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Volume 6 • Issue 3 www.threesixtyjournalism.org May 2016 $1

Minnesota Teens Report Stories & Issues That Matter

Thre eS ix t y

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c u SCHOOL

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n teachers and

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. officials weigh in VIOLENCE on the problem’s complex roots and debate how to keep schools TYUS n JONES safe. Page 20 The Timberwolves rookie and MN native talks life as a teenager in the NBA, Flip Saunders and more. n Page 10

ALSO INSIDE The state of transgender rights n Page 19 Marijuana use in high school n Page 23 More on school climate n Pages 22–27

ILLUSTRATION BY MINA YUAN Real Students. Real Stories.

Volume 6 • Issue 3 Journalism

Contributors in this issue: Aaron Young, St. Paul Johnson HS • Aidan Berg, Minneapolis Southwest HS • Alejandro Hernandez, Minneapolis Roosevelt HS • Annrose Jerry, Blaine HS • Bayan Algazi, St. Paul Harding HS • Daniela Garcia, Edina HS • Danielle Wong, Eastview HS • Erianna Jiles, Como Park Senior HS • Jennifer Delgado, Cristo Rey Jesuit High School • Kristy Ornelas, Coon Rapids HS • Louisa Akoto, Coon Rapids HS • Marissa Abara, Wayzata HS • Melisa Robles-Olivar, Minneapolis Southwest HS • Mina Yuan, Wayzata HS • Sebastian Alfonzo, St. Paul Central HS • Selam Berhea, Blaine HS • Shay Radhakrishnan, Math and Science Academy • Skyler Kuczaboski, St. Paul Harding Senior HS • Talia Bradley, Minneapolis South HS • Va Yang,

St. Paul Johnson Senior HS • Zekriah Chaudhry, Minneapolis South HS PHOTO STAFF Special-use photos: University of St. Thomas • Minneapolis Roosevelt Students from St. Paul Harding High School, volunteers and staff participating To read more about ThreeSixty and Minneapolis Roosevelt High School Theater • Courtney Perry • David in ThreeSixty Journalism’s College Essay Boot Camp pose for a photo in April at Journalism’s College Essay Boot Sherman/Getty Images • Cristeta Boarini • St. Paul Harding High School Harding. Students in College Essay Boot Camp, a pilot program that took place at Camp, go to page 4. To read Harding and Minneapolis Roosevelt high schools this spring, completed a college students’ essays, flip to page 15. ThreeSixty Journalism essay during a five-day period over their spring break. Mail 5057, 2115 Summit Ave. St. Paul, MN 55105 www.threesixtyjournalism.org https://www.facebook.com/threesixtyjournalism CONTENTS MAY https://twitter.com/threesixtymn 15 ThreeSixty Focus on… Tyus Jones The rookie—and one of Minnesota’s all-time great high school players—talks to two ThreeSixty journalists about his rookie season and more. n 10 The gap year Thinking about taking a year off before college? A gap year can be beneficial, experts say, but it’s Bao Vang, Chad Caruthers, Miles Trump, n 12 Engagement Coordinator Executive Director Program Manager 19 not for everyone. You’re accepted A ThreeSixty student receives a Board of Advisors: Brian Bellmont, Bellmont Partners; Mike Alumni Spotlight Sara Pelissero went from budding welcome surprise when she finds out she’s accepted Burbach, St. Paul Pioneer Press; David Cazares, Journalist; Duchesne high school journalist in the Urban Journalism Workshop to an out-of-state university. n 13 Drew, Bush Foundation; Chris Havens, Best Buy; Doug Hennes, (the former name for ThreeSixty Journalism) to University of St. Thomas; Dale Kurschner, Twin Cities Business Football and concussions Measures have been multimedia producer at KARE 11. n 5 Magazine; Scott Libin, University of Minnesota; Dennis McGrath, taken to make the sport safer and manage concussions Himle Rapp & Co.; Lida Poletz, Weber Shandwick; Sara Pelissero, Social media with a purpose Students share social better, but some medical professionals have called for KARE 11; Toni Randolph, MPR; Colleen Stoxen, Star Tribune; Amanda media wisdom with peers at ThreeSixty Journalism’s an end to the sport in schools. n 14 first-ever Youth Social Media Summit.n 6 Theisen, KSTP; Wendy Wyatt, University of St. Thomas Powerful college essays During their spring Ex oficio member: Dr. Terence Langan, Dean, College of Arts and ‘A crash course in solitude’ A ThreeSixty student breaks, students from Minneapolis Roosevelt and Sciences, University of St. Thomas details life on her own after her single parent was St. Paul Harding high schools completed ThreeSixty n 7 Copyright 2016 All Rights Reserved seriously injured in a car accident. Journalism’s College Essay Boot Camp, a pilot program Swimming forward that helped students write college essays in five days. ThreeSixty Magazine will be published three times during the 2015-16 school year. A ThreeSixty student writes n Read several of their essays on page 15. ThreeSixty Magazine design and layout by Diana Boger. about the life lessons he received through a setback— n School climate Email [email protected] with comments, letters and questions about one of several—in swimming. 8 From transgender rights to school participating in ThreeSixty. violence, from marijuana to racial divides, from school Tackling the achievement gap Generation Next, ThreeSixty Journalism is a nonprofit program of the College of Arts and Sciences plays to college aspirations, ThreeSixty students report a Minneapolis-based nonprofit led by the previous at the University of St. Thomas. Donations from individuals like you provide a and write a series of stories that help shed light on the mayor of Minneapolis, is working each day to close the n 19 significant amount of ThreeSixty’s operating budget. To contribute, please visit complex issue of school climate. education achievement gap. n 9 http://threesixtyjournalism.org/donate.

2 threesixtyjournalism.org NOTEWORTHY

About the ThreeSixty Scholar Award ThreeSixty welcomes four new board members Each year, high school seniors who are graduates of ThreeSixty programming compete for the ThreeSixty Scholar award—a SINCE DECEMBER 2015, ThreeSixty full-tuition, four-year scholarship to study communication and Journalism has welcomed four new journalism at the University of St. Thomas. Currently, there are members to the ThreeSixty Board of four ThreeSixty scholars attending St. Thomas. Advisors: Amanda Theisen, a senior producer at KSTP-TV; Toni Randolph, Amira Warren-Yearby, 2015 Scholar editor for new audiences and weekend Warren-Yearby, a freshman, has been editor at Minnesota Public Radio News; active on campus in Swing Club and Colleen Stoxen, deputy managing editor Black Empowerment Student Alliance, in at the Star Tribune; and Chris Havens, which she was voted onto the executive manager, communications at Best Buy. Chris Havens Colleen Stoxen Toni Randolph Amanda Theisen board as the Marketing and Public “Toni, Amanda, Chris and Colleen Relations Chair this spring. She also strengthen an already impressive leader- the World Series. She has worked as the my role on the board.” has focused on teaching and mentoring ship group,” said ThreeSixty Executive newsroom’s Front Page Editor, Nation/ Randolph, an award-winning jour- students, and began teaching dance to Director Chad Caruthers. World Editor, Deputy Metro Editor and nalist, has been with Minnesota Public students at St. Paul Humboldt through Twin Cities Mobile Jazz. NewsBreak video host. She is responsible Radio since 2003. Prior to her current This summer, she will take a filmmaking class at St. Thomas Chris Havens for news operations, including personnel, assignment, she was a reporter cover- and will teach social studies at Breakthough Twin Cities. Havens joined the Best Buy hiring and recruitment, and coordinates ing a variety of subjects, including Deborah Honore, 2014 Scholar Communications team in June 2014 companywide with Human Resources, homelessness and immigration. Before Honore, a sophomore, returned this after spending more than a decade in Finance and News Production. moving to Minnesota, Randolph worked semester from a January trip to Ethiopia, newsrooms, including the Star Tribune Before working at the Star Tribune, at WBUR-FM in Boston for more than where she filmed a documentary on the in Minneapolis. He has leveraged his Stoxen was a copy and layout editor at seven years. She covered Massachusetts relationship between Ethiopian churches journalism expertise to significantly the South Bend Tribune, Modesto Bee politics, airport security and the clergy and poverty in the country as part of improve Best Buy’s employee communica- and a reporter at the Grand Forks Herald. sex abuse scandal. Randolph began a college project. While she edits the tions vehicles, creating more timely and She has a journalism degree from the her public broadcasting career as news documentary this semester, Honore is in-depth stories and helping to launch a University of North Dakota and grew up director at one of her hometown public working for the University of St. Thomas new external blog targeted at consumers. in Bismarck. radio stations in Buffalo, N.Y., shortly videographer and focusing on school. Next year, she hopes His job, as a manager in Communications, “I’m delighted to have the opportunity after earning her M.S. from Columbia to study journalism and new media as part of a study abroad is a mix of coaching, planning, editing and for an up-close role with ThreeSixty,” University’s Graduate School of program in Morocco, as well as travel in January to . writing, in addition to keeping an eye on Stoxen said. “In connecting with the pro- Journalism. what’s happening in the communications gram via the Star Tribune, I’ve seen how Simeon Lancaster, 2013 Scholar field. dedicated the staff is to mentoring a new Amanda Theisen Lancaster, a junior, returned in A graduate of the University of St. generation of journalists, which we truly Theisen has been at KSTP-TV since December from Morocco, where he Thomas journalism program, Havens need. The kids are so sharp and a great 2006, producing a variety of morn- spent four months studying journalism has nearly 15 years in journalism, with burst of energy, and helping aim them ing and evening newscasts. She is also and freelancing with Round Earth roles at newspapers in Minnesota and toward a bright future in news is an honor.” involved in many of the station’s special Media. This spring, he’s worked as South Carolina. Twelve of those years projects. She produces “At Issue with a student executive and assignment were spent at the Star Tribune, where he Toni Randolph Tom Hauser,” KSTP-TV’s weekly political editor—one of the top designations— was an editor of the online home page, Randolph is a longtime supporter of show, 30-minute in-depth health specials at TommieMedia.com, the University of a reporter covering St. Paul and Ramsey ThreeSixty and its programming, and and stories for the station’s “You Solve” St. Thomas’ student-run news organization. He’s also making County government, and a copy editor/ was the 2014 recipient of the ThreeSixty series that partners with Crime Stoppers plans for more international travel. layout editor for news and sports. Before Widening the Circle Award—given annu- of Minnesota. Prior to working at KSTP, Grace Pastoor, 2012 Scholar that, he was a night general assignment ally to honor an individual who has made Theisen was a reporter/photographer/ Pastoor, a graduating senior, has reporter in Duluth, Minnesota. extraordinary contributions to the next editor at WSAW-TV in Wausau, Wis. spent the spring semester running “I’m thrilled to be working with generation of journalists, particularly “I’m really excited to be part of the TommieMedia.com as its director. ThreeSixty Journalism and the enthusi- while promoting inclusion and diversity. board for this great organization,” said She also has served as an assistant astic students who participate,” Havens “I’m excited about serving on the Theisen, a longtime supporter. “I’m so adviser to high school students on said. “Curiosity, critical thinking and ThreeSixty board,” Randolph said. “It’s impressed with the students who are part The Rubicon, the St. Paul Academy communication skills are the founda- another way that I can help students who of ThreeSixty and their level of commit- and Summit School newspaper. tion for success in any endeavor, and have an interest in journalism. The young ment to the program. Besides training Pastoor, who had a reporting internship ThreeSixty provides the perfect opportu- people who are involved with ThreeSixty future journalists and communications at the Duluth News Tribune last summer, was recently hired as nity to develop those areas.” are smart, talented and enthusiastic professionals, ThreeSixty is giving the a full-time crime and courts reporter at the Bemidji Pioneer. about their work. They have a strong students the skills necessary to become She starts at the end of May. Colleen Stoxen desire to learn, and it will be my honor critical thinkers and to make meaning- Stoxen joined the Star Tribune as a copy to continue to work with them in their ful, thoughtful contributions to their editor in 1987, when the Twins landed in classrooms and workshops and, now, in BOARD continued on page 13

May 2016 3 NOTEWORTHY College Essay Boot Camps: Powerful stories, powerful results

A refugee’s story about realizing the value “It was as impactful of two weeks as I’ve and importance of education in America. seen,” said ThreeSixty Executive Director A son’s story about the grit and determina- Chad Caruthers. “To hear our students’ stories, tion he drew from his mother’s persistence to to work one-on-one with them on writing immigrate to the . clear, concise essays, and to see the joy and A student’s story about learning to keep accomplishment on their faces when after just a cool head despite the negative stereotypes one, albeit an intensive one-week, they have a aimed at her Islamic customs. polished college essay — that will be hard In ThreeSixty Journalism’s College Essay to top.” Boot Camp, more than 30 juniors from During the program, students worked with Minneapolis Roosevelt and St. Paul Harding “writing coaches”—professional writers who high schools wrote these kinds of powerful, each volunteered more than 10 hours of their compelling personal narrative stories that they time during the week—on writing their essays. can now use in the competitive college and Students also were taught a personal narrative scholarship application process. writing curriculum, which included writing The pilot program, which ran from March 28 principles such as central idea, powerful intro- to April 1 at Minneapolis Roosevelt and from ductions, outlining, strong verbs and tone, sen- April 4 to April 8 at St. Paul Harding, is part of sory details, specifics and dialogue, and editing. ThreeSixty’s effort to enhance students’ college On the final day of camp, students traveled to PHOTO STAFF Students at Minneapolis Roosevelt High School work with volunteer professionals during ThreeSixty readiness, access and success by helping every the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, where Journalism’s College Essay Boot Camp in March at Roosevelt. student write an adaptable, polished essay to they had an opportunity to read their finished use for college and scholarship applications. essays out loud during a final celebration and The five-day workshop was comprised of learn more about St. Thomas. school year at St. Paul Harding and Johnson Raghavendran, Chris Snowbeck, Beatrice mainly College Possible and/or AVID students College Essay Boot Camp was modeled after high schools. Dupuy, Maggie LaMaack, Nancy Crotti, Jordan from both schools, and took place during both an eight-week personal narrative writing pro- A special thanks to volunteer writing Osterman, Laurie Stern and Natalie Daher, as schools’ spring breaks. gram that ThreeSixty piloted over the 2014-15 coaches Bob Franklin, Nicole Garrison, Beena well as guest speaker Teron Buford.

Brandi Powell to host Dakota Award for her Bachelor of Arts degree in Com- George Washington University, by example means embracing your Great MN Get-Together best Series/Documentary in 2007. munication Studies from the Univer- took first place in Columnist with true identity.” Award-winning KSTP-TV Anchor/ On assignment in Guatemala, she sity of Nevada, Las Vegas. her essay, “Being Muslim doesn’t Simone Cazares, a freshman at the Reporter Brandi Powell will host covered political, educational and have to mean less authenticity as an University of St. Thomas, finished ThreeSixty’s annual fundraiser on cultural exchanges between North ThreeSixty Journalists earn American teen.” third in Social Issues Story with Friday, Oct. 28, 2016 in Woulfe Dakota teachers and Guatemalans 7 MNA awards Danielle Wong, a senior at “Young people take a stand with Alumni Hall on the via The God’s Child Six graduates of ThreeSixty Eastview High School, finished Black Lives Matter.” University of St. Thomas Project. She also Journalism—including four who runner-up in Business Story with St. Paul campus. The earned a North Dakota now attend the University of St. “Keystone Youth Services: A first Youth SMS a success event is a great opportu- Associated Press Award Thomas—and one current high job that’s more than taking orders.” By Johanna Holub nity to mix and mingle for excellence in Political school student received 2014- Maya Shelton-Davies, a fresh- ThreeSixty Journalism’s first-ever with media and other Reporting in 2006. 15 College Better Newspaper man at St. Thomas, took second Youth Social Media Summit, sup- professionals while “We’re so excited to Contest awards for their work with place in Social Issues Story with ported by Youthprise and in partner- enjoying a reception, have Brandi as host for ThreeSixty during the Minnesota “Al-Shabab’s actions hit home in ship with College Possible at Harding short program and live the 2016 Get-Together,” Newspaper Association Banquet on Minnesota: Locals speak out against High School, took place on Saturday, Brandi Powell auction. Last year’s Great said ThreeSixty Jan. 28 in Bloomington. Somalia-based Islamist militant Feb. 27, 2016. Minnesota Media Get- Engagement Coordinator The seven MNA awards matches group’s attack in Kenya.” Kayla About 30 students from Harding Together attracted nearly 200 attend- Bao Vang. “She has an incredible ThreeSixty’s total for the 2013-14 Song, a freshman at the University joined 20 ThreeSixty students at the ees, with more than $55,000 raised breadth of experiences and is a great college contest and includes two of Minnesota, also earned sec- University of St. Thomas to learn for ThreeSixty. role model for ThreeSixty students.” first-place prizes, four runner-up ond-place honors in Arts and more from their peers about social Originally from Minnesota, Powell is a member of National awards and one third-place finish. Entertainment Story for “Penumbra media and how to use it wisely and Powell joined 5 Eyewitness news in Association of Black Journalists Madie Ley, a sophomore at St. Theatre: Making an artistic state- effectively for personal and pro- January 2014. During her 11 years as (NABJ) and serves on the Board of Thomas, won first place in Arts and ment with style.” Amira Warren- fessional purposes in our digital- a journalist, she’s worked in news- Directors for Twin Cities Black Jour- Entertainment Story with “Rocked Yearby, a freshman at St. Thomas focused world. rooms across the country, including nalists (TCBJ). She earned her Master and rolled: Intensity, identity keep and the 2015 ThreeSixty Scholar, The day kicked off with a lunch, in San Diego, CA; Austin, TX; and of Arts degree in Anthropology from Minnesota RollerGirls going strong.” finished second in Columnist with in which Ryan Blake of University Bismarck, ND. She earned a North George Washington University and Lujain Al-Khawi, a freshman at The “Crowning Achievement: Leading Continued on next page

4 threesixtyjournalism.org NOTEWORTHY From previous page of St. Thomas Office of Admissions spoke to students about St. Thomas and social ThreeSixty Alumni Spotlight: Sara Pelissero media, and was followed by a talk with Puke Rainbows Creative owner Erica Hanna. Hanna shared how her background shaped who she From budding journalist is and what she does, overcoming the odds as she grew up in poverty to winning Emmy to multimedia producer awards during her successful career in video. at KARE 11 Today, she owns her own business, creating successful social media campaigns that make a difference in others’ lives. Hanna also wowed the crowd by bringing out her Emmy award—inspiring oohs and By Zekriah Chaudhry ahhs from the crowd—and taking a group Minneapolis South High School “selfie” at the end of her speech. Then, students broke into three groups to learn more about several aspects of social media, both for personal and professional use. ONE DAY HER TOPIC could be politics. The A breakout session called “Social Media next it could be National Donut Day. Activism vs. ‘Slacktivism’” was presented by For journalist Sara Pelissero, you just never ThreeSixty Social Media Leaders Daniela know. Pelissero juggles all sorts of stories as a Garcia and Melisa Robles-Olivar, assisted by multimedia producer for KARE 11, writing for Social Media Pros Emma Strub of Bellmont the station’s broadcasts and website and post- ZEKRIAH CHAUDHRY/THREESIXTY JOURNALISM ZEKRIAH CHAUDHRY/THREESIXTY Partners and Jim Hammerand from the ing the latest news on social media. Sara Pelissero, a multimedia producer at KARE 11, was once a budding journalist in the Urban Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal. It’s a busy lifestyle Pelissero could have only Journalism Workshop, the former name for ThreeSixty Journalism. Now, she’s writing for the Another breakout session was presented by imagined during her junior year of high school at station’s broadcasts and website, and posting the latest news on social media. She also serves on Social Media Leaders Alejandro Hernandez- Mounds View when she started her journalism the ThreeSixty Board of Advisors. Tadeo and Kristy Ornelas on “Building career with the Urban Journalism Workshop, a Brand and Connecting.” Social Media the precursor to ThreeSixty Journalism before it began to wonder about other kinds of story- new alumni initiative, AlumniConnect. Pros Chad Caruthers, executive director of was rebranded in the early 2000s. telling. When a friend told her about a website In a world where crazy hours are called ThreeSixty Journalism, and Erin Lilliencrantz Already successful with her high school producer position at WCCO, she was initially another day’s work, the hard-working attitude of Bellmont Partners assisted with the session. newspaper, Pelissero had considered but not unsure if it would suit her. But she took a Pelissero developed from striving to get a job is ThreeSixty Social Media Leaders Nesani settled on journalism in her future. However, chance and started in 2009. the same attitude she brings to her job today. Sabal, Louisa Akoto, Bayan Algazi and Jennifer in what she called her “journalism awaken- “It was the first time that I ever thought “Being in this news grind,” Pelissero said, “it Delgado led a third breakout session called ing” with ThreeSixty, Pelissero began to see a about TV,” Pelissero said. “But it also was kind is that feeling of never ending. There’s always “Social Media Responsibility: A Behind-the- future career and her potential. of this state and this time in journalism where news, and there’s never holidays. There’s no Scenes Look at a Social Media Campaign.” “I remember going to different newsroom writing for a newspaper and writing for a TV such thing as weekends really. It doesn’t stop. Social Media Pros David Jungers of Sprinklr tours back then and just thinking, ‘Wow this website is very similar and there aren’t a ton of Sometimes when you’re trying to balance a and Erica Dao of Weber Shandwick lent a is really cool,’” Pelissero said. “It seemed like a differences.” family life with that, it can be challenging.” hand during the session. dream job.” With a penchant for the innovative side Her husband, Tom, also is a journalist. He Pelissero majored in journalism at the of the field, Pelissero later left her job with covers the NFL for USA Today. To read student coverage and see photos of University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, interning WCCO to take on her current multimedia With such constraining aspects of the job, the Youth Social Media Summit, go to page 6. at newspapers along the way. After she gradu- position with KARE. She also serves on it might be difficult at first to understand why ated in 2007, she worked as a reporter for ThreeSixty Journalism’s Board of Advisors and Pelissero is so in love with her job. But she loves the Green Bay Press-Gazette, but eventually recently has been involved with ThreeSixty’s ALUMNI continued on page 13 Thanks to all who attended and par- ticipated, with special thanks to featured Sign up for ThreeSixty AlumniConnect! speaker Erica Hanna of Puke Rainbows Creative, and to Youthprise and College ThreeSixty is happy to introduce ThreeSixty AlumniConnect, an alumni-led digital Possible. ThreeSixty is also grateful for our and face-to-face networking group that supports former ThreeSixty students in social media professionals from Bellmont college and beyond, and facilitates and encourages direct alumni participation in Partners, Sprinklr, Minneapolis/St Paul ThreeSixty programming, events and activities. Business Journal, and Weber Shandwick, all of More details will be rolled out soon. To stay up to date, please take a moment whom volunteered their expertise and time over to sign up online at http://threesixtyjournalism.org/AlumniConnect and submit your many months to help make this day happen. current information, so we can keep in touch and share your successes to help ensure that other high school students can benefit from ThreeSixty’s programming Johanna Holub is a public relations for years to come. professional with Bellmont Partners.

May 2016 5 It’s social, but about business, too

Students share social media wisdom at first-ever Youth Social Media Summit

IT WAS TIME for students to be the teachers for one day when more By Skyler Kuczaboski than 30 high school students listened St. Paul Harding to their peers share wisdom about High School social media at a day-long summit in February at the University of THOMAS PHOTOS COURTESY OF UNIVERSITY ST. St. Thomas. Erica Hanna, owner of Puke Rainbows Creative, takes a selfie with students and others from the stage after speaking to High school students, about 30 Youth SMS Breakout sessions students at ThreeSixty Journalism’s Youth Social Media Summit in February at the University of St. Thomas. Hanna was from St. Paul Harding, traveled to Students and volunteer the featured speaker. the university that morning for the professionals led three breakout inaugural ThreeSixty Journalism sessions during the Youth Social “Talking about how Youth Social Media Summit, a pilot Media Summit: program aimed to empower local • Activism vs. “Slacktivism” to build a campaign, teenagers to use social media “wisely, • Social media responsibility: responsibly and effectively to acceler- A behind-the-scenes look at a how to build your own ate their future success in a digital social media campaign world,” according to the summit’s • Building a brand and brand ... I think that that is connecting mission statement. stuff that we as teens really The program, several months in the planning, featured breakout need to start looking at.” sessions with titles such as “Activism to learn from older people. They’re vs. Slacktivism,” and was led by the digital natives. It’s in your blood. You —Nesani Sabal, senior 11-member ThreeSixty Journalism can teach us how to be creative with at DeLaSalle High School student social media team and new digital media.” volunteer professionals from the Social Media Leader Nesani Sabal, Twin Cities. The summit was sup- a 17-year-old senior at DeLaSalle get out of social media what you put ported by Youthprise and was in High School, helped lead a breakout into it. If you put in a lot of time, Louisa Akoto (second from left), a senior at Coon Rapids and one of partnership with College Possible at session informing students on how you’ll get a lot of benefits.” ThreeSixty’s Social Media Leaders, speaks to students during a breakout Harding. to build a brand and connect on At the summit, teens had a chance session about social media campaigns. With the help of volunteer professionals, Professionals outside the summit social media. to interact with social media profes- students taught their peers about social media during the summit. said they appreciated the insight the “I’m on social media and I think sionals, to engage their digital voice students had to offer. that it’s a really good platform for on social media, to connect for future “I value the way young people are a lot of people, especially teenag- Erica Hanna, owner of Puke “Social media is just a great tool to success and to explore college life at mindful of new media and value the ers,” Sabal said. “I think that putting Rainbows, a creative content strategy amplify what you love,” said Hanna, the University of St. Thomas, among ways they use it,” said Jamie Millard, (social media) to a good use, talking and video production company— who at one used to other things. The idea stemmed from 29, co-executive director of Pollen, about how to build a campaign, how she’s also the reigning two-time raise $30,000 for Charity: Water, a program called Protect My Rep, a community-building website that to build your own brand ... I think Minneapolis Twitter personality of a nonprofit that provides drink- which originated with ThreeSixty aims to connect people through sto- that that is stuff that we as teens the year—spoke to students about ing water to people in developing several years ago. Leaders of the rytelling and opportunities. “I don’t really need to start looking at.” how she used social media to build nations. “If you know how to use it program went from school to school, think that there’s anything for them As the summit’s featured speaker, her career and find her voice. correctly, it can really help you. You’ll Continued on next page

6 threesixtyjournalism.org a pullquote and another photo for the SMS story would help fill

the hospital for four months. hospital bills. Will my dad ever walk ‘A crash course No one expected our life would again? All of it was overwhelming for turn out this way after leaving Ghana a 17-year-old student. in 2006. My father went to America I stopped doing homework and in solitude’ before I was born. When I was 8, put less effort into one of my favorite my parents made the decision that after-school activities: theater. Some my brother and I would move to days, I didn’t even get up to go to IN SEPTEMBER 2015, I witnessed a Minnesota. My mom would stay school. When friends and teachers terrible two-vehicle car crash right in By Louisa behind, and she eventually passed asked how I was dealing with the Akoto front of my high school. Coon Rapids away when I was 12. At the time situation, I would often fake a smile My classmates and I were scattered High School of the car accident, my brother and reply, “This is preparing me for near the front door, waiting for our attended college in Mankato, so it college next year. I’m going to be A student laughs during a breakout rides, when our mostly typical day was just my dad and I. living alone some day, anyways.” session at the Youth Social Media was suddenly interrupted by police parent—survived the accident, his Adjusting to this new solitary life “It’s normal for students to feel Summit in February at St. Thomas. and ambulance sirens and flashing road to recovery was long, and I was was difficult. I began to realize how this way after such an unexpected red and blue lights. I turned my head unexpectedly enrolled into a crash lonesome it was when I came from tragic event,” my counselor told me, to the scene and noticed the brutal course in solitude. school and nobody was in our apart- trying to provide comfort. From previous page damage to a small gray Hyundai. The “That woman almost killed me,” ment. All the responsibility fell on Over time, I figured out life on spreading awareness of the metal doors had caved in. my dad said over and over again as my shoulders. Who was going to ask my own with the help of my social impact, both positive and nega- I watched the scene unfold for I stayed by his bedside over several me about whether I was done with worker, school counselor and teach- tive, of information posted on the seven minutes, and after several months. The police report said a my homework? Who was going to ers. Every week at school, I got web. unsuccessful attempts to reach my female driver ran a red light while tell me to take out the trash? And get pulled into the counselor’s office, “Protect My Rep was a travel- father on the phone, I realized that my dad was making a left turn. He up for school? where Patton, the social worker, ing thing. We would go to differ- the small gray Hyundai was his. was left with a broken pelvis and a I had a lot of questions. I wondered would offer me a $25 gift card for ent schools, which takes a lot of The chaos I was witnessing broken hand, which needed casts. He how we were going to pay for rent. Cub Foods. My social worker made time and resources, so our ques- that day would spill over into my couldn’t walk. He couldn’t sit. He even I wasn’t completely sure how much sure that I would have enough food tion was, ‘How can we do it in a life. While my father—my single had a hard time eating. He stayed in my father’s insurance would cover his or have transportation when needed. more efficient way?’” said Chad I felt safe knowing she cared. Caruthers, ThreeSixty’s executive Because I didn’t have many director. “‘What if we had a social resources, I learned to cut out media day where the kids came to unnecessary luxuries. I also relied us?’ The idea here was to just give heavily on my best friend. After it a shot with digital professionals school, we would go out to eat or he and give our students a youth- would invite me over to his house led social media program, led by to eat dinner. When it came to other high school students.” transportation, I often relied on my Many professions use social friends to get me to and from extra- media in some way, which is why curricular activities. social media can help teens make My father is back home now, but progress in the professional world. still recovering from the injuries. “(Social media) has gotten me Although he endures plenty of pain, every single job I have ever had,” his demeanor remains the same. He Millard said. is a warrior who continues to fight “It makes the difference through his obstacles. He inspires me between getting an OK job and a to look at the future with a big smile great job,” Hanna said. and lots of love in my heart. The social media leaders and Many unexpected events have ThreeSixty staff said they were happened in my life, regardless of satisfied with the results of the whether I was prepared for them. summit, and hope to host it again These events have led me to live a in the future. PHOTO SUBMITTED life filled with gratitude and to spend “It is a great platform to build Louisa Akoto, a senior at Coon Rapids, and her father pose for a photo. Akoto had to adjust to living on her own this school time with the people I love. upon,” Caruthers said. year after her father was seriously injured in a car accident.

May 2016 7 Instead of giving up, I decided to to surrender, but at the same time exhausting and frustrating, but I was Going backward confront my misbehaving shoulders I was frustrated that I wasn’t able determined more than ever to get and sought assistance on the matter, to competitively swim for the rest these shoulders back in action. as I had done before. I hung up my of my junior year. Both my rotator After months of rehab, my shoul- to swim forward goggles for the year in swimming, cuffs had “In need of repair” signs ders were finally getting back on but I knew this wasn’t the end. It was on them, and the doctors told me I track. The next challenge would be only the beginning of the biggest needed to undergo physical therapy relearning how to swim. Although IN THE POOL, my shoulders were hurdle I had to face in my swimming to fix them. my shoulders were getting signifi- squealing and screaming in agony. By Aaron Young career. Each week at OSI Therapy, I cantly better, the core of the issue The pain was too much to bear. It felt St. Paul Johnson I took my bent-out shoulders performed a variety of drills, ranging was yet to be solved. To relearn as though my shoulder blades were High School to the doctor for an examination. from basic stretches to weightlifting proper swim techniques, I went to being torn apart like a wishbone. The doctor asked me to extend and to complex band stretches. I also got Viverant, a physical therapy clinic, Every muscle in my body shouted for stretch my arms out. I played the role to feel the pain of needles being poked where I worked with a swimming me to stop swimming. freshman year, I was diagnosed with of a puppet, moving at the com- into my shoulder muscles during acu- specialist. Unlike at OSI, where I I didn’t want to surrender to the Raynaud’s disease—a circulatory issue mands of the doctor’s voice. My face puncture. I had no other choice but to went through the basic exercises, pain, but I knew I had no other that causes a cold, uncomfortable grimaced from the pain as I maneu- confront the pain head on. this time I targeted specific muscle choice. I dragged myself out of the sensation in my hands—and due to vered my shoulders in the proper When I first started therapy, I groups to improve my freestyle pool during swim practice in the shock and frustration, I dropped out directions. would be forced to lift my shoulders stroke and speed. I also worked with winter of 2014, took the walk of of swimming. The following year I suf- I was diagnosed with swimmer’s up in agony, sometimes with a two- a swim coach at Foss Swim School to shame toward the bench and sat in fered a sinus infection and appeared shoulder, a condition in which pound weight in hand. As I stretched master the fundamentals of sorrow. I held my head in my hands, sluggish and slow upon return. As the inflammation occurs in the rota- my arm outward, the anguishing each stroke. hiding my ruby red cheeks while my season began junior year, I was side- tor cuff. Upon discovering this pain would immediately come back, As I returned to the pool in my ears steamed with anger. lined while recovering from a cyst, and news, I was devastated that I had to and I was forced to face the fact senior year, I was ready to put all Sitting on the bench reminded I didn’t make my debut until midway overcome yet another obstacle in that the recovery process would be the knowledge and strength I had me of my past struggles. During my through the season. my swimming career. I didn’t want more difficult than I thought. It was gathered on display. I jumped into the pool on the first day of practice and started swimming. This time, though, it was different. I was out- performing many of my teammates and darting through the water like a bullet. My freestyle was at a top- notch level. My coach recognized how far I had come and told me my stroke looked better than ever. When the first meet came around, I was ready to showcase my talents to my teammates, my coach and my parents. I wanted to show them the progress that had been made. Not only did I swim well, I ended up fin- ishing first in all my races that night. Through this experience, I learned that sometimes in life, you need to take a few steps backward before you can progress forward. I had to go through physical therapy and relearn how to swim in order to get launched in the right direction. As a result, I have become a more resilient human being and have grown in charac-

PHOTO SUBMITTED ter, knowing I can accomplish and Aaron Young (middle row, fifth from left) and the St. Paul Johnson boys swim team. Young, a senior, had to relearn how to swim after suffering an injury to both overcome anything that comes my shoulders during his junior season. way in life.

8 threesixtyjournalism.org Closing the gap

Generation Next seeks to erase educational achievement gap

36 percent. 53 percent. 60 percent. These are the 2014-15 gradua- By Annrose Jerry tion rates for American Indians, Blaine High blacks and Hispanics, respectively, in School Minneapolis and St. Paul, according to recent data. PHOTO STAFF 77 percent. 70 percent. Foundation recently announced Generation Next Executive Director R.T. Rybak stands near a whiteboard at the Generation Next offices in downtown These are the graduation rates Rybak will be its new CEO and presi- Minneapolis during an interview in March. The organization aims to close the educational achievement gap. for the Twin Cities’ Asian and white dent. He will remain with Generation students, respectively, in the same Next through July 1.) It also con- These goals, Cedeño said, “are “Sadly, in this community, we can say that time period. sists of a host of civic, business and critical components, or critical Those sobering statistics attest to education leaders. Generation Next moments in a child’s development.” we can predict the likelihood of a child’s success one of the many harsh realities of the brings local organizations, busi- “It doesn’t mean that they’re the achievement gap, a major concern nesses and nonprofits together and only (critical components),” he said. by looking at the color of their skin.” among educators and leaders across analyzes data in an effort to solve the “But in terms of keeping attention on —R.T. Rybak, executive director of Generation Next the state. achievement gap in the Twin Cities. the achievement gap, it helps to have But Generation Next, a The coalition has identified a defined list.” Minneapolis-based nonprofit that six areas, most of which were is working to institute better credit 2015 annual report, the organiza- aims to close the education achieve- borrowed from the national The work recovery options and ways to increase tion’s work has resulted in a 16-per- ment gap, is tackling this problem StriveTogether model, to improve: Within the last year, Generation Next FAFSA completion. It has created a cent increase in preventive screening daily, focusing its efforts from “cradle kindergarten readiness, third-grade has been working on a graduation tutoring network in the Twin Cities for 3-year-olds. Other efforts include to career,” or from pre-kindergarten reading, eighth-grade math, social- tracking system that identifies where and has helped provide 20,000 books an initiative aimed at improving the through college. emotional learning by eighth grade, a student is falling behind, starting to a local literacy organization. quality of licensed family child care “One of the reasons why I think high school graduation and post- in the student’s freshman year, in an The organization has met with in the next three years, an initia- Generation Next is necessary is secondary attainment. effort to raise graduation rates. It teachers, counselors and principals to tive that uses data to align literacy because a lot of people are working discuss how strategies can be imple- organizations and tutors’ efforts with on these issues every single day,” said mented in schools and has worked on schools, and more, according to the Victor Cedeño, director of networks Generation Next’s 6 goals implementing data-sharing policies. report. and education policy at Generation It is working to improve early child- Much of what the organization Next. “...The challenge with that is, • Kindergarten readiness: Each child enters kindergarten with the literacy, social hood education, focusing on reduc- does, Rybak said, is break down the you … lose the bigger picture. and emotional strengths needed for successful learning. ing suspension and expulsion, and achievement gap into “targeted, “We’re the only people paid full- • Third-grade reading benchmarks: By the end of third grade, each student also increasing cultural competency understandable, digestible actions.” time to think about the bigger pic- meets key benchmarks for success in reading and reading comprehension. of early childhood programming. The white boards in Generation ture. … We bring people together and • Eighth-grade math benchmarks: By the end of eighth grade, each student is StriveTogether, the national Next’s downtown Minneapolis office look at the issues, and also look at the on track to meet benchmarks for success in math. network that Generation Next is space show evidence for its motto of systems at hand to understand better • Social-emotional learning: Every child is socially and emotionally equipped to modeled after, has had programs that “Map, gap, role,” using graphs and the challenges that they’re facing.” learn by eighth grade. have shown positive results in more visual representations to draw up Announced in 2012, Generation • High school graduation: Each student graduates from high school ready for than 20 metropolitan school districts, plans of action. Next is composed of a 5-member college and career. according to Generation Next’s web- staff, including Cedeño and R.T. • Post-secondary attainment: Every high school graduate earns a post- site. Generation Next is still in the Crunching the numbers Rybak, the former Minneapolis secondary degree or certification. early stages of seeing results from its Generation Next uses demographic mayor who now serves as execu- SOURCE: GENERATION NEXT work, according to Rybak. data from schools and programs to tive director. (The Minneapolis According to Generation Next’s GEN NEXT continued on page 28

May 2016 9 ocus o F n . ty . . ix S e e r

h T Tyus Jones the NBA? The Minnesota Timberwolves rookie TJ: It’s a big adjustment, just the speed of the play, the tempo. talks life in the NBA as a teenager, Obviously there are bigger, stronger Flip Saunders and improvement athletes. Just the pace of the play— the windows are smaller, you’ve got to make decisions a little bit quicker and get your shot off quicker. Just AS RISING STARS Zach LaVine and different stuff like that where it’s just Karl Anthony-Towns competed in an By Aidan Berg an adjustment. You’ve got to get used Minneapolis oddly matched but entertaining one- to it if you’re going to be playing. Southwest on-one game on one court, as veterans High School and Tayshaun Prince A: You had a stint in the D-League in rained down uncontested 3-pointers December and really tore it up. What on another, and as too many shoes to Zekriah did you learn from that experience count squeaked across the Minnesota Chaudhry and did it help you get in a groove Minneapolis with the Timberwolves once you Timberwolves practice facility, one South returned? player stayed off to the side, shooting High School after free throw. TJ: I learned to just keep working Rookie Tyus Jones kept shooting hard on the stuff I’ve been working until he was the last player in the gym, always the same routine: on in my workouts and in practice. Dribble dribble dribble, eyes on rim, rise up, follow through. Carry it over to a game, that was Success is something Jones, a Minnesota native, is accustomed to. A point good to see for my confidence. It guard, Jones first started for Apple Valley High School’s varsity team as an definitely got me into a little bit of a eighth-grader. He received his first Division I scholarship offer as a freshman. groove when I came back. In 2011, he started playing for Team USA’s U16 National Team and went on to win three gold medals for U.S. national teams (U16, U17 and U18). A: You’ve been playing more minutes He won a state championship with Apple Valley in 2013 and finished his lately, shooting above 42 percent career as a three-time AP Minnesota Player of the Year and a three-time from the 3-point line, which leads the Minnesota Boys Basketball Player of the Year. He finished as one of team, and you have a solid -to- Minnesota’s all-time great high school players. turnover ratio. How do you want to As one of the top high school basketball players in the nation, Jones went build on your game moving forward? on to win a national championship at Duke, as well as earn the Final Four’s TJ: Just continue to try to improve Most Outstanding Player award, in 2015. in all areas of my game. Continue to In June, Jones was drafted 24th overall by the and then shoot open shots with confidence traded to his hometown team: the Timberwolves. This season, the 6-foot- when my teammates give me a good 2, 195-pound averaged just more than 4 points per game and pass. That’s them believing in you almost 3 assists. After a December run in the NBA Developmental League to knock it down, so just believe in in which Jones averaged almost 25 points and five assists per game, he made yourself, have confidence and just his return to the Wolves (29-53) and finished the season with the team. continue to try to get better. Each In March, during the first weekend of the NCAA Men’s Basketball day I’m trying to be better than yes- Tournament, ThreeSixty Journalism had the chance to talk with the terday, so I think just continuing to Minnesota phenom about life as a teenager in the NBA, his family of try to work on all areas of my game. basketball players, March Madness and more. A: What is it like to play on the same Aidan: What is it like to be a be a 19-year-old and to be able to team as Kevin Garnett, a future 19-year-old in the NBA playing for call yourself a professional basketball Hall of Famer and a Timberwolves your hometown team? player, there’s nothing like it. legend? Tyus Jones: It’s great. It’s a true bless- TJ: It’s unbelievable. It’s kind of ing. I mean, it’s just a dream come A: Can you describe the adjustment surreal, especially for me grow- for you from the college game to DAVID SHERMAN/GETTY IMAGES DAVID true, to be from Minnesota and to ing up in Minnesota and being a

10 threesixtyjournalism.org Timberwolves fan and a “KG” fan. I The Tyus Jones file just always remember coming to the games and, you know, KG was and is Profession: NBA point guard the biggest deal in Minnesota, so to Height: 6-foot-2 now be a teammate of his is kind of Weight: 195 pounds crazy and doesn’t feel real sometimes Career highlights: One of when I take a step back and look Minnesota’s all-time great high at it. He’s been great to me, a great school basketball players. Starting teammate and a great big brother to point guard for me, and someone who’s helped me as a freshman. 2015 National adjust my rookie year. Champion and Final Four Most Outstanding Player. 24th overall A: Your coach Sam Mitchell was selection in 2015 NBA Draft. recently quoted as saying you’re Backup point guard for Minnesota doing well but that you still have a Timberwolves. long way to go. Do you take that as Find ‘em: On Twitter at a personal challenge, or how do you @TyusJones06 and on react to that? Instagram at @1Tyus TJ: That’s just him being truthful and honest, and that’s what you want. I obviously have things to work on with him passing. And for myself, and I’m going to continue to do so. like you said, knowing him in high He’s been letting me know every day, school and having a relationship with he’s been on me, what I need to work him. It’s tough for me just because on, what I need to get better at, and I had that previous relationship that’s what you want because you with him and didn’t get a chance to want to continue to get better, you officially play under him, but the fact want to know what you can work that he had faith in me and trusted on and know that the coaches care me to be a point guard on this team, enough to tell you what to work on. to go make me a part of this organi- It’s good and it’s definitely something zation, I’m definitely playing for him that I take as a challenge. still because without him I wouldn’t be here. I just want to prove that he Zekriah: You’ve talked a lot about was right about me. how your older brother, Jadee, has influenced your career as a bas- Z: It’s March Madness now. What ketball player. Now your younger kind of memories does that bring brother, Tre, is tearing it up at Apple up for you? And a lot of brackets Valley. How are you trying to influ- SHERMAN/GETTY IMAGES DAVID are busted now, so how’s your Jones, who graduated from Apple Valley High School, averaged about four points and three assists per game during his ence him in a way similar to how bracket doing? rookie season this year with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Jadee influenced you? TJ: It brings back a lot of great TJ: First by example. I knew for a memories for me. It doesn’t feel number of years now he’s looked up carving his own path, just be there Z: Having been through the recruiting Z: Dating back to your high school like it was a year ago already, but to me. So just lead by example and for him to support him. Make sure process, what kinds of things are you career, you had a close relationship I remember it like it was yester- know that he’s always watching me he always has someone in me, as an telling him right now? with Flip Saunders. Now that he has day. Just a lot of great memories, and what I do, and trying to emulate older brother, that he can go to just TJ: To just enjoy it right now and passed away, how are you dealing with something that I’ll never forget, and what I do, whether it’s on the court, like I always had. So I’ll just be there take it slow, just because it’s the that? Are you still playing for him? it was a once-in-a-lifetime oppor- off the court, no matter what it is. for him, support him and continue to beginning for him. He’s still got a TJ: I am, I definitely am. It’s tough. tunity that I wish everyone could Secondly, now that he’s starting be his biggest fan. long ways to go before he has to go It was a tough stretch for us all, experience and go through. A lot of to get recruited and he is kind of to college, so just enjoy it and take it everyone in this organization and on great memories. coming into his own and kind of slow right now. He’ll be fine. this team at the beginning of the year JONES continued on page 28

May 2016 11 Weighing a gap year

A break before college can be beneficial, experts say—but it’s not for everyone

AFTER GRADUATION, some high school students will attend college locally while others are bound for By Selam PHOTO SUBMITTED out-of-state schools. Berhea Blaine High Quentin Smith, right, during his gap year trip to during the 2012-13 school year. Smith said the trip had multiple Other students will work or enroll School benefits for him, including giving him time to plan his future and helping him see different perspectives. in technical programs. But there is another growing option for graduating seniors: the a year-long exchange program like Language or cultural Volunteer/service programs gap year. It’s a period—typically an Smith said that, through his gap exchange programs those in AFS-USA, which offers World Wide Opportunities on academic year—in which a student year, he learned to see different intercultural exchange programs, NSLI for Youth: Organic Farms: takes a break between high school perspectives, keep an open mind and can cost $12,000 to $15,000, and http://www.nsliforyouth.org http://www.wwoof.net/ and higher education. Students might minimize bias. others can cost more (although Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange America’s Unofficial Ambassadors: work, travel, volunteer or study. “Those are three big things driving many programs have scholarships). and Study (YES) Abroad: http://unofficialambassadors.com For some students, taking a gap my life right now,” he said. The experience also can mean 6 to http://www.yes-abroad.org/ Americorps: year can provide benefits that stu- Gap years are common in Europe 12 months away from family and Youth for Understanding: http://www.nationalservice.gov/ dents who pursue a more traditional and are becoming increasingly friends, culture shock and unfamil- https://www.yfu.org/ programs/americorps path after high school may not common in the U.S., experts say. iar surroundings. Rotary Youth Exchange: receive, students and experts say. But These days, more gap year oppor- “If you’re not at least willing at https://www.rotary.org/en it’s not for everyone. tunities are popping up for students least a little bit to go out of your Quentin Smith, 22, a University in the form of study abroad and comfort zone, you’re not going to of Minnesota student, completed volunteering programs. Even Ivy have a good time,” Smith said. a gap year during the 2012-2013 League schools such as Harvard and “There are other options than just going straight to college.” While he was abroad, Smith stood school year. His desire to see some- Princeton encourage a gap year for out a lot, he said. He also experi- thing outside of his hometown of students who are accepted to their —Quentin Smith, University of Minnesota student who took a gap year enced illness and homesickness, as Owatonna was part of what moti- schools. well as missing out on the college vated him to study abroad. Other times, students may take a other countries, people and cultures, “confirmed my choice of career/aca- experience during his trip, he said. “I want to see the world,” Smith gap year to work and to save for col- and gain more skills and knowledge demic major.” “It’s going to be harder to meet said. “I want to actually get out and lege, or to simply figure things out. for college or a career. For Smith, a gap year abroad people once you come back,” he said. do things.” On top of these payoffs, many stu- allowed him more time to plan for And he did. Pros dents find that a gap year helps them his future. Effect on college admission Through the Rotary Youth Taking a gap year can have great narrow their academic and career “First of all, I was kind of a mess At the University of Minnesota, Exchange program, Smith traveled to payoffs, according to students and track, according to the American in high school and I didn’t know admission isn’t based on one factor, Indonesia after high school. His eyes experts. The three highest-rated out- Gap Association. An independent, what I wanted to do,” he said, “so this but rather an overall assessment lit up as he talked about his experi- comes of gap years, according to “The multi-year study from Rae Nelson allowed for one more year to think of a student’s application, said ences overseas: excursions to sur- Gap Year Advantage: Helping your and Karl Haigler, authors of “The about it.” Admissions Counselor Steve Baker. rounding islands, meals with his host child benefit from time off before col- Gap Year Advantage,” states that 60 A gap year on a student’s resume family, a cooking class, bartering and lege,” are that students gain a better percent of students said the experi- Cons would be “more of a secondary opportunities to travel to neighbor- understanding of their identity and ence either “set me on my current However, a gap year is not for factor” in the decision, he said. ing villages. values, gain a better understanding of career path/academic major” or everyone. For those going abroad, Continued on next page

12 threesixtyjournalism.org From previous page “It wouldn’t necessarily change or alter a student’s admis- sion decision,” Baker said. Baker attributed a gap year to one of the many experiences that “enhances our student body, our culture, our discussion in the classroom,” but also recommends students “be thoughtful about what they are thinking A surprise welcome to college about gaining in going into this gap year/deferral process as far as experiences.” Students who want to take a gap year but also WHEN IOWA STATE University sent the financial and academic support my have been accepted to a college like the University me a breaking news alert in an email, I By Daniela family and I would be provided, which was Garcia of Minnesota can choose to defer, or postpone, their thought it was another college rejecting my Edina High substantially more at ISU than what other enrollment. At the University of Minnesota, all deferrals application. School universities offered. I also appreciated are dealt on a case-by-case basis, Baker said. I clicked on the link anyway. the time some colleges spent on crafting Katia Kozachok, a senior at Perpich Arts High School What filled the screen was video of a personal messages, like the breaking news in Golden Valley, is gearing up for a gap year in the fall. professional news anchor announcing State University was last on my list. I was too alert I received. Kozachok will be going on a year-long exchange to that a new student was accepted at Iowa focused on the name of a college—I thought The big “aha” moment for me was when through the Rotary Youth Exchange program. State. Then, through video magic, I saw my what mattered was the campuses’ prestige. I realized many of the schools I applied “I’m going to become an even better person than what I name displayed: “Congratulations, Daniela Another one of my reasons was the to did not even follow up with me. There am today,” she said, “and I’m so excited for that.” Garcia. You are a Cyclone.” university’s seemingly undesirable location. were no thank-yous, which seemed like Kozachok, who had been staying in a dorm throughout I got in! And that personal touch of wel- Going into my senior year at Edina High the minimum. Other schools thanked me high school, is excited to have a homestay experience in coming me into the community made me School, my top college prospects were the for applying and then I never heard back India. She is spending her last couple of months preparing feel an instant connection to the campus. ones closest to home. My mind was set. from them again. Iowa State went above for the trip and trying to learn as much Hindi as possible. I was surprised because, of the 19 colleges I thought ISU was too far away from my and beyond to make me feel welcomed and While Kozachok is in India next year, Smith will continue and universities I applied to my senior year, sweet hometown of the Twin Cities. I am a showed me they cared. his studies at the University of Minnesota, while keeping I hadn’t even considered ISU until my mom city girl, and Iowa is a farm state with what When I experienced their warm greeting his eye out for more study abroad opportunities. made me fill out the application. Through I imagined was not much to do, and that and saw all the opportunities they were At the end of the interview about his gap-year experi- this experience, I have learned that being scared me. I was also misguided by frivo- giving me, I knew where I belonged. Name ence, Smith offered some advice: “... There are other options open to trying new things can provide some lous details such as campus food, parking recognition among my friends and family than just going straight to college.” of the biggest surprises and, in the end, can availability and size. didn’t matter anymore. be the most rewarding. Then, I realized what really mattered. I now have some breaking news of my When I began my college search, Iowa The most important factor to me was own: I will soon be an Iowa State Cyclone. BOARD from page 3 communities. I’m honored to be part of that initiative.” NOTEWORTHY Theisen, a University of St. Thomas graduate, is a former regional director for the Society of Professional Journalists and a former president of the Minnesota Society ThreeSixty student earns coveted award of Professional Journalists (MNSPJ). She served on the MNSPJ board from 2006-2014. Her roles included planning THREESIXTY JOURNALISM rewarding to write, so it means even more outreach and training programs for Minnesota journal- student Mina Yuan, a junior at Wayzata to me that I received the Gold Medal for ists, and planning the chapter’s Page One Awards contest, High School, has been named a national it. I am so excited to visit Carnegie Hall banquet and silent auction benefiting the chapter’s student Gold Medal winner in the journalism for the award ceremony, and I am looking scholarship program. As a regional director, Theisen over- category of the 2016 Scholastic Art & forward to writing more articles with saw student and professional SPJ chapters in Minnesota, Writing Awards. ThreeSixty.” Wisconsin, North Dakota and South Dakota. Yuan, who won the award for a Yuan’s story, “Online safety or over- ThreeSixty story she wrote on Internet protection?: Exploring schools’ rights to censorship in high school, is the only filter Internet access vs. students’ rights to Minnesota student to receive a journal- information,” which appeared in the June ALUMNI from page 5 ism honor and is one of nine Minnesota 2015 issue of ThreeSixty Magazine, was the excitement and the atmosphere of being in the field. A students who received a Gold Medal in entered into the national contest after she PHOTO STAFF desk job just wouldn’t cut it. various art and writing categories. As a became one of five high school students in Mina Yuan, a junior at Wayzata High School “Sometimes there are just crazy breaking news stories that result, she is invited to National Events the Midwest Region to receive a regional and a ThreeSixty Journalism student, has happen,” she said. “I would say that’s where my adrenaline in New York City June 1-3, including the Gold Key in the journalism category earned a national Gold Medal in the 2016 kicks in, and those are just huge highs for me as a journalist. award program’s National Ceremony on earlier this year. Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. “Being able to craft those stories, finding out what’s June 2 at Carnegie Hall. Notable alumni of the Scholastic Art important to people on a given day, and then finding the “I am so honored and surprised to & Writing Awards, which bills itself as Warhol, Truman Capote, Stephen best ways to bring them that information while being rel- receive this award—I never expected “the nation’s longest-running, largest, King, Lena Dunham, Zac Posen and evant, while being reliable and consistent and credible, those this when I entered my article,” Yuan most prestigious recognition program for Richard Linklater, according to the are daily challenges. That’s part of the fun.” said. “This article was really complex yet creative teens,” include Sylvia Plath, Andy program’s website.

May 2016 13 Southwest High School, is a former Tackling football player who quit the sport after suffering multiple concussions, he said. Baures said he felt pres- concussions sure to return to play after his first concussion. “There (were) a lot of ‘Are you ready yet?’ kinds of questions,” Baures Safety measures in football said, “which pressured me into play- have been taken in recent years, ing before I was ready.” PHOTO COURTESY OF CRISTETA BOARINI PHOTO COURTESY OF CRISTETA Zoucha said he could not speak but some call for sport’s removal Dr. Bennet Omalu, who discovered the link between football concussions and the about a specific situation involving a disease CTE, speaks about concussions in youth football, among other things, in player, but said, “I trust our trainers late February at Beth El Synagogue in St. Louis Park. to make good decisions about our players.” WITH THE HEIGHTENED public Cities Orthopedics, said concussion also recommends coaches, officials, Baures said he returned to play awareness of head injuries in football By Aidan Berg recognition at the high school level students and parents take the NFHS about three weeks after his concus- serving as a backdrop, Dr. Bennet Minneapolis has improved. 20-minute concussion course online. sion. When he suffered a second Southwest High Omalu spoke candidly about concus- School “Right now concussions get a lot But what happens once a player is concussion, he decided to stop playing sions in youth football in late February of attention in the media and a lot diagnosed with a concussion? football, he said. at Beth El Synagogue in St. Louis Park. of attention from coaches, so most According to the MSHSL policy, “Now that I look back on it, I’m very Omalu is the doctor who dis- people are better at recognizing it,” only a medical professional can diag- happy that I stopped playing,” he said. covered the connection between in the national spotlight recently. said Dr. Holmes, who also is the team nose a player with a concussion. If the football concussions and the degen- In April 2015, a judge approved the physician for Park High School in player is diagnosed with a concussion, Future of football? erative disease Chronic Traumatic NFL’s $900 million settlement in a Cottage Grove. the player is removed from all compe- Last fall, two University of Minnesota Encephalopathy (CTE) while studying concussion lawsuit with thousands “Most places these days, the tition for the remainder of the day. doctors recommended football be the brains of deceased National of former players. A top NFL official coaches have some kind of training The MSHSL policy also states that eliminated from schools across the Football League players in the 2000s. this year acknowledged a link between and recognition,” Dr. Holmes also only a medical professional can clear nation, which would reduce pres- Omalu, whose story was the focus of football and CTE, which the New said. “I think that it’s certainly a lot the athlete to return to play. The policy sure on students to play a sport in the 2015 film “Concussion,” starring York Times wrote for many “was an better than it used to be. …” includes guidelines for a step-by-step which many suffer from concussions, Will Smith, pulled no punches. echo of big tobacco’s confession in process for returning, in which the according to a Star Tribune article. “If you were out at a restaurant and 1997 that smoking causes cancer and Safety measures player must be symptom-free at each Not everyone agrees. a child at another table misbehaved, heart disease.” And at the box office, New rules have been adopted in level to reach the next step. Each step “I don’t think there is a need to get and his father repeatedly slammed “Concussion” documented Omalu’s recent years for diagnosing concus- requires a minimum of 24 hours. rid of high school football or sports at the child’s head into the wall as a struggle to bring to light the connec- sions and protecting players who Holmes said the average person any particular level,” Holmes said, “as punishment, you would most likely tion between football concussions sustain them. In 2010, the Minnesota takes one week to clear symptoms and long as people understand the risks, call the police,” Dr. Omalu said to a and CTE, as well as the pushback he State High School League imple- get cleared to return. and we have good education about packed house, drawing a connection received from the NFL. mented a rule change from the Josh Zoucha, the head football what can happen and how you return to the dangers of youth football, when The concussion issue has carried National Federation of State High coach at Minneapolis Southwest, said to activity.” children slam their helmeted heads over to youth and high school football School Associations (NFHS), stating his team’s return-to-play protocol — Zoucha said the sport is “probably against one another. as well. In high school, one in five ath- that athletes who show symptoms which mirrors the MSHSL guide- the safest it has ever been, especially Increased attention to the dangers letes will sustain a sports concussion or behaviors of a concussion must lines — includes a series of physical compared to when I played, or even of concussions in football has led to during the season, according to Head be immediately removed from play conditioning exercises “from very 10 years ago.” improved recognition and education Case, a concussion awareness website. and cannot return until cleared by a light to intense to see if they show any “Safety has moved to the forefront for coaches and medical staff, accord- Forty-seven percent of all reported medical professional. In addition, the concussion symptoms over a series of of most sports,” he said. ing to a medical expert. sports concussions occur during high league’s protocol has a general rule: four days.” Baures thinks differently about One local coach said the game is school football. And 33 percent of “When in doubt, sit them out.” “If the athlete misses one day of football. “probably the safest it has ever been.” high school athletes who have a sports Baseline testing — which requires the return-to-play protocol, it starts “I think that it is a dying sport and However, some local medical profes- concussion report two or more in the athletes to take an exam that mea- over,” Zoucha said. “If they show any should die soon,” he said. “Because sionals have called for the removal same year. sures their baseline brain functions symptoms during the testing, it stops no matter how much padding or new of football from schools, due to Dr. Nicholas Holmes, who — in high school sports also has until they show no signs and then technology you put in a helmet, there concussions. specializes in sports medicine and become a more common concussion starts over.” is still a good chance that you can get Football concussions have been concussion management at Twin management technique. The MSHSL Ian Baures, a senior at Minneapolis h u r t .”

14 threesixtyjournalism.org COLLEGE ESSAY BOOT CAMP Kicking students’ college essays into shape! THE WEEK’S LESSONS were in place, the more than 30 students at Roosevelt High School in Minneapolis and Harding Senior High School in St. Paul were enrolled, and the volunteer writing coaches were eager to share their expertise. There was just one big question: Would our ambitious idea of intensive one-week College Essay Boot Camps work? What we learned is, to work one-on-one with boot campers on transforming their remarkable stories into clear, concise essays, and to see the joy and accomplishment on their faces when, after just one intensive week, each has a polished college essay—well, those feelings will be hard to top. We’re delighted to share this collection of these students’ STAFF PHOTO STAFF essays with you and think you’ll agree that our grand experiment was a great success. St. Paul Harding students on the first day of ThreeSixty Journalism’s College Essay Boot Camp in April at Harding.

are going to have a better life.” And the head with a brown-heeled shoe. show me their support at Roosevelt A story of ‘survival that’s all I needed to know. I decided to stand up for my mom High School. I strive to work hard ‘I am in control My mom’s patience and resilience and help her. I didn’t want her to feel because of what my family and I and opportunity’ throughout our journey has empow- alone. With my father gone, I had to went through in the past. I want to of my future’ ered me to act strong for her and my step up and become a second parent create a better future for us. I hand in siblings and overcome our obstacles. to my two younger brothers. At age my schoolwork on time. I retake any By Najma Dahir I admire my mother’s strength 7, I took a job to support my family. tests or quizzes I receive low scores By Randy Cuate Galarza Minneapolis Roosevelt High School today like I did when my father left Every day I woke up at dawn to sell on. I have joined Key Club, the math Minneapolis Roosevelt High School us when I was sugar, oil, vegetables and gasoline, team, student government, College I HAD FIVE DAYS to quickly pack 7 years old. and walk to school in the afternoon. Possible, AVID, Emergency Medical IT WAS 8 A.M. up 12 years of my life in a dirty, When he left, But soon we were faced with a Responder, National Honor Society on a supposedly hot and cramped refugee camp in my whole world difficult choice: Stay in the refugee and badminton. These achievements lazy Sunday Ethiopia and fit it into a suitcase I turned dark. camp in Ethiopia that my family make me feel empowered and deter- and I had just shared with my mom for our long Early one had lived in for 25 years, with no mined to succeed. woken up and journey to America. It felt impos- morning, I was additional aid, or travel to the U.S. My life is a story of survival and rolled out of sible to pack up all our memories— sleeping on the My family chose to move to the U.S., opportunity. Our difficult journey to bed. I placed some of them too painful to relive, ground inside of though without my father, in 2011. the U.S. in many ways still continues my long, brown Najma Dahir like my father leaving us. I knew I a hut. My mom Our first year in America was today. I must move forward and skinny feet Randy Cuate Galarza would never see my dad again and grabbed me and I challenging. I could not under- focus on my future for my family. into my slippers my childhood friends once we left. I was scared. “Najma kac kac wan bax- stand my teacher or my classmates. I’m excited for college. In Ethiopia, and walked slowly downstairs to couldn’t stop sobbing. aynaye naa tos dhakhso,” my mother I spoke no English. I felt so lonely college seemed like an unattainable eat breakfast. My mom was already Soon, though, that sadness screamed out in Somali, telling me to and scared. After 22 days of living dream. Now, I can make that dream at the table, sitting down. I saw her transformed into excitement for a get up! I saw tears coming from my in Tennessee, we uprooted our lives come true by studying to become a staring blankly ahead. I grabbed a new life. We waited our whole lives mom’s eyes. I didn’t know what was again to move to Minnesota. doctor to support my family. I owe bowl for my cereal and glanced over to escape to a country we had only going on. Then I heard my grand- Life is much better now. The it all to my mother. One day, I will to my parents’ bedroom. My dad heard about in stories. As the old mother say, “Your father left so the many Somalis in Minnesota have be able to show her how much her wasn’t there. I was confused. school bus drove away from the door is open for you … leave now!” welcomed us with open arms. My strength has meant to me. “Hi ma,” I said to her. camp for the final time, my mom said My grandmother was kicking us out. Somali classmates make sure I “Hi,” my mom responded in her to us that in the United States, “We She yelled, then she hit my mom in understand my coursework and Continued on next page

May 2016 15 COLOR

From previous page native Spanish. “Where’s dad?” “He’s gone.” “Where did he go?” “They took him.” The look on my mother’s face said it all. My dad was deported. I was in shock. Immigration officials didn’t allow him to say goodbye to me or any of my three siblings. The night before was the last time I have seen my father. That moment was a turning point for us. My life changed. My family’s life changed. I watched my mom, now a single parent of four kids, with no col- lege education, struggle to provide for my family. She now had to work three jobs to barely keep up with rent, which meant we rarely saw her. A few months later, on a Sunday night, I knocked on my mother’s bedroom door, then walked right in. I needed her to sign my permission slip for a field trip. I found her sitting PHOTO STAFF on her queen-sized bed, looking back St. Paul Harding High School students who completed College Essay Boot Camp pose for a photo with ThreeSixty Journalism staff and volunteers in April at St. Thomas. at me with tears running down her cheeks. I froze. I stood at the door, I landed on engineering. During summer of I knew about Guatemala from between two worlds. I felt guilty unable to speak. I asked her what’s my senior year, I will be taking an my 13th year. my parents. My parents were born and sad knowing I was a person wrong and sat down beside her. She engineering class to see if it’s a good Outside the and raised there and both lived with opportunities unlike kids in told me she didn’t know if she could fit for me. airport, the difficult lives in poverty. My dad Guatemala. It was the first time I do it anymore: work three jobs, raise I am still working 20 hours a week heat smacked worked in banana factories and saw and felt true poverty. Seeing four kids by herself, put two of them and taking challenging classes. It’s me. Then I in the fields detasseling corn. My the kids going to work in the corn through college, and still be there for not easy to help support your family noticed the mother gathered firewood from the fields, and seeing how a lot of young her kids. It was that moment when I while pursuing your own dreams. At smell. It was mountains, cooked for her family of women were prostitutes, was a real- realized I never wanted to be in her times, I have lost complete motiva- a mixture of Amner Sosa seven and did strenuous house- ity check. position. tion and fell into a state of depres- smoke, sweat, work. My dad often tells the story That visit and my parents’ stories At age 16, I started to work at sion, but then I constantly refer back feces and onions. Hundreds of of what he bought with his first job. made my heart burn. Now I’m on Burger King and Chipotle to help pay to that time I saw my mother break people were pushing me and each He had saved two months to buy a fire to better my education. I want the bills. I realized that, in the future, down and the promises I made to other. Some wanted a taxi, others, small stove. to pay back the hard work that my I didn’t want to work multiple jobs myself that day: I am in control of my a handout. Many had something “Did your old stove break?” I parents put in to raise a family. I to barely make ends meet. I wanted future. to sell. blurted out, puzzled. am competitive by nature, and now a career that would give me financial Through the commotion, one “No, all my childhood we couldn’t I want to compete for scholar- stability. I knew that college was the thing caught my attention the afford a stove, so I bought one for my ships. I no longer see education way to get there. Returning to most: A man without arms or dad,” he replied with a melancholic as something I’m obligated to do. That is why I’m putting in the legs was being frantically dragged laugh. How could I not feel fortunate to work and the effort right now, taking Guatemala, with around on a skateboard. He wore My mother doesn’t talk about her go to school? multiple IB classes, enrolling in the a torn shirt and pants cut off at the personal life because she’s a private A college degree can get me to AVID program and receiving ACT a college degree legs and tucked into the back part person. She says she never got to sev- a point where I not only will live a practice help so that I can get into a of the shirt so they wouldn’t come enth grade because she was forced to stable life, but also will give me the good school and pursue a degree in off. I didn’t want to stare, but I stay at home and help with house- right tools to one day go back to my engineering. By Amner Sosa couldn’t stop. work. Like many immigrants, they beloved country and help people. Math and science were subjects St. Paul Harding High School I will never forget the image. It has came to America looking for a better, Maybe I’ll meet the man on the that always interested me. But earlier come to represent the poverty and more peaceful life. skateboard again, and this time help in high school, I wasn’t sure what THE ENGINES ROARED as we hardship of Guatemala. I had longed When we went back that summer him get prosthetic legs. career would be a good fit with my landed at La Aurora International to go back to Guatemala, and there I was 13, I felt like both a boy and interests. Through my own research, Airport in Guatemala. It was the I was. a man, but also like I was stuck Continued on next page

16 threesixtyjournalism.org I showed up to school without wear- the window, and notice this white every morning, I had to wake up I saw were A bully, a hijab ing my hijab. “Would I be prettier?” I stuff called “snow” for the first time. and cook breakfast, then I walked to unknown faces started to wonder. At that moment, I knew we were in school. Here in America, cold cereal staring at me. I and a lesson about A couple of weeks before my America. My 7-year-old brother, and was normal to eat in the morning, wanted to run classmate challenged me, my mom our chaperone, seated next to me, and buses for students to take to away from the communication pulled me aside. She said, “I noticed are still sleeping. school were available. This showed students. a change in you, and I want you to In 2005, my parents left Laos and me that I was in a better place with “Oh, you tell me what’s going on.” I explained went to America for work, but me good education, and made me want must be By Asmaa Mohamed to her my frustrations and she and my brother didn’t travel with to work hard. Tommy Xiong, Tommy Xiong St. Paul Harding High School developed my understanding of how them. I was upset and sad, but I Now, as the oldest son in the our new student I could see the situation in a more knew that they went for a better family, I have to help my parents. from the other science class?” Mr. MY FOURTH- positive way and how I could help life—better jobs for my parents and I have to babysit my brothers and Winesch said. I responded anxiously, GRADE class- my peers understand my religion and a better education for me and my sister when I get home from school “Uhhh, yeah.” I felt like an outcast. mate reached my reasons for wearing a hijab. brother one day. I know my parents’ because my parents work. I also have Before I knew it, I had Niagra Falls out swiftly for When I look back at that moment, I sacrifice wasn’t for nothing, and I to clean the house when the baby rushing down my face and a flood my hijab. In notice that no matter how many times hope to show them that the dream makes a mess, and cook for them. of negative feelings inside me that the hallway you explain the same thing to some they offered us will come true. I notice that even today my par- would not go away. at school, she people, they may not fully understand. The five years that me and my ents are still working so hard for me For two weeks, I played sick in the closed her Still, I must be patient and try telling brother were left behind in Laos and my siblings. My father’s hard nurse’s office during Accelerated Life hand around Asmaa Mohamed them in different ways. were hard because I didn’t gain the work has inspired me to work hard Science. Finally, the nurse suggested my hijab and I still get asked, “Why do you love that my parents could’ve given in school because I learned that if I I visit the seventh-grade counselor yanked it off my head, showing the wear your hijab?” And, “Why don’t to us. I grappled with loneliness. I have a higher education, I won’t have to talk about my anxiety and stress. front of my hair. She then pulled the you show your hair like so and so?” stayed with my uncle, but my brother to go through my father’s struggle, I thought, “I don’t want to talk with rest of it off, revealing the rest of my Now I just look at them and say, “I lived with my grandparents. While I having to decide to leave his children anybody,” but I reluctantly followed hair. She kept pulling, choking me want to wear a hijab for myself, not missed my parents, my uncle taught in another part of the world for five the nurse. Soon, I realized time spent with the slightly thick fabric as it for you or anyone else.” Today I am me things he liked, for example, years and working constantly in with the counselor was time I would caught around my neck. I froze with very proud to wear a hijab. math and information technology. the U.S. He works two jobs, one for not have to spend in Accelerated shock as I fell to the cold, tile hallway This experience changed me as a And I started to share the same a vending machine company and Life Science. That plan worked for a floor with tears running down my person because I learned to stay calm passion. another as a driver. trimester, before I actually started to face. My friends eventually rescued and to be level-headed with others. Then it was time to join my par- While my dad wants me to be a open up to my counselor, telling her me and pulled her away. When I disagree with someone, I tell ents in America. doctor, my time with my uncle got about being anxious and intimidated I had learned doing nothing myself to see where they are coming Right after the plane landed, me thinking about a future in infor- around others. doesn’t help. I felt angry and violated, from, to develop understanding. I am I turned and said to my brother, mation technology. I want to help I told her I felt like an outcast in but being the non-confrontational smart and think about my decisions. “Wake up, we’re here.” Then I put my out my parents right now so they Accelerated Life Science. I told her I person I am, I moved on. I learned to be calm and communi- backpack on and held my brother’s won’t have to work so hard. They felt anxious and uneasy during pass- That awful moment in fourth cate my feelings and thoughts when hand as we have sacrificed so much already. ing time between classes. She had grade was not how I imagined the facing adversity. started to walk So now that I have this opportu- some good ideas, such as rework- conversation to go. I felt frustrated, Many challenges lie ahead of me, toward the nity to go to college, I won’t let this ing my course schedule and talking constantly being asked the same especially as I prepare for college terminal. It was opportunity go away because now my parents into taking me to the questions by my classmate. and study to become a pediatric cold, but I was I’m here in America and will do my doctor. This began a buildup of trust “Why don’t you take your hijab nurse. I stand proud of who I am as a shaking with best to achieve my dream of getting between me and my counselor. I off?” Muslim woman and am ready to use excitement and my master’s degree, and the dream started to go and actually talk with “Why don’t you show your hair?” my communication skills to educate nervousness. that my parents had offered for us. her every day. “Are you bald?” others about myself. I was happy One day I’ll show my parents that Then came her boldest sugges- Kongmeng Lor This time, I tried to explain to her to move to the dream that they have offered has tion: Try playing sports to relieve my without getting annoyed. I told her America and to came true. stress and anxiety, she suggested. I that as a Muslim, girls wear the hijab Making my parents’ see my parents again. It had been a said no. “I’m too short and too fat.” to hide our beauty and the gaze of long time. I asked my brother, “Are I was at my grandma’s house that men, as well as to be modest. We dreams come true you excited?” And he said “Yes!” Hoop dreams spring, and my uncle asked me to believe our God has commanded us We made eye contact, my parents play basketball. “No,” I thought. “I to wear the hijab. That’s when she hugged us, and that’s when I realized don’t want to suck.” I had nothing pulled my hijab off my head. By Kongmeng Lor that our family was coming back By Tommy Xiong else to do though, and my coun- One comment that stuck with St. Paul Harding High School together again. St. Paul Harding High School selor’s advice went through my head. me for years was, “If you took off When I first went to school, it I tagged along. your hijab, you would be so much IT’S FEBRUARY 2011. I am 11. I wasn’t that hard for me to learn “RIIIINNNNGG!” I started run- Moments later, I played my first prettier.” I would lock myself in the departed Laos 36 hours ago. English because back in Laos, I ning. My first day in Accelerated Life game of basketball. I missed my first bathroom, sit on the sink and stare at Our journey took us to , already spoke English. However, the Science, and I was tardy. shot, then my second, third, and more. myself in the mirror. I imagined what then , and our final destina- biggest difference was the food and I quietly entered the classroom, My family and friends, however, my classmates’ reactions would be if tion was Minneapolis. I look out the transportation. Back in Laos, stopped, and looked around. All Continued on next page

May 2016 17 From previous page warmer than the frigid state where Orleans shared with French culture. I got home, my mom was happy to to calmly knock on the door until encouraged me to keep shooting and I grew up. The city’s pride for the also found out more about where my the point where she couldn’t talk. someone heard. I panicked about keep trying. On that day, I learned that New Orleans Saints football team family grew up and how they lived. I She ran up to me and gave me not knowing who was going to I didn’t have to be perfect. remained evident in streaks of gold, learned that my relatives celebrated a kiss on my forehead. I asked her, come and help me. Thankfully, the During the course of the summer, white or black and was signified by different holidays, such as Mardi “Mom, what is going on?” guy who came knew how to speak I started to play basketball every the Fleur-de-lis. Jazz music echoed Gras, and ate different types of foods, “We’re going to America,” my Swahili and gave me instructions on day. Every time I played, joy rushed in all the city’s corners, and golden such as Gumbo and crawfish. mom said. She had a phone call how to open the door. through my body and mind. The brown beignet tasted more flavorful After visiting New Orleans, I from the United Nations telling her The first couple weeks in Seattle, more I played, the better I was and than the doughnuts I’ve eaten in my considered other places and other that our flight would be on July 7, I was nervous not knowing how the more confident I became, both neighborhood. I was enchanted by cultures that enrich the world, and 2010. I was overwhelmed and did my life would change. I stayed in on and off the court. the southern town, and in college, I realized that I wanted to see those not know what to do. the house because I did not want This confidence transitioned into I want to continue to learn about cultures unfold live while compar- Now I could go to America to go outside not knowing English the next school year. I became more people, places and ideas that are dif- ing them to my own. I want to better to get my education and have a at all. social, saw things differently and ferent from me. understand my own points of view good future. I moved to Minnesota my became more comfortable. The contrasts I noticed between by hearing, tasting and smelling I was born in Ethiopia. I am the seventh-grade year. I started to Now that I’m in high school, I my family’s hometown in New other cultures while traveling to youngest of five siblings. When I feel comfortable speaking English see basketball as my savior. It has Orleans and my own spurred a other foreign places. I want to visit was 2, my mother took me and my because I practiced with my cousins helped me overcome my anxiety curiosity about foreign ways of life. I cities such as Paris and unearth more oldest brother to Kenya in order who were here before me. I got and become confident. I am funny, spoke differently than my southern differences between their culture and to come to America. She did not removed from ESL classes my involved with College Possible and family, and I occasionally became mine, and observe and maybe par- know what Kenya would hold, so eighth-grade year. Growing up have a girlfriend. My grades are confused by their language, because ticipate in other people’s traditions. she didn’t want to bring the loving sports, I started football and improved, and I am more interested we chatted with different slang. Better yet, I want to contemplate whole family. wrestling my sophomore year. It in everything school has to offer. We assigned different meanings to those cultural differences that I’ll find We were supposed to come to helped me be confident in myself I am more engaged in my educa- the same words. The phrase “good among others around the world and America on Sept. 15, 2001. On our and be mentally strong. tion than ever and am particularly minute” didn’t really translate to bring them back to Minnesota. way to the airport, my mother got a In 2014, my brothers and dad interested in psychology—how the sixty seconds, and the word “ice When I go to college, I will con- phone call from the U.S. Embassy, came to Minnesota. At the airport, mind works. box” labeled the refrigerator. They tinue to learn about the histories, telling her our flight was cancelled it was the first time my whole family As for my mind, it is looking even used “beaucoup,” the French rituals and quirks that define other due to the had been together in 10 years. I was forward to college, my future and word for “a lot,” which I learned in cultures while also traveling to new Sept. 11 ter- excited to know now I have brothers lifelong happiness. I call these my my French class during high school. places. In New Orleans, I stepped rorist attack. who will have my back. “hoop dreams.” The experience of traveling to New outside of my comfort zone and My family was Watching my mother always Orleans exposed me to the culture learned the value in witnessing and disappointed. trying to bring us into America, her in ways I couldn’t have studied in a interacting with people in their own It took not giving up, has inspired me to Unearthing culture textbook. neighborhoods. It helped me meet nearly 10 years adapt to the culture in America. For During my trip to New Orleans, new people and taste new types of to finally come nine years, my mom would go to the I learned to accept regional differ- foods, and listen to new genres of out of Kenya. U.N., calmly asking them, “Where is through travel Nugomsa ences within my own family that I music. This experience helped me It was great Mohammed the process going? How long are we didn’t expect, equipping me with learn to adapt and become open to spending the going to be here?” By Nadiyah Miller-Celestine the gumption to seek out common- new environments I am exposed to, decade in Kenya, but we had to leave It showed me to not give up on St. Paul Harding High School alities with other people. I want to and accept people and learn about for a better future. things easily. travel and notice more about the them. I feel traveling abroad while I was looking forward to coming It made me want to not stop ON A differences in how others talk and in college will broaden my perspec- to the U.S. But when I got here learning English when people SUMMER how they build a community around tives on myself and others, and when it was not what I expected. I didn’t understand what I was DAY in New them. In Minnesota, if you walk by a I travel back home, I’ll have more expected tall buildings everywhere saying. When I tried to fit in and Orleans, sweat stranger, you could just ignore their stories to tell. in the city. I expected life to be change who I am so I could look beaded on existence. In the south, however, it easy. I expected people American, my mother told me, my forehead would seem natural to talk to com- to have fun, not to be focused “Be yourself and the right people during my first plete strangers, and a minimal greet- Learning from on work. will come along.” Despite all the visit to a city ing might offer, “Good morning,” or I spoke Swahili and Oromo in difficulty, I managed to get through that dazzled “Good evening,” or “Have a nice day.” a mother’s Kenya, which gave me an advantage it with my mother and brothers with metallics Nadiyah The southern United States glowed to learn English in America quickly. beside me. and was friend- Miller-Celestine with a more welcoming vibe than persistence But it was still difficult at times. One My experience with my mother lier than my Minnesota. of those times was on the plane on has made me look at my future in a Midwestern hometown. My family I loved going to New Orleans our way to America. different way. I feel like I have a life and I strolled through the French because I found out that after visit- By Nugomsa Mohammed I had to use the plane bathroom. to live in the future. I want to go to Quarter, peering into corner stores ing, I developed an excitement about Minneapolis Roosevelt High School When I finished, I wanted to get college and get my degree and be the stocked with T-shirts, sunglasses all the new information I learned. out but the door wouldn’t open. first to graduate from college. And and jewelry. I saw a city flecked with I learned more about my family’s JULY 4, 2010. I was playing soccer It had instructions, but I couldn’t always appreciate what my mother dazzling purple, green and yellow, past and the connection that New with my friends in Kenya. When I read English. My only way out was has done for my family.

18 threesixtyjournalism.org Walkouts. Transgender rights. Race. Marijuana. Academic pressure.

Fights—in school and online. SCHOOL CLIMATE hours inside them. Some are fed up with school violence and racial division. Others are willing to THESE ARE AMONG the stories ThreeSixty high take a stand against perceived injustice. Others school students wanted to tell, in an effort to shed want their voices to be heard more clearly. ¶ And it’s light on the complex subject of school climate—the not all negative. Some students are finding community quality and character of school life—across the Twin through the arts. Others are focused on going to college. Cities. ¶ These stories say a lot about the state of our ¶ As you’ll see, school climate is a multifaceted topic. schools, as well as about the students who spend countless But these stories begin to unpack some of its complexities.

are discriminatory. from focusing on their growth and independent private school, recently The state of “What people don’t understand is learning,” said Mary Hoelscher, a put into place a policy that was met that we are just as human as the rest program specialist at Out For Equity, with positive responses, according to of them,” said Andy, a transgender which aims to create a safe and wel- a Pioneer Press report. transgender rights student in Minnesota. (Only his first coming school environment in the However, controversy has circled name is being used in this story.) He St. Paul Public Schools district. “And Nova Classical Academy. says that progress has been made in policies such as this create that space The public charter school initially transgender rights, but challenges that’s needed.” planned to take steps in educating Social and political battle still remain. Hoelscher also said extending students in an effort to provide sup- more protection and rights to trans- port for a gender-nonconforming hits home in Minnesota ‘Bring down barriers’ gender and gender-nonconforming child, but delayed after meeting The St. Paul Public Schools district students in schools can help educate challenges from parents and the took action on the issue in February communities and create a safer public. Nearly 400 parents at the 2014, when work on a gender inclu- environment. school signed a petition earlier this FROM NORTH CAROLINA to sion policy began after students “(The policies) also provide an year opposing mixed-sex bathrooms, By Shay South Dakota, the rights of trans- Radhakrishnan reported harassment and discrimina- opportunity for community mem- according to the Minnesota Family gender and gender-nonconforming Math and tion, according to the SPPS website. bers to understand how to support Council, a local Christian organiza- people, including students, are front Science The policy, which passed in March students better and create the learn- tion (although the executive director and center in a social and political Academy 2015, includes rules to respect all ing opportunity,” Hoelscher said. “It of the school has said those numbers battle. students’ rights to be addressed by establishes a clear expectation across are “exaggerated,” according to a Star The fight is playing out in their preferred name and pronouns, the institution, it provides account- Tribune report). Some pulled their Minnesota classrooms as well. a bill that would limit transgen- to prohibit separating students by ability for if something doesn’t go children out of the school, according In recent years, schools such as der and gender-nonconforming gender without a valid educational as well as it ought to. I think it also to reports. Mounds Park Academy and districts people’s use of bathrooms and reason during academic program- is very affirming for students to see The school has spent months such as St. Paul Public Schools have locker rooms to their biological sex. ming, to allow all students to join that they count, they have clear pro- working on a policy for supporting enacted policies against discrimina- A similar bill was recently enacted co-curricular and extracurricular tection and support.” transgender and gender-noncon- tion based on gender identity. The in North Carolina. activities that correspond to their forming students, and the board of Minnesota State High School League Supporters say that having laws gender identity, and to provide ‘We need to have a policy’ directors expects to adopt a policy also voted to allow transgender stu- banning transgender and gender- students access to facilities that suit a Public schools are not the only this spring. dents to play on teams that fit their fluid people from using facilities that student’s gender identity. institutions who are tackling the “We need to have a policy,” board gender identity. do not correspond to their biologi- “I think as educational institu- issue of gender inclusion. Private chair Paul Mason said. “We can’t deal In March, Republicans in the cal gender would protect privacy. tions, our work has to be to bring and charter schools are working on with these issues on a case-by-case Minnesota Legislature proposed Opponents say these bills and laws down barriers that prevent students it as well. Mounds Park Academy, an RIGHTS continued on page 30

May 2016 19 school climate

Tangled Grappling roots with safety

Students, teachers and officials weigh in Debate has emerged on school violence causes, solutions over how to prevent school violence

WHILE HEADLINES WARN JAMIL LOTT HAS a lot to deal with By Danielle about school fights and teacher every day. By Mina Yuan Wong assaults, Ian Marquez doesn’t feel He might be assuring a substitute Wayzata High Eastview High School threatened as he walks down the School teacher that a student is frustrated, hallways of Central High School in not dangerous, or soothing a sobbing ILLUSTRATION BY MINA YUAN ILLUSTRATION St. Paul. middle school girl who was raped and “Things are going to happen, was arrested in connection with the Koua Yang, a teacher and coach cannot focus on her classwork. Lott, insist safety should be prioritized but overall, I still feel safe,” said assault of the school principal, who at St. Paul Harding for 16 years, a behavioral specialist at Washington over money, administrators point out Marquez, a senior. “I know no one’s suffered a concussion, according said he believes discussions around Technology Magnet School in St. the high costs of these reforms. going to sit out there and have an to reports. And in December, a St. diversity are causing some teachers Paul, understands the needs of And some students assert that urge to hurt me.” Paul Central teacher was slammed, and officials to become too “soft” on students and teachers through a lens implementing only top-down Violence, however, has become choked and punched, according students. that few others see through, especially reforms criminalizes students and an increasingly public reality in to police, by a 16-year-old student “We want to make sure that we after recent outbreaks of violence in neglects the root cause of student- Minneapolis and St. Paul schools. while trying to break up a fight. understand where they’re coming Twin Cities schools. staff violence, which some attribute But students, teachers and officials (The teacher is suing the school from. We can’t just say everybody “Sometimes (students) are with to cultural and communication- have differing ideas on the root district for negligence, according to should be treated the same,” Yang me in my office or whatever, (and) related gaps. causes of school violence. reports.) said. “But at the same time, students we’re building this rapport that goes Minnesota Department of The list goes on. shouldn’t be allowed to do whatever a long way,” he said. “Students would Looking for solutions Education data shows that in 2014- Jason Matlock is the director of they want—come to school, come to tell me who’s going to fight. Or who The St. Paul Federation of Teachers, 15, 3,869 reported cases of assault operational and security services class whenever they want ... I would just broke up. Or what girls are upset the teachers’ union representing occurred in schools throughout the for the Minneapolis Public Schools say about 5 percent of the popula- with each other, and ‘So-and-so’s workers in the schools, has pushed state, including 592 in Minneapolis district and is responsible for tion’s doing that. picking on me and calling me names.’ for “increased support in schools to and 257 in St. Paul. emergency and security planning “... We’ve been so loose now, the So I’m able to intervene before help meet the needs of our stu- This year, multiple incidents and critical incident response. kids have kind of taken advantage another issue brews.” dents,” said union president Denise have been highlighted in the news, Matlock believes the root causes of of it.” Since the beginning of this school Rodriguez. In December, union lead- especially those involving violence fights are the same as when he went However, North St. Paul High year, students have attacked high ers threatened a teachers strike over against teachers and officials: to school—two students like the School junior Coralie Maldonado school teachers and officials at safety concerns, following the alleged In March, a St. Paul Como Park same person, differences in opinion, feels her school environment has schools throughout St. Paul and student assault of John Ekblad, a St. teacher was seriously injured by two issues at home—but that technol- become anything but “loose.” Minneapolis. Fights, student suicides Paul Central High School teacher, students who tried to disrupt his ogy is making it harder to get away “I feel like it’s more suffocating, and other deaths have occurred. according to reports. classroom, police say. In January, from these situations. it’s become more of a prison,” she In the aftermath of the violence, a While Rodriguez could not a 14-year-old boy was arrested “Social media—Snapchat, said. “… It’s just become a really debate over how to improve school speak specifically about the assault in connection with the assault of Facebook, Twitter—you’re talking stressful environment that no safety has emerged among admin- of Ekblad due to pending litiga- a teacher at the alternative high about the ability to continue that student wants to learn in, or can istrators, teachers union members, tion, she said school districts need school Minneapolis Harrison stressor across time,” Matlock said. learn in.” staff and students, with some propos- to implement improved safety Education Center, which came a “Bullying no longer just happens But from Yang’s perspective, ing easier access to mental health resources, such as more counselors, month after a 17-year-old student when you go to school.” ROOTS continued on page 29 resources. While many staff members PREVENTION continued on page 29

20 threesixtyjournalism.org school climate “(News outlets) were like, ‘These schools are violent “We are in control as adults of what we do. and out of control.’ That’s We have to address (the challenges students face) not what it’s like at all and make those connections and unpack those things to find that kid inside who wants to learn. here. We’ve had a lot of Everyone’s inspired by something.” tragedies happen this year, —Jason Matlock, director of operational and security services and I don’t like seeing our at Minneapolis Public Schools pain exploited that way.” —Angela Vang, senior at SOUND OFF ON St. Paul Central High School SCHOOL VIOLENCE Story by Danielle Wong and Mina Yuan Photos by Danielle Wong

“I ask my kids all the time, ‘Do you feel unsafe?’ And they’re all like, ‘No. Are you kidding? No.’ So again, it’s that perception piece. I think it’s based on people’s experiences. If you’ve had an unfortunate experience ... you see more of it, and you might feel more unsafe.”

—Laurie Olson, head of security at SPPS and parent

“I don’t think I’ve ever felt threatened. I’ve never felt scared or like anybody’s life was at harm. There are situations “Every school is going to come with (its) set of fights and (its) set of troubles, but that’s just a where kids get in fights and they may be play-fighting or part of being a kid. It’s just part of this high school journey. Things are going to happen, but they may push someone. Someone might get hurt or get overall, I still feel safe. I know no one’s going to sit out there and have an urge to hurt me.” —Ian Marquez, senior at St. Paul Central High School a bruise or something maybe, but I mean, that’s rare.” —Jamil Lott, behavioral specialist at Washington Technology Magnet School

May 2016 21 school climate

since I started my career, and that’s Minneapolis and in St. Paul and (we School fights going viral been fifteen years, going as far back are) engaging those youth outreach as chat rooms and Myspace,” Cotton workers who work in our schools said. “As long as social media has …” Cotton said. “(We are) deploy- operational and security services for been around, social media has been ing them to really be engaging with What used to be small-scale incidents Minneapolis Public Schools. “… And a tool that has made bigger problems young people and be talking with unfortunately with fights, that seems for violence.” them and trying to de-escalate issues are now public events online to be an easy, quick way to get a lot Matlock and Cotton have tried to before they become a police matter.” of clicks and likes and attention.” prevent fights involving school-age A relatively small amount of The ability to record fights and students (on and off of campuses) by students engage in fights on school share them over social media has trying to divert students from situa- property (approximately 8 percent, SMARTPHONES CLENCHED in By Zekriah given fighting a broader reach and tions where fights normally happen. according to a 2015 Centers for hands and voices raised, the excited Chaudhry a longer lifespan in the minds of Cotton gave one example, citing Disease Control and Prevention chatter and jeers only get louder Minneapolis students. This is what Matlock refers St. Patrick’s Day 2015, when a large report). But Matlock and Cotton when somebody’s head hits the floor. South High to as “positive reinforcement.” group of teenagers and young people would like to build relationships with School If you haven’t seen this happen, Chandra Morris, a freshman at arrived in downtown Minneapolis students before they reach that point. be sure to check Snapchat for the Minneapolis South High School, and ran through the streets, blocked “First, (teachers) have to talk to uploads. watched and commented on. The said she has seen videos surface on a traffic and got into fights—what their students and listen to their stu- Want more? You can pick from popularity of online fights has left consistent basis. Cotton called an “eruption of vio- dents,” Matlock said. “That’s a huge thousands of online videos. school officials and others trying to Sasha Cotton, a youth violence lence.” This led to extra precautions thing. Adults have to make sure they At schools around the country, figure out how to shift the trend. prevention coordinator with the city taken this year to ensure the same are including the students in what what once were small-scale disagree- “We live in an age where every- of Minneapolis, also has noticed this thing did not happen. they are doing.” ments are now becoming public one wants to be Facebook famous,” new-age platform for violence. “Being strategic, we have This intervention is especially events that are recorded, posted, said Jason Matlock, the director of “Social media has been an issue youth outreach workers both in VIRAL continued on page 30 Student Profile: Alessandro Denti

An Italian exchange student who asks, ‘Why Crocs?’

THEY ARE HATED with a passion. They are loved unconditionally. By Kristy Ornelas They are too ugly for some and accessorized Coon Rapids High School to perfection by others. They are Crocs. And Alessandro Denti, a 17-year-old foreign exchange student from , just doesn’t under- Going to the U.S. stand why Minnesotans would wear them. Denti was intrigued to study abroad after a “The way you dress is so different than the friend of his in Italy studied in Wisconsin. He Italian way, like Crocs,” Denti said with a laugh. told his parents, his friends and his Greek and This was one of many instances in which Latin teacher, who fully encouraged him to Denti, who’s from Sardinia, Italy, would grow follow through with his plans.

accustomed to Minnesotan—and American— Once he’d made up his mind, Denti signed KRISTY ORNELAS/THREESIXTY JOURNALISM culture as a student at Coon Rapids High up in October 2014 with AFS Intercultural Alessandro Denti, a 17-year-old from Italy, became accustomed to Minnesotan culture during his stay School this year. STUDENT PROFILE continued on page 30 this year as a foreign exchange student in Coon Rapids.

22 threesixtyjournalism.org school climate

Justifying the high Success over stress

that academic pressure pushes Despite health warnings, some students Top high school students them to work harder in school. “(Academic pressure) will smoke marijuana for sleep, stress, they say face academic pressure head-on always exist because no matter where you are … you’re always going to have that pressure to be more progressive toward getting Editor’s note: ThreeSixty has VARSITY VOLLEYBALL your education,” Young said, “but By Sebastian changed the names of students in PLAYER. By Va Yang at the same time you are always Alfonzo this story. Vice President of National St. Paul Johnson going to have that pressure to get St. Paul Central High School High School Honor Society and Senior Class that A or that B+, (to) strive for the SARAH WAS IN eighth grade the Board. high grade. It can … give a student first time she smoked marijuana. Assistant at St. Paul’s Arlington a reason to try.” She was getting food with marijuana to help with sleep, he Hills Library. in life so I don’t have to work hard Chris Rozek, who holds a friends from a youth council when said. He said smoking is “especially On top of all of those titles, later,” Yang said. “Sooner or later, Ph.D. in social and personality someone asked her if she wanted nice” when dealing with the late- 17-year-old Salena Yang main- you’ll find out that you have to psychology from the University to smoke “weed.” Sarah was with night, early-morning sleep sched- tains a 4.48 weighted grade point work hard to get what you want, so of Wisconsin-Madison and who people she trusted, she said, so she ule of a high school student. average and is ranked number two that’s why I’m working hard right is a postdoctoral scholar at the figured, “Why not?” Michael, another 17-year-old in St. Paul Johnson High School’s now.” University of Chicago, says Young’s Now a 16-year-old high school Twin Cities student, says he smokes senior class. Only one other Johnson senior view is an example of a student student in the Twin Cities, Sarah marijuana to deal with the stress Many high school students face has a higher GPA than Yang. Her interpreting academic pressure in a has continued to smoke marijuana. that comes with being a high tremendous academic pressure, classmate, Aaron Young, is ranked positive way. The primary reason she smokes school student. however, students who are suc- number one, and says he’s earned Rozek also said both students now, she says, is to help with “On a positive end, I think I’m cessful find that balancing their the valedictorian post through and their teachers must learn to insomnia. more relaxed overall,” Michael said. schedules, managing their time “hard work and motivation and balance academic pressure. “I was taking melatonin before,” “I feel like I come back from the and facing that pressure head-on dedication.” “If all the students and teachers Sarah said, “but melatonin would weekends more refreshed.” are key ingredients to performing Young also wonders how many are focused on is trying to reach give me the weirdest dreams and I While their reasons vary, all well in school. students are actually learning in a certain performance level, then didn’t like it, so I started smoking three students also spoke about Experts also believe it’s up to the process they are less likely to enjoy what weed before I went to bed and that the social aspects of smoking the student to use the pressure of trying to they are learning and find it to be helps me.” marijuana. All three began smoking on them to either feel defeated by get good irrelevant to their lives,” Rozek In many schools, illegal mari- through friends—not for self-medi- a growing to-do list or feel extra grades. said, “which then in the end under- juana use is present in student life. cating purposes. All three said they motivated to accomplish these “You get mines their motivation.” While experts say marijuana use still smoke with friends for fun. tasks. students When Yang feels unmotivated, can be bad for students’ develop- One of them even said smoking Academic pressure can be cre- who are she steps away from things that are ing brains, some local teens justify “has made me more social.” ated by worries over grades, tests just willing causing her stress. And she says it smoking marijuana, saying they use and homework, as well as from to just pass works for her. Young it to deal with stress and sleep. Effects of marijuana parents and friends. Yang said their class,” “I usually Sarah isn’t alone. A 2015 survey Marijuana plays a part in St. Paul expectations for her always have he said, “and just take a from the National Institute on Central Social Worker Steve Collins’ been high. they just want to get to the next break and Drug Abuse found that, for the first work every day, he says. Smoking “... Everyone expects me to level.” remind time, high school seniors are smok- marijuana is a significant issue that do well in school, so I have that Michael Thompson, principal at myself that ing more marijuana each day than negatively affects high schoolers’ mindset that, ‘You have to do well. Johnson High School, said he sees all this hard cigarettes. The study says 6 percent emotional, social and academic You have to do well,’” Yang said. “So this happen. work will pay of high school seniors are smoking growth and family connectedness, that stresses me out.” “I think there are some students Yang off later,” she marijuana daily. he said. Yang knows that although who get all As and don’t learn very said. “Just be Sarah also isn’t alone in using Collins believes smoking mari- schoolwork can be stressful, work- much, and there are some students positive and don’t just always study marijuana to self-medicate. Jacob, juana also can arrest emotional ing hard and getting good grades who get Cs and Ds who learn every day. Go out and have some a 17-year-old high school student development, he said. will help her in the future. more,” Thompson said. fun. Do something that you like.” in the Twin Cities, also smokes MARIJUANA continued on page 31 “I just want to work hard now Yang and Young both agreed

May 2016 23 school climate

Why I joined a high school walkout

AS I WALKED slowly into the By Melisa initiated by the Obama adminis- year, about 80 percent of whom deportations, the families that were hall after the second-hour bell at Robles-Olivar tration to deport undocumented had a criminal conviction. going to be broken and the children Minneapolis Southwest High School Minneapolis Central American immigrants, “People need to realize that the that were going to be left behind. I in January, I thought to myself, “I’ve Southwest High including families and minors, women and children fleeing their knew I needed to join the walkout. School never done anything like this.” needed to be stopped. home countries are doing so because So, on Jan. 20, I walked out. “What if something goes wrong? The Obama-led government of violence,” Samantha Morales, a As I left school with the other 40 COMMENTARY What if the authorities come? What has deported more illegal immi- senior at Minneapolis Washburn students, who were linked together if something happens to us?” “Are you sure you want to do this?” grants—more than 2 million, who helped organize the event, arm by arm and chanting “Not I walked down the stairs, and I I repeated her question. one report says—than any other later told me. “... People need to one more,” an overflowing sense thought to myself, “I can’t let fear But when I looked around, I real- president, data and reports show. try to fully understand the effect of empowerment overcame me. I overtake me.” I went toward the front ized at this moment, we had to do According to a Star Tribune article that the deportations are causing, couldn’t believe that I had walked out desk, stunned to see other students this. in January, immigration authorities because they are mental, emotional of school and that this was actually gathering for the walkout. I knew Immigration and in St. Paul, who oversee this state and physical damage to the people happening. We were creating history. “Are you sure you want to do this?” Customs Enforcement deportation and four others, deported more affected directly and indirectly.” We walked to Washburn High one of my closest friends asked me. raids, which were then recently than 1,730 people in the past fiscal I wanted to stop the raids, the Continued on next page My untraditional route to college

but how can someone concentrate and cons.” However, he is thankful while sweating their life away? to attend Johnson because of the In fact, Peter Demerath, an friendly staff, but most importantly associate professor in the College of the opportunities such as the open Education and Human Development Advanced Placement classes. The at the University of Minnesota, said school has opportunities for students there may be some truth in students’ to take great steps toward their edu- efforts being a reflection of the physi- cational goals.

PHOTOS BY ALEJANDRO HERNANDEZ- JOURNALISM TADEO/THREESIXTY cal state of the school. Young found his opportunity in McNally Smith College of Music in St. Paul. Minneapolis Roosevelt High School. Also, one of the main things every AP courses and is taking advantage single school should focus on is of it, just like I found my opportunity NEXT FALL, I will be a freshman By Alejandro place that let me focus. building a connection between stu- in PSEO and took advantage of it. at Augsburg College in Minneapolis Hernandez- Roosevelt Principal Michael dents and staff. These relationships While I still take math and Tadeo and the first college student in my Minneapolis Bradley agrees that things are not are significant because they connect English classes at McNally Smith family. Roosevelt High perfect at Roosevelt, but he says it’s students to their teachers and show College of Music, my favorite But my path to Augsburg is not School a work in progress. His goal is to students that teachers care about courses are teaching me about typical. create an “inclusive environment,” he their educational lives. music technology. I now under- COMMENTARY During my junior year in 2015, said. He points to renovations, such “These strong relationships with stand what I want to study when I I decided to leave Roosevelt High college courses and gain dual credit as a new auditorium, and that a more teachers showcases their belief in go to Augsburg College next fall. I School in south Minneapolis. Too for high school and college. I started visible encouragement in the arts has their students,” Demerath said. now know there are jobs I’m inter- often students would argue with taking PSEO classes full-time during become important in the school. Aaron Young, a senior at St. Paul ested in related to music. teachers. In some instances, fights the spring semester of my junior year. High schools can start creating Johnson, said his school “has its pros At the end of the day, every would break out in the hallways. This I now travel about an hour-and-a-half better environments for students student is different. Not everyone chaos would make it difficult for me during the week to attend McNally with simple things. For example, heat More info on PSEO has the same interests or the same to communicate with teachers and Smith College of Music in downtown strikes in Minnesota can be bad for To find out more information about strengths. We all need different get to my classes in peace. St. Paul, and I will finish high school students because older school build- PSEO in Minnesota, go to http:// opportunities. I had heard about the Post- with college credits. ings do not have air conditioning. education.state.mn.us/MDE/ That also means that the paths secondary Enrollment Option, which I have some good memories from Adding air conditioning to buildings StuSuc/CollReadi/PSEO/ some of us take to get to college may allows high school students to take Roosevelt, but I needed to be in a may come off as being a silly proposal, be different.

24 threesixtyjournalism.org school climate

Through that tough decision that I had to make that day, I came to realize that as young people, change isn’t always Race and political correctness going to come quickly. But sometimes, we need to put WHEN A GIRL in one of my classes of my parents is white, because it said, “Black Lives Matter is a hate By Marissa doesn’t matter and it never has. I’m Abara ourselves in those situations and try. group against policemen,” the entire Wayzata High asked on a regular basis which coun- class, including the teacher, turned School try I’m from. Is it really too crazy to to me for reaction. believe that I’m American? From previous page But before I had the chance to It was the worst moment of my When I express how I feel about COMMENTARY School, where we met with dozens express myself, I was cut off. high school experience. As the only this issue, I’ve had people tell me, of other students. It was a cold “You should have stayed in black student in class, I felt belittled that yes, I am black, and yes, I am a “That’s not true,” or, “You’re being mid-January day and I couldn’t feel school, getting your education and publicly insulted, unable to fight woman. The teacher also said, “He too dramatic.” When I told my my feet, but I was willing to stand instead of walking out. Do you for myself and for my face. This expe- has a point,” disregarding the point I friends how writing this piece was by and endure the temperature to really think anything is going to rience underlined that even in our was trying to make. hard for me emotionally, one of them oppose the acts ICE was taking change with what was done yester- relatively progressive society, clear In school, I stand out. I am one said, “Oh my god,” as though I was against the Latinx (a gender-neutral day?” my teacher asked. distinctions based on the color of of only three black students in a overreacting. modifier for “Latino,” which is mas- The words coming out of my your skin still exist. 66-member Senate in Student I’ve had guys tell me they couldn’t culine) community. My community. teacher’s mouth stumped me. I was The moment my class picked the Council, and I’ve always been the only date me because they were scared When I saw the crowd of a couple in disbelief. I did not want to hear topic of police brutality for an issue black student in my AP classes. I see of what their parents would think. I hundred students, I was stunned. what my teacher had to say. Words discussion this year, I knew I was few other black competitive swim- couldn’t even make this up. A mix of high school students from of discouragement were all I heard. in deep trouble. I knew no matter mers and people have told me “black Four years of this cycle of harass- all over the Twin Cities area came I wanted to get up and leave the how much research I did, no matter people don’t know how to swim.” ment has taken its toll on me. I’ve by bus, and some walked with classroom. how well thought-out my arguments I have never had a black teacher. tried to keep my head high, but I’d their bare feet to participate in the I knew that the walkout was were, there wasn’t much I could do. Friends have told me I’m lucky much rather lay low, sticking within walkout. more than walking out of school. There was no way I could stand up because I have a better chance of my small group of friends. “We decided to take action It was more than education for an entire population. getting a job due to my race and sex. People say that we are the “politi- because we realized that what was within the classroom—it was Later, when we were discussing Almost every day, at least one white cally correct generation.” But I don’t and is happening affects the Latino going beyond what is being taught campaign finance, I said we should person asks to touch my hair. I’m believe it. community as a whole,” Morales within the classroom by educat- get rid of money in politics and go often told that I’m “the whitest black We still have a long way to go. later said. “... We decided to have ing others and bringing aware- back to the “good old days when it person they’ve ever met.” That is like I believe we need to have more other high schools walk out because ness to an issue that is impacting was just the candidate at a podium, saying, “You’re pretty close to being open conversations inside and we realized that it also affects stu- children, families and an entire like Lincoln’s time.” Of course, the white, but you’ll never be white.” I’m outside classrooms. It’s time we stop dents, both undocumented as well community. second I said that, another student told that I look like I’m from “the judging people and learn from our as documented.” An issue that everyone should said, “You wouldn’t have been able islands” and that I’m “exotic looking.” differences. All my worries disappeared the know and be fully aware of. to vote,” making a clear distinction I don’t like being asked which closer we got to Martin Luther I understood that walking out King Jr. Park in Minneapolis. I may not have created quick change, was surrounded by Latinx youth but I knew that we brought atten- who wanted to voice their opinion tion to the media, and the folks Making our voices heard against the raids. I felt a sense of around us, who saw us walking out pride that for once, the Latinx youth of school, likely wondered what ON A FEBRUARY morning this uninformed I was. I felt embarrassed were taking a stand, and others exactly these young Latinx and year, I was rushing to find a seat By Jennifer because, as a senior and student of Delgado were there to support us. other students were protesting for our daily assembly at Cristo Cristo Rey Jesuit that particular class, I should have But not everyone supported what about. Rey Jesuit High School. My mind High School been aware of those issues. we did, what I did. My teacher was Through that tough decision that was elsewhere, studying for an So, senior students in the social one of them. I had to make that day, I came to Economics test I would take later COMMENTARY justice religion class decided to “Where were you yesterday, realize that as young people, change that morning. create a program on Black Lives Melisa?” my teacher asked during isn’t always going to come quickly. Then, two adults on the audito- discussion in class about Black Lives Matter to inform our school com- class the next day. But sometimes, we need to put our- rium stage were introduced. They Matter. At the time, the movement munity about these issues hap- “I walked out,” I replied, knowing selves in those situations and try. were from Black Lives Matter and was active in many causes in our pening around us. As high school my teacher knew where I was. Trying is better than nothing. were describing their cause. community. I personally never paid seniors, we should be encouraged “Why did you walkout?” Trying is taking one step toward I listened attentively. much attention to the movement, to learn about issues that affect the “I felt the need to walk out, I—” creating change. One day in December, we had a but that day in class I realized how INVOLVED continued on page 31

May 2016 25 school climate

Returning to the stage

Theater back in the spotlight at Minneapolis Roosevelt MINNEAPOLIS ROOSEVELT HIGH SCHOOL THEATER MINNEAPOLIS ROOSEVELT The cast of “The Seussification of Romeo and Juliet​” takes its final bow after a performance in January at Minneapolis Roosevelt High School. The Roosevelt High School Theater’s production was its first in more than 15 years. AFTER MORE THAN 15 years By Talia without a theater production at Bradley Minneapolis Roosevelt High School, Minneapolis up at the cast, which was sitting on A ‘focus on the arts’ individuals, and believes the arts are the overhead lights dimmed in the Roosevelt High the set and laughing. “These kids are Schools such as Roosevelt with a essential to the growth of students, School school’s newly renovated auditorium so energetic and excited about acting higher percentage of students who he said. in January as the actors and actresses and being able to be themselves in a are eligible for free or reduced lunch “Through dance, theatre, music took the stage. focused on the arts and hired Kristi safe and comfortable space.” are less likely to offer in-school and visual arts, students explore new The thick, maroon curtains were Johnson, an enthusiastic young the- theater classes, according to a report ways of expression, they create, they pulled back, revealing a multi- ater teacher. Overcoming challenges by the National Center for Education grow confident,” Bradley said. colored set where the worlds of Johnson said she is ready to Adding the theater program was Statistics. However, after previ- Dr. Seuss and Romeo and Juliet share her ideas and talents with the a challenge. ously focusing on math and reading Sense of community merged together, creating the play young performers who have since A group of Roosevelt families ral- resources, the school has begun As the theater program has devel- titled, “The Seussification of Romeo been eagerly marketing their next lied together and drew the attention emphasizing the arts in an effort to oped and created a new opportunity and Juliet.” production by posting flyers and put- of high school administrators last engage students and boost achieve- for students, it also has opened the The Roosevelt theater program ting video clips of rehearsals in the year. After much protest and delib- ment, according to an October 2015 door for many students to feel part of had died after a long-time theater school’s weekly announcements. eration at school board meetings and Star Tribune report. the larger school community. teacher retired. But this school year, “The students make it all worth it a student walkout over district fund- “Our focus on the arts is an effort “I never felt part of the Roosevelt after a push from students and fami- for me,” Johnson said as she sat on the ing that was filmed on the news, the to afford equity to our students,” community until I joined the cast of lies, Roosevelt added more programs edge of the Roosevelt stage, looking district eventually provided money Bradley said. “Historically, schools ‘Seussification of Romeo and Juliet,’” for a theater teacher position—and serving populations of poverty Anderson said. She never felt she fit other school efforts—and Roosevelt appear impoverished of quality in, she said, in any of the other clubs officials hired Johnson. resources. There are generally few or opportunities offered at Roosevelt, Fast forward to Jan. 28, 2016, opportunities for students to explore other than soccer. The school’s when the school’s first production the arts.” creation of a program that centered opened. Roosevelt is focused on holistic on an activity she loves was a dream Kate Anderson, a Roosevelt education—tailoring the education come true, she said. sophomore who has performed on to each individual, Bradley said. The As the cast of “The Seussification stages around Minneapolis and in principal wants students to grow as of Romeo and Juliet” flooded into the , said performing at Roosevelt auditorium for rehearsal in January, was a different experience because Next production: students entered with a warm wel- she felt honored to perform in front “Urinetown, the Musical” come and a stampede of hugs. of and alongside her classmates. The Roosevelt High School “These guys are my family,” senior “Roosevelt staff have been very Theater’s next production was Marcus Riley said as a smile spread supportive of the program and they “Urinetown, the Musical,” which across his face and as another actor couldn’t have hired a better teacher,” satirizes the legal system, startled him by jumping on his back. Anderson said. capitalism, bureaucracy and more,

MINNEAPOLIS ROOSEVELT HIGH SCHOOL THEATER MINNEAPOLIS ROOSEVELT Roosevelt Principal Michael according to the group’s Facebook Disclosure: Talia Bradley is the Kate Anderson (Juliet, right) hugging Sam Albright (Romeo) after the Roosevelt Bradley agrees, saying that Johnson’s page. The production was slated for daughter of Roosevelt Principal High School Theater’s final performance of “The Seussification of Romeo and hard work is evident “through the hap- four public performances in April. Michael Bradley. Juliet” in January. piness of the kids and the program.”

26 threesixtyjournalism.org school climate

had the same envelope, and we excit- Unlimited edly ripped them open. “CONGRATULATIONS!” was the first thing I saw. I was accepted to possibilities College Possible. When I got home, I shared the news with my family. My father, who brought us to America for my and my sister’s education, College Possible makes student’s looked over the acceptance letter. college dreams become reality PHOTO COURTESY OF COURTNEY PERRY He looked at me, surprised and Coach Caitlin Gibson with a small group of juniors last year at Robbinsdale impressed, and said, “This is such a Cooper High School. Bayan Algazi, a senior at St. Paul Harding, says College good opportunity. You are going to Possible has made a significant impact on her future. have a good two years with them. America has enough opportunities FOR HIGH SCHOOL sophomores, enthusiastically. The school staff Possible? Why is it important to go and resources for everyone.” We all the college application process can By Bayan and other College Possible students to college?” thought coming to America had Algazi seem foreign and daunting, but St. Paul Harding encouraged sophomores such as I also asked my own questions, been worth it. a growing program aims to help High school myself to apply for the program and the biggest being, “Will I be able to I started as a College Possible stu- students navigate the process. This experience the college process with afford to go to my top college?” As dent in Fall 2014, and I was curious program has what every high school support. I wanted to join College the interview wound down, I became and excited to have my first session student needs to understand and strives to encourage and motivate Possible so I would be more orga- more and more sure that College with my coach. I walked into my gain knowledge about college appli- students to achieve their goals and nized and balanced with extensive Possible could help me discover my class at 2 p.m., after school, happy cations, environments and resources. aspirations, starting with college support and resources. academic niche and the right college and enthusiastic. There were 39 College Possible, a national non- admission. I applied in March 2014 and had to support that. other students in the room, all hope- profit launched in St. Paul in 2000, And it works. to interview with a College Possible In May 2014, my high school ful that College Possible would help helps lower-income high school At my school, St. Paul Harding senior coach. I was excited, not ner- advisory teacher handed me a letter make our dreams of going to college juniors and seniors make their col- Senior High School, College Possible vous. I had to answer questions such with the return address of “College a reality. lege dreams a reality. The program coaches promoted the program as, “Why do you want to join College Possible.” My classmate next to me POSSIBLE continued on page 30

they’re starting to see progress. in eight classrooms, helping Oakland, Calif., according to Signs of Students’ GPAs are rising, they teachers strategize better ways to Johnson. In the Oakland office’s are engaged in class and they see engage their African-American first four years, suspensions for the importance of education and male students. He says he meets black male students dropped by progress their future, according to Michael with students one-on-one when half and graduation rates increased Walker, the director of the office. they come to him with problems. 10 percent, according to a Star But Walker said there’s still more Walker also attends community Tribune report. work to be done. events and talks to other organiza- The Office of Black Male Student Mpls. office focused on black males “This walk is going to take some tions that also support black male Achievement started with a budget is making an impact time,” Walker said. “We didn’t achievement. of $200,000 for the 2014-15 school get into this situation overnight Bernadeia Johnson was super- year. This year, its budget increased so we’re not going to get out of it intendent of Minneapolis Public to about $1.2 million. overnight.” Schools when the Office of Black According to the school district AS A GROUP, black male students By Erianna The Office of Black Male Student Male Student Achievement was website, the Minneapolis office’s in Minneapolis Public Schools Jiles Achievement is located in the created in 2014. She hired Walker goals for black males are to reduce have struggled with multiple St. Paul Como district office in Minneapolis, how- to lead the office. suspension rates by 25 percent, things: Graduation rates, test Park High ever, Walker says he is rarely there. “Michael Walker understands increase graduation rates by 10 School scores, attendance and suspensions He prefers to work in classrooms as a black male who graduated percent and improve attendance. among them. with teachers and students. from Minneapolis Public Schools,” It also sets goals for black males To address those issues, the in the nation. Almost two years A longtime district employee Johnson said. “He understood what to participate in taking Advanced school district created the Office of into its efforts to increase achieve- and a former assistant principal I was trying to do.” Placement or post-secondary Black Male Student Achievement, ment of one of the lowest perform- at Minneapolis Roosevelt High The office was modeled after courses, and to get students to which is among the first of its kind ing groups of students, officials say School, Walker currently works a similar office at a school in ACHIEVEMENT continued on page 31

May 2016 27 GEN NEXT from page 9 graduation and college and career decide how to use its resources to readiness in March, Magdalena help students. The organization’s Wells, director of college access at data philosophy is to pay attention College Possible, said Generation to nuances and also look for trends Next has helped College Possible in relation to diversity. grow and maintain its presence in “We have spent too much time the Twin Cities, as well as given the trying to only understand why a organization funding for partner- diverse classroom creates chal- ships in the community. lenges,” Rybak said, “and we need Noam Wiggs, director of educa- to pivot to also understand why tion and training at Minnesota every student learns more in a place Alliance with Youth, said where they have people from differ- Generation Next was “convening ent perspectives.” people that wouldn’t normally be in It’s also important to break down the same room,” and that its biggest the data by race and get beyond the impact is “data transparency (that) term “communities of color,” Rybak starts conversation.” said. This attention to detail allows The vision of Generation Next, bigger and sometimes surprising according to Rybak, is that every trends to be discovered, he said. child thrives. DAVID SHERMAN/GETTY IMAGES DAVID “In many measurements, espe- “Sadly, in this community, we can Jones handles the ball during a game against the this season. cially commitment to learning, say that we can predict the likelihood many communities of color have a of a child’s success by looking at the JONES higher level than their white coun- color of their skin,” he said. “… (It’s) from page 11 ‘Tyus Stones’ terparts,” he said. “And that doesn’t the one thing that can stand between My bracket is doing okay—not show up when you just look at a this community and greatness.” great, but not completely busted, so As a freshman at Duke University two seasons ago, Tyus Jones hit several math or reading score.” there’s still some faith. (He picked big shots, including a clutch 3-pointer toward the end of the 2015 national Two of Generation Next’s part- Disclosure: ThreeSixty Journalism Duke to win it all.) championship game against Wisconsin that helped seal the Blue Devils’ ners agree that the organization participates in Generation Next’s fifth national title in school history. Jones, who finished with 23 points in Z: Take me back to draft night. What has filled an important void in the High School Graduation and the game and earned Final Four Most Outstanding Player honors, was was that like? community. At a Generation Next College and Career Readiness given the nickname “Tyus Stones”–Pres. reportedly called meeting focused on high school networks. TJ: Unbelievable. Once again, that is him “Tyus Stones” during Duke’s ensuing trip to the White House—for his another moment in my life where I clutch late-game performances. Here’s what Jones had to say about how he was extremely blessed and another approaches those situations. time I will never forget and I will always remember very vividly. It’s just “Confidently, confidently. Being poised is something that I’ve always prided something that I have worked so hard myself on. As a point guard, you have to keep your teammates poised and for and to get to, and my family just was they look toward you, you’re the leader on the court. So when it comes down able to really enjoy that night. One of to those, my teammates and coaches had always believed in me to take those the best nights of my life, that Tuesday. shots and just make those plays, whether it be getting an assist, setting up a teammate, calling a play or taking a shot, they always trusted in me, and that’s Z: What are you looking for in the big. I never wanted to let my teammates and coaches down so when it came future of this organization? Where do down to taking those shots, that’s how I did it, is not wanting to let them down you see the Timberwolves going? and taking them with confidence.” TJ: We are all working toward getting better and improving individually and as a whole. We Z: What role do you play on that needed to, knock down shots, being see winning in our future. We future team? able to space the floor and then want to win a championship one TJ: Just a point guard on this team. put pressure on other teams’ point day, and you have to take steps to Someone who is in control at all guards. So just someone who is a doing that. So right now we are times, being able to just set up complete point guard for this team

STAFF PHOTO STAFF just trying to build up a team and guys—I’ve got a lot of talented guys and fits in with the other talented Victor Cedeño, director of networks and education policy at Generation Next. continually get better. around me. And also scoring when guys that we have.

28 threesixtyjournalism.org PREVENTION from page 20 Engaging students hiring more culturally diverse staff or psychologists and behavioral special- Others point to less costly alterna- training teachers, he said. ists for students and staff. tives to improving safety, such as Interpreting that smoke as a full- Lott agreed that more mental engaging students. blown fire can lead some people to health professionals are needed to “If we had our students engaged view students as aggressive criminals prevent violence and deal with its and allowed for some more leader- and call for harsher punishments, aftermath. ship from students, we would find such as suspensions and expulsions, “The teachers can only do so much,” some different avenues that wouldn’t which only exacerbate the situation, Lott said of behavioral discipline in the necessarily cost more for staffing,” according to Vang, the senior at classroom. “Many of them are trying said Jason Matlock, director of Central. to do the best they can do. I think the DANIELLE WONG/THREESIXTY JOURNALISM operational and security services at “I don’t think sending a student same goes for the administration. Angela Vang, a senior at Central High School in St. Paul, speaks about school Minneapolis Public Schools. home is really addressing their They can only do so much.” violence. Vang says she hopes to see more open, inclusive dialogue, among other In St. Paul, a student group behavior, and I don’t think that dis- Learning about alienated individu- things, to help stop school violence. called the Student Engagement and engaging them from a class any fur- als early on could protect schools Advancement Board aims to help ther is going to teach them anything,’’ not only from fights, but also from and emergency management for something so tragic happens?” students and administrators com- she said. “But I don’t think we have more violent measures such as large- Bloomington Public Schools. In response, administrators municate. The board, which began strong enough alternatives, either.” scale shootings, said Rick Kaufman, Central High School senior Angela acknowledge that while staffing more meeting this school year, conducted Vang said she hopes to see alterna- leader of the crisis response team at Vang agreed, citing Central having mental health professionals would be a student survey on school resource tives that allow teachers to discipline Columbine High School in Colorado, only one social worker for its 2,000 ideal, it could cost millions of dollars. officers and presented its findings to students without criminalizing where two students killed 13 people students, despite a student commit- Rodriguez said the St. Paul district the school board in February to show them, as well as more open, inclusive in 1999. ting suicide earlier this year. and the union recently negotiated a administrators students’ opinions. dialogue. “What kind of changes are “We had a lot more counselors new contract that is “a strong step in Lott, a former Como High School Relating to one another, Rodriguez needed? Increased attention to and dogs in the office for like two the right direction” but falls short of a student who said he’d gotten into a said, is a crucial step in this process. detecting warning signs of violence, days,” Vang said. “And anybody who complete solution. The new contract few fights himself, said student feed- “It’s not possible to heal from and mentoring or counseling pro- needed them could go see them, includes $4.5 million in spending on back is especially important because conflict if we all can’t relate to each grams that enable schools to identify and everyone was like, ‘Oh, that school climate programs that imple- of differences in cultural perspective. other,” Rodriguez said. “We need to and provide support to alienated or was so great, that was so amazing to ment restorative practices; 30 new Cultural gaps, he said, can cause stop finger-pointing and blaming, at-risk youth,” said Kaufman, who have those resources.’ Why don’t we counselors, social workers, nurses, staff members to feel uneasy or and work together with parents, stu- is now executive director of com- always have those kinds of resources? psychologists and language teachers; threatened when students are truly dents, educators and the community munity relations, family engagement Why do we have to wait until and 2-percent raises for teachers. only “blowing smoke.” The answer is to come up with real solutions.”

ROOTS from page 20 teacher), emotional as well, so you For Yang, leveraging his relation- stricter policies are exactly what can build this relationship with stu- ship with students is an important students need. dents to the point that they come out aspect of maintaining structure in “Contrary to many people’s beliefs, as the best students ever, and they’re his classroom, he said. kids who are in poverty, kids who ready for the world,” Marquez said. He also emphasized that school don’t have support at home, they While Matlock agrees that violence isn’t as bad as people make want structure,” Yang said. “They relationship-building is at the center it out to be. need accountability. They need those of alleviating situations, he said that “Our building in general and a lot skills. So as a building, as a school not all teachers are able to connect of schools have been misrepresented,” district, we need to tighten up a little with every one of their students. Yang said. “We love our kids. We really bit, we need to make them a little “Teachers have a very hard job,” do the best we (can). If you talk to any more accountable.” Matlock said. “There’s no conceiv- of the kids who are in our classes, they able way that one human being can would say the same thing.” Mending through relationships make 150 authentic connections in And that’s something Marquez What administration, teachers and a 50-minute time frame each. It’s can agree with. students agree on is the importance just not possible. What we’ve really “Every school is going to come of building relationships that help been talking about wanting to do with (its) set of fights and (its) set

DANIELLE WONG/THREESIXTY JOURNALISM avoid school violence. more is bringing the community in of troubles,” he said, “but that’s just Ian Marquez, a senior at Central High School in St. Paul, said he feels safe in “(Teachers) need to learn all those to make sure that they’re helping us a part of being a kid. It’s just part of school despite incidents of school violence in St. Paul Public Schools. social skills that come with (being a fill that gap.” this high school journey.”

May 2016 29 RIGHTS from page 19 VIRAL from page 22 hitting in the classroom becomes “I don’t like fighting, I don’t think POSSIBLE from page 27 b a s i s .” important for reaching students bullying in the bathroom, and bully- it is a sufficient way to get through We peppered our coach, The student has since trans- raised in violence-prone environ- ing in the bathroom can often lead your problems, but people find it Emily Johnson, with questions. ferred schools as the school ments and in a culture where fighting to robbery and these gang fights that entertaining,” she said. “That’s why What will we do here this year? continues to work on the policy. essentially becomes social media we’re seeing, gang involvement, and they record it. … How do we get a high score entertainment, according to experts. it just exacerbates from there.” “And I think that is kind of on the ACTs? Our excitement The political fight “If my parents physically fight or Morris, the freshman, said negative, but that is something that overwhelmed Emily, so she took Several states have recently my dad hits my mom in order to get suspending students who fight isn’t people do nowadays. And it’s sad, a deep breath and said, “Let’s adopted or considered laws that her to do what he wants, then I, in the answer. She also urged groups but it’s what people do.” begin.” She was excited, too. would limit the usage of bath- turn, learn a dynamic of power and involved in fighting to go to counsel- I was looking forward rooms, locker rooms and other control: ‘I hit people to get them to ing to work through their issues— to preparing for the ACTs, facilities based on gender. do what I want,’” Cotton said. “And instead of fighting. researching colleges and find- In March, the governor of ing resources for my area of North Carolina signed a con- interest over the next two years. troversial bill limiting transgen- STUDENT PROFILE from page 22 said. Program administrators pair the Denti also is in track this spring. During those junior and senior der people to using a bathroom Programs, a nonprofit organization students up with a host family and He took a date to prom in April. year sessions, I was curious of their biological sex, instead devoted to providing students with the school district. He went skiing with his host family and enthusiastic about college. of the sex with which they international experiences. Denti Students and their families pay in Lutsen. He’s enjoyed both Emily was supportive and identify. The governor of South wanted to study in an English- out of pocket for the students’ stay. Minneapolis and St. Paul. caring toward the students. She Dakota vetoed a similar bill in speaking country. But because the Denti’s trip cost $50,000, he said. And he’s also traveled outside of helped us find resources and early March that would have United States was a popular request, Students who can afford the expe- the state. used her experience of going to limited public school students he thought he would most likely end rience can benefit greatly from it, “I went to South Dakota and saw the College of St. Benedict to to using bathrooms and locker up in , his second preference. according to Melander. Mount Rushmore and that was very show us how going to college is rooms that matched their bio- “I wanted to go to the USA, but lit- “For the kids who come here, they cool,” he said. “I went to Washington a journey. logical sex. erally everyone wanted to go there,” realize that having English will be an D.C. and that was very cool, too.” I was always asking ques- Also in March, Minnesota he said. “So I was like, ‘I’m never advantage for them in life,” Melander Although Denti had these “very tions, and Emily always had House Republicans revealed going to do that.’” said. “Some of them are looking at cool” opportunities, he got homesick the best possible answers. plans for a similar bill to restrict But in July 2015, Denti was asleep going to college in the U.S., so they’re when the winter days hit Minnesota. “Students want their questions transgender people’s access to when his housekeeper woke him checking things out here to see how “At first everything is really excit- to be answered,” Emily said in a bathrooms, locker rooms and and told him that an email had been they’re going to make that happen.” ing because everything is new, it’s recent conversation we had. “I changing facilities that match sent to his mother with good news: your dream,” he said. “But then once want to help students achieve their biological gender. he was going to America. A Coon Warming up to Minnesota you get used to that, you kind of have their goal and motivate them to “Children, and their par- Rapids family had chosen Denti to be The school day, among other things, trouble, you feel lonely. Then you go to college.” ents, need to know that their their year-long guest, and he would was new to Denti. Students in Italy say, ‘Oh, what have I done? Why am I prepared for the ACT exam, safety and privacy rights will attend Coon Rapids High School for end school at 1 p.m., he said, where I here?’” taking four ACT practice tests be protected, particularly his junior year. they then eat what American high So, does he regret studying on Saturdays and three real when they are in intimate “I was jumping around,” he said. “I schoolers know as “lunch.” abroad? ACT tests. I learned about settings away from home,” said found out and I was like ‘Oh, perfect!’” When it came to fashion, No, he says. In fact, Denti has college requirements, majors John Helmberger, the chief Denti also was surprised at how bittersweet feelings about his return and minors, and scholarships executive officer of Minnesota Studying abroad at Coon Rapids Americans’ style choices differed. to Italy, which is scheduled for two to support students financially Family Council, in a March Denti is one of a small handful of “Shoes you wear at the beach, weeks after the school year ends. through four hours of weekly press release. international students accepted sandals, that doesn’t happen in Italy,” sessions. I attended weekend The Minnesota bill is not at Coon Rapids through exchange he said. “Or shorts. We dress up ‘I don’t put limits on myself’ campus visits, college fairs and expected to go far. There programs each year. Sue Melander, a more. We always wear jeans and long However, the strong bond that Denti other events. We celebrated was no vote during an April counselor and the foreign exchange pants, and never Crocs.” has built with his host family over our hard work and achieve- House committee hearing, program coordinator at Coon Rapids But he also has adapted to the the past nine months has given way ments. We planned potlucks and the Democratic-run High School, said that in her 29 local culture. As soon as he arrived, to a future reunion. and organized fun activities Senate is unlikely to support years, she’s seen students come from Denti joined the Coon Rapids “My host family is going to come between sessions as a break to it. Minnesota Governor Mark all over, including Asia, , west- football team in order to meet new visit me this August in Italy,” he said, motivate us. Also, I gave back Dayton also said he would ern Europe and South America. people. He did not know how to play “and I’ll return and visit them too, so to Harding’s community by col- veto the bill if it ended up on “We’re tending to see more variety or know any of the rules of the game, that makes me feel better.” laborating with peers in fall and his desk. in the locations that our students but Denti quickly became an Italian The months that Denti has spent spring service days. “Current proposals to come from,” she said. celebrity at school. in Minnesota have taught him quite Now, I have been accepted enshrine such measures of dis- Only a number of foreign “Since I was the only exchange (stu- a bit, he says. to several colleges. College crimination in our state laws exchange programs are approved by dent who played football), they gave “Now I’m more independent, more Possible definitely played an are appalling,” Dayton said in the school, according to Melander. me a lot of attention,” Denti said of the open-minded,” he said. “I know what important role in helping me an April press release, “and Students must go through a program other players. “And they were all very my values are. I’m way more friendly reach this point and finding out they are wrong.” to obtain a student visa to study up nice to me. I was hanging out with all and sociable than I was a year ago, how to embark on a great and to a year at Coon Rapids, Melander the seniors, so it was very cool.” and I don’t put limits on myself.” happy journey.

30 threesixtyjournalism.org MARIJUANA from page 23 cannabis may have a negative impact Students see marijuana “If part of the way you teach on cognitive function. as ‘unharmful’ yourself to deal with the world emo- Marijuana also can bring out Yet more and more students are tionally is by getting high or using,” psychotic diseases such as schizo- seeing marijuana as an unharm- Collins said, “then that becomes one phrenia earlier, especially in patients ful drug. The National Institute on of your chief coping strategies and with higher risk of developing these Drug Abuse study found that only you are no longer able to deal with diseases due to early child mistreat- 31.9 percent of high school seniors This project was not a class assignment. There was the world without it.” ment or family history, according to believe regular use of marijuana Marijuana’s effect on the still Arneson. could be harmful, the lowest per- not a lot of teacher involvement. We all worked really developing brain of young people has “Things that are long-term, they’re centage to date. been a point of study. While mari- developing in the medium-term, but Some students are aware of the hard to lay out the information objectively, based on only juana, which is legal in some form you don’t see them until the long,” risks and still choose to smoke. in 23 states (including Minnesota) Arneson said. Jacob said he was aware of the the facts of the issue, and show how, as a community, and the District of Columbia, has Marijuana also can decrease risks, but that he preferred to live we can make a change by simply being informed. been used legally for medical treat- family connectivity and cause family his life how he chose. He also said ment, some studies suggest smoking conflict, according to Collins. he wasn’t planning to stop smoking marijuana at a young age can have He also said, in his observa- marijuana until it was absolutely in adverse effects on memory, learning tions, marijuana typically has a his best interest. INVOLVED from page 25 He also said he loved that stu- and impulse control, as well as on negative effect on students’ academic Sarah said she would likely community around us. We should dents are passionate about others cognitive functions (although some performances. take breaks in the future because also be encouraged to share that in the community and want to studies also have shown conflicting “What’s hard about the marijuana marijuana triggers her anxiety. And information in our school. We all create change. He said that when results). thing is that it is like water over a Michael said he would likely con- agreed that there are many social the presentation was brought to Tom Arneson, research manager rock,” Collins said. “You don’t notice tinue to smoke until he learned to justice issues today, but we decided him, he believed a plan for next at the Office of Medical Cannabis it right away, but slowly over time, deal with stress better. to focus on Black Lives Matter. steps — including adjusting the in Minnesota, said there are many you can watch the scope of that stuff “I feel like at some point I’ll reach Our goal was to present what we presentation for different age risks to the developing brain, which go down. So you can see the trajec- an emotional maturity where I won’t learned to our classmates. groups, bringing in police officers develops into a person’s 20s. Arneson tory of the kids’ grades start to dip really need it anymore,” he said. “It was an opportunity to talk to discuss the issues, hosting an said some of the chemicals found in slowly over time.” about black lives mattering in a event that brought people together, predominantly Latino school,” said and more — needed to be taken, Sarah McCann, dean of student but now understood that his ACHIEVEMENT from page 27 and mindsets. Walker said black achievement for grade 12 and a “request for next steps to be added believe in themselves more. male students’ GPAs and gradu- religion teacher at Cristo Rey. was a communication of rejection But these ideas were ation rates are showing signs of This project was not a class to the students.” controversial. improvement (the office was assignment. There was not a lot When my teacher told us the “Some people were happy about unable to provide specific data of teacher involvement. We all president’s concerns about disrup- what we are doing, other people before this article was published). worked really hard to lay out the tion, we did not entirely agree at were concerned,” Johnson said. According to a May 2015 KARE information objectively, based the time, but we ended up accept- “‘Could we pull it off?’ And other 11 report, signs of progress showed on only the facts of the issue, and ing the decision with no harsh people thought, ‘Why pay atten- in the district during the 2014-15 show how, as a community, we can remarks. tion to black boys?’’’ school year: days missed due to make a change by simply being Weeks passed, and not being She added: “My thought was that suspensions dropped 47 percent for informed. Our school president, able to present was almost paying attention to black boys and African-American males, the per- however, did not allow us to pres- forgotten. creating strategies will help apply centage of African-American male ent our project to our classmates. Then February and the pre- those elsewhere for all students.” students suspended was down 3 The president, Jeb Myers, sentation by Black Lives Matter Black male students consistently percent, and the African-American SUBMITTED PHOTO recently told me in an email came around. I thought this was Michael Waker, the director of perform at or near the bottom on male graduation rate increased 4 interview that the issue was around hypocritical and unfair. (Myers said the Office of Black Male Student nearly all performance indicators percent, among other things. timing. The last school week of the adult presentations had already Achievement in Minneapolis Public in the district, according to the “We are starting to see students December and the first week of been scheduled.) Schools. Walker says progress is office’s website. understanding and acknowledg- January are “the most delicate” of The information my classmates being made, but there is still work to The district’s black male gradu- ing being a part of the educational the school year, Myers said, citing and I had gathered was similar be done. ation rate in 2014 was only 39 per- system,” Walker said. “They’re two fights during these weeks in to the speakers’ presentation. We cent, according to Office of Black engaged in the learning process. recent years. He did not want our worked hard to keep it unbiased. Male Student Achievement data. We’re hearing from them that For the future, Walker insisted presentation to cause any added It was hypocritical to stop us but That’s 26 percent lower than white they’re getting moral support, that the voices of young black male disruption during the last academic allow others to present. And, in my male students in the same year. they’re a part of this movement.” students stay at the forefront. weeks of December, he said. opinion, those speakers were far Progress is gradual, Walker said, He added: “Attendance and GPA “We want to make sure we have “I made a decision based on the from objective. noting that it could take the office will take a little bit longer to tame, their voice at the table whenever information that I had that the Students should be allowed to 15 to 20 years to change students’ but in the short term we have seen we make decisions,” he said. presentation had the potential to have the liberty to — safely, of and community members’ beliefs GPA changes.” disrupt our mission,” Myers said. course — make their voices heard.

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