Work and School?
April 2015
By: Cory McClain
The School to Work Program is an opportunity accessible to Phoenix High School seniors, that allows the students who sign up for it to leave school early and go to work for UPS, not only for pay but also for free college classes.
The work is primarily manual labor, where loading and unloading packages in and out of trucks is the main form of work. Workers are required to be able to lift up to 70 lbs by themselves and 150 lbs. with another person. Adam Lambert, a senior currently in the Co-Op Program, stated that, “You lift boxes pretty much all day, but the pay can be worth it.”
Those working in the Co-Op Program are given two options for a free college education at either The University of Louisville (U of L) or Jefferson Community and Technical College (JCTC)..
Mr. Blausey, an art teacher, used to work for UPS before he was a teacher and stated, “They didn’t have the free classes when I was working for them; they only gave you tuition assistance for three thousand dollars per year.”
Students get to UPS by a bus that picks up the seniors and takes them after they have picked up a prepackaged lunch from the cafeteria; however you are required to find your own way home from the job site after work. If you have your license and a car you can even drive yourself to work and then home, but you must inform the school that you are doing so.
By: Cory McClain
The School to Work Program is an opportunity accessible to Phoenix High School seniors, that allows the students who sign up for it to leave school early and go to work for UPS, not only for pay but also for free college classes.
The work is primarily manual labor, where loading and unloading packages in and out of trucks is the main form of work. Workers are required to be able to lift up to 70 lbs by themselves and 150 lbs. with another person. Adam Lambert, a senior currently in the Co-Op Program, stated that, “You lift boxes pretty much all day, but the pay can be worth it.”
Those working in the Co-Op Program are given two options for a free college education at either The University of Louisville (U of L) or Jefferson Community and Technical College (JCTC)..
Mr. Blausey, an art teacher, used to work for UPS before he was a teacher and stated, “They didn’t have the free classes when I was working for them; they only gave you tuition assistance for three thousand dollars per year.”
Students get to UPS by a bus that picks up the seniors and takes them after they have picked up a prepackaged lunch from the cafeteria; however you are required to find your own way home from the job site after work. If you have your license and a car you can even drive yourself to work and then home, but you must inform the school that you are doing so.
School food, healthy or not?
April 2015
By Kaitlyn Weisenberger
In my opinion I agree with the food not being so good, mainly because I have noticed since I first started here that the food is usually cold and/or hard. I have also had conversations with people who say they do not like the food either.
Raven Kenemore has stated, “The chicken they give us is usually half-cooked.” Another complaint is that they only offer milk to drink, when some people cannot drink milk. There should be an alternative option for the students who are lactose-intolerant.
Another complaint is that our breakfast, which is the most important meal of the day, is not large enough to help us start out our day.
On Wednesday’s we have Papa John’s Pizza, which does not taste at all like Papa John’s Pizza that you can order at home. It tastes burnt and at times is too hard to eat. I have had friends that went home sick from the pizza they serve at school.
Students have told me that they have found hair that does not belong to them in their food. Many students have just had enough and are deciding to bring their own lunch. They have made this decision, because the cafeteria food is either not tasty or it gets them sick.
I think that we need some changes in our school cafeteria food so people will not end up going home hungry, sick, or even complaining about all the food problems at school. In my opinion I think there should be better solutions to this problem such as an alternative for milk, also bigger portions, a better variety on the food they serve us, and better quality in the food too.
By Kaitlyn Weisenberger
In my opinion I agree with the food not being so good, mainly because I have noticed since I first started here that the food is usually cold and/or hard. I have also had conversations with people who say they do not like the food either.
Raven Kenemore has stated, “The chicken they give us is usually half-cooked.” Another complaint is that they only offer milk to drink, when some people cannot drink milk. There should be an alternative option for the students who are lactose-intolerant.
Another complaint is that our breakfast, which is the most important meal of the day, is not large enough to help us start out our day.
On Wednesday’s we have Papa John’s Pizza, which does not taste at all like Papa John’s Pizza that you can order at home. It tastes burnt and at times is too hard to eat. I have had friends that went home sick from the pizza they serve at school.
Students have told me that they have found hair that does not belong to them in their food. Many students have just had enough and are deciding to bring their own lunch. They have made this decision, because the cafeteria food is either not tasty or it gets them sick.
I think that we need some changes in our school cafeteria food so people will not end up going home hungry, sick, or even complaining about all the food problems at school. In my opinion I think there should be better solutions to this problem such as an alternative for milk, also bigger portions, a better variety on the food they serve us, and better quality in the food too.
Phoenix scholars: a head start to college
February 2015
By John Canfield
On January 6th, 2015, the Governor Scholars at Phoenix applied for a college scholarship program for students in the state of Kentucky, to get a head start for college.
Six juniors at Phoenix are waiting for results for the Governor Scholars Program that they applied for. Lead by Ms. Breitenstein, a Phoenix High School counselor, they will compete with all schools within the state of Kentucky to earn a college scholarship.
In order to apply the students are required to take the ACT test. “They have to take it because it is one piece of the criteria they [Governor’s Scholar Program] choose,” quoted Ms. Breitenstein. “They also require writing an essay, activities, service, and honors.”
If accepted, not only will they earn a college scholarship, they will stay 3 – 5 weeks at a college that the program chooses, based on the students’ preferred area of study. There, they can go on field trips, eat with the Dean and stay at the dorms with other students in the program. They will also visit classes of their choice, which were selected in the application. These applications are looked at by a community from the district. Then they are passed to the state.
“We have qualified students who have reached high levels of achievement,” Ms. Breitenstein stated. In the history of Phoenix, this will be the first time that the school will have participants in the program. The school will receive the results for the program in April of 2015.
The applicants of the program include Mary Taylor, Cory McClain, Dylan Roberts, John Canfield, Chris Szerletich, and Matthew Wuerthele.
By John Canfield
On January 6th, 2015, the Governor Scholars at Phoenix applied for a college scholarship program for students in the state of Kentucky, to get a head start for college.
Six juniors at Phoenix are waiting for results for the Governor Scholars Program that they applied for. Lead by Ms. Breitenstein, a Phoenix High School counselor, they will compete with all schools within the state of Kentucky to earn a college scholarship.
In order to apply the students are required to take the ACT test. “They have to take it because it is one piece of the criteria they [Governor’s Scholar Program] choose,” quoted Ms. Breitenstein. “They also require writing an essay, activities, service, and honors.”
If accepted, not only will they earn a college scholarship, they will stay 3 – 5 weeks at a college that the program chooses, based on the students’ preferred area of study. There, they can go on field trips, eat with the Dean and stay at the dorms with other students in the program. They will also visit classes of their choice, which were selected in the application. These applications are looked at by a community from the district. Then they are passed to the state.
“We have qualified students who have reached high levels of achievement,” Ms. Breitenstein stated. In the history of Phoenix, this will be the first time that the school will have participants in the program. The school will receive the results for the program in April of 2015.
The applicants of the program include Mary Taylor, Cory McClain, Dylan Roberts, John Canfield, Chris Szerletich, and Matthew Wuerthele.
hour of coding
February 2015
By Christopher Szerletich
On December 12th, 2014, Mr. Sinks and his classes participated in a worldwide project, endorsed by Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, and President Obama, that teaches kids about coding and helps to develop a deeper and more passionate interest in computer sciences.
The Hour of Coding is a worldwide push that is designed to teach children about coding and makes it less intimidating. This is a free program that started in 2013 and classes can participate in The Hour of Coding any day at any time. However, the biggest push for the Hour of Coding program is in the month of December during Computer Science Education Week.
When asked, middle school computer and 6th grade science teacher, Mr. Sinks stated, “The Hour of Coding is a worldwide push to get as many students involved with computers and computer programming.”
The Hour of Coding gave students at Phoenix and opportunity to overcome their fear of using computers and technology.
Phoenix students benefited from The Hour of Coding by getting a chance to get a change in the daily routine. Mr. Sinks used this time to teach students how to use basic JavaScript and HTML coding.
The Hour of Coding started back in 2013 in order to allow an introduction to computer science at an earlier age, so that they can benefit and not be hesitant about trying to learn the basics of code.
For more information about the Hour of Coding, go to http://hourofcode.com/us.
By Christopher Szerletich
On December 12th, 2014, Mr. Sinks and his classes participated in a worldwide project, endorsed by Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, and President Obama, that teaches kids about coding and helps to develop a deeper and more passionate interest in computer sciences.
The Hour of Coding is a worldwide push that is designed to teach children about coding and makes it less intimidating. This is a free program that started in 2013 and classes can participate in The Hour of Coding any day at any time. However, the biggest push for the Hour of Coding program is in the month of December during Computer Science Education Week.
When asked, middle school computer and 6th grade science teacher, Mr. Sinks stated, “The Hour of Coding is a worldwide push to get as many students involved with computers and computer programming.”
The Hour of Coding gave students at Phoenix and opportunity to overcome their fear of using computers and technology.
Phoenix students benefited from The Hour of Coding by getting a chance to get a change in the daily routine. Mr. Sinks used this time to teach students how to use basic JavaScript and HTML coding.
The Hour of Coding started back in 2013 in order to allow an introduction to computer science at an earlier age, so that they can benefit and not be hesitant about trying to learn the basics of code.
For more information about the Hour of Coding, go to http://hourofcode.com/us.
phoenix dress code: what is it good for?
Phoenix’s New Neighbors
February 2015
By: Cory McClain
After the 2014-2015 winter break, the Myers building received a new addition to its student population, in the form of ESL (English as second language) students from various countries.
The new students come from a school called ESL Newcomer Academy, which caters to students from 6th to 10th grades, who grew up speaking a language other than English. However, the students who came to the Myers building are only in grades 6th to 8th. They were moved from their original location at Shawnee High School because of overcrowding. Newcomer is expected to receive more students in the coming year, as the numbers of refugees and immigrants from other countries increase. Roughly 80% of the students in Newcomer Academy are refugees, or people forced to leave their country because of war, persecution or natural disaster. The other 20% moved here with family. They arrived here through the Kentucky Refugee Ministries and the Catholic Charities.
The students, in both locations, come from a variety of countries such as, Mexico, El Salvador, Honduras, Somalia, Sudan and even parts of the Middle East, just to name a few. The students speak a variety of languages, such as Arabic, Spanish, Kirundi, Mandarin and many others.
For the Newcomer Academy shares a building with Phoenix, it was requested by Mr. Bookstrom, a science teacher, that we include them in some events we hold, such as the Healthy Blizzard event which took place on Thursday, January 22nd.
“Our kids are anxious to meet and make friends with Americans, and their first impulse is to be respectful,” stated Mr. Bookstrom.
By: Cory McClain
After the 2014-2015 winter break, the Myers building received a new addition to its student population, in the form of ESL (English as second language) students from various countries.
The new students come from a school called ESL Newcomer Academy, which caters to students from 6th to 10th grades, who grew up speaking a language other than English. However, the students who came to the Myers building are only in grades 6th to 8th. They were moved from their original location at Shawnee High School because of overcrowding. Newcomer is expected to receive more students in the coming year, as the numbers of refugees and immigrants from other countries increase. Roughly 80% of the students in Newcomer Academy are refugees, or people forced to leave their country because of war, persecution or natural disaster. The other 20% moved here with family. They arrived here through the Kentucky Refugee Ministries and the Catholic Charities.
The students, in both locations, come from a variety of countries such as, Mexico, El Salvador, Honduras, Somalia, Sudan and even parts of the Middle East, just to name a few. The students speak a variety of languages, such as Arabic, Spanish, Kirundi, Mandarin and many others.
For the Newcomer Academy shares a building with Phoenix, it was requested by Mr. Bookstrom, a science teacher, that we include them in some events we hold, such as the Healthy Blizzard event which took place on Thursday, January 22nd.
“Our kids are anxious to meet and make friends with Americans, and their first impulse is to be respectful,” stated Mr. Bookstrom.
School Closings, How it is Decided
December 2014
By Kaitlyn Weisenberger & Cory McClain
JCPS cancelled school ten days, released early once, and had two 2-hour delays last year, leaving many students wondering who makes the decisions and how they make them.
In order to determine if school will be cancelled because of weather, the school district sends out scouters at 3:00 a.m. that will drive the roads to test their conditions. The scouters try to make the decision of school cancelling, fast as possible, normally before 5:30 a.m. So that bus drivers, For example, will know before they attempt to start their runs.
Mark Weinberg, Chief Meteorologist of WDRB News, was asked if he advises the school system in anyway, he said, “I do talk to the Louisville school system when they ask for information on what the weather will look like, the timing, and how much precipitation will fall.”
Weinberg stated he starts paying attention to an approaching storm a couple of days prior to the arrival of the predicted weather. Meteorologists will begin discussing it amongst themselves as a group and making preparations for the possible storm. They will then inform the public if it starts becoming highly likely that it is severe weather.
Weinberg had a prediction on how many days we might miss this year. He believes that Louisville is going to get a big snow storm; in that case JCPS could be off school for possibly multiple days in a row.
By Kaitlyn Weisenberger & Cory McClain
JCPS cancelled school ten days, released early once, and had two 2-hour delays last year, leaving many students wondering who makes the decisions and how they make them.
In order to determine if school will be cancelled because of weather, the school district sends out scouters at 3:00 a.m. that will drive the roads to test their conditions. The scouters try to make the decision of school cancelling, fast as possible, normally before 5:30 a.m. So that bus drivers, For example, will know before they attempt to start their runs.
Mark Weinberg, Chief Meteorologist of WDRB News, was asked if he advises the school system in anyway, he said, “I do talk to the Louisville school system when they ask for information on what the weather will look like, the timing, and how much precipitation will fall.”
Weinberg stated he starts paying attention to an approaching storm a couple of days prior to the arrival of the predicted weather. Meteorologists will begin discussing it amongst themselves as a group and making preparations for the possible storm. They will then inform the public if it starts becoming highly likely that it is severe weather.
Weinberg had a prediction on how many days we might miss this year. He believes that Louisville is going to get a big snow storm; in that case JCPS could be off school for possibly multiple days in a row.
I Dare you to care for thanksgiving
November 2014
By Tim White
Every day in the United States millions of people go to bed hungry. The Dare to Care food drive was made so that people can donate food to the people who cannot afford it.
Dare to Care is a food donation facility that ships food to people who cannot afford it. Dare to Care was made to help end world hunger and people donate all sorts of food to the Dare to Care food drive. The food is then given to the Dare to Care facility where either the staff or volunteer groups package it into boxes and ship it out to places like; soup kitchens, church groups, and homes.
People who have volunteered for Dare to Care have had to box all sorts of things. The morning shift for volunteers starts at 9:00 am and runs to noon. They can take a break in the kitchen, at 10:00 am, where they are served food, drinks, and snacks. At 10:30 am, everyone gets back to work until about noon, in order to finish the shift.
“I believe that the students learned a lot from their experience, they had a lot of fun even though they were working. I would go back if I had the opportunity to take students,” said Mr. Blausey, who organized a service learning field trip to Dare to Care a few years ago.
The first time that a volunteer visits; he or she is given a tour of the facility. He or she is given instruction, and then they will go to work on packaging and labeling the boxes.
Mr.Blausey has gone only once with a group of Phoenix Middle School students as their service learning project. They toured the facility and they were given the task of boxing up tubes of biscuits that were about to expire, the boxes were then sent to soup kitchens.
“I have only gone once,” says Ottis Jaggers a student from the Phoenix School of Discovery. “We went there to help out people by sorting foods and putting them into boxes. We sorted out tons, and tons of biscuits. We put at least 30 to 50 biscuits per box.”
Phoenix School of Discovery is currently running a Dare to Care food drive at the school. Students may bring in canned food or dry food to donate until December 5th.
By Tim White
Every day in the United States millions of people go to bed hungry. The Dare to Care food drive was made so that people can donate food to the people who cannot afford it.
Dare to Care is a food donation facility that ships food to people who cannot afford it. Dare to Care was made to help end world hunger and people donate all sorts of food to the Dare to Care food drive. The food is then given to the Dare to Care facility where either the staff or volunteer groups package it into boxes and ship it out to places like; soup kitchens, church groups, and homes.
People who have volunteered for Dare to Care have had to box all sorts of things. The morning shift for volunteers starts at 9:00 am and runs to noon. They can take a break in the kitchen, at 10:00 am, where they are served food, drinks, and snacks. At 10:30 am, everyone gets back to work until about noon, in order to finish the shift.
“I believe that the students learned a lot from their experience, they had a lot of fun even though they were working. I would go back if I had the opportunity to take students,” said Mr. Blausey, who organized a service learning field trip to Dare to Care a few years ago.
The first time that a volunteer visits; he or she is given a tour of the facility. He or she is given instruction, and then they will go to work on packaging and labeling the boxes.
Mr.Blausey has gone only once with a group of Phoenix Middle School students as their service learning project. They toured the facility and they were given the task of boxing up tubes of biscuits that were about to expire, the boxes were then sent to soup kitchens.
“I have only gone once,” says Ottis Jaggers a student from the Phoenix School of Discovery. “We went there to help out people by sorting foods and putting them into boxes. We sorted out tons, and tons of biscuits. We put at least 30 to 50 biscuits per box.”
Phoenix School of Discovery is currently running a Dare to Care food drive at the school. Students may bring in canned food or dry food to donate until December 5th.
MYERS BOUND
November 2014
By Dylan Roberts
The Phoenix School of Discovery was chosen to move to the Klondike Elementary building sometime next year, but due to community complaint they will remain at Myers.
The Myers building had been chosen earlier this year as the site of the new Louisville School of Innovation Reach Academy, which would have forced Phoenix to move to the nearby Klondike Elementary building. Phoenix had already moved once in the past two years, from the Valley High School and Stuart Middle School buildings to the Myers location.
When the official statement about the move was released to the Phoenix community, heavy disagreement erupted as many believed Phoenix should remain where it is. Despite parent, staff, and student issues, the Jefferson County Board of Education was set on the move. Eventually, due to the large amount of complaints from both Phoenix and Klondike communities, the move was cancelled.
In an interview with Mr. Ludwig, the Assistant Principal of Phoenix High School, he spoke of the move. “The folks at Klondike weren’t really interested in the move. The reason Myers was chosen was because of teachers and staff at Klondike who thought it would be a good size for the intended eight hundred students. “ When asked about his thoughts for Phoenix’s stay in Myers, he responded, “I think it looks good, now we can go back to doing what we had planned. Glad to be here and staying.”
The Reach Academy is now planning to move into the J.B. Atkinson building, though the move is not yet official. The Jefferson County Board of Education met on October 13th to vote on whether the move will commence. They are also meeting with the parents and teachers of J.B. Atkinson to discuss the potential move.
By Dylan Roberts
The Phoenix School of Discovery was chosen to move to the Klondike Elementary building sometime next year, but due to community complaint they will remain at Myers.
The Myers building had been chosen earlier this year as the site of the new Louisville School of Innovation Reach Academy, which would have forced Phoenix to move to the nearby Klondike Elementary building. Phoenix had already moved once in the past two years, from the Valley High School and Stuart Middle School buildings to the Myers location.
When the official statement about the move was released to the Phoenix community, heavy disagreement erupted as many believed Phoenix should remain where it is. Despite parent, staff, and student issues, the Jefferson County Board of Education was set on the move. Eventually, due to the large amount of complaints from both Phoenix and Klondike communities, the move was cancelled.
In an interview with Mr. Ludwig, the Assistant Principal of Phoenix High School, he spoke of the move. “The folks at Klondike weren’t really interested in the move. The reason Myers was chosen was because of teachers and staff at Klondike who thought it would be a good size for the intended eight hundred students. “ When asked about his thoughts for Phoenix’s stay in Myers, he responded, “I think it looks good, now we can go back to doing what we had planned. Glad to be here and staying.”
The Reach Academy is now planning to move into the J.B. Atkinson building, though the move is not yet official. The Jefferson County Board of Education met on October 13th to vote on whether the move will commence. They are also meeting with the parents and teachers of J.B. Atkinson to discuss the potential move.
A Play to Sink Your Teeth Into
November 2014
By John Canfield
On October 23, the Phoenix Juniors went to the Actors Theatre to see Dracula the play, for educational purposes.
“The Dracula field trip was Ms. Foley’s idea,” Phoenix teacher Mr. Brewer said. “She set it up as a going away present of sorts. My job was just making sure her plans went off without any problems.”
In the play, there were several special effects. Lighting was used to set the time of day or mood that the play goes into. For example, when the setting is a cemetery, the lighting is black and dark blue compared to an indoor setting, where it is bright and well lit. Special effects were also used in the plays action scenes. When Dracula faces off with Van Helsing, Dracula spits on a cross held by the doctor and it catches on fire. Other special effects include mist, furniture rising and receding from the floor, gunshots, and fake blood coming from the actors.
Though there is a play, a book, and several movies, they all differ from each other. In the play and book, the roles of Lucy and Mary are switched. In the movies, Dracula is seen to have control of shadows. Similarities are also shown, for instance, Dracula does not like anything that is a power of Christ (i.e. holy water, crosses, scripts read from the bible, etc.) Dracula is also known to transform into different types of animals in all storylines.
“I thought that the play was interesting and the sound effects were realistic,” Phoenix student Bryanna Marr stated. “And the actors were really into character. If I had another chance, I would go again.”
When the play is over, the actors take a bow. Students from all around gave a standing ovation to the actors, some were louder than others.
By John Canfield
On October 23, the Phoenix Juniors went to the Actors Theatre to see Dracula the play, for educational purposes.
“The Dracula field trip was Ms. Foley’s idea,” Phoenix teacher Mr. Brewer said. “She set it up as a going away present of sorts. My job was just making sure her plans went off without any problems.”
In the play, there were several special effects. Lighting was used to set the time of day or mood that the play goes into. For example, when the setting is a cemetery, the lighting is black and dark blue compared to an indoor setting, where it is bright and well lit. Special effects were also used in the plays action scenes. When Dracula faces off with Van Helsing, Dracula spits on a cross held by the doctor and it catches on fire. Other special effects include mist, furniture rising and receding from the floor, gunshots, and fake blood coming from the actors.
Though there is a play, a book, and several movies, they all differ from each other. In the play and book, the roles of Lucy and Mary are switched. In the movies, Dracula is seen to have control of shadows. Similarities are also shown, for instance, Dracula does not like anything that is a power of Christ (i.e. holy water, crosses, scripts read from the bible, etc.) Dracula is also known to transform into different types of animals in all storylines.
“I thought that the play was interesting and the sound effects were realistic,” Phoenix student Bryanna Marr stated. “And the actors were really into character. If I had another chance, I would go again.”
When the play is over, the actors take a bow. Students from all around gave a standing ovation to the actors, some were louder than others.
THE MOVE TO MYERS
October 2014
By Raven Kenemore
The Phoenix School of Discovery moved over the summer to the Myers Middle School Building so that the students and staff can have their own location, more space, and more freedom.
In May of 2014, Myers Middle School, a PLA (Persistently Low Achieving) school, shut down. This gave the Phoenix school an opportunity to get its own building. The reason why Myers Middle School shut down is because of low academic test scores and also the possibility of converting it to an Early Childhood Center, or an ESL (English as a Second Language) center. When Ms. Breitenstein and the administration heard that Phoenix was moving to Myers, to Klondike she felt demoralized and disappointed. “I could not believe it. All the staff felt the same way. We had all just worked so hard to move.”
It cost the district thousands upon thousands of dollars to move everything from Valley High School and Stuart middle school to the Myers Building. In addition, they had to set up Waggener High School for former Myers students.
The Myers Building is now home to Phoenix School of Discovery. Frost is now an academy for 6th grade students only and Valley High School has been expanded to take the Frost 7th and 8th graders.
Now that The Phoenix School of Discovery occupies the Myers Building, the school can now have programs and activities such as Band, Friday clubs, a reading program, a family resource center, A gym for athletic activities, our own cafeteria, a picnic area to cook out and interns from different colleges working with us.
Now we are finally settled in, using and thoroughly enjoying all the opportunities the Myers building provided: our own location, much more space and many more freedoms. We are very grateful.
By Raven Kenemore
The Phoenix School of Discovery moved over the summer to the Myers Middle School Building so that the students and staff can have their own location, more space, and more freedom.
In May of 2014, Myers Middle School, a PLA (Persistently Low Achieving) school, shut down. This gave the Phoenix school an opportunity to get its own building. The reason why Myers Middle School shut down is because of low academic test scores and also the possibility of converting it to an Early Childhood Center, or an ESL (English as a Second Language) center. When Ms. Breitenstein and the administration heard that Phoenix was moving to Myers, to Klondike she felt demoralized and disappointed. “I could not believe it. All the staff felt the same way. We had all just worked so hard to move.”
It cost the district thousands upon thousands of dollars to move everything from Valley High School and Stuart middle school to the Myers Building. In addition, they had to set up Waggener High School for former Myers students.
The Myers Building is now home to Phoenix School of Discovery. Frost is now an academy for 6th grade students only and Valley High School has been expanded to take the Frost 7th and 8th graders.
Now that The Phoenix School of Discovery occupies the Myers Building, the school can now have programs and activities such as Band, Friday clubs, a reading program, a family resource center, A gym for athletic activities, our own cafeteria, a picnic area to cook out and interns from different colleges working with us.
Now we are finally settled in, using and thoroughly enjoying all the opportunities the Myers building provided: our own location, much more space and many more freedoms. We are very grateful.
the masterminds behind phoenix fundraising
May 2014
By Maryssa Struggs
The Phoenix High School Juniors and Seniors have been organizing and participating in various fundraisers throughout the 2013-2014 school year in order to raise money for prom. From things like candy grams and dress down days to talent shows and candy sales, the Juniors and Seniors have been working towards raising money for prom for the past several months.
“We were very pleased with the talent show,” Ms. Foley, Senior teacher representative, said during an interview, “I hope we can explore a variety of different options; possibly even a pop culture trivia tournament.”
Every morning at 7:40, some of the Juniors and most of the Seniors attend a CPR class dedicated to raising money for things like decorations and refreshments, and of course the venue, for prom. With every fundraiser they do, the class helps organize the whole production; they plan out the costs, they plan out the schedules if it’s a big event, they put the gifts together (e.g. the candy grams), and distribute them as well, with few help from others outside of the class.
“The fundraising has been going very well, with lots of parental help and a strong core of students who are willing to help,” Foley had to say, “The only problems we’ve been facing is a lack of student motivation and participation. At first they were willing to help, but now it seems that they are losing interest.”
Recently, prom has been opened to all grades 9th – 12th and tickets are still being sold by Ms. Foley; $30 for a single ticket and $50 for a couple’s ticket. Prom will be on May 16th, at Farnsley Moremen Landing, from 8pm to 11pm. The Juniors and Seniors are looking for support in their fundraising and urge their fellow classmates to participate in every way they can.
By Maryssa Struggs
The Phoenix High School Juniors and Seniors have been organizing and participating in various fundraisers throughout the 2013-2014 school year in order to raise money for prom. From things like candy grams and dress down days to talent shows and candy sales, the Juniors and Seniors have been working towards raising money for prom for the past several months.
“We were very pleased with the talent show,” Ms. Foley, Senior teacher representative, said during an interview, “I hope we can explore a variety of different options; possibly even a pop culture trivia tournament.”
Every morning at 7:40, some of the Juniors and most of the Seniors attend a CPR class dedicated to raising money for things like decorations and refreshments, and of course the venue, for prom. With every fundraiser they do, the class helps organize the whole production; they plan out the costs, they plan out the schedules if it’s a big event, they put the gifts together (e.g. the candy grams), and distribute them as well, with few help from others outside of the class.
“The fundraising has been going very well, with lots of parental help and a strong core of students who are willing to help,” Foley had to say, “The only problems we’ve been facing is a lack of student motivation and participation. At first they were willing to help, but now it seems that they are losing interest.”
Recently, prom has been opened to all grades 9th – 12th and tickets are still being sold by Ms. Foley; $30 for a single ticket and $50 for a couple’s ticket. Prom will be on May 16th, at Farnsley Moremen Landing, from 8pm to 11pm. The Juniors and Seniors are looking for support in their fundraising and urge their fellow classmates to participate in every way they can.
Cell
Phones in Class
Good
or Bad
April 2014
By Ottis Jaggers & Steven Herbert
In Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) there has been some debate on the topic of cell phone usage in class by students. Some believe that the use of phones in class may help, but some beg to differ.
Schools in JCPS have been experimenting with using cell phones in class, attempting to see how they can engage students in modern ways and assist in learning technology.
Mr. Caudill stated his opinion on the subject, by saying, “They should be banned if they are seen.” He then went on to say, “Students get distracted by them, if they believe it or not”. Another Phoenix teacher, Mr. Blausey, said, “Students should use phones for education. If we must let students use cell phones in class, it should only be for educational purposes”. He then went onto state, “It’s a big distraction to students who are using them to get on web sites and to text”.
There are many different benefits of this; it makes searching for information easier and faster and it saves schools money, when buying items like text books and paper.
There is a down side to allowing students to use cell phones, such as; students may fall behind if they do not have a smart phone, students could cheat, students can use them to access inappropriate sites, and the phones could be a distraction in class.
In Jefferson County, some schools have been permitted to use cell phones, these schools are: Wagner, Ballard, DuPont-Manual, Fairdale, Iroquois, Seneca, and Southern. The schools got permission by asking the school board permission to enact this program.
The statistics according to www.thedigitalshift.com say that 35% of students cheated on a test using a phone. Teens do need some rules and regulations because there is no guarantee students will work rather than abused their privileges.
By Ottis Jaggers & Steven Herbert
In Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) there has been some debate on the topic of cell phone usage in class by students. Some believe that the use of phones in class may help, but some beg to differ.
Schools in JCPS have been experimenting with using cell phones in class, attempting to see how they can engage students in modern ways and assist in learning technology.
Mr. Caudill stated his opinion on the subject, by saying, “They should be banned if they are seen.” He then went on to say, “Students get distracted by them, if they believe it or not”. Another Phoenix teacher, Mr. Blausey, said, “Students should use phones for education. If we must let students use cell phones in class, it should only be for educational purposes”. He then went onto state, “It’s a big distraction to students who are using them to get on web sites and to text”.
There are many different benefits of this; it makes searching for information easier and faster and it saves schools money, when buying items like text books and paper.
There is a down side to allowing students to use cell phones, such as; students may fall behind if they do not have a smart phone, students could cheat, students can use them to access inappropriate sites, and the phones could be a distraction in class.
In Jefferson County, some schools have been permitted to use cell phones, these schools are: Wagner, Ballard, DuPont-Manual, Fairdale, Iroquois, Seneca, and Southern. The schools got permission by asking the school board permission to enact this program.
The statistics according to www.thedigitalshift.com say that 35% of students cheated on a test using a phone. Teens do need some rules and regulations because there is no guarantee students will work rather than abused their privileges.
Best Looks Equals Best Night
April 2013
By Raven Kenemore
Students attending prom have to worry about what they’re going to wear before May 16th because it’s a memorable and special night for everyone.
For girls, it is important to find the perfect dress to wear for prom, because it is a really special night. Girls have to have what’s in style these days and what everyone likes best. The girls at the Phoenix School of Discovery have to make sure they have the best dress, the best makeup, the best shoes, and etc. For boys, it’s less complicated, because they only have to make sure their hair, suit, and shoes are correct and in style.
Ms. Atherton, the Success Coach of the Phoenix School of Discovery, spoke about prom and said, “Everybody should come to prom! Guys can dress up in a nice shirt, pants and tie. Ladies can wear a short summer dress. It does not have to be formal wear. Of course, you can wear formal dresses and tuxedos if you desire. The main thing is to come and enjoy yourself. I will be there and I am looking for everybody from Phoenix to attend. Come to prom and you’ll have a blast!”
For girls, the cost of the dresses is about $100, because we like expensive things. Everything put together can be about $150 to $200 after the cost of shoes, hair, makeup, and etc. The boys, they have to get the corsage, shoes, the tux, and their hair cut. All together this would be about $250.
Fashions that are inappropriate for prom are wearing short dresses and having too much cleavage exposed. Also inappropriate at prom is PDA, for example, making out, kissing, and touching. Making fun of people and what they wear is also inappropriate.
Before attending prom, the guy is responsible for purchasing a corsage for his date. A guy should remember to ask his date in advance what color her prom dress is so the corsage flowers and ribbon colors won’t clash with her dress. The guy will need to pick up the corsage from the florist on the afternoon of the prom.
In the past, guys usually dressed in black or white formal wear, regardless of the time of the event. This was paired with brightly colored ties or bow ties with vests, in some cases in colors matching their date’s dress. Most tuxedos are rented from stores that specialize in formal wear rentals. Girls used to wear dresses or evening gowns and adorn themselves with ladies’ costume jewelry such as earrings and a necklace. Traditionally girls wear perfume and make-up.
By Raven Kenemore
Students attending prom have to worry about what they’re going to wear before May 16th because it’s a memorable and special night for everyone.
For girls, it is important to find the perfect dress to wear for prom, because it is a really special night. Girls have to have what’s in style these days and what everyone likes best. The girls at the Phoenix School of Discovery have to make sure they have the best dress, the best makeup, the best shoes, and etc. For boys, it’s less complicated, because they only have to make sure their hair, suit, and shoes are correct and in style.
Ms. Atherton, the Success Coach of the Phoenix School of Discovery, spoke about prom and said, “Everybody should come to prom! Guys can dress up in a nice shirt, pants and tie. Ladies can wear a short summer dress. It does not have to be formal wear. Of course, you can wear formal dresses and tuxedos if you desire. The main thing is to come and enjoy yourself. I will be there and I am looking for everybody from Phoenix to attend. Come to prom and you’ll have a blast!”
For girls, the cost of the dresses is about $100, because we like expensive things. Everything put together can be about $150 to $200 after the cost of shoes, hair, makeup, and etc. The boys, they have to get the corsage, shoes, the tux, and their hair cut. All together this would be about $250.
Fashions that are inappropriate for prom are wearing short dresses and having too much cleavage exposed. Also inappropriate at prom is PDA, for example, making out, kissing, and touching. Making fun of people and what they wear is also inappropriate.
Before attending prom, the guy is responsible for purchasing a corsage for his date. A guy should remember to ask his date in advance what color her prom dress is so the corsage flowers and ribbon colors won’t clash with her dress. The guy will need to pick up the corsage from the florist on the afternoon of the prom.
In the past, guys usually dressed in black or white formal wear, regardless of the time of the event. This was paired with brightly colored ties or bow ties with vests, in some cases in colors matching their date’s dress. Most tuxedos are rented from stores that specialize in formal wear rentals. Girls used to wear dresses or evening gowns and adorn themselves with ladies’ costume jewelry such as earrings and a necklace. Traditionally girls wear perfume and make-up.
What’s Crackin`Jack?
March 2014
By Nathaniel Aldridge
For those who don’t know Cracker Jack, he is a boxer who was found abandoned in an apartment. Crack Jack was left for dead in an apartment, but found and rescued. When he was found he was malnourished and had eaten a towel, which was stuck in his stomach. He was taken in, they thought that he wouldn’t make it, but they were wrong.
Cracker Jack has a neurological disorder caused from abuse and he now requires a wheelchair to walk. He was helped by Phoenix students, when they raised money by participating in several school events. Phoenix students helped Cracker Jack by raising money to have a wheelchair built. Phoenix raised the money by having a game day and game night last year, which both went well. The wheelchair helps him move because his back legs don’t work.
The wheelchair has four small wheels and Cracker Jack stands in it. It helps Crackerjack walk, sort of like a child’s walker helps him/her walk. Phoenix students encourage him to walk by luring him forward with cheese. Ms. Sharp, a Phoenix science teacher, said, “When Cracker Jack is here he kind of keeps the students [stimulated].”
Cracker Jack comes to Phoenix High School on Wednesdays and students help him rehab. He helps to brings us all together and it makes students feel good to help him. One of the biggest things about having Cracker Jack is that by show us helping him the school gets noticed by the news and people can see us on T.V. or get noticed by other schools.
By Nathaniel Aldridge
For those who don’t know Cracker Jack, he is a boxer who was found abandoned in an apartment. Crack Jack was left for dead in an apartment, but found and rescued. When he was found he was malnourished and had eaten a towel, which was stuck in his stomach. He was taken in, they thought that he wouldn’t make it, but they were wrong.
Cracker Jack has a neurological disorder caused from abuse and he now requires a wheelchair to walk. He was helped by Phoenix students, when they raised money by participating in several school events. Phoenix students helped Cracker Jack by raising money to have a wheelchair built. Phoenix raised the money by having a game day and game night last year, which both went well. The wheelchair helps him move because his back legs don’t work.
The wheelchair has four small wheels and Cracker Jack stands in it. It helps Crackerjack walk, sort of like a child’s walker helps him/her walk. Phoenix students encourage him to walk by luring him forward with cheese. Ms. Sharp, a Phoenix science teacher, said, “When Cracker Jack is here he kind of keeps the students [stimulated].”
Cracker Jack comes to Phoenix High School on Wednesdays and students help him rehab. He helps to brings us all together and it makes students feel good to help him. One of the biggest things about having Cracker Jack is that by show us helping him the school gets noticed by the news and people can see us on T.V. or get noticed by other schools.
KICK THAT HABIT
March 2014
By Issiah Gipson
Drugs such as marijuana, pills, cocaine, meth, and even alcohol, can be found in nearly every community. These drugs have taken a toll on youth. Young people need to be told that life is too short and that drugs are not cool. Instead, positive habits such as eating healthy and staying fit can make you live longer.
Everybody knows someone that has a drug or alcohol addiction. Getting an addict to stop is not easy. The first step to help someone is to find out what they are addicted too. Then, learn everything about what they are addicted to and contact Employee Assistance Program (EAP). If the person wants talk to anybody about their problems, then give them time.
If the person is getting into trouble with law and you always seems to be the one who helps them, you have to stop enabling them. One day, their wrongs will catch up with them. They must deal with the consequences. You have to let them see what their addiction is doing to them.
In the U.S there are 2,500 youths that are taking prescription pills. Some teens start taking or abusing pain reliever around the ages of 12 through 17. In 2006, 2.6 million people abused prescription pills for the first time in the United States. In 2005, the largest percentage of death by drug over dose came from prescription pills use. Of the 22,400 deaths from overdosing on prescription pills, 38.2% resulted from opiate painkillers, the most commonly found drug that year.
Ms. Atherton, Phoenix’s Success Coach, said, “Prescription medicine should only be taken if you need them and never abuse them. Also, drugs affect a lot and it affects your entire family.”
If prescription medicines are used improperly, they can be dangerous. Despite what many teens and adults think, abusing prescription drugs is not safer than abusing illicit drugs. As the facts will tell you, prescription drugs can have dangerous short- and long-term health consequences when used incorrectly or by someone other than for whom they were intended.
When working with a professional you have to plan a way to intervene in that family member’s life about their addiction. Once your family member starts their treatment, try to remain involved their treatment. Coming home will be a very difficult period but they have to remain calm. Becoming a drug free family will take time, patience and effort for the addict to be able to have control in an open environment.
By Issiah Gipson
Drugs such as marijuana, pills, cocaine, meth, and even alcohol, can be found in nearly every community. These drugs have taken a toll on youth. Young people need to be told that life is too short and that drugs are not cool. Instead, positive habits such as eating healthy and staying fit can make you live longer.
Everybody knows someone that has a drug or alcohol addiction. Getting an addict to stop is not easy. The first step to help someone is to find out what they are addicted too. Then, learn everything about what they are addicted to and contact Employee Assistance Program (EAP). If the person wants talk to anybody about their problems, then give them time.
If the person is getting into trouble with law and you always seems to be the one who helps them, you have to stop enabling them. One day, their wrongs will catch up with them. They must deal with the consequences. You have to let them see what their addiction is doing to them.
In the U.S there are 2,500 youths that are taking prescription pills. Some teens start taking or abusing pain reliever around the ages of 12 through 17. In 2006, 2.6 million people abused prescription pills for the first time in the United States. In 2005, the largest percentage of death by drug over dose came from prescription pills use. Of the 22,400 deaths from overdosing on prescription pills, 38.2% resulted from opiate painkillers, the most commonly found drug that year.
Ms. Atherton, Phoenix’s Success Coach, said, “Prescription medicine should only be taken if you need them and never abuse them. Also, drugs affect a lot and it affects your entire family.”
If prescription medicines are used improperly, they can be dangerous. Despite what many teens and adults think, abusing prescription drugs is not safer than abusing illicit drugs. As the facts will tell you, prescription drugs can have dangerous short- and long-term health consequences when used incorrectly or by someone other than for whom they were intended.
When working with a professional you have to plan a way to intervene in that family member’s life about their addiction. Once your family member starts their treatment, try to remain involved their treatment. Coming home will be a very difficult period but they have to remain calm. Becoming a drug free family will take time, patience and effort for the addict to be able to have control in an open environment.
fitness and health
March 2014
by Davon Garvin
People these days are not getting the exercise that their bodies need and students at Phoenix High School should take better care of themselves. Students need to know what can happen if you don’t treat your body right.
One way to keep your body in shape is to eat right. Another way to stay fit is by eating foods like beans, meats, and whole grain bread. Eating meat will give you protein, make your bones stronger, and will make you have more energy. The carbohydrates in whole grain bread provide your body with the energy it needs. Beans are good for the heart.
Drinking water is very important; it’s the one drink that doesn’t damage the body in anyway. Water gives the body energy that can last all day.
Everybody wants a good looking, healthy body, but most don’t like putting in the work. You don’t have to work out for a long time every day, a few times a week for about 30 minutes is just fine. Working out every day for a long period of time isn’t really good for the body. Working out every day for a long period of time can damage the body, making it difficult to stay active.
Dancing is another way to be active. When you dance you are moving, stretching, and bending your muscles. Dancing is a form of exercise that can interest people who want to be in shape and be healthy. Exercising doesn’t have to involve lifting weights and running, people have fun and enjoy it without really calling it a “work out“.
by Davon Garvin
People these days are not getting the exercise that their bodies need and students at Phoenix High School should take better care of themselves. Students need to know what can happen if you don’t treat your body right.
One way to keep your body in shape is to eat right. Another way to stay fit is by eating foods like beans, meats, and whole grain bread. Eating meat will give you protein, make your bones stronger, and will make you have more energy. The carbohydrates in whole grain bread provide your body with the energy it needs. Beans are good for the heart.
Drinking water is very important; it’s the one drink that doesn’t damage the body in anyway. Water gives the body energy that can last all day.
Everybody wants a good looking, healthy body, but most don’t like putting in the work. You don’t have to work out for a long time every day, a few times a week for about 30 minutes is just fine. Working out every day for a long period of time isn’t really good for the body. Working out every day for a long period of time can damage the body, making it difficult to stay active.
Dancing is another way to be active. When you dance you are moving, stretching, and bending your muscles. Dancing is a form of exercise that can interest people who want to be in shape and be healthy. Exercising doesn’t have to involve lifting weights and running, people have fun and enjoy it without really calling it a “work out“.
Seniors Preparing for a Grande Future
March 2014
by Hannah Sisco
Phoenix seniors are visiting various colleges this year to create a grande future. It will help them make life changing decisions.
Mrs. Breitenstein, the counselor at the Phoenix School of Discovery, stated, “I highly recommend going to [Jefferson Community and Technical College], I even put my two children in that school.” Breitenstein also said, “It is the best and the cheapest out of the many colleges that I have been to.”
On January 29th, 2014, the seniors went to Jefferson Community and Technical College. They were given a tour from Jefferson Community and Technical College administrator, Ms. Chanda of the Downtown Campus of J.C.T.C. The seniors toured welding, culinary arts, nursing and their famed auto mechanics program.
Maryssa Struggs, a senior, described how she felt about the trip to J.C.T.C., “It was very informative.” Struggs mentioned that she loved how the nursing classrooms had simulations. Also, senior Chris Payne said, “It taught me a lot about the school. I really like the experience that this field trip brought.”
The Phoenix Seniors will be making more college visits soon. The Senior class is planning a visit to Indiana University Southeast in the near future.
by Hannah Sisco
Phoenix seniors are visiting various colleges this year to create a grande future. It will help them make life changing decisions.
Mrs. Breitenstein, the counselor at the Phoenix School of Discovery, stated, “I highly recommend going to [Jefferson Community and Technical College], I even put my two children in that school.” Breitenstein also said, “It is the best and the cheapest out of the many colleges that I have been to.”
On January 29th, 2014, the seniors went to Jefferson Community and Technical College. They were given a tour from Jefferson Community and Technical College administrator, Ms. Chanda of the Downtown Campus of J.C.T.C. The seniors toured welding, culinary arts, nursing and their famed auto mechanics program.
Maryssa Struggs, a senior, described how she felt about the trip to J.C.T.C., “It was very informative.” Struggs mentioned that she loved how the nursing classrooms had simulations. Also, senior Chris Payne said, “It taught me a lot about the school. I really like the experience that this field trip brought.”
The Phoenix Seniors will be making more college visits soon. The Senior class is planning a visit to Indiana University Southeast in the near future.
pHOENIX rEBORN iN fROST
March 2014
By: Steven Seabolt
The Phoenix Middle and High Schools are moving to a new location next school year. JCPS has decided to relocate Phoenix to the Frost
Middle School (FMS) building. Frost six graders will remain at FMS, while their seventh and eighth grades will be moved to Valley High School. These students will move to the section of Valley that Phoenix High School currently occupies. Phoenix is not getting a new building because the district is trying to save money. The second floor of the FMS building has enough room for both the middle and high schools.
Phoenix students are going to have access to a gym, library, related arts, and lunchroom. Phoenix will share the lunchroom with Frost, but the two schools will not use it at the same time. The Frost building doesn’t have an auditorium. The students and staff will benefit from this move by having access to more resources in the related art classes.
Mr. Bennett said, “We’re moving because there is open space at Frost for the [Phoenix] Middle and High Schools. By having all of our teachers in the same building, teachers will be able to collaborate with each other regarding school curriculum. Having all of our teachers in one building will help improve our school culture. I am excited about the possibilities having all the teachers in the same building will offer.”
Student responses to the move are mixed. Some believe the bus ride will be longer and they will have to get up earlier for the bus. Some were excited about the move. Leona Easley spoke about her thoughts on Phoenix moving to Frost, “I like it because it will be our own school building.”
The address of Frost Middle School is 13700 Sandray Blvd. Louisville, KY 40272.
By: Steven Seabolt
The Phoenix Middle and High Schools are moving to a new location next school year. JCPS has decided to relocate Phoenix to the Frost
Middle School (FMS) building. Frost six graders will remain at FMS, while their seventh and eighth grades will be moved to Valley High School. These students will move to the section of Valley that Phoenix High School currently occupies. Phoenix is not getting a new building because the district is trying to save money. The second floor of the FMS building has enough room for both the middle and high schools.
Phoenix students are going to have access to a gym, library, related arts, and lunchroom. Phoenix will share the lunchroom with Frost, but the two schools will not use it at the same time. The Frost building doesn’t have an auditorium. The students and staff will benefit from this move by having access to more resources in the related art classes.
Mr. Bennett said, “We’re moving because there is open space at Frost for the [Phoenix] Middle and High Schools. By having all of our teachers in the same building, teachers will be able to collaborate with each other regarding school curriculum. Having all of our teachers in one building will help improve our school culture. I am excited about the possibilities having all the teachers in the same building will offer.”
Student responses to the move are mixed. Some believe the bus ride will be longer and they will have to get up earlier for the bus. Some were excited about the move. Leona Easley spoke about her thoughts on Phoenix moving to Frost, “I like it because it will be our own school building.”
The address of Frost Middle School is 13700 Sandray Blvd. Louisville, KY 40272.