Jason’s Creation
By Radiant Holly (6/11/14)
If you didn't participate in Jason Dunn's Draft Exhibit project, you missed out on an awesome project. But it's not too late to take a look. The exhibit is installed in the hallway outside the Film Lecture Hall.
The idea came from Ms. Holsenbeck during Jason's Capstone. After he showed examples of his marked-up drafts Ms. Holsenbeck noted that they were really interesting, both visually and intellectually, and suggested an exhibit containing examples of creative writing drafts. Jason took her up on it.
The point of the project was to
help viewers understand the complicated processes behind writers' final products, and to see the amazing ideas that don't make it to the final draft.
Jason, I would like to personally thank you for making this project happen. It was cool to see my own draft up on the wall. Thank you!
By Radiant Holly (6/11/14)
If you didn't participate in Jason Dunn's Draft Exhibit project, you missed out on an awesome project. But it's not too late to take a look. The exhibit is installed in the hallway outside the Film Lecture Hall.
The idea came from Ms. Holsenbeck during Jason's Capstone. After he showed examples of his marked-up drafts Ms. Holsenbeck noted that they were really interesting, both visually and intellectually, and suggested an exhibit containing examples of creative writing drafts. Jason took her up on it.
The point of the project was to
help viewers understand the complicated processes behind writers' final products, and to see the amazing ideas that don't make it to the final draft.
Jason, I would like to personally thank you for making this project happen. It was cool to see my own draft up on the wall. Thank you!
Awesome Senior Prom 2014 at Omni!
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By Radiant Holly (6/11/14)
“If you aren’t a senior I feel bad for you son; I have 99 problems but prom wasn’t one.” Sorry for the Jay-z reference, but I had to use that as an opening because prom was just so awesome. I was ecstatic to see some juniors stopping by the Omni to see the seniors before they made their way into the Omni hotel doors. With all the screaming and the flashing cameras, I really felt like I was celebrity at the Grammys. Walking into the Omni was a feeling that words can not explain; with the décor tying into the Great Gatsby theme, it was absolutely beautiful. Walking up the huge staircase with my date made me feel like a princess. People who didn’t come with a date, you rocked it on your own. The food was okay, and the DJ playing great hits made up for the food and that was okay with me. From 6 to 11:30 pm, we were partying our hearts out. Oh wait! Did you think I would forget the prom queen & king? Ha, no of course not. One of creative writing’s own, Elly, won prom queen and dancer, Ernest, won prom king. They had their beautiful dance, and it was overall awesome. Prom was something that I will never forget, and I would like to thank Mrs. Sienkowsi, the prom committee, and everyone who helped for making this memorable night; we seniors thank you! |
PERSONAL PROFILE: MS. DENG
By Laura Sadowski (6/5/14)
Hauhui Deng was selected as part of a highly competitive program to come from China and teach at Co-op. Here are some of her thoughts about her experience. 1. Where are you from? I am from Yali Middle School, a comprehensive middle and high school in Changsha, Human, China. Yali Middle School was helped founded by Yale-China Association in 1906. 2. How did you get the opportunity to come to America? Yali Middle School was helping Yale-China Association to look for two teachers to help American students study Chinese and promote Chinese culture, so it informed all the teachers of the opportunity to work in U.S. Amazed to by the idea of teaching in U.S, I signed up for the interview, together with other teachers. Then I was selected. 3. How has your life changed since coming to America? It is hard to name the changes. To live in a different culture is an experience and will bring positive changes. Take food for example. My love for American food grows as time goes by. 4. What is your job here at Co-Op? I am a Chinese teaching assistant for Ms Yang. I am helping students to study Chinese. I teach level 3 Chinese students, and help some students at other levels to make up their lessons. This semester I have started an after-school program, A Glimpse of Chinese Culture to introduce Chinese culture. 5. What are similarities and differences between school in China and school in America? Chinese schools and American schools are of huge differences, from the size of a class, the length of a period to education system. But they share the same goal: the overall development of the students, and equal opportunity for education. 6. What has been you favorite part of working at Co-Op? I love working here in Co-op. Coop offers me a new understanding of arts. The teachers and the students help me to know more about it. 7. What has been you favorite part about being in America? Easy access to American people to know more about American society, American culture and American Education. 8. What have you learned from your experience so far? My experience at Coop inspires me of new ideas in life and in teaching, while travelling around the country helps me know more about American culture. |
World Book NightBy Tally Martin (4/23/214)
On April 22, 2014, Co-Op hosted the annual World Book Night! Students, family members, teachers, and faculty gathered together to celebrate the world of reading. The 2-hour event included Theatre, Band, Dance, and Creative Writing performances by our very own. Lots of free, brand new books were given away to all of our guests. A nice pasta dinner was prepared and Mrs. Sienkowski hung around to sell baked goods for the senior class. It didn't end there! Our host, Mr. Tirado, concluded the night with raffling off a new Kindle to one lucky guest. Mrs. Willis and crew put together a beautiful event! Coop Music Sweeps 7th Annual Yale/New Haven Young Artists Solo Competition High School Division
By Mr. Smith (5/21/14) On May 20th, the Yale School of Music held its 7th annual competition for New Haven school musicians. Held in the historic Sprague Memorial Hall on the Yale campus, high honors were awarded to the following Co-op winners: Jonathan Moore, First place; Joseline Tlacamulco, Second place; Jesus Cortez, Third place. Jonathan performed his composition Journey for solo cello--a fantastic piece utilizing audio digital looping technology to a create complex interweaving of sounds that transported this listener into a sense of being immersed in a cello "choir." Different and new each time he performs it, Journey was premiered during the Orchestra concert two weeks ago. Joseline Tlacomulco performed Carl Maria von Weber's Rondo from Grand Duo Concertant. A standard from the College clarinet repertoire, Joseline performed with virtuosity and power not often seen in players of her age. Her tone and articulations were exquisite and the interplay of her solo with the Yale School of Music piano accompanist was superb. Jesus performed the first movement of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's Concerto for Clarinet in A Major, K. 622. Considered to be one of the greatest works for clarinet, Mozart's Concerto in A was performed with the strength and bravado that defines this work as a classic. Jesus performed the musical gymnastics of this concerto with ease and elegance. Seventeen students from four city high schools were represented: High School in the Community, Engineering & Science School, Sound School, and Co-op. Other Co-op participants who performed beautifully were: Jocelyn Hernandez, Mairead Brennan, Ashley Brown, Katherine Roque, Michael Gritzbach, Ade Ben-Salahuddin, Emily Adji, Yza Roque Tyler Holloway, and Sophia Minardi. Congratulations to all of the participants for their hard work and dedication to their art. |
Mr. Landa Talks About Scheduling
By Laura Sadowski (5/16/14)
What was your involvement in making this new schedule? I helped redesign how kids have access and how they can talk to teachers. I worked with Mr. Costanzo and Mr. Halloran.
How is scheduling different this year? There are extra steps this year for the students. After students meet with their teachers and self-advocates, they will meet with one other adult who will finalize their request.
How will this improve the scheduling process? Kids will have a final say. They’ll be able to have a conversation and will be able to say "I want to pick this class instead of another." This is their last chance to talk to an adult. It’s more about what the students want for themselves.
How did you and others come up with this new scheduling format? I am part of the school’s leadership team. We discussed how to give students the opportunity to make good choices – how to get them where they want to be. We’ve given kids an extra part; we’ll see how it goes. I hope it will go well.
What is the impact of having students be more involved in the scheduling process and advocating for themselves? Kids know better that adults are trying to help them. For the first two years I was here, kids never talked to their teachers about planning their schedules. I am not sure how they signed up for classes. I know that what the students wanted to take wasn’t always being honored. Sometimes they would get a class they hadn’t even signed up for instead of a class that they had wanted. The system we have now is working much better. There is a lot less misplacement happening.
What do you want the outcome to be so you know this program was a success? I hope kids feel they can have a voice with who they are talking to their schedule about. Selfishly, I want to start the school year knowing who I will be teaching that year. When I was in school, I walked in the door knowing where I was going. In the middle of October, some students still didn’t have that. Kids deserve better. I believe that now we have created a system where kids will have better than that. The school can now be more respectful to the choices the students make for their classes.
By Laura Sadowski (5/16/14)
What was your involvement in making this new schedule? I helped redesign how kids have access and how they can talk to teachers. I worked with Mr. Costanzo and Mr. Halloran.
How is scheduling different this year? There are extra steps this year for the students. After students meet with their teachers and self-advocates, they will meet with one other adult who will finalize their request.
How will this improve the scheduling process? Kids will have a final say. They’ll be able to have a conversation and will be able to say "I want to pick this class instead of another." This is their last chance to talk to an adult. It’s more about what the students want for themselves.
How did you and others come up with this new scheduling format? I am part of the school’s leadership team. We discussed how to give students the opportunity to make good choices – how to get them where they want to be. We’ve given kids an extra part; we’ll see how it goes. I hope it will go well.
What is the impact of having students be more involved in the scheduling process and advocating for themselves? Kids know better that adults are trying to help them. For the first two years I was here, kids never talked to their teachers about planning their schedules. I am not sure how they signed up for classes. I know that what the students wanted to take wasn’t always being honored. Sometimes they would get a class they hadn’t even signed up for instead of a class that they had wanted. The system we have now is working much better. There is a lot less misplacement happening.
What do you want the outcome to be so you know this program was a success? I hope kids feel they can have a voice with who they are talking to their schedule about. Selfishly, I want to start the school year knowing who I will be teaching that year. When I was in school, I walked in the door knowing where I was going. In the middle of October, some students still didn’t have that. Kids deserve better. I believe that now we have created a system where kids will have better than that. The school can now be more respectful to the choices the students make for their classes.
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You're All Invited to World Book NightBy Rodney Arnold (3/21/14)
On April 23 there will be a celebration of books and reading called “World Book Night.” April 23rd is UNESCO International Day of the Book, as well as Shakespeare’s birthday. The event will take place at Co-op from 4:30 to 7:30 pm and refreshments will be served. We will be giving away several hundred high-interest books in order to boost interest school-wide in reading. We want to create a buzz around the event and have a big crowd that night. So come, and your younger siblings. |
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Insight on The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee from the Cast and Crew
Interview by Laura Sadowski (3/19/14) This year’s school musical is The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. It’s a musical comedy about six young people about to become teens and they have crazy families. They learn throughout the musical that winning isn’t everything and losing doesn’t make you a loser. Co-op’s production will take place at 2:30 and 6:30 on May 20th and 21st. I recently interviewed some members of the cast and crew to get their take on their characters and the musical. Name: Zshekinah Collier 1. Who is you character? I play Olive’s mom. She doesn’t want to be in a relationship with her husband anymore. So, instead of getting a divorce she leaves to India to find herself leaving her daughter at home with the neglectful father. 2. What is this musical about? The musical is about interesting children who love to spell and win. 3. If you had to spell one word to describe this show, what would that word be? R-a-m-b-u-n-c-t-i-o-u-s Name: Shannaya Gray 1. Who is you character? I play Leaf’s mom who has a big family and loves her children. She has lots of energy and gets very excited, especially when it comes to Leaf. I also am a part of the ensemble. 2. What is this musical about? A spelling bee that is fun and entertaining. 3. If you had to spell one word to describe this show, what would that word be? A-m-a-z-i-n-g Name: Rashaan B. 1. Who is you character? I am the comfort counselor, Mitch Mahoney. 2. What is this musical about? A spelling bee 3. If you had to spell one word to describe this show, what would that word be? I-n-t-e-r-e-s-t-i-n-g Name: Candice Gosta 1. Who is you character? As well as being an ensemble member, I am a cheerleader named Darcy Park, sister of Marcy Park. Darcy is a neglected child who lives in the shadow of her sister’s spotlight. 2. What is this musical about? The musical is about a spelling bee with lids that are very peculiar and a lot smarter than other children their age. The events at the spelling bee would defiantly not happen in real life and that’s what makes it so fun. 3. If you had to spell one word to describe this show, what would that word be? U-n-p-r-e-d-i-c-t-a-b-l-e Name: Rowyn Davis 1. What is your role in tech crew? I’m the costume manager. 2. What is this musical about? The musical takes place during a county spelling bee and focuses on the student’s interactions with each other, themselves, the announcers, and their families. 3. If you had to spell one word to describe this show, what would that word be? A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! Name: Sumiah Gay 1. Who is your role in tech crew? I am the assistant stage manager in the tech crew. 2. What is this musical about? This musical is about a spelling bee and the troubles that the spellers go through. 3. If you had to spell one word to describe this show, what would that word be? Comical |
Spelling Bee: A Review
By Laura Sadowski (4/7/14)
“We choose to direct 'Spelling Bee' because it is a simple and fun show,” said Ms. Vollono and Mrs. Sargent in the Director’s Note of the Spelling Bee program. Those are the perfect words to describe this year’s all school musical. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee was indeed a funny, light-hearted show that left the audience laughing--joke after joke after joke. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee tells the story of six quirky, prepubescent kids competing to win the spelling bee, as well as what they learn about winning and losing. The whole cast really got into their roles and worked well together. Logainne SchwartzandGrubenierre, who spoke with a lisp, was played by Rachel Zwick. She was the most politically correct speller, with two overbearing gay fathers. Olive Ostrovsky, played by Javonda Hughes, was the newcomer to the Bee. Her mother was in an ashram in India, and her father was working late, as usual, leaving her alone at the Bee. William Barfée, played by Tyler Hueffman, was a finalist last year and has come back to avenge his elimination last year due to an allergic reaction to peanuts. He uses his unique “Magic Foot” method to try win. He has an often-mispronounced last name and constantly corrected the announcer: "It is Bar-FAY, not BARF-ee!” Marcy Park, played by Montana Telman, was a recent transfer from Virginia. She speaks six languages, attends a Catholic school, is a championship rugby player, plays multiple instruments, sleeps only three hours a night, and is getting very tired of always winning. She is also not allowed to cry. Leaf Coneybear, played by Joey Mulvey, is the second runner-up in his district. He comes from a large family and is very easily distracted. He spells words correctly while in a trance. Charlito "Chip" Tolentino, played by Donijah Collier, is a Boy Scout and champion of last year’s Bee. During the show, he experiences a side of puberty he had never experienced before at the worst possible moment. The "adults" that run the Bee are Rona Perretti, played by Nicole Padula, a former Bee champion and Putnam County’s top realtor, Vice Principal Panch, played by Joey Abate, who is infatuated with Rona Perretti, and Mitch Mahoney, played by Rashaan Blackwell, the Official Comfort Counselor and ex-convict who performs community service at the Bee, as he hands out juice boxes to losing students. These nine actors are perfectly cast in their individual roles, but the whole cast fit together perfectly as well. In typical productions, the six main characters play the background roles as well, leaving the audience as the only audience for the bee. It was a great choice to create an ensemble for the characters to interact with and make the stage livelier. For this production, the musicians were not in the Pit, but were on stage as well. For his senior capstone, Jeremey Lombard took on Pit coordination, which included rehearsals and conducting the orchestra for the show. People could not tell that this was his first big production. In addition to the orchestra and actors onstage, four “random” audience members were chosen to go up on stage and be a part of the Bee. You probably guessed it already, but the four audience members were teachers. I attended the 2:30 show on Friday and Mrs. Seinkowski, Mr. Murphy, Mr. Esposito, and Mr. Manghnani were the volunteers to go up. Dr. Sapienzia was excited to watch her colleges spell. She said, while laughing, “I can’t wait to see this! Mrs. Seinkowski fell into the role of a stereotypical Mexican person and she was hilarious; she even had some of the cast members laughing on stage. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee was a wonderful Co-op production. Every joke had the audience laughing; there were no dreaded “awkward pauses”. The cast really went with the randomness of the play and pulled it off very well. If you missed it, you missed a great show. 
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Student Writes a "Moving" Farewell to Co-opBy Brianne Ballard (4/7/14)
I am leaving the school early. I’m a sophomore and the school year isn’t over yet and I am moving down south to Georgia. My experience with my first move is kind of exciting. I’ve never packed up stuff in a box or thought about living in a new area. I’ve always wanted to move, but I never actually thought it would happen. The house I’ve lived in for 13 years has given me memories to keep with me along the journey down south. Being away from my extended family will give me an opportunity to be both more independent and more connected to mother. The reason I’m writing this for www.coopvoices.com is because I want to say that even though I’m leaving my friends behind and starting a new life, I will remember you all. For the people that are thinking about college and going to another state, remember: friends come and go. But the good ones stay forever. So even if you’re miles away from each other, you'll both try to keep the friendship going as long as you can. That’s a good friendship. You have to think in terms of your own freedom and independence and change, just like I’m thinking about mine. I might not be graduating from Co-op this year, but moving away feel almost like am like the same thing. |
Flores and Brennan Finalists at Connecticut Science and Engineering Fair
By Mr. Bella (4/2/14)
Mairead Brennan and Melba Flores were finalists at the Connecticut Science & Engineering Fair. On Saturday March 15th they were recognized for their work with a scanning electron microscope. Mairead and Melba participated in a unique and involved research project this past summer at SCSU. They were refining the image processing of a scanning electron microscope. The goal of this study was to create an objective and rapid process to gain accurate measurements of the diameters of individual ZnO nanowires. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to image the nanowires. Previously used TEM image processing techniques were employed for the SEM images. These results proved not ideal and novel routes to image processing were then implemented and tested. These techniques were then used to measure the cumulative area of these nanowires and standard deviation. |
2014 Windham-Campbell Awards Announced
By Xavier Sottile (3/7/14)
“It’s hard to believe it’s been a year since our last announcement,” Yale President Peter Salovey said, staring down at his speech.
On March 7th, 2014, at Yale’s Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library, Yale President Peter Salovey announced the eight winners of the Windham-Campbell award, an award designed to reward outstanding English writers across the world. The winners receive $150,000, and will come to New Haven this September to accept their award and hold workshop as well as participate in other activities.
The three drama winners were: from the United States, Kita Corthron, an author of upwards of fifteen plays. Then, from the United Kingdom, Sam Holcroft, a former genetic researcher, whose play, Rules for Living, will be produced this fall. Last, from Australia, is Noëlle Janaczewska. The three winners of fiction are: from Pakistan, Naddem Aslam; from the United Kingdom, Jim Crace; and from Sierra Leone, Aminatta Forna. The two nonfiction winners are India’s Pankaj Mishra and the United States’ John Vaillant.
The winners were chosen by an anonymous group of judges on three juries, one for each section. Each judge nominated two persons they thought were worthy of receiving the award. This year, only eight people were chosen with the unanimous of each jury. Last year, the number was nine.
Last year’s winners were: in drama, Naomi Wallace, Tarell Alvin McCraney, and Stephen Adly Guirgis; in fiction, Zoë Wicomb, James Salter, and Tom McCarthy; and in nonfiction, Jeremy Scahill, Jonny Steinberg, and Adina Hoffman. The prize is named after writer Donald Windham and his partner Sandy M. Campbell.
For more information, check out www.windhamcampbell.org.
“It’s hard to believe it’s been a year since our last announcement,” Yale President Peter Salovey said, staring down at his speech.
On March 7th, 2014, at Yale’s Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library, Yale President Peter Salovey announced the eight winners of the Windham-Campbell award, an award designed to reward outstanding English writers across the world. The winners receive $150,000, and will come to New Haven this September to accept their award and hold workshop as well as participate in other activities.
The three drama winners were: from the United States, Kita Corthron, an author of upwards of fifteen plays. Then, from the United Kingdom, Sam Holcroft, a former genetic researcher, whose play, Rules for Living, will be produced this fall. Last, from Australia, is Noëlle Janaczewska. The three winners of fiction are: from Pakistan, Naddem Aslam; from the United Kingdom, Jim Crace; and from Sierra Leone, Aminatta Forna. The two nonfiction winners are India’s Pankaj Mishra and the United States’ John Vaillant.
The winners were chosen by an anonymous group of judges on three juries, one for each section. Each judge nominated two persons they thought were worthy of receiving the award. This year, only eight people were chosen with the unanimous of each jury. Last year, the number was nine.
Last year’s winners were: in drama, Naomi Wallace, Tarell Alvin McCraney, and Stephen Adly Guirgis; in fiction, Zoë Wicomb, James Salter, and Tom McCarthy; and in nonfiction, Jeremy Scahill, Jonny Steinberg, and Adina Hoffman. The prize is named after writer Donald Windham and his partner Sandy M. Campbell.
For more information, check out www.windhamcampbell.org.
Choir Sings at Outside VenuesFASHION
In this picture Laura is getting creative! In order to duplicate this look, that is perfect for brisk fall days, all one needs is a large scarf and an oversized belt. You simply hang the scarf over your torso and then lock it in place by tightening your belt. Then... Voila! You’ve transformed your plain shirt into a stylish printed ensemble. (By Ervin M. Simmons)
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Shubert's Art In Action Program Brings Co-op Together With Betsy Ross
By Laura Sadowski (2/27/14)
Art in Action, an education program offered by the Shubert Theater, asked Betsy Ross and Co-op students to create artwork inspired by "Once" (the musical currently playing at the theater). Art in Action has students use art to respond to plays. This is the second incarnation of the program. Last year, the students responded to the musical "Les Misérables" and created a barricade-inspired sculpture to be installed at the Shubert. The theme of this year's project was "follow your dreams"--inspired by the theme of "Once." Ms. Wuzzardo and Mr. Cozzi came up with the concept of making masks and vision boards. “When I was a kid, there was an artist who passed away," said Mr. Cozzi. "A piece done by this artist was being exhibited in a gallery I visited. There was a bronze, small, perfect face and an irregular cloud hanging above his head. I always thought it was a kind of thought or dream bubble. I saw that this musical was about dreams and I thought the project was perfect for the students to do.” They brought the concept to Ms. Maura Gallante, a visual arts teacher at Betsy Ross, and they all agreed upon it. On January 30th, Mr. Cozzi’s junior and senior visual arts class began to learn how to make masks for the project and begin building the design for vision boards to accompany them. The Co-Op students then acted as mentors to the Betsy Ross students for a day and showed them how to make the masks and vision boards. A senior and two other Betsy Ross students volunteered to be the first to get their masks done. They had to get all dressed up in painter’s gear (the white baggy body suits you see painters wear) to protect their clothes, and they had to wear hairnets to cover their hair. The hairnets were then taped down and Vaseline was applied to everyone's faces so the masks would not stick to them. To apply the “ingredients”, the volunteers had to lie down on a chair similar to the one you sit in when you go to the dentist so the mask would not fall down their faces. The process of applying the plaster and alginate, (what the mask is made of) and making sure the volunteer is breathing because they couldn’t breathe out of their noses, was a three-person job. Mia Elliot, junior visual artist, had the lovely job of making sure the volunteer could breathe by every so often sticking a little stick on the edge of their nose and removing any alginate that might have gone in there. Mr. Cozzi quickly mixed ½ pound of alginate with 2 cups of water that made a sort of white gum. It was immediately stuck on the volunteer's face and pushed up because it dries very quickly. Then, plaster was pressed onto the alginate to really define the face's features. The three students then removed the mask while removing the tape on the volunteer's face. After the mask was removed, it was filled with Olympus cement and the nostrils were closed with clay. In a couple of hours, the layers were all removed and the participating students each had a well-defined mask of his or her face. The students who weren’t getting their masks done that day began cutting out their vision boards. Serena, an 8th grade visual arts student at Betsy Ross, cut out a flower as her vision board. “It is a symbol of a band that inspired me," she said. "Music influences my life a lot and my art is different because of it. This project and the musical "Once" have inspired me to become a musician again.” After about a month of creating masks and vision boards, the Co-op and Betsy Ross students' art was ready to be exhibited at an opening night reception for "Once." All the students got complimentary tickets to the play. “This project gives kids who aren’t theater students an artistic way of looking at the message in musicals,” says Ms. Wuzzardo. “It's been fun seeing the Betsy Ross students come to Co-op and see what it’s like to be an artist here. I mean look what they created! They all have the same elements in them, but each are totally unique.” The Art in Action exhibition will be open to the audience of "Once" till the very last show, so go check it out. |
Students from Ms. Yang's Chinese Class Celebrate the New Year With Handmade Creations
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Fashion Forward: Co-op's Annual Fashion Show |
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By Adaijah Smith (1/11/14)
On Thursday January 9th Co-op’s fifth annual fashion show was held at 11 am and 6:30 pm. Ms. Lee’s unique outlook on fashion and fabrics made such an enjoyable experience possible. The Fashion Show is definitely a must-see for next year and many more to come. The students really captured the essence of each category. They showcased visions from indigo tie dye, red and black duo, black and white duo, to needle felted work, eco friendly, and “Julius Caesar." The designers were: Najah Josie, Zaryah Thomas, Alyssa Rice, Kylie Mitchell, Victor Volkman, Jemar Perez, Adriana Robles, Imani Manick-Highsmith, Will Chills and Salina Ortiz. Each truly has a gift and each of the different personalities and styles blended perfectly to create a great show. And, we can’t forget the guest designer, Mr. Chernak, for presenting one of his self-designed holiday sweaters. So many people made this production successful. We especially have to acknowledge the wonderful models: Infinity Jean, Simone Ngongi, Javonda Hughes, Erica Cullen, Briona Grant, Shareen Corbett, Robert Pease, Marshall Demorest, Harry Kelly and Mychael Green. And a special shout out to the emcees; Maeve Cunningham, Tyler Hueffman and Benjamin Tramel for providing the descriptions of each piece modeled. I know if everybody could, they would jump at the chance to wear such well-crafted clothing. |
By Ashley Smith (1/14/14)
January 9th marked the fifth annual Co-op fashion showcase directed by Co-op's fashion teacher, Mrs. Lee. The two-part event took place in the black box theater, which was filled with students and teachers showing support. The student designers made impressive pieces that included handbags, dresses, and simple t-shirts with eye catching designs. The themes varied from indigo tie dye to the very chic white and black collection. The variations of color schemes that were chosen are direct reflections of the designers themselves,which made the show a form of self expression and release. There were a lot of neutral cool tones followed by minimal amounts of bold, eye catching colors. Seeing the final outcome of the designs shown revealed all of the hard work of the designers themselves, as well as everyone who helped put the show together. It was all was very inspiring to see. |
Swiss Forest Kindergarten Meets New Haven TeensAfter viewing the film "Schools out: Lessons from a forest kindergarten" (directed and produced by New Haveners Lisa Molomot and Rona Richter), Co-op Publishing House students took some time to be in "nature".
Student Artists at FlexNinth, tenth, and 11th grade Flex periods have been making time to showcase student artists. Above: Creative Writer Rodney Arnold reads his work after the Strings students played "Bohemian Rhapsody."
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Writers have class at the BeineckeCurator Tim Young shows Co-op Publishing House students works from the artist book collection at the Beinecke Rare Book and manuscript Library at Yale.
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Mr. Bernor and friend prepare to attack Diabete Mountain. (Winner: Brianne Ballard)
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Happy Halloween at Co-opCostumes around Co-op on Halloween.
Halloween Party Prizewinners--Felicity Madore: Most Creative; Evan Dobitas: Best Makeup; Minions: Best Group. Winners won $10 Gift Cards.
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The New CAS Green Team Artists
Thanks for recyling!
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Students Support the Shubert TheaterBy Kelly Wuzzardo (11/18/13)
The board of aldermen voted on November 7th to approve the sale of the Shubert Theater to CAPA. This will enable the Shubert to make much-needed repairs and rennovations to the building, while also enabling us to do more fundraising and continue our many programs. A group of students involved in the all school play came out in support of the Shubert to 2 meetings this year. Last night, they saw a full board meeting, with votes and motions and discussion. They have been a great help to us by supporting CAPA and the Shubert, and I think they have actually enjoyed the practical civics lesson in how local government works. Their behavior was, of course, exemplary, and they represented Co-Op and the Shubert very well. I am proud of them and proud that the Shubert is part of their lives and education. |
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Transition from One School, & Country, to Another
By Maria Franco (11/14/13)
In Puerto Rico where I was born, I started class at 8:00am and went until 3:00pm. They have a different division in grades - middle school is grades 7 to 9 and you graduated in 9th grade. They welcome the freshman with music and dancing. They also throw shaving cream all over you – I know, they are crazy. Regrettably, I pass for that. Imagine my culture shock after moving and starting school in New Haven. It gives me great pleasure to write about my experience as a new student at Co-op.
I moved to Connecticut in August of this year hoping to fulfill my dreams of being an actress. Ever since I can remember I have been passionate about becoming a great movie star. I want to be an example to others. I applied to Co-Op because I knew that this school would be the perfect start. At first I thought that I was not going to get used to it since this school is so much different from the one I came from. I felt that I was going to be viewed as the “new girl” from another country that didn’t know the language. I was going to be unable to communicate with others fluently because of my language barrier. I have always been outgoing and friendly so at the beginning it was difficult.
In Puerto Rico, the system is very different. Classes would start at 8:00am and each last an hour, and we had six classes per day. Students would be in the same class for the whole year. The following year, based on your grades, you would have the same routine, but sometimes one or two students would be there from the previous year. Lunch breaks lasted an hour and, for all students, it is free. The food mainly consists of rice, beans, any type of meat, dessert and milk.
On my first day at Co-Op, I was lost looking at how different the students dressed, since in Puerto Rico all students wear uniforms. They were greeting each other and there I was, nervously looking at them. That same day the class started and everyone introduced themselves and I was scared I would say the wrong thing. There were occasions when I had to think of what to say since I was thinking in Spanish so had to translate into English. The theater students spoke about what acting is for them. One student said that acting is everything for him, another one that every day of her life is a new scene that you have control. As for me, I believe that acting is me, something that I want to be able to study so I can become an actress. That way I will be transmitting my feelings. I explained this to my classmates in my strong accent, and they all laughed but it did not make me feel bad at all. It seemed like it was funny and not bullied. With that laugh I felt confident and supported. One of my classmates even asked if she could give me a hug. Her action made me realize that I’m not alone and that a brighter tomorrow is waiting for me.
I remember that I was lost, searching for my classroom, when a random guy asked if I needed help finding it. I looked at him with a unique face and said, “YES,” and then he explained where to go. A lot of people helped me with my language. They were worried about me. The entire faculty as well as the students have been very helpful and understanding. I do feel that I made the right decision to become part of the Coop community. I have confidence to ask for assistance when I need to. I really appreciate and value the opportunity I have been given to become part of this family and I highly recommend Co-Op as the school of choice. It’s all about trusting and working toward your goals. Believe in you, and never say never.
I’m not saying it’s easy because is not. Have confidence in yourself and you will see that it will work out. Never give up.
In Puerto Rico where I was born, I started class at 8:00am and went until 3:00pm. They have a different division in grades - middle school is grades 7 to 9 and you graduated in 9th grade. They welcome the freshman with music and dancing. They also throw shaving cream all over you – I know, they are crazy. Regrettably, I pass for that. Imagine my culture shock after moving and starting school in New Haven. It gives me great pleasure to write about my experience as a new student at Co-op.
I moved to Connecticut in August of this year hoping to fulfill my dreams of being an actress. Ever since I can remember I have been passionate about becoming a great movie star. I want to be an example to others. I applied to Co-Op because I knew that this school would be the perfect start. At first I thought that I was not going to get used to it since this school is so much different from the one I came from. I felt that I was going to be viewed as the “new girl” from another country that didn’t know the language. I was going to be unable to communicate with others fluently because of my language barrier. I have always been outgoing and friendly so at the beginning it was difficult.
In Puerto Rico, the system is very different. Classes would start at 8:00am and each last an hour, and we had six classes per day. Students would be in the same class for the whole year. The following year, based on your grades, you would have the same routine, but sometimes one or two students would be there from the previous year. Lunch breaks lasted an hour and, for all students, it is free. The food mainly consists of rice, beans, any type of meat, dessert and milk.
On my first day at Co-Op, I was lost looking at how different the students dressed, since in Puerto Rico all students wear uniforms. They were greeting each other and there I was, nervously looking at them. That same day the class started and everyone introduced themselves and I was scared I would say the wrong thing. There were occasions when I had to think of what to say since I was thinking in Spanish so had to translate into English. The theater students spoke about what acting is for them. One student said that acting is everything for him, another one that every day of her life is a new scene that you have control. As for me, I believe that acting is me, something that I want to be able to study so I can become an actress. That way I will be transmitting my feelings. I explained this to my classmates in my strong accent, and they all laughed but it did not make me feel bad at all. It seemed like it was funny and not bullied. With that laugh I felt confident and supported. One of my classmates even asked if she could give me a hug. Her action made me realize that I’m not alone and that a brighter tomorrow is waiting for me.
I remember that I was lost, searching for my classroom, when a random guy asked if I needed help finding it. I looked at him with a unique face and said, “YES,” and then he explained where to go. A lot of people helped me with my language. They were worried about me. The entire faculty as well as the students have been very helpful and understanding. I do feel that I made the right decision to become part of the Coop community. I have confidence to ask for assistance when I need to. I really appreciate and value the opportunity I have been given to become part of this family and I highly recommend Co-Op as the school of choice. It’s all about trusting and working toward your goals. Believe in you, and never say never.
I’m not saying it’s easy because is not. Have confidence in yourself and you will see that it will work out. Never give up.
Environmental Studies Class Goes to Mill River
Jason Dunn and Tally Martin on Ms. Arnini's class trip to the Mill River.
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