School Spirit and Purple Pride are the words of the day. Classes are shortened to make room for the Pepfest at the end of the day in the Stadium. Lots of excitement and fun. We talk respect and responsibility. You might have a little chat also. The idea is to be proud and excited about being a Southwest student. Not about picking on one another.
Traditionally the day has been a fun-filled day. If you have particular concerns or questions please call the school.
The Homecoming activities start at 11:00 in the Stadium on Saturday.
There are alumni activities on Friday starting at noon in the high school. Alumni events are scheduled throughout the day ending on Friday with street dance.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Register for PSAT Now
Registration for he PSTA started today. Juniors have the first priority but there is a limited space available. Check with your counselor for options and opportunities. The PSTA is the first step toward a national scholarship.
Check with your counselor if there are financial concerns regarding taking the test or going to college.
Check with your counselor if there are financial concerns regarding taking the test or going to college.
Wednesday mid piont
Fun day now that we are half way through Homecoming Week. About a third of the students came in some color that you would consider "favorite" color. Yes, the freshman were orange and the seniors were red. Again the number increased as the day went along. So far just fun and a high spirit due to Senior picture, student council elections and the next to the last day this week.
For some this week is a close imitation of grown up Halloween. The wings and shoes and hair colors are going to be there regardless of theme. Tomorrow is purple day. Then we have three day weekend. Then it will be regular week again.
Being in high school is social and these types of activities are part of it. At the same time we need to remember that we need to continue to respect ourselves and others.
For some this week is a close imitation of grown up Halloween. The wings and shoes and hair colors are going to be there regardless of theme. Tomorrow is purple day. Then we have three day weekend. Then it will be regular week again.
Being in high school is social and these types of activities are part of it. At the same time we need to remember that we need to continue to respect ourselves and others.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
telephone message also
The telephone message also went home tonight reminding you of parent teacher conferences Thursday and Friday. Oct 1 Thurs - 4-8 pm and Oct 2 Fri - 9 am to 12:45 pm.
If you are unable to make the conference but what to talk with a teacher please email and make the appointment. We want to make this a successful year for your son or daughter.
If you are unable to make the conference but what to talk with a teacher please email and make the appointment. We want to make this a successful year for your son or daughter.
Thursday and Friday
Parent Teacher Conferences on Thursday 4- 8 pm and on Friday 9 am to 12:45 pm. Hopefully if you received mid-term or have concerns about your students academic progress, please stop by. Teachers will be in their normal classrooms. We will have people around to assist if you are not sure where those are.
The first four weeks go by so quickly. In many cases this is the first "wake up call." A mid-term does not mean the student will fail the quarter. It does mean that if there are not changes, the student will fail or at least not do well this quarter.
With the Parent Portal there are some questions about how effective and meaningful these type of session might be. I would welcome your comments on how to do this differently to be more meaningful to you and your student.
There is no school for students on Friday Oct 2.
The first four weeks go by so quickly. In many cases this is the first "wake up call." A mid-term does not mean the student will fail the quarter. It does mean that if there are not changes, the student will fail or at least not do well this quarter.
With the Parent Portal there are some questions about how effective and meaningful these type of session might be. I would welcome your comments on how to do this differently to be more meaningful to you and your student.
There is no school for students on Friday Oct 2.
Homecoming Tuesday
Ok, so Harry Potter was not a big hit. I think many had fun but a significant smaller group than yesterday. Many of the costumes were cute and as I describe yesterday, so start in the morning and then increased participation as the day progress but still very limited participation. Have to rethink that one. The popular figure was Hermoine as you might guess. High school males just aren't into some of these things.
Wednesday is "favorite" colors. Now that term was used so that the administration would not think they were really talking about "class" colors. Seniors want to wear red for their picture and I guess that makes sense (not sure why not purple). I would suggest if your child is non-senior grade student go for green or maybe plaid. There really is no need to attempt to label students by some color combination. That tradition dates back to one we are trying to eliminate. But as you can see, somewhat unsuccessfully.
Periods will be shortened on Thursday to allow time for the pepfest at the stadium at the close of business on Thursday. Should be fun event. So far so good. Got a bit silly today but we are trying to stay within reasonable boundaries. Yes, we continue to have classes and try to teach math and science and the other subject.
Wednesday is "favorite" colors. Now that term was used so that the administration would not think they were really talking about "class" colors. Seniors want to wear red for their picture and I guess that makes sense (not sure why not purple). I would suggest if your child is non-senior grade student go for green or maybe plaid. There really is no need to attempt to label students by some color combination. That tradition dates back to one we are trying to eliminate. But as you can see, somewhat unsuccessfully.
Periods will be shortened on Thursday to allow time for the pepfest at the stadium at the close of business on Thursday. Should be fun event. So far so good. Got a bit silly today but we are trying to stay within reasonable boundaries. Yes, we continue to have classes and try to teach math and science and the other subject.
Monday, September 28, 2009
A Wacky Monday
I'm fairly certain the child you sent off to school this morning is not the one we saw at lunch today. We approach these days caustiously. We have to wait and see who else is going to dare to dress in the non-high school uniform look. So every period there is another pair of orange shorts and a plaid top. The next period there is a pair of wings with way-large pick sunglasses. Then the next is messed up green hair and mismatched shoes and socks. That is just the way it is. As long as they try to stay in some form of modesty and reasonableness we will looked worried just to make sure they know we saw them and so it goes.
I would suspect it captures the interest of about 40% of the students by the end of the day. 9th and 12th graders are probably the biggest supporters of the moments. Tomorrow is Harry Potter day. Every day in a high school is a day of magic and wonders. So we'll see what tomorrow really brings.
Senior group picture at 11 am at the Stadium on Wednesday. Pepfest at the Stadium on Thursday around 2:15. A full four-day experience of Southwest Homecoming.
I would suspect it captures the interest of about 40% of the students by the end of the day. 9th and 12th graders are probably the biggest supporters of the moments. Tomorrow is Harry Potter day. Every day in a high school is a day of magic and wonders. So we'll see what tomorrow really brings.
Senior group picture at 11 am at the Stadium on Wednesday. Pepfest at the Stadium on Thursday around 2:15. A full four-day experience of Southwest Homecoming.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Homecoming WeeK
Homecoming Week is its own silliness and series of traditions (meaning we did it last year) and new stories. There is a theme each day and the students are encouraged (by Student Council) to interpret that theme for that day. Monday is Tacky Wacky -- I think that is a fashion statement; Tuesday is Harry Potter; Wednesday is favorite color and Thursday is Purple.
In the meantime we strive to maintain some type of "regular" school day. At the same time we have Student Council elections for grade 9 through 12 and on Wednesday is the Class of 2010 picture in the Stadium. Thursday is a day with shorter periods and pep fest at the end of the day.
Friday is Parent Teacher Conference and there is no school for students. There are Alumni activities on Friday.
The week is a school week and we will expect reasonable control from our students. You might want to chat about what is fun and what is not really that appropriate for school. One thing we do not want is for students to feel embarrassed or uncomfortable from the activities of others.
In the meantime we strive to maintain some type of "regular" school day. At the same time we have Student Council elections for grade 9 through 12 and on Wednesday is the Class of 2010 picture in the Stadium. Thursday is a day with shorter periods and pep fest at the end of the day.
Friday is Parent Teacher Conference and there is no school for students. There are Alumni activities on Friday.
The week is a school week and we will expect reasonable control from our students. You might want to chat about what is fun and what is not really that appropriate for school. One thing we do not want is for students to feel embarrassed or uncomfortable from the activities of others.
Super Saturday
What a Great! Saturday. Beautiful skies, lots of kids and parents and family members and a wonderful day in the neighborhood. Just a splendid day for soccer and just visiting. It started at 8:30 on two fields and ended with two varsity wins on the Stadium field. Hundreds of fans, friends, family and community members attended the 10 hour event. It was a wonderful day in the life an a high school student and its surrounding "village."
We enjoy the wins and this year was ours on the soccer fields. But that is not true in some years. Whatever the outcome and whatever the year, the important events of celebrating with our children, the young people of our neighborhood and community is what matters. How we act and react, how we treat one another in victory and defeat, how we work and play hard and how at the end of the day we come together to go after another day - those are the points of honor and respect. 40 years from now the victories will be memories but the character and self-respect we earned will mark us forever.
We enjoy the wins and this year was ours on the soccer fields. But that is not true in some years. Whatever the outcome and whatever the year, the important events of celebrating with our children, the young people of our neighborhood and community is what matters. How we act and react, how we treat one another in victory and defeat, how we work and play hard and how at the end of the day we come together to go after another day - those are the points of honor and respect. 40 years from now the victories will be memories but the character and self-respect we earned will mark us forever.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Math, English, Science, Humanities
How many diagonals do you have in a 9 sided figure? What would be the result of this acid placed on this metal for X length of time? Given the location of the two rivers what can we conclude about the developing city? To be or not to be or maybe just two bees in a pod or is there a mist or fog over the glen?
Walking down a hallway in our school is a learning treat! Yes, these may be a little fictional but the spirit is there. Questions, discussions, pauses for reflection and wonders of new discoveries. I am not sure where it could be more exciting. Each step is a small image of the future -- these young people - years from now - asking questions of the society - demanding answers through the environment and challenging the "why not."
It rained today and that was a change in the weather so we were a little more excited so maybe that was just it... or maybe learning is exciting and wonderful. To look out and see what has not been seen before or to dream of places and happenings that are yet to be. What about a cure for... If we made this change how many more could we feed........ Rule of Law for all is possible if ...........
Walking down a hallway in your school is exciting.
Walking down a hallway in our school is a learning treat! Yes, these may be a little fictional but the spirit is there. Questions, discussions, pauses for reflection and wonders of new discoveries. I am not sure where it could be more exciting. Each step is a small image of the future -- these young people - years from now - asking questions of the society - demanding answers through the environment and challenging the "why not."
It rained today and that was a change in the weather so we were a little more excited so maybe that was just it... or maybe learning is exciting and wonderful. To look out and see what has not been seen before or to dream of places and happenings that are yet to be. What about a cure for... If we made this change how many more could we feed........ Rule of Law for all is possible if ...........
Walking down a hallway in your school is exciting.
Welcome Rain
Football game goes on as scheduled. It is a 3:30 pm start. Good game tonight and soccer all day on Saturday.
We want our students to be in activities, clubs, plays, sports and all kinds of high school experiences and opportunities. Transportation home after the activity is always a problem for the family and student. We are working on a plan starting next Monday. It will involve the Metro Transit system.
Please talk to you student about riding the bus home. What are the stops? What is the best route home? How do I pay for my ride?
Club advisers will be talking with your students and attempting to assist in making these arrangements. If you have questions, please call the advisor or coach. But also talk with your student and make sure they are comfortable using the Metro system and know how.
We want our students to be in activities, clubs, plays, sports and all kinds of high school experiences and opportunities. Transportation home after the activity is always a problem for the family and student. We are working on a plan starting next Monday. It will involve the Metro Transit system.
Please talk to you student about riding the bus home. What are the stops? What is the best route home? How do I pay for my ride?
Club advisers will be talking with your students and attempting to assist in making these arrangements. If you have questions, please call the advisor or coach. But also talk with your student and make sure they are comfortable using the Metro system and know how.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Time for some Ice Cream
Drive on over to Ben and Jerry's tonight for some ice cream. Girls soccer is going to be hosting the evening as a sport fund raiser. Come over to 3070 Excelsior Blvd and support the Girls Soccer Team. Never know who might run into.
High School never seems to change
Over the years lots of kids turn 14 and then 16 and so on. Yes, every year (decade) is different and the times are a changin.' But some things seem very much the same.
Tempers flar, one rumor leads to another confrontation and then we are mad at one another. Even in our perfect world (don't we wish) things happen that we wish wouldn't. Yes, once in a while two of our darlings fuss at each other and make much more of a scene then they should or the incident deserves.
Reports are going to come home that our teenagers were acting like teenagers today. Sometimes the report home is fairly accurate and sometimes it is a compiled version of what I thought I saw, heard, was told about or would like to believe.
Our goal is to stay focused on the educational opportunities and challenges facing our children.. However, there are times we get involved in day-to-day events of young people and their efforts to mature and be responsible. I believe our schools are safe and a very healthy place for all our children.
If a story comes home that concerns you or repeated too often please ask or contact me. No, I am not going to post every time I have to work with an upset child -- that is the natural course of events. Yes, I will immediately post a serious or severe situation that may (rightly so) upset you and/or your family. Because I know - as stated by one of our famous Americans -- "Kids say the darndest things." (Art Linkletter)
Tempers flar, one rumor leads to another confrontation and then we are mad at one another. Even in our perfect world (don't we wish) things happen that we wish wouldn't. Yes, once in a while two of our darlings fuss at each other and make much more of a scene then they should or the incident deserves.
Reports are going to come home that our teenagers were acting like teenagers today. Sometimes the report home is fairly accurate and sometimes it is a compiled version of what I thought I saw, heard, was told about or would like to believe.
Our goal is to stay focused on the educational opportunities and challenges facing our children.. However, there are times we get involved in day-to-day events of young people and their efforts to mature and be responsible. I believe our schools are safe and a very healthy place for all our children.
If a story comes home that concerns you or repeated too often please ask or contact me. No, I am not going to post every time I have to work with an upset child -- that is the natural course of events. Yes, I will immediately post a serious or severe situation that may (rightly so) upset you and/or your family. Because I know - as stated by one of our famous Americans -- "Kids say the darndest things." (Art Linkletter)
Theater Try-Outs
Tuesday the 29th and Wednesday the 30th are the auditions for the One-Act Play Festival. Margaret Berg is the Director. The productions dates are in November. Our goal is for one of the One-Acts to move into Mn State Competition.
This is exciting for us and a new venture. Auditions are Tues. and Wed. in the choir room. No previous experience necessary. Great acting experiences for those interested.
Auditions start at 3:15 pm. For additional information contact Ms. Berg.
This is exciting for us and a new venture. Auditions are Tues. and Wed. in the choir room. No previous experience necessary. Great acting experiences for those interested.
Auditions start at 3:15 pm. For additional information contact Ms. Berg.
Public Relations and Communications
How would you like to be front and center at all the action at Southwest? Do you have an interest in print, TV, film, newspapers or graphic arts? Do you have time to volunteer for the Communications Committee? Do have a regular few hours a week to be at SW and cover the news? If answered yes to any of these questions, we need to talk. Email me and we can proceed from there.
thanks
thanks
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
We play rain or shine
Super Soccer Saturday starts at 9am rain or shine. Come out and support your Lakers. Both boys and girls teams play at the stadium or at Armatage. Girls Varsity at 1:30 pm with Boys Varsity to follow.
For an extra treat -- the Performance Team will be there throughout the afternoon. If you have not seen them yet, they are great.
Southwest Laker Purple and White gear on sale at the game. Might make a nice holiday or special occasion gift for your favorite son or daughter.
For an extra treat -- the Performance Team will be there throughout the afternoon. If you have not seen them yet, they are great.
Southwest Laker Purple and White gear on sale at the game. Might make a nice holiday or special occasion gift for your favorite son or daughter.
Guest arrive from Spain
24 students and 2 teachers arrived from Segovia, Spain today to spend the next two weeks with host students and families. The students will follow the schedules of their hosts - for the most part. This is a great program. This spring several of the Southwest students to travel to Spain to live with their hosts there. We learn from these experiences.
We also have guest from France and Japan.
The famed city of Segovia is home to one of the greatest surviving monuments of Roman engineering, this aqueduct stretches from the walls of the old town to the edges of Sierra de Guadarrama. It is about 2950 feet long although the section where the arches are divided in two levels is about 900 feet. It is made of rough-hewn massive granite blocks, joined without mortar or clamps.
The sections in two tiers are 115" high. A raised section of stonework in the center once had an inscription. Today only the holes for the bronze letters survive. Steps at the side lead up to the old city walls.
We also have guest from France and Japan.
The famed city of Segovia is home to one of the greatest surviving monuments of Roman engineering, this aqueduct stretches from the walls of the old town to the edges of Sierra de Guadarrama. It is about 2950 feet long although the section where the arches are divided in two levels is about 900 feet. It is made of rough-hewn massive granite blocks, joined without mortar or clamps.
The sections in two tiers are 115" high. A raised section of stonework in the center once had an inscription. Today only the holes for the bronze letters survive. Steps at the side lead up to the old city walls.
Wagistanian
The first name of the year book was the Wagistanian. Legend has it that is a combination of two Indian terms -- Wagi meaning Purple and Stan meaning White.
The first class to use a new mascot and new name for the yearbook was the class of 1988. The year book became the Aquarian and that is the name still in use today.
1988 was also the first year of the International Baccalaureate program at Southwest.
The first class to use a new mascot and new name for the yearbook was the class of 1988. The year book became the Aquarian and that is the name still in use today.
1988 was also the first year of the International Baccalaureate program at Southwest.
Volunteer Authors
How about adding your point of view? Do you want to be a Southwest blog author for a week? Please email me of your interest and we can arrange for you to be an author and share your stories with us.
Comments are moderated
Perhaps it is my old control freak nature setting in, but..... For the moment I will exercise the comment moderation. Which means I will monitor comments. (can't say I know exactly how to do that but I know why) I ma not interested in censoring the conversations but I am being a bit on the cautious side. If that bothers you, please let me know. I want this to be a transparent and fun site with lots of up to date information.
Comments Welcomed
I am still the beginner. I really didn't want to admit it but I am still reading the book, practicing and trying to see what works. I think the comment section now works. -- But I thought that four days ago as well -- so there is no guarantee. If you have comments please feel free to do so. If you have a a direct question, please email.
Thanks
Thanks
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Volunteers Still Needed
Yes, we are in our fourth week. For those who think in those terms, it is now one-eighth of the school year completed. It all moves way too rapidly. Friday marks the end of the four weeks and next week mid-terms will be sent out. We mail only to those students who are experiencing major difficulties. It seems like the first mailing is always the worse. I don't know if it takes longer than 4 weeks to get back in the school way of thinking or once a mid-term makes it home, things get serious.
Stay in contact with your child's teacher. No, that does not mean you need to become one of those helicopter parents we hear about in the suburbs.Responsibility is a taught and learned skill. Pre-12 year olds (in general) have great difficulty with responsibility. Students older than that have problems with responsibility if someone else is always taking the fall or bull dozing the path or just being scared about the possibilities. Children find their way when there is a teaching/learning moment. Sometimes those can be painful to watch.
By this time you and your child have developed a pattern of homework and study time. You and your child have developed some type of time management scheme that makes sense for all of your family. By this time, you know how much pressure to put on your child and when to back off. No two children are exactly alike. What works in one home will not work in another. What seemed to work for one child does not mean the next will have the same reaction. One thing is for sure, the rules of parenthood are not simple or straight forward.
Communicate. Talk to your student. Ask what happened in school today. Most of the time you are going to a grunt and rolled eyes, but is communication. Keep the lines of communication open. You would be surprised at how many families don't even grunt at one another. Yes, it is a treat if there are actual words and phrases that seem to sound like sentences. Take what you can get.
Stay in contact with your child's teacher. No, that does not mean you need to become one of those helicopter parents we hear about in the suburbs.Responsibility is a taught and learned skill. Pre-12 year olds (in general) have great difficulty with responsibility. Students older than that have problems with responsibility if someone else is always taking the fall or bull dozing the path or just being scared about the possibilities. Children find their way when there is a teaching/learning moment. Sometimes those can be painful to watch.
By this time you and your child have developed a pattern of homework and study time. You and your child have developed some type of time management scheme that makes sense for all of your family. By this time, you know how much pressure to put on your child and when to back off. No two children are exactly alike. What works in one home will not work in another. What seemed to work for one child does not mean the next will have the same reaction. One thing is for sure, the rules of parenthood are not simple or straight forward.
Communicate. Talk to your student. Ask what happened in school today. Most of the time you are going to a grunt and rolled eyes, but is communication. Keep the lines of communication open. You would be surprised at how many families don't even grunt at one another. Yes, it is a treat if there are actual words and phrases that seem to sound like sentences. Take what you can get.
Homecoming Power Pack almost gone
Busy day today with lots of excitement about the Student Council Power Pack offer. The Laker back bag is great and the long-sleeve tshirt is an exciting purple with great design. The Power Pack includes a ticket to the game and a ticket to the dance. $30. for singles and $58. for two.
The Power Packs are limited to 500. Tomorrow just might be the last day.
The Power Packs are limited to 500. Tomorrow just might be the last day.
Monday, September 21, 2009
It's a Monday - what do you expect
It was hot and humid in the building today. It may be the last weekend of summer but by 1 pm it should have been raining in the building. We should paste this image in our brains for the coming January. Right at the moment that snow and cold temps sound all exciting and comforting. Just wait till it hits minus 12 and 42 inches of snow on the ground. Who thinks it is too hot now?
Homecoming tickets went on sale for the first time today. Check out the Power Pack. Student Council started moving through the 9th grade classes talking about the traditions and legends of Homecoming.
Student Council is talking to students about making the dance music a wide variety of styles and tastes. Maybe not a parent favorite -- but more slow music. Now, that is a change from the bump and grind that may have been the music of days of old. -- No, don't go and ask your kids about that. Somethings are left unknown.
You really want to know what is happening -- We need dance chaperons -- call the Volunteer Center and say --"I am interesting in not hearing for a week." We will sign you up right away to chaperon the dance -- No, it really is not that loud. What did you say?
Homecoming tickets went on sale for the first time today. Check out the Power Pack. Student Council started moving through the 9th grade classes talking about the traditions and legends of Homecoming.
Student Council is talking to students about making the dance music a wide variety of styles and tastes. Maybe not a parent favorite -- but more slow music. Now, that is a change from the bump and grind that may have been the music of days of old. -- No, don't go and ask your kids about that. Somethings are left unknown.
You really want to know what is happening -- We need dance chaperons -- call the Volunteer Center and say --"I am interesting in not hearing for a week." We will sign you up right away to chaperon the dance -- No, it really is not that loud. What did you say?
Homecoming Power Pack Right Now
Homecoming football game and dance tickets are on sale right now. Check out the Power Pack. Student Council put together an exciting offer for the first 500 ticket buyers -- football ticket, popcorn at the game and ticket to the dance --all in one. But that is not all --- be in the first 500 and get a long-sleeve purple tshirt -- but that is not all -- ticket to game and ticket to dance and the tshirt are wrapped together is a great Laker backpack!
All of this for $30 for single tickets and find someone to put the package together and buy two for $58.00.
Thank you Student Council -- in response to the times!
All of this for $30 for single tickets and find someone to put the package together and buy two for $58.00.
Thank you Student Council -- in response to the times!
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Math and Physics Tutoring
Having some trouble in math or physics? Or just need some support? Tutoring is available in room 24 on Thursday at 3:15 pm
Student tutors (Mr. McMayer is the advisor) will be available to answer specific questions or go over various problems or issues. Every Thursday when school is in session -- room 24 -- 3:15pm.
Activity buses are back. Stay after school for clubs, practice or teacher (or tutor) help, get a pass from the teacher or club advisor and ride the bus home at 4:50 Monday through Thursday
Student tutors (Mr. McMayer is the advisor) will be available to answer specific questions or go over various problems or issues. Every Thursday when school is in session -- room 24 -- 3:15pm.
Activity buses are back. Stay after school for clubs, practice or teacher (or tutor) help, get a pass from the teacher or club advisor and ride the bus home at 4:50 Monday through Thursday
Getting ready for Class elections
Student Council Class elections will be Wed. Sept 30. This coming week, interested students need to get their nominations in to the Student Council office and rally support.
The candidates will present a speech in an assembly on Wednesday and the students in the class will vote. Now is a great time to be part of the Student Council. School Leadership is in transition and new stories are being created.
The candidates will present a speech in an assembly on Wednesday and the students in the class will vote. Now is a great time to be part of the Student Council. School Leadership is in transition and new stories are being created.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Mascots -- the first was Wagi
Every high school has its nickname and mascot. In 1940 when the Board of Education decided to build the new high school in the south west corner of the city to ease some over crowding at West, the first name was somewhat obvious - Southwest. Just as obvious was the nickname -- now you have to remember it was 1940 and we thought about things differently -- not trying to make a value statement, just reviewing history. It was the West Cowboys and they were going to be the natural rivals for this new high school --so the first mascot was the Southwest Indians.
The first mascot for the new high school was "Wagi." A character drawing of an Indian brave who was given the name Wagi.
The mascot for Southwest has been a problem for many years. There was a period of time the image of a fierce looking shark evolved as some type of class mascot. How a fresh water paradise such as Minnesota ended up with a nasty shark might be question for its originators.
We became the Lakers and the mascot still is its own enigma. Admiral Anchor - a personified anchor was tried for a bit and other nautical themes evolved over time.
Do you know of other mascots that have been used at Southwest over the years?
The first mascot for the new high school was "Wagi." A character drawing of an Indian brave who was given the name Wagi.
The mascot for Southwest has been a problem for many years. There was a period of time the image of a fierce looking shark evolved as some type of class mascot. How a fresh water paradise such as Minnesota ended up with a nasty shark might be question for its originators.
We became the Lakers and the mascot still is its own enigma. Admiral Anchor - a personified anchor was tried for a bit and other nautical themes evolved over time.
Do you know of other mascots that have been used at Southwest over the years?
After School Buses Monday through Thursday
After School buses are available Monday through Thursday on days the school is in session. The buses are for students who are in clubs or classes or practices or other events that have adult supervision. The pass for the bus is issued by the teacher or adult in charge of the activity, class or practice.
The buses leave the school around 4:50 pm. There are designated stops along the route. The student may have to walk some distance from the stop to his/her home. Have your student check with Mr. Reed for specific information.
We want students to be able to stay after school for extra help or participation in plays or classes or clubs. The after school buses are to assist you and the student in getting the student home in the evening.
The buses leave the school around 4:50 pm. There are designated stops along the route. The student may have to walk some distance from the stop to his/her home. Have your student check with Mr. Reed for specific information.
We want students to be able to stay after school for extra help or participation in plays or classes or clubs. The after school buses are to assist you and the student in getting the student home in the evening.
Homecoming is for everyone!
Members of the Link Crew will be coming into 9th grade classes this week talking about Homecoming, its activities and some of the "traditions." The most important piece of information is that the football game and the dance are open to everyone. You do not need a date. The vast majority of students attend the game and dance as a group. It is not unusual for a group of girls or boys to arrive at the dance together and have a great time with all their fellow students.
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Student Council put together a "power pack" (to first 500) with discount prices to game and the dance for both singles and couples. The power pack includes, in addition to tickets to game and dance, popcorn, long-sleeve Lakers tshirt and a Lackers backpack. $30 for singles and $58 for couples. They will sell more singles tickets than they do couples.
The students do not need to rent a hotel room. They do not need to attend a private party in a hotel room. There is no Southwest tradition for this to happen. Yes, it does happen, There are families who provide the credit card for a room at some downtown hotel. That is NOT a school function or any part of a school function.
The dances are usually fun times for all. We try to play a variety of music and put together an evening the students will talk about for years. Many freshman attend since this is their first opportunity at a real "high school" event. Student Council sponsers the dance.
Chaperons are always needed and welcome. Call the Volunteer Center for more informamtion.
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Student Council put together a "power pack" (to first 500) with discount prices to game and the dance for both singles and couples. The power pack includes, in addition to tickets to game and dance, popcorn, long-sleeve Lakers tshirt and a Lackers backpack. $30 for singles and $58 for couples. They will sell more singles tickets than they do couples.
The students do not need to rent a hotel room. They do not need to attend a private party in a hotel room. There is no Southwest tradition for this to happen. Yes, it does happen, There are families who provide the credit card for a room at some downtown hotel. That is NOT a school function or any part of a school function.
The dances are usually fun times for all. We try to play a variety of music and put together an evening the students will talk about for years. Many freshman attend since this is their first opportunity at a real "high school" event. Student Council sponsers the dance.
Chaperons are always needed and welcome. Call the Volunteer Center for more informamtion.
Super Soccer Saturday at Southwest
Saturday Sept 26 is the Southwest Super Soccer Saturday. Southwest won both of the varisty games at South so there will be a crowd cheering for South at the Stadium. Come out and support your team. All the boys and girls soccer teams play on Saturday somewhere. Check out the school web page to make sure you know the time and place. Girls Varisty at the Stadium at 2:30 followed by the Boys Varisty at 4:30 pm. Go Lakers!
Friday, September 18, 2009
Maybe it is too expensive.
At the October meeting of the Student Council in 1940 there was a long discussion about the school colors. The choice was put to a vote of the new student body. The first set of students came to Southwest in the fall of 1940 even though the first graduating class was 1942.
The students voted and Student Council debated. Purple creep paper was more expensive than many other colors. The US had not entered the war at that point but there was a serious consideration of the ramifications of choosing a school color that would be expensive and difficult to find.
Even in those early years there was a serious debate about the cost of supplies and what was necessary. Southwest students have a long tradition of being consider of the economy and the environment.
In the end the Student Council felt it was important to support the wishes (and vote) of the student body and officially declared the school colors to be purple and white. The students felt they would just use more white creep paper and less purple.
Don't you love them?
The students voted and Student Council debated. Purple creep paper was more expensive than many other colors. The US had not entered the war at that point but there was a serious consideration of the ramifications of choosing a school color that would be expensive and difficult to find.
Even in those early years there was a serious debate about the cost of supplies and what was necessary. Southwest students have a long tradition of being consider of the economy and the environment.
In the end the Student Council felt it was important to support the wishes (and vote) of the student body and officially declared the school colors to be purple and white. The students felt they would just use more white creep paper and less purple.
Don't you love them?
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Class Size
The concept of how large and how small a class should be continues to be a lively debate. Research over the years at all grade levels (including college) arrives at a rather disappointing inconclusive conclusion. It appears that less than 12 has problems except for short periods of time and for very specific reasons -- more like a task force or a short seminar course. Large is interesting because it immediately comes with qualifiers. The smaller the range of skills, interests and abilities within the audience and the more attentive and cooperative (common purpose) the audience is the maximum size increases. The greater the range of difference in skills, interests and abilities and the less attentive and cooperative the audience is the size of the audience for effectiveness decreases.
Most of us "know" that. We have participated in large lecture hall college English composition classes or attended a conference in a large ballroom with thousands of other interested (or paid) people. Some students (and their parents) went to the U and during their freshman year found themselves in a variety of settings and the size of the class was not a particular issue. Others may have found that environment (for a lot of reasons) too impersonal and too big and too something and from the beginning chose a smaller college or transferred to one with smaller classes.
Some schools (and colleges) use the size of their classes as marketing points and highlight the "small" teacher to pupil ratio and allow the reader to draw the conclusion that this equates to increased attention and learning. Without a research foundation there is a perception that if one participates in a "small"class one learns more. However, research suggests that the attitudes, abilities and interests of the teacher and the learner makes the difference.
I would be remiss if I even began to justify 35 or 40 to one in a high school class. I do not believe that young pre-adult adolescent students can handle that amount of self-discipline or time management or responsibility every hour and every day. There are many that can and very successfully do. However there are also many who do not.
With that said I will tell you something that you already know -- Southwest has large academic classes. That is the majority are at or over 35 in a single class session. But I also will say something that you already know (I think) there is also a value-added factor that necessitates and takes advantage of the "larger" class sizes. Not meant to be inclusive but I will quickly mention dance, orchestra, choir, jazz groups, and art classes, I believe there is an atmosphere (climate) factor that results is a value-added experience that outweighs the 35 to 1.
One obvious factor is that the vast majority of the classes at Southwest are filled with students and teachers working hard with a common purpose and accepting the responsibilities of self-discipline and time management and responsibilities for learning. In those instances that students find themselves struggling with academics or a particular issue, there are classes at Southwest that are significantly smaller. Those class have specific purposes and direct instruction to meet the needs of the students. They are no less rigorous or less demanding than the larger classes; they are more directed to the individual student and the individual task at hand.
Small classes are more expensive to operate than larger classes. Someone will immediately pound his/her forehead and proclaim "I never knew that." Yes, that is very obvious. Education is a large, important business and there are factors of efficiency and effectiveness to consider. The more small classes a school offers the more expensive it is to operate. The more choices a school offers to its students, the more expensive it is to operate. One only has to look to state universities and small colleges and their differences in tuition to document that point.
If we want small classes (in our high school or college or whatever) what are we willing to give up? In some cases that is money. Yes, I will pay more to enroll in a small institution that has small classes. Yes, I will reduce my choices in order to have smaller classes in a limited number of areas. Regardless of money or time or selection, there is a choice. However, I continue to suggest that it is not the number of students in the class that makes a difference. It is the purposes, abilities and skills of the students and the teacher that makes the difference. If the teacher and the student accept the responsibility for learning and are self-disciplined and can make sound time management decisions, the learning in that classroom will increase. The learning is not a factor on the number of students.
Too long of a blog post to ask for your patience and understanding. If you have specific questions or comments, please email me and we can continue this dialogue.
Most of us "know" that. We have participated in large lecture hall college English composition classes or attended a conference in a large ballroom with thousands of other interested (or paid) people. Some students (and their parents) went to the U and during their freshman year found themselves in a variety of settings and the size of the class was not a particular issue. Others may have found that environment (for a lot of reasons) too impersonal and too big and too something and from the beginning chose a smaller college or transferred to one with smaller classes.
Some schools (and colleges) use the size of their classes as marketing points and highlight the "small" teacher to pupil ratio and allow the reader to draw the conclusion that this equates to increased attention and learning. Without a research foundation there is a perception that if one participates in a "small"class one learns more. However, research suggests that the attitudes, abilities and interests of the teacher and the learner makes the difference.
I would be remiss if I even began to justify 35 or 40 to one in a high school class. I do not believe that young pre-adult adolescent students can handle that amount of self-discipline or time management or responsibility every hour and every day. There are many that can and very successfully do. However there are also many who do not.
With that said I will tell you something that you already know -- Southwest has large academic classes. That is the majority are at or over 35 in a single class session. But I also will say something that you already know (I think) there is also a value-added factor that necessitates and takes advantage of the "larger" class sizes. Not meant to be inclusive but I will quickly mention dance, orchestra, choir, jazz groups, and art classes, I believe there is an atmosphere (climate) factor that results is a value-added experience that outweighs the 35 to 1.
One obvious factor is that the vast majority of the classes at Southwest are filled with students and teachers working hard with a common purpose and accepting the responsibilities of self-discipline and time management and responsibilities for learning. In those instances that students find themselves struggling with academics or a particular issue, there are classes at Southwest that are significantly smaller. Those class have specific purposes and direct instruction to meet the needs of the students. They are no less rigorous or less demanding than the larger classes; they are more directed to the individual student and the individual task at hand.
Small classes are more expensive to operate than larger classes. Someone will immediately pound his/her forehead and proclaim "I never knew that." Yes, that is very obvious. Education is a large, important business and there are factors of efficiency and effectiveness to consider. The more small classes a school offers the more expensive it is to operate. The more choices a school offers to its students, the more expensive it is to operate. One only has to look to state universities and small colleges and their differences in tuition to document that point.
If we want small classes (in our high school or college or whatever) what are we willing to give up? In some cases that is money. Yes, I will pay more to enroll in a small institution that has small classes. Yes, I will reduce my choices in order to have smaller classes in a limited number of areas. Regardless of money or time or selection, there is a choice. However, I continue to suggest that it is not the number of students in the class that makes a difference. It is the purposes, abilities and skills of the students and the teacher that makes the difference. If the teacher and the student accept the responsibility for learning and are self-disciplined and can make sound time management decisions, the learning in that classroom will increase. The learning is not a factor on the number of students.
Too long of a blog post to ask for your patience and understanding. If you have specific questions or comments, please email me and we can continue this dialogue.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Alumni Question
It has been a tradition for many years -- senior girls select a statement that fits their particular class, find the initials and have it printed on sweatshirts and other clothes. Question 1 -- What was the first year for this event??
Question number 2 - what were the various slogans over the years? Let's try and put together an historical list of the senior girls slogans -- once we find the first year we can go from there.
What other tradition still continue over the years? Let's hear your stories.
Question number 2 - what were the various slogans over the years? Let's try and put together an historical list of the senior girls slogans -- once we find the first year we can go from there.
What other tradition still continue over the years? Let's hear your stories.
Eight Southwest National Merit Semifinalists
10 MPS students named National Merit semifinalists
MINNEAPOLIS – Ten Minneapolis Public Schools students on September 16 were named semifinalists in the 2010 National Merit Scholarship Program. Ashley R. Bielinski, Isabella N. Dawis, Caroline A. Lauth, Mikayla M. MacNally, Rose E. Milavitz, Christopher J. Riddle, Ruth L. Styles and Mark B. Ulrich of Southwest High School are among approximately 16,000 semifinalists in the 55th annual National Merit Scholarship Program.
These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for 8,200 National Merit Scholarships, worth more than $36 million, that will be offered next spring. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the finalist level of the competition. About 90 percent of the semifinalists are expected to attain finalist standing, and approximately half of the finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar title.
National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), a not-for-profit organization that operates without government assistance, was established in 1955 specifically to conduct the annual National Merit Scholarship Program. Scholarships are underwritten by NMSC with its own funds and by approximately 500 business organizations and higher education institutions that share NMSC’s goals of honoring the nation’s scholastic champions and encouraging the pursuit of academic excellence.
Congratulations!
MINNEAPOLIS – Ten Minneapolis Public Schools students on September 16 were named semifinalists in the 2010 National Merit Scholarship Program. Ashley R. Bielinski, Isabella N. Dawis, Caroline A. Lauth, Mikayla M. MacNally, Rose E. Milavitz, Christopher J. Riddle, Ruth L. Styles and Mark B. Ulrich of Southwest High School are among approximately 16,000 semifinalists in the 55th annual National Merit Scholarship Program.
These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for 8,200 National Merit Scholarships, worth more than $36 million, that will be offered next spring. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the finalist level of the competition. About 90 percent of the semifinalists are expected to attain finalist standing, and approximately half of the finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar title.
National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), a not-for-profit organization that operates without government assistance, was established in 1955 specifically to conduct the annual National Merit Scholarship Program. Scholarships are underwritten by NMSC with its own funds and by approximately 500 business organizations and higher education institutions that share NMSC’s goals of honoring the nation’s scholastic champions and encouraging the pursuit of academic excellence.
Congratulations!
In the News
Southwest makes the news! Sunday it was article about Facebook and responsible use of social networks. Monday is was the news, radio and TV with the News conference in the morning about the new Hot line to report violence and suspicious activities in the neighborhoods. Upcoming is the announcement about National Merit honors. The excitement just continues and it is only day 11. What about the next 160 days?
Monday, September 14, 2009
Busy Day
News Conference in the morning. I turned on any channel from noon on today, you probably saw our students and city officials talking about community safety. Great event for all -- hot line for suspicion activities in your neighborhood and community. More information coming home this week. Check out the news stations or the news web sites.
Tuesday - Open House -- follow your student's schedule all six periods. The program starts in the auditorium even though the veteran parents skip right to the classes. Starts at 6:30 pm. Print off your child's schedule from the Parent Portal. Hard copies will also be available.
Debate parents -- parent meeting in room E103 at 6 pm. Talk about the schedule, judging and making it work for your students. See you at 6 pm on the 15th.
Tuesday - Open House -- follow your student's schedule all six periods. The program starts in the auditorium even though the veteran parents skip right to the classes. Starts at 6:30 pm. Print off your child's schedule from the Parent Portal. Hard copies will also be available.
Debate parents -- parent meeting in room E103 at 6 pm. Talk about the schedule, judging and making it work for your students. See you at 6 pm on the 15th.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Week Three
Great week coming. Open House is Tuesday. Go to the Parent Portal and print (or copy) your student's schedule. This is a great opportunity to make sure you are signed into Parent Portal and know how to the various tools. If you have problems, go to web site and follow instructions.
Debate Practice is Tuesdays and Thursday at 3:15. A Debate parent meeting is also Tuesday in room E103 from 6 to 7 pm. If your student is involved in Debate or wants to be involved in Debate please attend the meeting.
More adjustments are now completed. There will be a few adjustments this week but not many students will be affected. Yes, classes are 35 and over. That is not that way we would like it to be but that is what happens with budget constraints and formula decisions. But that is also why we talk about responsibility and respect. The class size works if we work together. Please remember teachers have a case load of over 175 students per day.
We want you involved in your child's education. On the other hand we want your child to begin the growing up process and accepting responsibility for his/her actions (or inactions). You cannot live your child's life for very long. If your child is absent, if your child chooses to be late with assignments. if your child does not plan ahead, think about your own actions. What are you teaching your child. Maybe some of these are not your child's teacher's fault or responsibility.
Let's have another great week!
Debate Practice is Tuesdays and Thursday at 3:15. A Debate parent meeting is also Tuesday in room E103 from 6 to 7 pm. If your student is involved in Debate or wants to be involved in Debate please attend the meeting.
More adjustments are now completed. There will be a few adjustments this week but not many students will be affected. Yes, classes are 35 and over. That is not that way we would like it to be but that is what happens with budget constraints and formula decisions. But that is also why we talk about responsibility and respect. The class size works if we work together. Please remember teachers have a case load of over 175 students per day.
We want you involved in your child's education. On the other hand we want your child to begin the growing up process and accepting responsibility for his/her actions (or inactions). You cannot live your child's life for very long. If your child is absent, if your child chooses to be late with assignments. if your child does not plan ahead, think about your own actions. What are you teaching your child. Maybe some of these are not your child's teacher's fault or responsibility.
Let's have another great week!
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Super Soccer Saturday 2 Varsity Wins
Boys Soccer won its Varsity game versus South 3 -1 in a humid sunny afternoon. The large crowd cheered as the Varsity Girls continued the effort by winning 3-0 as the clouds began to roll in. Great afternoon with no incidents on either side. Good competition, fun rivalry.
Class of 1954 toured the building, told stories and shared good times. About 60 members of the class recounted days long gone but fondly remembered. That was prior to the first addition and the total building enrollment was about 700. Great to see the foundation on which this school and educational community is built.
Class of 1954 toured the building, told stories and shared good times. About 60 members of the class recounted days long gone but fondly remembered. That was prior to the first addition and the total building enrollment was about 700. Great to see the foundation on which this school and educational community is built.
Friday, September 11, 2009
FALL OPEN HOUSE Tuesday Sep 15
Southwest’s Fall Open House is scheduled for Tuesday, September 15 from 6:30 til 8:45 pm.
This is an opportunity for you to have a glimpse into your student’s school day, visiting each class for 10 minutes. You will need your student’s schedule with room numbers.
We suggest printing one from the parent portal( http://sisportal.mpls.k12.mn.us/ ), but if you’re unable, paper schedules will be available at tables outside the auditorium.
Student guides will direct you around the building. We are looking forward to seeing you on Tuesday!
If you have questions, please call 612 668-3030 during regular business hours.
This is an opportunity for you to have a glimpse into your student’s school day, visiting each class for 10 minutes. You will need your student’s schedule with room numbers.
We suggest printing one from the parent portal( http://sisportal.mpls.k12.mn.us/ ), but if you’re unable, paper schedules will be available at tables outside the auditorium.
Student guides will direct you around the building. We are looking forward to seeing you on Tuesday!
If you have questions, please call 612 668-3030 during regular business hours.
Respect of self and Respect of others
Respect of self is an important quality. It is very difficult to respect others if you have no regard or respect of one's on own being. This is important in school and throughout our extra curricular activities.
Saturday is Super Soccer Saturday at South. It is a full day of soccer --- all the teams for both boys and girls teams. Lots of running and screaming and excitement with two communities that have a long and rich tradition of rivalry and competition.
There have been incidents over the years that would suggest that players, fans and alumni from both schools have not understood the concept of respect and fair play. Some things were just plain silly and others were harmful and destructive. You usually have no problem determining who is the fool because of his/her actions.
Let's have a great Saturday of fun and fine competition. Please discuss within your family what is cheering and what is rude and obnoxious, Respect is earned even for one's self. And it is one's actions that really makes the call.
Regretfully there will be those few - who probably come from far away and do not understand that certain behaviors belong elsewhere. We need to set the example and display examples that are positive. Those who might spoil your fun will be removed and asked not to return.
Bring lots of rain gear. Lots like fall storm times today and tomorrow. Let's have a great day.
Saturday is Super Soccer Saturday at South. It is a full day of soccer --- all the teams for both boys and girls teams. Lots of running and screaming and excitement with two communities that have a long and rich tradition of rivalry and competition.
There have been incidents over the years that would suggest that players, fans and alumni from both schools have not understood the concept of respect and fair play. Some things were just plain silly and others were harmful and destructive. You usually have no problem determining who is the fool because of his/her actions.
Let's have a great Saturday of fun and fine competition. Please discuss within your family what is cheering and what is rude and obnoxious, Respect is earned even for one's self. And it is one's actions that really makes the call.
Regretfully there will be those few - who probably come from far away and do not understand that certain behaviors belong elsewhere. We need to set the example and display examples that are positive. Those who might spoil your fun will be removed and asked not to return.
Bring lots of rain gear. Lots like fall storm times today and tomorrow. Let's have a great day.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Brains "ain't" all we got!
Boys' Soccer,Girls' Soccer and Volleyball all came out big winners tonight. We might have fantastic GPA's but we also have fire and spirit. That same quest to be your best, to respect yourself and others and to challenge yourself pays off on the sport fields as it does in the classroom.
9/10 grade auditions go on for one more evening. If you have a conflict see Mr. Knoll in the choir room. Still a little bit of room in the 3rd period Donne Voce choir with Mr.Knoll-- see your counselor.
Good Luck football team with trip to Duluth
Go Girls' tennis -- if have not seen a game - get out in the sun and cheer (is that what you do for tennis?) the team on...
Witness a Performance Team presentation yet? you are in for a treat! Congratulations to AD Lamberty and the PT coach. By the way see one of the girls to buy a PT fan T-shirt.
9/10 grade auditions go on for one more evening. If you have a conflict see Mr. Knoll in the choir room. Still a little bit of room in the 3rd period Donne Voce choir with Mr.Knoll-- see your counselor.
Good Luck football team with trip to Duluth
Go Girls' tennis -- if have not seen a game - get out in the sun and cheer (is that what you do for tennis?) the team on...
Witness a Performance Team presentation yet? you are in for a treat! Congratulations to AD Lamberty and the PT coach. By the way see one of the girls to buy a PT fan T-shirt.
Footlights Musical Tryouts
Great opportunity for all 9th and 10th graders! Want to work on the lights, set back stage? Now is the chance to be part of the action. Try outs in the Auditorium right after school. If you have a conflict check with Mr. Knoll in choir room.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Fill you social calendar
Volleyball is home on Thursday with JV starting at 5 pm
Soccer - versus Washburn -- Boys at home and Girls away.
Think about Homecoming Football game Oct 3 and the dance Saturday night. Do you have your ticket. Check out the Student Council bulletin board.
Quiz --how many students are in the building, on average, Monday through Thursday at 7 am?
Soccer - versus Washburn -- Boys at home and Girls away.
Think about Homecoming Football game Oct 3 and the dance Saturday night. Do you have your ticket. Check out the Student Council bulletin board.
Quiz --how many students are in the building, on average, Monday through Thursday at 7 am?
9th grade Science
It was happening in 9th grade science today! If you have a 9th grader ask what was going on in Environmental Foundations. Exciting stuff for so early in the year. But that is the way it is around here.
Dance off and running -- already dealing with the professionals -- hey -- we have weeks to go before the end of the year!
Footlights Musical auditions started this evening. If you missed it. Don't worry more try outs tomorrow and Friday. Only for 9th and 10th graders - aren't you the lucky ones?
Activity buses start Sept 14. You must be in an activity and get pass from sponsor. Buses leave at 5:00 pm.
AVID students --make sure you get those college visit permission slips signed. We are off to the campuses!
Dance off and running -- already dealing with the professionals -- hey -- we have weeks to go before the end of the year!
Footlights Musical auditions started this evening. If you missed it. Don't worry more try outs tomorrow and Friday. Only for 9th and 10th graders - aren't you the lucky ones?
Activity buses start Sept 14. You must be in an activity and get pass from sponsor. Buses leave at 5:00 pm.
AVID students --make sure you get those college visit permission slips signed. We are off to the campuses!
09-09-09
This is one of those exciting days when the numbers align. We will assume that is all good luck and great fortune.
The building has been a bit warm in the afternoons. The warmer temperatures and humidity has made the afternoons a little more challenging.
We are still working on numbers. There are several classes bigger than we would like. Part is balancing and part is attempting to adjust students to appropriate levels.
At the same time we are at the point when any change is traumatic. Regardless of how large the class, students have adjusted to the situation. They like their lunch period. They are sitting next to whomever that is. They know where the class is in relation to their locker and the next place they want to be. I have never seen a year that we single out a student and declare "How can I mess up this child's life?" And we are not going to start this year. But we are working on the numbers.
Have a great 9/9/9 day!
The building has been a bit warm in the afternoons. The warmer temperatures and humidity has made the afternoons a little more challenging.
We are still working on numbers. There are several classes bigger than we would like. Part is balancing and part is attempting to adjust students to appropriate levels.
At the same time we are at the point when any change is traumatic. Regardless of how large the class, students have adjusted to the situation. They like their lunch period. They are sitting next to whomever that is. They know where the class is in relation to their locker and the next place they want to be. I have never seen a year that we single out a student and declare "How can I mess up this child's life?" And we are not going to start this year. But we are working on the numbers.
Have a great 9/9/9 day!
Wednesday Sept 9
Another great day! Regular schedule all day. This might be the first day of 6 classes with no change in the bell schedule, no scheduled options, no adjustments for one thing or another. Welcome to routine day! Super Soccer Saturday at South coming this Saturday.
On Saturday we welcome the reunion Class of 1954 into the building. Welcome back alumni.
Need something for your Reunion? We will try and support your plans. We can arrange tours and visits.
Don't forget the All-Class Alumni Rally Oct 2 and 3 -- Homecoming Weekend.
On Saturday we welcome the reunion Class of 1954 into the building. Welcome back alumni.
Need something for your Reunion? We will try and support your plans. We can arrange tours and visits.
Don't forget the All-Class Alumni Rally Oct 2 and 3 -- Homecoming Weekend.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
President Obama's School Speech
Many of our classes participated in the President's speech today. Some taped it for presentation later in the quarter. Some did not present the speech for one reason or another. It did appear that the interest level was greatly reduced after reading the text and hearing a variety of politicians express their opposing views even before hearing the speech. Our position from the beginning was that the President of the United States is an important person and we greatly appreciate his intent to encourage students to stay in school, work hard and accept responsibility for one's own actions. And I suppose there will be more controversy as all this continues.
Footlight Musical Auditions Wednesday
Auditions for the 9th / 10th grade musical "Footlights Musical" begins tomorrow night. Local professional artist Dudley Voigt is directing and Nathan Knoll is assisting with vocals. If interested make sure you sign up. Lots of needs for tech - musicians - actors - singers and dancers. Auditions are in the choir room. Check the call board for more news.
Tuesday Sept. 8 Regular Schedule
Tuesday is a regular schedule. Start of the second week. Hopefully all parents/families have registered with Parent Portal. Complete all that first paper work and make sure your student return it all back to school. Correct emergency information is important. When you change address and telephone numbers we need to know.
Full sports program this evening. Check out the athletic calendar for times and locations.
Nine/ten grade musical directed by Dudley Voigt auditions Wednesday 3:15 in choir room.
Debate practice 3:15 tonight in room E103. Debate team practices Tuesday and Thursday.
Activity buses start Sept. 14.
Full sports program this evening. Check out the athletic calendar for times and locations.
Nine/ten grade musical directed by Dudley Voigt auditions Wednesday 3:15 in choir room.
Debate practice 3:15 tonight in room E103. Debate team practices Tuesday and Thursday.
Activity buses start Sept. 14.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Musical Auditions
September 9 at 3:15 in Choir room. This is a call for any 9th or 10th grader wanting to be part of the very first Footlights Musical.
This musical experience is exclusively for 9th and 10th graders. Interested in being on stage, in the pit or behind the curtains, we want you to show up Wednesday Sept. 9 at 3:15
We are proud to announce that local professional artist Dudley Voigt is the first director of this fantastic new opportunity for 9th and 10th graders.
You will want to be part of this experience!
This musical experience is exclusively for 9th and 10th graders. Interested in being on stage, in the pit or behind the curtains, we want you to show up Wednesday Sept. 9 at 3:15
We are proud to announce that local professional artist Dudley Voigt is the first director of this fantastic new opportunity for 9th and 10th graders.
You will want to be part of this experience!
Check out the athletics calendar
Something happening all week. We have tennis, swimming, volleyball, cross country, soccer and football. Not a bad line-up for a week's worth of high school sports. Check out the athletic calendar on the athletic web page for specific days, times and locations -- http://southwest.mpls.k12.mn.us/Athletics.html
Currently, we offer two calendars for school information. One is the school events, holidays, program calendar on the home page and the second it the athletic calendar which is a link from the athletic web page. We are sorry for this inconvenience but at this time that is the best we can do.
Currently, we offer two calendars for school information. One is the school events, holidays, program calendar on the home page and the second it the athletic calendar which is a link from the athletic web page. We are sorry for this inconvenience but at this time that is the best we can do.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
District NEWS Changing School Options
Changing School Options
Building A New Foundation Purpose: Create a more efficient use of our transportation and building resources to support our academic agenda. Changes planned for 2010 seek to create financial sustainability and limit disruption to learning. More information athttp://www.mpls.k12.mn.us/Changing_School_Options.html
Building A New Foundation Purpose: Create a more efficient use of our transportation and building resources to support our academic agenda. Changes planned for 2010 seek to create financial sustainability and limit disruption to learning. More information athttp://www.mpls.k12.mn.us/Changing_School_Options.html
Join PTSA
PTSA makes it easy for you to make a difference Volunteer Email List - Add your name to the volunteer email list and you’ll be notified about volunteer opportunities. Please sign up today at: http://southwest.mpls.k12.mn.us/VolunteerOnLine.html
Join PTSA. Your membership dues help us stock the teacher supply store, provide appreciation events for teachers, host student recognition events, and bring in interesting speakers throughout the year. Please join today at:http://southwest.mpls.k12.mn.us/JoinPTSA.html
Join PTSA. Your membership dues help us stock the teacher supply store, provide appreciation events for teachers, host student recognition events, and bring in interesting speakers throughout the year. Please join today at:http://southwest.mpls.k12.mn.us/JoinPTSA.html
Student Directory
Student Directory is for parents, too. Our Student Directory helps parents stay in touch with each other. Make sure your student and household are in the directory by signing up online by September 12th (September 4th for the paper version.) It is easy and fast at:http://southwest.mpls.k12.mn.us/StudentDirectory.html
Catch the Wave at Southwest
What's Happening at Southwest? Keep up to date with events, news, announcements and other bits of information. Always check the school calendar - both activities and athletic calendar to confirm date time and place.
Stay in the know. We want you to be informed. If you have questions, ask. We will strive to find the answer for you or provide you with place with answers.
Catch the Wave -- this is going to be another great, fabulous school year!
Stay in the know. We want you to be informed. If you have questions, ask. We will strive to find the answer for you or provide you with place with answers.
Catch the Wave -- this is going to be another great, fabulous school year!
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