. Lorme- [email protected] or 770.472-2823 option 1
Senior Commence- Ms. S. Brown- [email protected] or 770.472-2823 option 2 ment:
June 2nd
6th grade Year at a Glance!
2017-2018
The first semester in 6th grade has been a period of great adjustment for our newest Royal Knights! Managing six classes, learning to use lockers, while adapting to the ri- gor of ESA has kept the 6th graders very busy.
In Language Arts, the first semester have been geared towards acclimating the stu- dents to the concepts of time management, accountability, organization, and accepta- ble classroom decorum. Specifically, we have focused on sentences according to pur- pose and structure, context clues/vocabulary building, elements of literature/ figurative language, mechanics of grammar, proofreading, and connotation/ denotation. These skills concepts will continue into semester two where the primary focus will be on utilizing various test-taking strategies as we continue to cover the standards and prepare for the Georgia Milestones.
In 6th grade science, students have had the opportunity to explore astronomical con- cepts and can look forward to exploring geological concepts as well as hydrology and meteorology during the second semester. Students have also had the opportunity to improve their writing skills by engaging in critical thinking exercises as well as partici- pate in Argument-Driven Inquiry.
In Social Studies we explored the geography, history, economic systems, and govern- ments of Europe, Australia, and Canada. Next we are going to explore Latin America. The students have had the opportunity to use math and language arts in social stud-
6th grade goes to Birmingham!
In December 2017, the 6th graders em- barked on a trip to Birmingham, AL. The students enhanced their knowledge of the civil rights movement by visiting actual historical sites dedi- cated to the preservation of history from that era in connection with the novel The Watson's Go To Birmingham read in English/Language Arts class. Additionally, the 6th graders visited the McWane Science Center to gain exposure to science and mathematics concepts. Finally, students gained
exposure to life on a college campus with a visit
6th Grade Year at a Glance a at Year 6th Grade
Elite Scholars Academy, Clayton County Public Schools Public County Clayton Academy, Scholars Elite 6th graders in Action! 7TH Grade February 2018 Updates
7th Graders On The Move... We have gone on several field trips and are planning for one more in the spring after testing. In October we visited the William Breman Jewish Heritage & Holocaust Museum. We took a tour of the museum and had the opportunity to hear from the son of Holocaust survivors. GMAS In November, we attended an exciting concert by That Viola Kid, Julliard alumnus Drew Alexan- der Forde, at Spivey Hall. The concert was followed by an all-you-can-eat experience at the Tutorial Sessions : dining hall and campus tours led by some of our own ESA dual enrollment students and gradu- ates. Thursday afternoons from 3:15-4:45
Students will receive extra support in both ELA and Math
7th Grade Scholastic Success! Testing Dates: We have had students participate and place in various academic competitions thus far this year including the Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl, Geography Bee, So- ELA– Tuesday 5/8 & Thurs- cial Studies Fair, National History Day, Science Fair, Hear Our Voices Literary Competition, and Spelling Bee. Upcoming competitions include Math Team, Black History Month Quiz Bowl, African American Mathematician Essay Contest, and Science Olympiad.
Congratulations to the following students who have Email us: earned all a’s thus far this school year: [email protected] Nathaly Bautista Reshawndra.hutchins@ Ariel greenway clayton.k12.ga.us Amy pham besydone tuoyo [email protected]
[email protected] UPDATES FROM OUR TEACHERS:
During the 1st semester of 7th grade Life Science, students explored cells and heredity. During the cells unit learned that cells are S the building block of ALL life. Cells work to support the life functions of the organism (animal, plant, bacteria, fungi and protest.) C Our bodies are made up of trillions of cells and each cell is a beautiful and complex structure, as are the organisms that function according to the structure. Just as organs carry out essential functions in our bodies, the organelles in a cell work together to pro- I duce energy, manufacture proteins, and store our genetic code. Students completed a cell project (where they explored the various E organelles and the roles the organelles play in the cell), and completed a series of lab activities to enhance their understanding of N cells and heredity. In the second semester, students will explore classification and ecology through a variety of lab activities and performance based tasks, each chosen to enhance student’s understanding of the content and support 7th grade literacy and math C standards. The study of classification and ecology allows scientists to understand the natural world. Understanding how living or- E ganisms are classified will allow students to understand how living things are interconnected. Students will take a skill that they do in their daily life and apply it to the science classroom.
During the 1st semester of 7th grade World Studies, students learned all about the Middle East and began their study of Southern and Eastern Asia. Our study of each region included the geography, environmental issues, th religious groups/beliefs, types of governments and economies, and 20 century history. A highlight for the students was examining primary sources related to 9/11 and discussing the causes and effects of this day in S our nation’s history. Individual research projects for the Social Studies Fair and National History Day competi- S tion gave students an opportunity for in-depth exploration of a topic of their own choosing. Selections in- cluded the Flint Water Crisis, sustainable energy in Costa Rica, Malala Yousafzai, and even the history of McDonalds. We are now finishing up Asia and getting ready to begin our “All About Africa” unit.
The first semester of 7th grade English/Language Arts afforded students the opportunity to explore the narra- tive and argumentative writing genres. Students examined how literary elements interact in a piece of realis- tic fiction by engaging in an intensive novel study of The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton. They completed a novel portfolio that spanned a wide range of language arts standards. From there, students focused their attention on examining several non-fiction pieces. They worked to develop and refine their close reading skills by using E reading interaction logs to annotate various literary works. They demonstrated their ability to analyze the L information in a text by composing several text dependent argumentative writing pieces on various engaging A topics like space colonization and whether people should have a right to rescue services when they put them- selves at risks. As the year progresses, students will study and create informational/explanatory pieces as well as craft original narrative writings. They will also engage in a thorough review of the content presented this year in preparation for the upcoming English/Language Arts Georgia Milestones Assessment (GMAS).
During the 1st semester of 7th grade Mathematics, students explored various concepts and developed their mathemati- cal reasoning. Students began the semester building their graphing skills while practicing data and statistic skills. The students conducted surveys, which allowed them to make predictions about larger populations. Students also had an opportunity to further advance their understanding of geometry and measurements. This unit of study allowed stu- M dents to become conversant with a variety of units of measurements. Students had an opportunity to compute area, sur- A face area, volume, and circumference of a variety of geometric shapes. As a culminating activity, students created a ge- ometric city map. The map encompassed the various topics that were taught during this unit. From there, the stu- T dents began to explore probability. This unit carried over to the second semester. As the second semester continues, students will begin to study irrational numbers, exponents, and square roots. In the sixth grade, students learned how H to calculate percentages. With a solid foundation of percentages, students will begin to explore exciting extensions of percentages, such as percent of change, tax calculations and sale prices. What’s Happening in the 8th Grade
Spring Semester The 8th Grade Experience 2017-2018
Test Prep as In English Language Arts, a supplemental re- students are reviewing the source. The Explore Georgia Standards of Excel- Learning (Gizmos) lence (GSE) in regards to the software has been three writing styles, which incorporated into the include Narrative, Argumen- curriculum to provide tative, and Informative. students with hand- Students will be asked to on application with utilize all three writing styles the exponential func- for the GMAS, and break tions that they are down other authors writing We are coming to the end of learning. Soon they will for the fundamentals includ- a fantastic year. We antici- begin to utilize the Georgia ed in each writing style. Your pate a very focused and OAS platform as they pre- student has completed a productive period of stand- pare for End of Course Mock GMAS in ardized testing in which our Testing. Mr. Smith will be Ms. Montrella’ s classroom
student will reap the bene- available for Saturday school in order to gauge under- fits of their hard work for the last sessions that will throughout the year. Follow- be held this semester. ing those efforts, it will be (EOC: Tuesday, May1; Make- time to celebrate the ac- Up: Wednesday, May 2) complishments of our 8th Grade Scholars. We have begun a tradition of ending In Physical Science, students the school year with a pro- have completed the material gram of well-structured, yet in regards to Physics and engaging activities to cele- have moved on to Chemis- brate the end of our stu- try! Chemistry is deeply dents’ middle school years.
rooted and linked to Mathe- We want to share some standing; students have matics and requires students general information with been given feedback, made to think with a new frame of you regarding upcoming improvements based on the mind that they may not be events and activities. feedback, and reassessed used to. Many students find their testing strategies. Chemistry challenging and in (EOG: Tuesday, May 8 and order to continue growth of In Algebra 1, students are Thursday, May 10; Make-Up: Chemistry fundamentals, working diligently towards Wednesday, May 16) students should attend Mr. completing their unit on Hoang’s tutorial on Thursday analyzing and interpreting afternoons (3:30-4:30) for exponential func- Dr. Edwards is preparing further instruction and clari- tions. Students are currently your student for the Social fication. (EOC: Thursday, using the Pearson Studies GMAS as she ad- May 3; Make-Up: Friday, dresses the standards for Textbook as a core resource May 4) Reconstruction after the in their learning and U.S.A.
Civil War, World War I, and
Eighth Grade Newsletter Grade Eighth Elite Scholars Academy, Clayton County Schools County Clayton Academy, Scholars Elite Are You Ready for GMAS? As the 8th grade teachers begin to ramp up preparations for the GMAS, we want to share some great infor- mation and tools with students, par- ents, and friends. All are welcome to use these tips as we help student to be confident and prepared for the GMAS test in the April and May. After school Tutorial: All teachers will be doing tutorial sessions at vari- ous times. 8th grade teachers are available on the following days: (Any changes will be announced during first period and shared through home- room) Social Studies (Dr. Ed- Tuesdays: English Language wards) March Madness: 8th grade teach- Arts (Ms. Montrella) ers will be holding review ses- Wednesdays: Coordinate sions Monday, Tuesday, and Saturday School: All 8th grade Algebra: (Mr. Smith) Wednesday during the first week teachers will be holding Saturday of intercession break. For those school sessions to review various th Thursdays: Physical Science: students who cannot attend, 8 standards and domains. (Mr. Hoang) & grade teachers will also hold one
8th Grade Travels
The Eighth Grade team has taken a few trips first semester, lets take a look back at some exciting experiences.
pared him for his studies at UGA. Students were also, greeted by an teered to serve as tour guides. These assistant to the President of the students led by our own former ESA University. It was a very unique Student Government President and opportunity. Students were proud 2016 Valedictorian, Amishaddai Grand 8th grade students began their year with to see a fellow Knight living the Jean. This is the first year that stu- tour notorious North Georgia Mountains creed. dents were able to tour a dorm as well Field Trip. Sixty Five students answered as academic buildings. Students were the call of the mountains. able to get an honest perspective from Our second adventure took us to The trip began with an enlightening tour Clayton State. Students enjoyed of the University of Georgia campus. the mystical dramatic presentation Our tour began at the symbolic UGA of the stageplay “Mr. E of Imagina- arch, where students were greeted by tion.” The play is an adaptation three UGA honor students who volun- Grand Jean about how well Elite pre- and compilation of three of chilling
Page 7 Eighth Grade Newsletter More Trips to Come We are not finish with our adventures. The reconfigured testing schedule has limited our time. However, we are hoping to squeeze in at least two more trips. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available.
Our last overnight excursion will morial Center. We are hopeful the footstep of history, crossing take us on path of scientific dis- that we can also include a walk in the Edmund Pettis Bridge in Sel- covery and social awareness in ma. This trip aligns with social Alabama. We are planning a studies and physical science two day trip which will include standards. the McWane Science Center, We hope to round up the year Birmingham Civil Rights Insti- with a last fun outing to Pin tute, Kelley Ingram Park, The Strikes, as part of our 8th grade Rosa Park Museum & Children’s Wing, and the Civil Rights Me-
8th Grade Appreciation
Each year 8th grade teachers begin the year by explaining our grade level activity motto, “To whom much is given, much is required.” We realize that our 8th grade stu- dents face many challenges head on during this particular year of their school career. They take several standardized tests (PSAT, Acuplacer, GMAS EOCT’s, and GMAS EOGT’s). We plan ahead for 8th grade appreciation week to celebrate their efforts and their successes.
Page 8 Exciting Events
Dates and times are subject to change. If you have any questions, please contact us! Parental assistance and participation is essential to implementing these activities for our students. Thank you for all of your support in making this a great academic
The Eighth Grade Dance will be held Saturday, May 19th (7:00pm-10:00pm). Food will be served. This dance is semiformal (Sunday best or better). Ladies are asked to wear dresses of appropriate length and style. Gentlemen should wear suits or dress pants with shirt and tie. Food will be served. Only 8th grade Elite Scholars Students will be allowed to attend the dance. Pictures will be taken beginning at 6:30 p.m. A profes- sional photographer will be on hand to take candid pho- tos, portraits, and a group picture.
Tuesday/Wednesday, May 22-23 Ala- bama Field Trip (Details will be an- nounced as soon as they are available.)
On May 24th, students will spend a day at Pin Strikes in Stockbridge from 10am -1 pm. On this trip, students will have access to laser tag, video games, and unlimited bowling. Lunch at the bowling will consist of pizza and soda. Students may want to bring money for additional video game play and snacks. We will return to the school in time for students to take their regular transportation home. Students will wear an Elite Scholars T-shirt for identification.
In celebration of the culmination of middle school, a Fun Day will be held on Friday, May 25th. This day will to allow the students to enjoy a last day of fun, fellowship, and relaxation. The eighth graders will also have an Eighth 8th Grade T-shirt to commemorate their class. The shirt is included in the cost of partici- pation in 8th Grade Appreciation Activities. Parents and family members may purchase a shirt as well for $10. Please send the money and size for additional shirts to Dr. Edwards no later than April 4th.
The Promotion Ceremony will be held May 31st at 6:00 pm at the Clayton County Performing Arts Center. At this ceremony, 8th grade students will be recognized for completion of middle school and academic achievements. All students, parents, fam- ily members, and friends are welcome to attend this event. All students will receive will be recognized and are asked to partic- ipate. Ladies are asked to wear black, white, or black and white dresses or blouse and skirt set of appropriate length. Ladies must wear a sweater or jacket covering their shoulders if their dress is strapless or spaghetti strapped. Gentlemen are asked to wear black dress pants and white shirts with a dark tie. Athletic shoes may not be worn. Any student who is inap- New Faces at Elite!
2017-2018 Welcomes Two New Teachers to the 9th Grade Team
versity in Health, Physi- AP Biology at Hapeville cal Education and Rec- Charter Career Acade- reation: Coaching Per- my. In addition to formance. I have previ- teaching, I enjoy sing- ously taught in Virginia ing, traveling and crafts and elsewhere in Geor- in my spare time. I gia. In addition to have worked with and teaching I also coach. I mentored teens and have coached baseball young adults for over Mr. Wyman Hello, my (eight years), football ten years. I have two name is Dave Wyman, (five years), and bas- older sisters and a and this is my fourth- ketball (five years). This younger brother. I had
year teaching. I am year I will be assisting the unique pleasure of
originally from Nash- with the track team as growing up with two ville, MI, and I am a they compete in this families, and I come HUGE Michigan fan upcoming season. from a large family of (Go Blue!). I earned a bachelor’s degree from Mrs. Smith: In 2017- Bob Jones University in 2018, I started my fourth year as a li- Secondary Education: Social Studies and a censed teacher. Prior to graduate degree from Elite Scholars Academy, I taught 10th grade Western Michigan Uni- Biology and 12th grade
Parental Support Parents, below is a consoli- Email teachers directly 9th grade teachers have dated list of ways that you with questions or con- Edmodo pages on which can be proactive and stay cerns. assignments and updates updated on your student’s are posted regularly. Stu- Check your email often: progress: dents and parents both many of the 9th Grade have access to those pages Check the online Grade Team Members send through their own Edmodo Book in Infinite Campus. out helpful homework accounts. Please email These are updated hints and updates fre- your teachers if you would weekly. Mrs. Williams quently. like this code for their in the front office can class. provide you with the log Check teacher websites -in information if you no that are linked to our Ensure that you receive a longer have it available. school website.
Ninth Grade Newsletter Grade Ninth progress report from your
Elite Scholars Academy, Clayton County Schools County Clayton Academy, Scholars Elite Edmodo: Most of the student every 4.5 weeks. If you don’t receive one from Upcoming Field Trips
The Ninth Grade team has several field trips in the works for second semester, although some of the dates are still tentative. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available.
Dudeja: Books for Africa ~ May 15th Volunteer Trip Dave & Busters - End of Year End of year celebration trip Smith: Six Flags Over Georgia— Math and Science Day LeBoeuf: Event Clayton State University ~ May Campus Tour—March 30th Fahrenheit 451 Movie Trip Date TBD—(No movie release date yet)
Tutorial Opportunities
The 9th Grade Team are offer- ing some special tutorial dates and opportunities. Mr. LeBoeuf and Mrs. Smith will be offer multiple Saturday tutorial op- portunities while Dudeja will be sending out invitations to simi- lar sessions that he will host over the intersession break. The focus of these sessions will be to help students prepare for their upcoming GMAS tests. April 21st—ELA be taking that exam. The Saturday Tutorial Dates: April 28th—Bio & ELA most test will be held on Sat- February 24th—Bio & ELA AP Human Geography: Mr. March 3rd—Bio & ELA Wyman will be hosting a mock AP Human Geography March 10th—ELA Exam for students who will April 14th—ELA
Page 11 Testing Calendar As we progress through the sec- ond semester, we are quickly approaching the GMAS and AP test and does not com- testing dates. On the opposite pletely end until May 18th with the AP Human Geography Exam. side of this page you will find a list of important tutorial dates. April 23rd & 24th:9th Lit and Comp Below you will find some infor- mation about an upcoming SAT April 30th: Biology Preparation Tutorial Course. The most relevant testing dates for your 9th grader are listed on the right. Testing for 9th grade be- gins on April 23rd with the Lit- erature and Composition GMAS
SAT Preparation Course
As a former private SAT and one of the premiere test prep The program will be work ACT tutor, Mr. LeBoeuf will be resources : the Princeton Re- intensive and will require hosting a no-cost tutorial pro- view. students to put in 2—3 gram designed to help prepare hours of practice outside students for achieving success of the Friday tutorials on the SAT. The course will be themselves. There will also designed to build towards the be several mock test ses- June 2nd SAT Test date. The sions included in the pro- registration deadline for this gram to help students be- test is May 3rd (Late Registra- come more familiar with tion deadline is May 23rd). the rigors of the test. In There will be a 7 week program order to receive the that will begin on Friday, April testing materials students 13th. Tutorials will be held on will need to sign up with Fridays from 3:15—4: 30. Stu- Mr. LeBoeuf prior to dents will be provided with SAT March 30th. test preparation materials from
Page 12 Gallery of Student Work
Below are just a few examples of some of the students’ outstanding work from the first semester. These include a wide range of projects, designs, and overall hard Clayton County Public Schools 10th Grade
Sophomore Class News
The Class of 2020 has been hard at work all year. They have been challenged in their AP 10th Grade Teacher classes (Mr. Awoyemi’s AP Environmental Science and Mrs. Brakebill’s AP Government Contact Information and Politics: United States), honors classes (Dr. Kandala’s Algebra II and Mr. Gregory’s
World Literature and Composition), language classes, and elective classes. Everyone Elizabeth Brakebill (Social Studies) was excited to visit the new school building in September and finally move into to our new school home in October. Students have been hard at work producing beautiful [email protected] and unique artwork for our new building (some of which is featured in this newsletter).
Venket Kandala (Mathematics)
Eric Gregory (ELA)
Olamipo Awoyemi (Science)
Important Dates!!!
GMAS EOC Testing: AP Testing:
April 23 - May 3 May 10:
Note: No 10th grade core AP US Government (AM) classes are tested with the AND GMAS EOC Assessment AP Environmental Science
(PM)
Page 15
Mr. Awoyemi’s Science News In AP Environmental Science, web, and What Causes a features of the skin and its the students learned about Population Explosion. accessory structures. the cycling of matter, biodi- In Human Anatomy & Physi- versity, and human popula- ology, we learned about the tions. They completed a few In Forensic Science, we prac- organization of the body, the project including one on the ticed documenting crime integumentary, skeletal, and Periodic Table of Elements, scenes using drawing and muscular systems. We also the Biogeochemical Cycles, photography. We also prac- conducted lab investigations Endangered Species, Invasive ticed using deductive reason- such as: The Mystery of the Species, and different Coun- ing, using a microscope, col- Missing Bones (in which stu- tries of the World. Some of lecting and examining hair dents identified a missing the lab investigations in- samples, fingerprinting tech- person using forensic tech- clude: the Tragedy of the niques, Tools and Tool marks niques), and investigation Commons, Designing a Food
Dr. Kandala’s Math News In Algebra II, awesome stu- math, as peer collaboration world community and in-
dents are doing great things and shared their information spired them a lot. Some oth- in my class. by presenting their work for er great things will happen the class. My students have done cou- ple of projects like Birthday This month they are doing a Polynomial and What’s your contest which was not ever identity to know how to im- done before in math by par- plement classroom content ticipating Black History to real word situations. They Month contest of writing an did also Elite Math Hunt, essay on a Mathematician before the academic year which is first ever in Elite for who contributed to the
Mrs. Brakebill’s News In AP US Government and throughout the fall semester. due process they are owed Politics, students have been Students also enjoyed a few by the government. learning all about the inner full class discussions over In March, the Class of 2020 workings of the federal gov- controversial government will visit the State Capitol ernment and gaining tools topics such as interest Building and go on a college that they can use to analyze groups and the electoral col- tour of Georgia State and and discuss current affairs. lege. In the spring semester, Georgia Tech. We look for- All students completed a students will be learning ward to taking our learning National History Day Project about their civil rights and outside of the building be- that they worked on liberties as well as about the fore we return in April to prepare for our AP exams Elite Scholars Academy Home of the Royal Knights 11th & 12th Grade News
DATES TO REMEMBER
PROM: : May 12th, 2018 Merle Man- Social Studies Department – National History Day ders Students completed HD High School Win- ners at Clayton Coun- Conference Center projects during the ty Fair fall semester for Na- Baccalaureate tional History Day. Docas Gadri – Best in Fair Several projects Website Southlake Confer- ence Center were submitted for David Utomwen – 2nd participation in the Place Website May 20, 2018 NHD Clayton Coun- ty Fair in February. Esther Nduwimana & Jo- ALL of the projects hanna Garcia – Honorable Mention Website submitted by Elite STAR STUDENT & STAR Scholars advanced to Lois Teye-Botchway – 3rd TEACHER 2018 Place Documentary the Regional Fair in Senior Rodney Guil- March! We antici- Kyla Guillaume – Best in laume was named STAR pate projects moving Fair Exhibition Student for Elite Schol- on from there to the ars Academy. His STAR State Fair in April. Halimah Hysaw – Teach is his social stud- 1st Place Exhibition ies teacher, Mr. C. Jack Smith. Rodney was also named the Clayton Daughters of the American Revolution Essay Contest Winner County STAR Student and will attend the Re- gional Star Student cere- mony in March. He is the first Elite Scholars student to receive this recognition and it is an outstanding accomplish- ment. He has also been Page 17
FEATURED STUDENT
My name is Halimah Hysaw I am an 11th grade student attending Elite Scholars Academy. I was born and raised in Atlanta,
Georgia. I was born Muslim into 2nd generation African American Muslim family. For most of my educa- tional career, I was homeschooled. I was blessed with the opportunity to spend four and a half years living aboard in the Middle East. While abroad, I studied the Arabic language, Quran, and religious studies. I was able to travel to numer- ous countries and learn a great deal about Middle Eastern culture. One of the most re- warding benefits of my travel was the strong bond of sisterhood and friendship I developed from the friends I encountered from all over the world. I was shocked to learn that I would not be able to fully participate
JROTC due to my reli- gious attire, my headscarf. I stood up for my right of religious freedom , wrote a letter to the head of JROTC. The letter was then sent to the Pentagon and many months later, I received a letter of approval and final- ly my esteemed JROTC uniform. I was one of the first Muslim girls to have the ability to wear the headscarf and wear the uni- form of the JROTC Air Force. As an American, I believed that my rights would be protected. This struggle provoked a desire to pursue a career in law. I am ambitious, diligent, responsible, leading, out-going, and intelligent. During these turbulent times,
I strive to overcome prejudice of Muslim and work hard to show value that Muslim women can contribute to society. I hope to be a beacon of light for others!
THE ACADEMIC TEAM 2018
Black History Quiz Bowl competition on February 24.
The Elite Scholars Academy Academic Quiz Bowl Team competed in two tournaments during the fall semester at Mary Persons High School and Brookwood High School. Two teams competed in the novice and varsity divisions. For the first time in school history, a team was invited to compete on the television show High Q on WSB-TV. The High Q team consisted of Rodney Guillaume (Captain), Jessica Davis, Kyle James, and Christopher Taylor. The high school students are also helping prepare middle school students that are participating in the Clayton County Black History Quiz Bowl. Page 18 AP LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION 1st Semester Summary We began first semester with a review of summer reading: The Jungle by Upton Sinclair & the American Dream—Life-Liberty-and The Pursuit of Happiness as a set of ideals that stemmed from The Declaration of Independence. Discussions & writing focused on: suc- cess, upward social mobility, laws for families and children; barriers to ability or achieve- ment. Rhetoric was key to analysis. We read Lorraine Hansberry’s, A Raisin in the Sun. We reviewed the American Literature timeline and discussed the various genres that sur- faced with the change of times. We focused on the GMAS rubrics. We analyzed what figurative language: Irony/Inference/History/ Human Condition/Experiences/ Ethos/ Lib- erty /Equality/Attainment/Opportunity/ & Dream-Hope/ Class/ rich/poor are a few ele- ments in our reading we analyzed. Writing was focused on the Narrative and the research paper (Synthesis Paper) and Argumentative are skills students will use to be college ready. Students walked through developing a thesis, finding supportive sources, and using inter- nal documentation, note-taking and creating a works cited page MLA style. Topics cen- tered on the American Dream, Equal Opportunity, aspects of the Declaration of Independ- ence. We read and analyzed a series of prose that reinforced the same topics: Letter from Birmingham Jail and I Have a Dream MLK- Civil Disobedience /Self Reliance; Allegory of A Cave and The Morals of A Prince. 11th grade is not complete without an analysis of Artwork: As a basis Hester Prynne and Reverend Dimsdale’s ethics in the Scarlet Letter. We ended the semes- for writing: Students ter viewing The Kite Runner—again analyzing an outsider’s (immigrant) life in America. Students watched world news wrote commentaries on their viewing. Students found a analyzed artwork to world view article a month and report findings to the class. We focused on vocabulary words Students completed an AP exam and several GMAS Practice tests. Second semes- hone skills when ter’s focus is on preparing for the GMAS and AP Exams and continued reading of novels and various short stories and essays, and finally poetry analysis. making inferences and supporting with
details—
AP LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION 1ST Semester Summary Over the summer students engaged in reading The Picture of Dorian Gray. The depth of the novel helped to establish a sense of historical perspective as it relates to 19th Century America. Students had to interpret literature addressing structure, style, and themes as well as the author’s use of figurative language, imagery, symbolism, and tone. Students actually created music that reflected the tone and imagery of the text and had to explain that to the class. Topics for writing and discussion included Beauty/ The Aging Process/ Characters who are dynamic; self-preservation. Our Fish- bowl activity discussion and analysis surrounded a couple of handouts: Where are you going and where are you coming from by J.C. Oates and Hills like White Elephants by E. Hemmingway. Students responded to questions –questions and responses were center to their fishbowl discussion. We moved quickly into the reading of Beowulf; Gardner’s Grendel; and Gawain the Green Knight and Canterbury Tales. Students demonstrated writing arguments, expository, and analysis through poetry. Students developed the ability to use a variety of sentence structures, organize logically, and develop effective rhetoric through appropriate use of tone, voice, diction, and sentence structure. We spent time analyzing po- ems and discussing elements such as meter, rhyme, syllabic measure, rhyme scheme. Students demonstrated under- standing of informal (MWDS) and more formal writing with documentation and work cited page. Through poetry stu- dents evaluated social and historical values reflected in their choice poem and its author. We ended the semester with students speaking and listening to classmate’s Power point/Prezi presentation of specific information on poem, poet, and research. Second semester focus is on the AP Exam and drama: Shakespeare/Ibsen/Miller and several short story analysis with an emphasis on: characterization, plot, point of view, setting and symbolism. ESA MOCK TRIAL TEAM GOES TO HARVARD Page 19 The Mock Trial Team’s season began in October, however, we got a real surprise from Dr. Shaw, when she said she would find us funding to take members of our team to the Harvard Mock Trial Seminar in November. A group of about eight students attended the seminar for a week end at Harvard University. Students learned the tricks and trade of Mock Trial from real Harvard Law students. Witnesses performed and lawyers gave opening and closing statements. Students were assigned a case that they ESA MOCK prepared for ahead of time, however law students gave critical points on TRIAL TEAM what to do and not to do. The ESA Mock Trial team was awesome! Criti- cal reviews of the ESA Mock Trial Team were glowing! GOES TO HARVARD Elijah Davis Jessica Davis Halimah Hysaw Rolando
Morales
Headline Story Inside Fatime Naine Esohe Omoruyi Jessica Riad Nia Weeks Coach: Sandra Hansen
MOCK TRIAL 2018-CRIMINAL CASE
This year the Georgia High School Mock Trial Association assigned a criminal case to defend and / or prosecute, so we were all pretty excited about that. This year’s case was also exciting because it is based on the T.K. Harty murder case in Athens, Georgia from 1977. A number of facts from the T.K. Harty murder found their way in this season’s problem including the bar wars that led to hostile argu- ments and finally a murder. Despite the weather keeping the team from getting together to practice our various roles, our stellar team of attorneys and witnesses worked heartily to unpack the case de- tails and find a theme and voice for our case: Bad Blood led to Spilled Blood. The team had a produc- tive lock-in where they worked together, along with several real-life attorneys to carve and assemble witness perspectives –develop opening and closing statements and hone questions. January 26th and 27th was the (Jonesboro) Regions competition…Elite Scholars Mock Trial Team advanced to the Championship Round where we came in Second. That Second Place win led us to compete in the District Competition in February. Overall it has been a good season. Kudos to Esohe Omoruyi, Jessi- ca Davis, Dalena Purnell, Talib Williams, Daaiyah Wright, Fatime Naine, Jessica Riad, Jessica Wal- ton, Elijah Davis, Tiffany Pham, Ana Morales, Rolando Morales, Nia Weeks, Halimah Hysaw… What a great team!! Page 20
MOCK TRIAL 2018 CONTINUED BEST ATTORNEY AWARDS: IN REGION COMPETITION:
ESOHE OMORUYI
and JESSICA DAVIS
BEST WITNESS
AWARD:
Ana Morales
BEST ATTORNEY
AWARDS: IN
DISTRICT
Senior Class 5K Fun Run and 1 Mile Walk COMPETITION:
ESOHE OMORUYI
and JESSICA DAVIS
BEST WITNESS
AWARD:
TIFFANY PHAM
Florida State University College Visit 2017
MATH TEAM
Mr. Zabeehuddin Mohammed AP Statistics and Calculus Teacher ELITE SCHOLARS
ACADEMY 11th & 12th
GRADE CHRONICLES 2018 My Math Club will have their County Wide Math Competition on March 10th, 2018.
Seniors are looking forward to: The Six Flags Over Georgia Field Trip, Friday, May 11 where they will Ms. Shameen Fatima participate in Math and Science Day.
Students will perform ex- periments and calculations to answer assigned work- book questions. Participate in hands-on educational activities coordinated by: NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, National So- ciety of Black Engineers, Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Smith- sonian National Air & Space Museum-STEM in 30, Chesapeake Bay Foun- dation and the U.S. Air Force! 11th Grade: Class of 2019 News First Semester Happenings & Highlights
The first semester of the 2017-2018 was a positive and productive one for the class of 2019! We participated in community service activities and had a little fun, too! Our first field trip was to Shakespeare’s Tavern to see a live version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Students enjoyed seeing a play they’d read in class come to life on stage. On November 13th and 14th students packed boxes of food for families to be distributed by Clayton County Public Schools for Thanksgiving. In December, students donated money, toys and clothes to a family who lives in our community. After serving our community we stepped out to have some fun as well! On Sunday, December 17, we attended the Georgia Tech vs. Florida A & M basketball game. We were allowed to sit right behind the court in the Tech Student Section!! Then on Tuesday, December 19th we traveled to Dave and Buster’s to celebrate the end of a successful first semester!
First semester was a busy one, and second semester looks to be just as exciting! On March 7th we will partici- pate with other Juniors across the district and take the SAT during the school day. As we close out Junior year, we will tour several college campuses (Auburn University, Florida State and Valdosta State to name a few)! We also hope to participate in additional community service activities.
Upcoming Events: March 7 SAT School Day
March 12 (Class) Ring Ceremony (7 p.m. @ Performing Arts Center)
March 30 Auburn University College Tour
April 23, 24 & 26 End of Course Exams (American Literature & US History) May 19 Junior/Senior Prom
November Community Service Project “Adopt-A-Family” December Community Service Project
Dave & Buster’s End of the Semester Celebration 12/19/17 Georgia Tech vs. FAMU Basketball Game 12/17/17 ¡BIENVENIDO! BIENVENUE! GRATISUMUM! HUa NYí NG! WELCOME!
ESA Welcomes Two New Faces To World Languages
Although Mrs. Pierre is not new to ESA, she is a welcomed addition to our World Language Department. “This year, as well as being the DES teacher, she also, has the privilege of working as the French teacher for Middle and High School. As a Middle School French teacher, Mrs. Pierre teaches basic Mrs. Chiang joined our department this year as our fulltime Chinese
teacher. She previously taught at
Lyndon Academy in Woodstock,
Georgia for five years. She a native of Taiwan. Shewas chosen as the 2015 Teacher of the Year from Georgia Chinese Language Educa- tors Association.
“If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.” ~Nelson Mandela~ Why Study a World Language? As language teachers, we are often confronted with the age-old question, “Why do I need to study a foreign language?” Below are the top five reasons for studying a foreign language, according to the National Education Association:
1. Studying a foreign language improves your English skills. It’s true! When you learn a new language, you reinforce the basics-grammar, sentence structure, and punctuation. Even though they might not be exactly the same in both languages, foreign language students be- come more aware of their English writing skills.
2. Bilingual students are better multitaskers! Switching back and forth between languages strengthens your ability to perform simultaneous tasks. A highly sought after skill in many careers.
3. Speaking of careers…knowing a second (or third) language increases your chances of getting a job. In today’s economy, employers are looking for candidates who stand apart from the crowd. That includes people with unique skills, such as speaking a foreign language.
4. Studying a foreign language in high school may help you get into college. College admissions criteria has become more competitive over the past ten years. Did you know that the average state college student studied three years of foreign language in high school? Studying a third or fourth year of Spanish, French, or Mandarin may have a direct impact on the number of
World Language World college acceptances you receive. - World Languages Contacts Chinese ~ Mrs. Chiang ~ [email protected]
French ~ Mrs. Pierre ~ [email protected]
Latin ~ Mr. Jordan ~ [email protected]
Spanish 2, 3, AP~ Mr. Swindle ~ [email protected] ESA Elite Scholars Academy, Clayton County Schools County Clayton Academy, Scholars Elite Spanish 1, 6th & 7th ~ Mrs. Dinsmoor ~ [email protected] Chinese Chinese classes celebrates Chinese New Year, the year of the Dog!
Feb. 16th Friday is the Chinese New Year, the year of the Dog. In Mrs. Chiang's class, students received the traditional Chinese red envelopes
as good luck, created Chinese paper cutting ( 春） and sung a Chinese New Year song ' Gong Xi'! They even tried out some Chinese silk fash- ion! Happy Chinese New Year, everyone !
French French students have the opportunity to practice listening, speaking, reading and writing in order to expand their understanding in French. They are also learning to appreciate the French culture through hands on experiences. For Thanksgiving, French 2 and 3 students savored some French dishes and deserts during the “Action de Grace Feast. During this semester, we plan to perform in ESA’s first World Languages Night and will hopeful- ly take a trip to a French Restaurant.
Latin Latin students at Elite are learning about the culture in the life of the Roman city of Pompeii. Through video and book instruction, students are learning about the customs of Roman daily life and forms of entertainment such as: trips to the theater to see Roman comedies and pantomime; the amphiteater where gladiatorial combats were held; the afternoon ritual of going to the "baths", the saunas and sport complexes of Roman times. As students finish the Cambridge Latin Course book 1, they will learn about how Romans conducted local elections in the imperial age, as they act out an election time that takes place in the forum of Pompeii. Little do the residents know, however, that their time is running out...
Spanish Connections students in 6th and 7th grades The goal for this year with High School Spanish students has been an increased are learning Spanish through songs, dia- emphasis on speaking in the target lan- logues, reading, and writing on various top- guage. During Fall semester, AP Span- ics. Technology is integrated daily into the ish, Spanish for Native Speakers, Spanish lessons, making learning Spanish interactive 3, and some exceptional students from and fun. Spanish 2 participated in an escape room as a field trip. On this trip, the students Spanish 1 students are currently working on could only speak in Spanish as they the “En la Ciudad” unit in which they are communicated strategies to one another learning how to navigate through the City to successfully escape the room. In ad- dition, students performed over 72 hours of Mexico. Students learn the culture of worth of Flipgrid spoken activity record- Mexico, while working on interpersonal, ings. interpretive, and presentational modes of communication in Spanish.
Page 24
Chinese New Year, the year of the Dog!
ESA World Languages students have caught the FLIPGRID FEVER! FlipGrid is a technology tool that helps students develop voice in order to com- municate verbally what they have learned in the target language. Teachers pose a question based on topics learned in the World Languages classrooms and stu- dents respond to the topics in the target language.
Students celebrate the Hispanic culture during ESA’s annual Hispanic Heritage Month program. Hispanic Her- itage is observed from September 15th through Octo- ber 15th.
Page 25 Fine Arts Middle School Art: Elite Scholars Art is Popin’! We are studying the influence of Pop art with Andy Warhol in high school and in seventh grade art classes. Students completed their art history project “Pop Art Hands” They learned how to take notes from history videos and incorporate their new knowledge into their constructive response questions about Andy Warhol and the influence of popular culture in art. Please stop by the main hall in front of the art rooms and high school counselors office to check it out! Middle school and high school Pop Art and Op Art is showcased this month!
Music News: February 2018 Music students and their conductor were especially excited for our move to the new building! We have lockers for storage, a great sound system, and a practice room where groups of students can rehearse.
In early November, band students traveled to Spivey Hall to hear a performance of the Young Harris College Band. Director Dr. Mary Land showed us what a college band can sound like and how students can form small ensembles from within the larger band group in order to have additional performance opportunities. Orchestra students were treated to an energetic performance by Drew Forde, who goes by the stage name of That Viola Kid. Mr. Forde grew up in Atlanta and is a graduate of the prestigious Juilliard School of Music. He has a gift of sharing the story of classical music with listeners of all ages.
We had fun preparing our December concert music to play for family and friends, and it is always terrific to hear the beginning band and orchestra students at their first concert! The beginning groups are making excellent progress during third quarter and their next performance will be at the spring concert. We want to thank our parents for supporting us in our musical studies and on our field trips.
The Concert Band and Concert Orchestra are currently busy preparing for Large-Group Performance Evaluation. We choose music from a select list and will perform for three judges, who will give us feedback. The band will travel to Commerce (near Athens) and the orchestra will travel to North Atlanta High School. In addition to our on-stage evaluation, we will be challenged to perform a piece of music with only six minutes of preparation. We can clap, sing, and “pretend play,” but we cannot make any sound on our instruments!
We always have room for new students! Students who wish to sign up next year, or those with questions about signing up, can send an email to Dr. Musco or visit her during homeroom time or after school. Students should also indicate their wishes as they complete sign-up sheets provided by our school counselors. Class Overview 2018 Spring Semester Preparing students for careers in film, tele- vision and graphic arts
The Digital Media program at ESA encompasses a three-year cur- riculum designed to instruct students in the planning, production, and delivery of graphic arts, film, television and advanced audio recording projects. Students have access to industry standard edit- ing and compositing software such as Adobe Premiere, Photoshop and After Effects at every desk and will have the opportunity to use professional equipment to complete assignments. Some of those projects include poster design, storyboard design, film compositing
and advanced photography.
Digital Media Production Media Digital Elite Scholars Academy, Clayton County Schools Clayton Scholars Academy, Elite Media Center Come check out what our new Media Center has to offer! Our collection has grown since moving into our new space, and includes thousands of new books. Our Non-Fiction section includes books on all topics and subjects. Our Fiction section includes a wide variety of genres including Adventure, Classics, Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Humor, Mystery, Realistic Fiction, Science Fiction, and Supernatural. Make it a priority to read at least 30 minutes everyday. Readers are Achievers.
Congratulations to our Reading Bowl team, who won the County Competition on Saturday, January 27th. They moved on to compete at the Regional Competition on February 10th at Clayton State University, and proudly represented Elite Scholars. They tied for 5th place and earned the most points in Elite’s Regional Competition history. Way to go!
From left to right: Dr. Beasley, Sokhna Seye, Amy Pham, Yetunde Olatunji, Victoria Popoola, Noah Robinson, Phillip Abraham, Sayo Romiluyi, Delaney Reese, Mrs. Moore, and Mr. James. Not pictured: Chloe Cameron, Tiffany Pham Athletics
ESA Athletic Season Fall Season
Elite Scholars Academy’s fall athletic season was a historic one . The Elite Scholars Academy JV volleyball team made it to the Clayton County Championship game for the second time in three years under the guidance of Coach Shelton.
Elite Scholars Academy has been a force to be reckoned with in the county in regards to our Vol- leyball program. In the last four years, our Volleyball has accomplished a Varsity County Champi- onship Runners-Up, two JV County Championship Runners-Up, and a Middle School County Cham- pionship.
Winter Athletic Season
Elite Scholars Academy had a number of wonderful stories during our winter athletic season.
Our varsity swim team captured their third county championship in four years. We also, had Haleem Bashir make history at Elite as the first state finalist in Swim.
Next our varsity boys basketball and girls basketball teams finished with the best winning records in school history. For the boys this charge was led by Kerry Richardson who was the first male at Elite Scholars to be named “First Team-All Region”.
Spring Athletic Season
Right now we have varsity track & field, varsity tennis, varsity soccer, middle school swim, and middle school track and field in season.
This is an exciting time for Elite Scholars Academy, especially with this being the first year that soccer has been offered as an option for our student athletes. Our soccer teams have already recorded their first wins under the leadership of Coach Sloan and Coach Leboeuf.
For the rest of our athletic teams we are looking forward to a promising start as teams are beginning to be assembled.
For More information about Athletics
For more updates concerning the exciting things that are going on with our athletic program, please visit elitescholarsathletics.com. Clubs
Beta Club
There are several things buzzing in Beta Club! Students completed their first service project of the year, Toys for Tots. The Beta Club (through the help of the Elite Scholar family) was able to exceed our goal of donating 100 toys to the Toys for Tots program by donating 151 toys! Beta members donated their time sorting and packaging toys for the program in December as well. We have several exciting events occurring this semester; our induction of 25 new members is scheduled for March 1st at 6:00pm; we will celebrate Beta Week during the week of March 5th and will begin our newest service project during the month of April.
PTSA
Next Meeting is Thursday March 8th at 6pm in the Cafeteria
See the PTSA page on the ESA website for details on how to participate in Kroger Rewards
Deadline is March 5th