Academy at Palumbo Vol. 07 Issue 01 Griffin Gazette Spring, 2014 News As Diverse As We Are DR. CHEW ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT Also in this issue: Math Team Spring Music Preview New Football Program Basketball Season Cheerleading

Chess Champions by Angelo DelloMargio

After years of chasing the crown, the Palumbo chess team takes the city champi- onship from Science Leadership Academy. » continued on pg. 2

DR ADRIENNE CHEW with Deon Slocum, Janilex Toribio, and, Kimberly Alfaro Reflections on a Life in Education As Palumbo’s founding principal, Dr. Chew leaves her mark in our hearts and minds. by Anthony Drayton

PHILADELPHIA, PA After a career as an educa- tion, climate, and culture of our school over tor in Philadelphia that has lasted for more the past eight years. than 30 years, Dr. Chew announced that she will be retiring at the end of this school year. As we reflect on her time leading us, we remember a principal who is caring, strong, Having played a major role in founding the independent, and dedicated. Academy at Palumbo, she shaped the direc- » continued on pg. 2 Samsung Challenge Spring Music by Tiffany Ng Preview by Victoria Lee With their project on the safest route to school, the Acacemy at Paumbo Samsung Team were national Whether your thing is unhinged ‘80s new finalists in the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow Chal- wave or Swedish rock, there’s something lenge, culminating in a national win and a prize of for everyone at this year’s Rock Band show, $140,000 in technology. which promises to be “bigger and better” than last year. And cheaper than the Fash- » continued on pg. 3 ion Show. » continued on pg. 3

GRIFFIN GAZZETTE STAFF DR ADRIENNE W. CHEW, Ed.D...... PRINCIPAL WRITERS...... KIMBERLY ALFARO...... NIGEL MCNIGHT...... LATIFAH BAISLEY...... ADONIS MORGAN...... MR CHRIS ALVAREZ ...... EDITOR IN CHIEF JOSE BATISTA...... GIOVANNI NEGRON...... TYLER BROWN...... TIFFANY NG...... INAYAH CLARK...... JANAYA QUARTERMAN...... ANTHONY DRAYTON...... STUDENT EDITOR RAYANNA CLARK-BOONE...... SAMBATH SANG ...... ANGELO DELLOMARGIO...... ASYA WILLIAMS...... ALYSSA DERAMUS...... ANXHELA ZERRE...... MR REGINALD MOTON...... PRIME MOVERS DIRECTOR ASHLEY FRATANTONI...... BRIANNA GEE...... PHOTOGRAPHERS...... CASSIDY KLEMENT...... JOY CHEN...... VICTORIA LEE...... DEANNA POLZ ...... 2 VOLUME 7 Issue 1, 2014 FEATURES opening new doors for herself. Long chair, and art teacher. have been working for eight years, that Dr. Chew’s before she was the principal of our Dr. Latoya Bailey, English we continue to do no matter who’s in school, she was a Philadelphia student department chair, was also with Dr. Chew charge,” says Ms. Thompson. With the just like us, at Overbrook High School. when the school was founded, but feels strong leaders she leaves behind, the best Retirement When she graduated in 1972, she decided like the two have gotten to know each parts of Dr. Chew’s legacy are certain to to pursue a career in art and enrolled in other more in recent years. “It’s in my continue. by Anthony Drayton Boston University. Majoring in art, her eighth year that I’m learning so much One attribute that many hope focus was painting and sculpture. When more about her than I learned in the first her successor will share is the trust she Humanitarian Audrey Hepburn she graduated, she decided to not only seven years. It’s amazing how much I places in her staff. “I think her greatest once stated, “... if you ever need a helping return to her hometown but to return to missed. I’m truly going to relish the time attribute, in general, has been that she hand, you’ll find one at the end of your the School District of Philadelphia as well. that I have with her right now,” said Bailey. trusts her staff and her more than capable arm ... As you grow older you will discover Her first job with the District was Many faculty members have teacher leaders who have served the that you have two hands. One for helping humble enough: she was an art substitute looked to Dr. Chew as a mentor figure, school well while empowering the entire yourself, the other for helping others.” and made her rounds at various and the mutual respect that Dr. Chew staff,” said Dr. Rosenberg, gym teacher. For three decades, Dr. Adrienne Wallace- neighborhood schools. She caught her and her staff feel for each other truly As for Dr. Chew herself, she Chew has dedicated herself to helping first break when she was hired at Widener embodies the core principles on which hopes that a successor will “be someone others through her life as an educator. Memorial School in 1979. For the next 13 Palumbo is built: Diversity. Individuality. who knows the school. Who understands Here at the Academy at Palumbo, years, she taught art at Widener before Respect. Enrichment. Which is not to say the climate and culture. Someone Dr. Chew is the principal who knows becoming the gifted support fine arts that the challenges and disagreements who knows what our mission and all of her students by name. She is the teacher at Conwell Middle School, a that happen in any community weren’t vision is… knows and understands our principal who at any moment might pop position she held for 8 years. a part of the school’s history. One of students, staff, curriculum the advanced her head into the classroom to make sure Dr. Chew explains that while she the best one-liners comes from Ms. programs and evaluation tools. As well students are on task. She is the principal was at Conwell, someone saw her gifts as Thompson in describing the process of as understand that students need to be who students can approach to start a new a leader and encouraged her to enter a planning for the first graduation in 2010. called by their names.” club. For some, she is the no-nonsense leadership principal program. From her “That was a knock down drag out fight” is Although she’s sad to see her go, principal who won’t allow rule breakers inauspicious start as a substitute teacher, her frank assessment. Ms. Thompson says that she ultimately to leave the round table in her office Dr. Chew found herself as a certified You may be surprised to hear understands Dr. Chew’s decision to retire. until she’s gotten to the bottom of their principal. that counselor Chris Donnelly has also “She’s done a great service to the district misbehavior. We all see her as a leader At the time, Central High School had her differences of opinion with Dr. and the school. Hopefully in retirement and as the trailblazer who has served as was one of the measuring sticks by which Chew. Ms. Donnelly, who comes from she’ll be able to serve another group of the Academy at Palumbo’s first principal all other schools were evaluated, and as a Catholic school background, has students just as well as she served us,” and was a major player in its founding in fortune would have it, Dr. Chew landed attempted on numerous occasions to said Thompson. 2006. Whatever hat she wears on a given herself a position as assistant principal persuade Dr. Chew to issue a school day, in a given moment, we have all come Ms. Donnelly echoes the of that fine institution and led in that uniform policy, but to no avail. “Dr. Chew to expect that she would always be there prediction that retirement will not mean position for the next 6 years. has a vision of what she believes the (She is the principal who never takes a inactivity for Dr. Chew. “I don’t expect Academy at Palumbo should be, and one sick day!) to greet us when we arrive at During Paul Vallas’ tenure as her to kick back on the beach. I think of the things that is very important to her school in the morning. superintendent, the idea of the Academy Palumbo’s very fortunate because she’s at Palumbo was born. “They decided to is student individuality and their ability to given us a tremendous foundation Recently, in a two-part open a small school in South Philadelphia express themselves,” said Donnelly. and helped to make some wonderful assembly, Dr. Chew addressed the that was modeled after Central High Of course, butting heads with traditions here. I know for me and for rumors surrounding her position at the school because no other [advanced] one another is part and parcel of a many of the teachers here we just want to school. She announced that she would academic high school existed in this part school full of diverse, talented, strong- carry that on and make Palumbo be what be retiring as principal of the Academy of the region…” said Dr. Chew. “I liked the minded individuals, but according to Dr. Chew envisioned from the beginning.” at Palumbo at the end of June. Her concept and I interviewed and received Ms. Thompson and Ms. Donnelly, their announcement sent huge shockwaves As she prepares for the next the position of being the founding relationship with Dr. Chew is built on throughout the school. Teachers and phase of her life and looks back at the principal of the Academy at Palumbo mutual respect. Most importantly, they students alike were astounded at the past eight years, Dr. Chew feels that in 2006.” Her journey from student to both laughed in recounting the stories of news and were left wondering why. the school has reached the objectives teacher to principal in the School District their clashes with Dr. Chew, which speaks Why would a thirty-year veteran all of a set forth at the beginning, and there’s of Philadelphia had reached its zenith. to the collegial attitude they all share. sudden call it a day? Few could imagine nowhere to go but up. She hopes that her not being at Palumbo forever. In many ways, Dr. Chew has Clearly, Dr. Chew has left an her legacy is that she helped to “develop been crucial in setting the climate at the indelible mark on the institution and a culture in which we care about each As we all know, the School Academy at Palumbo since its inception, the people she works with, but what’s other, a culture where everyone is District of Philadelphia is in dire financial and she is a primary influence on the in store for Palumbo once she leaves? accepted, where we want academics to straights, and Palumbo has lost its share school’s culture. First and foremost, we As the sole remaining counselor, Ms. come first. If I was a part of developing of faculty due to budget cuts in recent owe a lot of our academic success to Donnelly’s thoughts focus most on the that then who can be prouder?” years. Many wondered how principals Dr. Chew’s leadership. In describing her increased student population Palumbo is across the district would respond to Through all of her achievements, favorite parts of being a principal Dr. sure to have next school year. “Anybody proposed salary cuts. While finances are Dr. Chew has helped so many others Chew notes that “making AYP every year, that comes in as a principal of a high a factor, Dr. Chew is quick to clarify that to achieve. As the cornerstone of the being recognized as a high performing performance school, they’re going to they are not the sole or even primary Academy at Palumbo, all of the school’s school, and the many traditions that were have their own personality, their own way motivation for her decision. She has successes over the past eight years have established,” are highlights. of doing things,” says Donnelly, but she gone on record as stating, “I was never a been her successes. A lot of changes are intends to tackle any changes the way principal solely for the money. However, Others who have been at in store for both Palumbo and Dr. Chew, she always has: “put your head down and because of the different finances the Palumbo from the start have had a lot to and only Dr. Chew can say what door she go full steam ahead.” district has proposed to us I felt that it say about Dr. Chew’s retirement. “She’s will open next, but as Mr. Alvarez put it, “I was a very good time to begin to open been here since the beginning, and it “We owe it to the students imagine this is not just an ending but the new doors for myself”. will be a very different place without her to make sure that the traditions and beginning of something else.” We wish leadership,” said Ms. Thompson, roster the things that we have in place, that her all the best. Dr. Chew is no stranger to

possible. Dynamism, some desire, this Chess Team City was an opportunity. A lot of players felt that this year was Champs “the year.” Rivalries had been built up, by Angelo DelloMargio there was a lot of trash talk flying around at other schools, especially after the This year’s chess season was extremely Nashville controversy last season. It’s as eventful, seeing many younger players though everything was electrified, and rising to the occasion and becoming scary. Most matches were somewhat strong captains. We really had numbers threatening. Playing against C.H.A.D. to play with. I really had no idea how was very challenging this year. Prep well we would place, but I knew that, Charter really had us on our toes, as well as always, there was a lot of potential in as Furness. When the semi-finals came the team. Over the past three years we around, as captain Chris Bernard put it, put a lot of stock in ourselves so that we “we had a lot of momentum.” Things were were at a place where we could play both hot, so to speak. aggressively and with as much tact as » continued on pg. 5 Jacky Chan knows that playing it cool is part of Angelo DelloMargio’s strategy. Issue 1, 2014 VOLUME 7 3 WHAT’S HAPPENING AT PALUMBO Palumbo Win Samsung Challenge Math Team Win As national winners, they will recieve $140K in technology. by Cassidy Klement by Tiffany Ng On Wednesday, March 18th, 2014, Palumbo’s Math Team attended Because of recent budget cuts, public that someone had posted online. “What we a math competition held on Drexel’s schools in Philadelphia are struggling to ogy, the Palumbo team explored data and found online,” said Ms. Thompson in a voice campus. stay open. School faculty and staff have created a smartphone app that would help that made our hearts sink “is so unbeliev- been drastically reduced. Students and students negotiate potentially dangerous able that we decided we’re going to have The competition was designed teachers are fighting for education every neighborhoods on their morning walk. to show it to all of you.” With that, the lights by the Drexel Math Forum and Trey Smith day. In this warped hierarchy of needs, went down, and everyone was shocked from Boys Latin to generate interest in basic resources fall tragically low. But how Time was ticking. The team had to for- when the screen showed “Samsung: Solve math among Philadelphia students. can schools function without resources? mulate, record, and edit the video in less for Tomorrow.” A Samsung representative The video section of the than two months. Students worked four or was congratulating Palumbo for being competition consisted of act one, which Earlier this year, two Palumbo teach- more hours every day. All of that hard work national winners, balloons started falling presented a math problem in a creative ers, Mr.Kanopka and Ms.Lee, entered paid off when the top fifteen schools were from the balcony and cameras started flash- and entertaining way, act two, which our school into the ing. The moment provided the information with which to Samsung Challenge. was so surreal, the solve the problem, and act three, which The Samsung Solve Samsung team presented the solution. for Tomorrow com- couldn’t believe The engineering piece at this petition challenges their eyes. Beyond particular competition was the challenge students to create a the exaltation the of creating the perfect ice cream. The project to show how team received from winning team would utilize all of the STEM (science, tech- their peers, Palum- ingredients as best as they could and nology, engineering, bo’s Samsung win have the least leftovers--and the best- and math) skills can made a citywide tasting treat, of course! The judges also be used in real life. splash. Reporters considered how each team interacted The grand prize for from news outlets and how well they communicated with the national winner? throughout the each other. $140,000 in technol- city contacted the “It was very interactive, giving ogy from Samsung! school in order to everyone a chance to succeed,” said team This was our oppor- get an interview member, Angelo DelloMargio. “It allows tunity to acquire the with the young you to get connected to other math and technology we need STEM scholars. science students.” and lift some of the In the end, the Palumbo Math burden off of the Samsung Team student reps Alex Wallace and Quyen Truong in Austen, TX The scope of this Team did exceptionally well, taking school. win is still sometimes hard to fathom. first place in three of four sections: the announced and the Academy at Palum- $140,000 in technology will go a long presentation, the engineering problem, Palumbo was one of seventy-five schools bo was one of the national finalists! That way towards filling a crucial gap in school and the quiz bowl. chosen nationwide to participate in the victory secured us $35,000 in technology. resources. Times aren’t easy, and schools All of the students who went video portion of the contest, and with this But that wasn’t the end of the road! Two aren’t getting any money, but the students to the math competition thoroughly nomination, the school acquired a cam- teachers and two students from the team at Palumbo have proven that nothing can enjoyed it. “The math team is a fun, corder, laptop, and two tablets to complete were invited to go to Austin, Texas to pres- hold back the power of creative minds. entertaining, and engaging way to apply the project. The next step was to create ent our project to the judges presiding Hopefully, this victory will inspire others the tools that you learn in classes to come a video. With this in mind, we formed a over the national finals for the chance at and help to prove once and for all that high up with your own theories and ideas by group, now known as the Samsung Team. $140,000 in technology. schools aren’t just full of ignorant teenag- solving problems that do not have as ers but the future of our world. We have straightforward, clear-cut instructions as The Academy at Palumbo’s project set In March, all juniors were called down for ideas to share, and those ideas can open you may be used to,” said Alex Wallace, a out to identify the safest route to school. an emergency assembly under the pretense doors and make the world a better place Math Team member. Using problem solving skills and technol- that they were in trouble for something for future generations. Congratulations are in order for the entire Math Palumbo Math Team. Palumbo Plugged » see photo on pg. 8

A Spring Music Preview everybody kind of find the music that by Victoria Lee speaks to them personally.” So how does the band pick the Ladies, gents, teachers, staff, playlist? “There are a few factors. Number and Dr. Chew. It’s that time of year again. one is playability. Is it playable? The The Rock Band Show is returning for its second one is singing ability. Content third year. While we’ve glimpsed quick is always an issue; some songs are not appearances from various band members necessarily appropriate for school, but we throughout the year, the wait is finally are not sticklers, we bend the rules on a over. In May, the Rock Band will grace few things,” said Mr. Pedone. us with their awesomeness. Got tickets, As for why everyone should anyone? plan to attend the show, Pedone says “it’s I was able to sneak into some of the best event in the school year at the the Rock Band’s rehearsals for a peak at Academy at Palumbo. I sincerely believe what’s in store. What I saw promises to that. It’s cheap, tickets are probably not disappoint their adoring fans. going to be about three or four dollars The bar is set pretty high. In last this year. We have lasers, balloons, and year’s “Battle of the Bands” themed show, Ad hoc rehearsal with Cassidy Clement, Kamea Morris, Keith Mc Hugh, and Myles Carter confetti cannons. You are gonna see your band members competed against each last chance to see a lot of our graduating other, and the energy was electric! Who inspired a whole roster of fresh talent for everyone and it’s going to be really seniors do this before they graduate.” could forget the sibling rivalry of “Jail to join this year’s Rock Band. One star fun.” Speaking of our seniors I asked House Rock” as performed by Ibrahim struck witness, Emily Cowart, knew she During rehearsals I was able KEEF (Keith Mc Hugh), one of the bass Bakri vs. “Hey Ya” as performed by sister had to be a part of the music. “I have a to catch up with Mr. Pedone, creator of players from Rock Band, for a little teaser Salma Bakri. Ibrahim also stepped into passion for music and performing. I love the Rock Band program. As we talked, I and he noted that the chance to see James Brown’s funky shoes for a take of to entertain people and [I] figured that noticed his passion for not only music, Tarzan come unhinged on Talking Heads’ “I Feel Good,” and Caitlin Hudson and Rock Band would be a great place to do but also for the members of the band. “Psycho Killer” is not to be missed. As for Miranda Demore teamed up for a stirring that,” said Cowart. She is not the only one As for the show, he said to “expect what his last performance as a Palumbo Rock cover of “Oceans Avenue.” All of this left to have been drawn by the thrill of live you had last year, but better. This year Band player, KEEF says he has “a few cards everyone screaming for more, so how will musical performance, and this influx of is bigger, we have more students, more up [his] sleeve.” Who would want to miss this year’s performance top last year’s? musicians has resulted in an eclectic mix. singers. This year we decided to go that? Well, for one, last year’s show “There’s a lot of people in this show with without a theme like we did last year. This a wide variety of styles. There’s something year we really opened it up and really let 4 VOLUME 7 Issue 1, 2014 SPORTS Palumbo To Start New

Football 3 Days. 2 Courts. Program 1 King and 1 Queen of the Court. After eight seasons playing football together with the Furness Falcons, Palumbo Will it be your team? players will get a team of their own. Doubles teams must consist of ! by Ashley Fratantoni 1 male and 1 female! Open to Staff and Students! Some may say that a team’s final season $5 per player to play, $1 per spectator! standing reflects how hard they work. May 27-29, after school! That isn’t true in the Furness Falcon’s case. Sign up with Ms. Wang or a Badminton Team Although they were the underdogs this member today!! year with a final season standing of 1-10, they worked just as hard as the teams colors to show our school spirit. Once who are the alpha dog. Typically, they A Day in everyone is suited up and we’ve passed practiced 5 times a week until 5-6 pm. around the halls cough drops to loosen That amount of dedication is something vocal cords, I head off to class in my white to be valued. Even as they put this season the Life of Nike sneakers, careful not to scuff them. behind them, the Falcons have begun work on their future plans, and many Nigel McNight: We’re No. 1! changes are in store. My job as a cheerleader begins long a Palumbo before game time. Throughout the day, Anthony Pastore, who has coached both The school spirit upon which the Falcons my uniform fills the halls of Palumbo with Palumbo and Furness students for 8 years, will build their future was evident in the school spirit, and my positive banter with will not be coaching the Palumbo football final game of the season against the Cheerleader other students helps to build excitement team. In a recent interview he stated that Prep Charter Huskies. Our feet numb, for the game. I get to play the “preppy his reasoning for this is that at this point by Kimberly Alfaro huddled in blankets on the bleachers, cheerleader” even in my classes, though in his coaching career, he is not willing to our enthusiasm couldn’t be frozen by I’m careful not to neglect my academic build a team from scratch. He said that he I can’t say that my cheerleading days at the typical football weather. Led by duties. will continue to attend Palumbo’s future Palumbo are quite like the movie Bring It our cheerleaders, everyone, spectators games and support the team. Next year, On, but my regular role as a cheerleader and players alike, chanted “Falcons!” As our basketball players receive the he will be the defense coordinator at Prep could make for some interesting “deleted throughout the game. Even after the loss, coach’s last words of encouragement Charter, which will give him a chance to scenes.” as our players headed to the locker room, coach more of the game. before the first quarter, I hurry with the that school spirit hung in the air. rest of my team to hand out pom-poms In my cameo in The Life of a Griffin to an eager crowd. This is where the Palumbo Cheerleader, my day begins the night The 2014- adrenaline really comes in handy since P.E. Teacher before with my best friend Icy Hot who is 15 season the last small snack I had was hours ago. and athletic great at easing overworked muscles from will be full While we run through the chants and coordinator vigorous and continual practice. The real of new choreography we practiced to spark the Erik excitement starts when my alarm clock beginnings. crowd’s energy, cheering a game is also Goldstein goes off at 5:30am on game day. There’s Due to the about improvisational encouragement as and Pastore a steady flow of adrenaline that comes high volume well. It’s important to watch who scores both with the excitement of representing our of Palumbo a basket and call out jersey numbers for remarked Griffin’s basketball team. Some of that is football that extra motivational boost. that the burned off through the cardio workout I players on coaching get running to the 5th floor bathroom to the Furness My day ends after congratulating the staff that change. team, the will be boys for another intense game. My School managing throat is sore, glitter is trickling down District of the new on my cheek, and Philadelphia team are my stomach is requested good. growling. What I’ve that we Goldstein learned most from start our Goodby Falcons, hello Griffins! also said that he hopes that having our cheerleading is that own team. Our team will still play at own team will attract more students, integrity and spirit is the stadium located at 10th and Bigler and that it will build something special. not built on muscle, while the Furness players will join South Having our own team will hopefully give your looks, or how Philadelphia High’s team. In addition students more of a sense of school spirit loud you can shout, to the new team, there will be new and pride for years to come. but rather from the management. humility and passion you possess inside your heart for this sport.

As the credits roll, I’d like to thank Ms. Mason for being an On game day, the 5th floor bathroom is excellent sponsor and cheer advisor and quickly transformed into a locker room Diamond Deshields for pouring your for the Griffin cheerleaders. In this space, heart into this team as a captain. To the I am not just a cheerleader but a make- rest of my beautiful cheerleader sisters, up artist, hair stylist, and style consultant you all hold a special place within me, and for the girls. The air is soon thick with the gratification I’ve felt representing the hair spray. I tease hair into poufs, tie Academy at Palumbo’s boys basketball ostentatious bows to high ponytails, team more than compensates for all of tug and pull on bodysuits to create lean those games on an empty stomach. silhouettes to fit the figure flattering uniforms, and apply makeup in our team Issue 1, 2014 VOLUME 7 5 SPORTS

the season, and after passing over a few An bumps, they did just that.

The Griffins broke even at 2-2 to start the Unforgettable season in December, but couldn’t seem to find their footing and didn’t seem to know each other on the court. “We were a young Season team with only 2 seniors who needed to take control,” said coach Schneider. Once Palumbo boy’s baseketball the team began to lead itself in a different makes state playoffs way, they never looked back. by Giovanni Negron The Griffin boys basketball team started In late January, the boys started a winning off the season 2-3 and had only 4 play- streak that began with rookie Griffin Anwar ers with any kind of organized basketball Epps hitting a game-winning shot with 12 playing experience. This foreshadowed a seconds on the clock against Mastbaum. troubled season. As it turns out, the boys The next day, the Griffins beat Franklin from Palumbo had anything but trouble. Towne for a conference chip. Cousins Shafi Meachum and Anwar Epps scored 28 and 29 points respectively, while Mike Chau scored 4 with 9 rebounds. Kendrick Lamar. Having clinched a spot in the playoffs, the Griffin’s spirits were at a high point. T.I. Anticipating a matchup with West Catholic, the team watched film of their play but didn’t change Mr. Kanopka.* much of its strategy. “We’re 17-6 for a reason,” laughed coach *Only one of these people will be at your prom. Schneider. “It’s just about being prepared properly, and we’re practicing almost every day from now until states.” The team entered state level com- petition with a great amount of pride in what they had accom- plished this season. Comparing Shafi Meachum watches cousin Anwar Epps this season to previous ones, drive to the hoop 3-year veteran Shafi Meachum considered it “much better. We made it further than With 3 key scorers graduating last year, any year I played,” he said. Coach Schneider Will YOU be there? the Palumbo basketball team had much added “This is the furthest that Palumbo to make up for. They also had a fresh new ever advanced, first time we won in public May 16, 2014 leader, coach Schneider, whose task it was league playoffs, and first time we made Junior Prom - to take charge early and bring the team states. If we wind or lose, I hope the school together. Coach Schneider leaned heavily is proud of the team.” $80 on senior teammates Mike Chau and Rafiq McCleary along with junior Shafi Meachum, Palumbo lost to West Catholic 61-40. But Two ways to buy: who had played with the team for 3 years. proud we are. Even though they lost that He wanted these players to set the tone for final game, the Palumbo boys basketball -Pay in full team had a season we will remember for a long time. -Payment plan Chess Team See Ms. Donnelly in room 206 to purchase a prom » continued from pg. 2 ticket! by Angelo Dellomargio

Central happened to be the school we saddened, but content with second place. were playing, captained by an old friend Our raw energy going into the finals What I didn’t know was that Jacky had and a talented player. My intuition told was just unbelievable. Engineering and actually won his game! With a surprise me that this match could go either way, Science was the team to beat, as they move, he had checkmated his opponent. and it was certainly one of the closest had won the championship two years in My jaw literally dropped. The team had matches I’d seen in a long while. I dove a row. They have always been a strong won it, and I’ve never been so proud of into a quick draw, Chris winning without team, and here was the chance for us to anyone in my life. These guys trained a problem. I could tell he would, based on take the title. Of course everything was extremely hard, and it paid off with our how he sat, in this powerful Zen position, uncertain and tense. Chris was in the first championship. impossibly peaceful and in control. The thick of it and fairly low on time. As far other three boards hung in limbo, and for as I knew, Sam and Jacky had lost; both This is dedicated to the team: Chris a few minutes I thought that I’d failed the were in doubtful positions and getting Bernard, Andrew Dang, Sam Sang, Jacky team by not fighting a little harder. up from their boards. Andrew was in a Chan, and to the coaches: Mr. Ed Myers nice position, cleanly (or perhaps not so and Mr. Frank Fritz, without whom all We played into a position full of tension, cleanly!) ahead of his opponent. I felt fine of this would have been impossible, as and I couldn’t foresee a definite outcome. as well, tying to realize a positional win. well as everyone who played with and Sam Sang played like a madman, the With Andrew off with a beautiful plus one for us, and the other teams, giving us an most intense game I’d ever seen in the and Chris and I with what looked to be amazing season. I’m sure their continued league, outside of my own, and he ended two wins, we were in great position. success is inevitable. up securing a victory for us. Jacky Chan barely lost his game. Being new to the Tragically, Chris missed two crucial tactics, league, he did an amazing job. Andrew allowing his opponent to slip by and Dang was in a fight for a draw when his score. Low on time, he fought as hard opponent realized his team had lost and as ever, but luck happened not to be on resigned. The time had come for us to his side. I won shortly afterward, a bit advance to that main event together. 6 VOLUME 7 Issue 1, 2014 OPINION It would have to be a really independent they don’t, the School District could not filled with over 800 students. Counselors It’s Debatable and outstanding student who is still work- afford to pay for Teleschooling. provide services that are essential to ing hard but feeling the negative impact student success, and having just one of budget cuts. IT’S AN OPPORTUNITY TO doesn’t cut it. The counselor at Academy at Palumbo, Ms.Donnelly, has her hands State of the Union I would also invite a teacher who lost her LEARN NEW THINGS ANY Special Guests job because of budget cuts. TIME OF YEAR full. Besides making sure students stay on track and have someone to talk to should Who should be invited? –JOSE BATISTA they need counsel, Ms. Donnelly’s tasks vary from preparing student transcripts, Each year, a group of guests are invited to AN ENVIRONMENTAL I think teleschooling is a really good to informing students about college visits, attend the State of the Union address given SCIENTIST opportunity for students to learn new to helping them apply for college. by the President. These guests get to sit –RAYANNA CLARK-BOONE things via the internet. It would be with the first lady and often represent key an easy way for any kid who doesn’t The students recognize the situation and talking points for the President. Past guests I would invite a scientist who is well understand something to ask their have become concerned. “How are we have included survivors of the Boston Mar- informed about climate change and its teachers over the internet. athon bombings and a mother of 2 trying impact on the planet. If people do not going to get help on our applications for to survive on her wages at McDonald’s. become better informed about climate college if we only have one counselor? Students in Mr. Alvarez’s Journalism class change, we will not change our behavior Teleschooling isn’t just a good idea for There’s all of us and one of her,” said Erina were asked who they would invite to the and will continue to pollute the air and snow days but also could be used for Mana. There are many other students that State of the Union address. water and harm our ozone layer. summer school. feel the same way. Many feel that they And how about for students who are will have to figure out the college process late? For students who find it hard to by themselves. KANYE WEST get to school on time, it wouldn’t matter, –ADONIS MORGAN because they’d log on to school at home Many students feel that as the School and be on time. District of Philadelphia looks over its He has many ideas that are prevalent in budget for the coming years, hiring back black society. Even though he usually isn’t more guidance counselors should be a on his best behavior, he is truly a visionary. TELESCHOOLING priority. “Bring back guidance counselors, WOULD BE A BURDEN because us students need guidance NOT AN EDUCATIONAL counselors… one counselor isn’t going Lenny Skutnik was the first guest invited to a State of Cyber School on ADVANCEMENT to accommodate all the students in a the Union by Ronald Reagan in 1982 after he rescured –ANXHELA ZERE reasonable amount of time,” said Rayanna a woman from the Potomac River. Snow Days Clark-Boone. Is it a good idea? Students get thrown tons of work from Another disastrous result of budget cuts Snow days can be an exciting surprise. teachers, and snow days are a chance to A PUBLIC ADVOCATE FOR has been loss of teachers. Because of As a teacher of more than 10 years, relax and/or catch up. Some students LGBTQ EQUALITY fewer teachers due to cuts, students came –BRIANNA GEE I still do a little dance in my pajamas use snow days to study or complete back in September to larger classroom on snowy mornings when I hear that assignments for the next day. What sizes. By contractual law, the limit to the In America, there are so many issues that announcement. But some winters, like is the point of piling on more work? number of students per classroom is 33. limit our society and prevent us from pro- the one we just had, just don’t let up, and One cannot expect this method to be At the beginning of each school year, a gressing. We have had an unending cycle what is fun once or twice can begin to effective, because students can easily lose process called leveling happens where of war, a rise in teen pregnancy, and a fail- compromise the learning process. interest in working on snow days. overcrowded classrooms are slowly ure to fully accept the LGBTQ community. “leveled” to the appropriate number. At As some argue, teleschooling is not Some schools in the Chicago area are the beginning of this year, class sizes Although America has come a long way formalized education. Although it salvaging loss of instructional time due were overwhelmingly large, approaching from hating lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans- may allow for a certain flexibility, not to snow days with cyber learning or 40 per teacher. One student at the gender, queer (LGBTQ) people, we still have every student has the sort of learning teleschooling. Teachers upload digital Academy at Palumbo who wishes to a long way to go. I believe Ellen DeGeneres style to complete assignments online. lessons and hold classroom discussions remain anonymous said “ there were 35 would be a good candidate to represent Teleschooling cannot ensure that learning online. Should more schools try this? students in my history class and 38 in my LGBTQ interests. She has faced her share is happening the way a classroom teacher journalism class.” of discrimination, but now she is one of the can. There should be no new work on most prominent television show hosts. She snow days, and assignments can resume gives hope for people struggling against upon returning to school. In spite of the school roster chair, Ms. discrimination today. Thompson’s, commendable efforts to level as quickly as possible, the process took much longer this year because A COMMUNITY LEADER School Budget of lack of faculty. “Leveling creates FROM AN AMERICAN CITY an unstable learning environment for –NIGEL MCKNIGHT students, because they are constantly Cuts being switched out of one classroom and I would invite Dr. Damon B. Jones Sr. Dr. into another,” said Rayanna Clark-Boone. by Kimberly Alfaro, Alyssa Deramus, Even now that classes have been leveled Jones is the pastor of my church, Bible Janaya Quarterman, and Anxhela Zere Way Baptist, and a leader in the West Phila- down to 33, students still feel lost in the delphia community. Through his prison crowd “It is difficult to get my teacher’s The economic crisis that has been ministry, local basketball league, and col- attention sometimes,” said one student. WE COULD AVOID growing in America for many years is laboration with local schools, he has been EXTENDING THE SCHOOL a direct cause of budget cuts to the Cuts to school staff extend well beyond an advocate for positive change in a disad- YEAR school District of Philadelphia, thus vantaged urban community. He has met the classroom. Librarians, school security –ASYA WILLIAMS having a direct impact on the students personnel, janitors, and nurses have all President Obama on several occasions, and at the Academy at Palumbo. After years been reduced or eliminated in our public I think he would be a strong representative of building foreign debt and military I believe that schools should utilize cyber schools. Because of fewer janitors, the for an underrepresented group of people. spending, America’s debt is currently at learning on snow days. If we had virtual bathrooms are restricted to being open about $17 trillion. Irresponsible spending learning on days when school is closed, only at certain times and on certain floors, A FITNESS TRAINER in both the city and School District of –TIJANAE HASBEN we would not have to add school days at and when they are open, they are a lot Philadelphia over the years has also the end of the year. less clean. Other necessary functions of contributed to the budget crisis. In spite the school like a fully operating library I would invite Jillian Michaels, the fitness of $45 million of federal money allocated and hallway security have all been trainer. There are too may unfit and obese to the School District of Philadelphia this affected by school cuts. people in the United States. She could help IT WOULDN’T BE fall, national, state, city, and district cuts to motivate people to get in shape and to AFFORDABLE continue to have a catastrophic impact make healthier eating choices. –TYLER BROWN on students in Philadelphia on a day-to- After the death of a Philadelphia student day basis. due to an asthma attack during the school day, many citizens called for a PEOPLE AFFECTED BY Teleschooling is a very interesting concept. We would have more time to review of cuts that eliminated school SCHOOL BUDGET CUTS At the Academy at Palumbo, like every work on our studies. However, this would nurses and the number of hours that they –SAMBATH SANG other school in the District, the budget not be affordable to every student. Like a are present in schools. At Palumbo, the The first person I would choose to repre- crisis has resulted in the loss of teachers, lot of new educational ideas, schools talk school nurse is limited to being here two sent their community is a member of a counselors, staff members, and money with stars in their eyes, but even if every » continued on pg. 7 really good school affected by budget cuts. for supplies. This year there is only one student had access to the internet, which counselor left in our school, which is Issue 1, 2014 VOLUME 7 7 ANOTHER VIEW Photo essays are a different way for student journalists to express themselves. The series of photos is intended to tell a story or evoke emotion through pictures. Between the Classes by Latifah Baisley and Inayah Clark

The Academy at Palumbo High School offers both academic rigor and extracurricular enrichment. Palumbo students work hard and play hard. But how do they fill the moments in between? Here are just a few examples of how students spend their free time Students work as a team to build a tower. Students form study groups in the hallway. during the school day.

Squeezing in some extra study during lunch. Blowing off steam after Keystone testing. THANK YOU TO MY BELOVED FRIENDS Budget Cuts As your Principal and Captain (pun from the class of 2012) of the Academy at Palumbo, I wanted to take a moment to say THANK YOU ALL for such a wonderfully profound experience, and for allowing me to navigate » continued from pg. 6 this educational journey with you. As my fellow skilled pilots and crew, together, we have guided our students days out of the whole week. Aimes. Because of the college through calm and turbulent waters—so that as of June 18th, 2014 we will have successfully graduated five “What would happen if there opportunities that sports classes. The Academy at Palumbo has soared academically, athletically, through community service activities, was an emergency when the provide, and because sports through our partnerships, through supportive parents, through varied extra-curricular activities, and by nurse is not around?” asked are such an important part of winning competitions that have made us renowned and respected, both locally and nationally. one student. “She is the only physical health and positive one authorized to distribute lifestyle choices, students are When eight teachers, one counselor, one NTA, one secretary, one SPO, food services, custodial staff, the medicine.” Having a full time concerned that cuts to athletic Central team, and I (i.e., Dr. Bailey, Ms. Thompson, Mr. Aichele, Mr. Krzywonos, Dr. Lai, Mr. Goldstein, Mr. Myers, nurse provides a necessary programs will be a great loss. Mr. Cain, Mrs. Porcellini, Officer Pastore, Dr. Chew) opened the Academy at Palumbo in August of 2006, we assurance of physical well relied on faith, grace, collaboration, and nurturance of the mission and vision to establish the great school we being in a school. “I feel as Many feel skeptical about have today. Margart Meade said it best, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can though my child is safer when whether the School District change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” the nurse is on duty at the of Philadelphia will be able school, because an experienced to rectify current financial medical professional is there In “wisdom literature,” as mentioned in Steven Covey’s First Things First, it has been recognized that there are problems. In thinking about certain things we need for human fulfillment, as we develop our personal systems for success and strive to to assess her needs,” said one whether they will be able Palumbo parent. accomplish in life through active engagement: we need to live, to love, to learn, and to leave a legacy. I depart to fix past mistakes, Asya knowing that the Academy at Palumbo will always be a part of my legacy, and one of my greatest loves in life. Williams says “no because School supplies are extremely they used [funds] poorly limited because of budget cuts. last time.” Others look to We have grown over the eight years and have added new teachers, new students, new counselors, parents Books, markers, pencils, paper, the government as a higher and staff. I have been transformed and touched deeply by your lives. My total feelings are summed up in our and ink for printers are all in authority. The government is school song written by my beloved brother, Uriel H. Wallace, III. I hope that his words, which he penned just limited supply. Most teachers morally and legally obligated for us, will always be the shared experience for ALL who ever enter and leave the Academy at Palumbo— at the school buy supplies with to fund the School District holding deep meaning, as they do for me: their own money. We have a with a certain amount of limited number of computers money, and the funding we We gather here today to claim our victory, and laptops, and some of these currently receive is clearly silver, teal and black strong for eternity. are old and over-used. insufficient. The budget crisis Our griffin is in flight, my guide protecting me. is a hole that has widened and Lessons that we learned are now a part of me $45 million is not enough to Funding woes stretch to and it’s all I need so when I stand alone, fill in the gap. Whatever the extracurricular programs I have these memories to strengthen and to comfort me. as well. Art and music solution, the District and the Everywhere I go, one thing I know… programs, which are seriously government need to see that underfunded, are in need of real people are hurting. I’ll always have a place, a very, very special place… instruments and art supplies. deep in my heart... Many students are concerned for the Academy at Palumbo High. about cuts to sports programs. “I might not be able to run Love to you all, track this year,” said Kyerra Adrienne W. Chew, Ed.D. 8 VOLUME 7 Issue 1, 2014 The Year in Review photos by Joy Chen and Deanna Polz As usual, the Halloween Cabaret filled the fall with a little bit of the elegant and a little bit of the macabre.

The Winter Concert was full of the traditional, “Little Drummer Boy,” the unique, “Hine Ma Tov,” and the modern, “All I Want for Christmas is You.” As always, Mr. Jordan directed Palumbo performers who are “dedicated students, motivated students, giving it How You Can their best.” Mr. Kanopka, Alex Wallace, and the rest of the debate team Save a Life survived the long, cold winter honing their rhetorical skills. by Ashley Fratantoni Quien es mas macho, Lorenzo Lamas o Ricardo Mantalbán? Did you know that you could help save These fellows could tell you a life in the matter of 1-2 hours? How is which one and why. that possible, you ask? You can do this by donating blood at Palumbo’s Spring Blood Drive on April 25th, 2014. By donating, you will not only help someone in need but you will be able to receive community service hours (even if you When he wasn’t wowing Mr. screen out for donation) and free snacks Alvarez’s English 3 class by after your donation. Some may be scared reciting beat poetry while of giving blood, but it turns out that it playing a drum, Connor Mako isn’t as frightening as you may think. As was keeping rhythm with the rest of the Palumbo drum line. you donate blood, you will be lying on a Keyon Williams elevates and applies table and your attention will most likely pressure after giving blood. be directed away from your initial fear.

There are two options for donation; you can either opt for donating your blood (whole blood) or both blood and platelets (platelet apheresis). In order to qualify for We’ve all seen Mr. Goldstein’s donation, one has to be at least 16 years fearsome capablities on the old. Students who are 16 years old will dodgeball court, but his real need to obtain a permission slip from a passion lies on the sidelines parent or guardian. In order to sign up, as the Griffin boys volleyball see Mr. Dyke or members of the NHS. For coach, where he continues to questions about eligibility of donation, lead the team in their winning feel free to visit The American Red Cross’ ways. website at www.redcrossblood.org.

Amy Chau and Kimberly Ly work the blood drive sign-in desk. Greater than Gatsby, zestier than Zora, haughtier than Hester, the Palumbo Fashion Show is always a popular favorite, and it sets the standard for style, beauty, and fundraising power.

You want to step to this? Don’t even try. Unless you want to join the Palumbo step team and learn all the right moves.

The Palumbo Math Team with Coach Weissman » see story on pg. 3