The Southwest Girls Basketball program is hosting a Chiptole Fundraiser on
Monday, Dec. 5th from 5:00-8:00 p.m.
The location is the Calhoun Chipotle Mexican Grill, located on the NW corner of Lake Calhoun.
Pick up your identification flyer in order for Southwest Girls Basketball to get credit for the purchase.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Building opens during the week at 6 am
Make sure you son or daughter checks with the coach. The doors are open at 6 am on weekdays and 6;30 am on Saturday.
The first doors open are doors 5, 6 and 7. Then the custodians work around and normally the rest are open by 6 am as well.
If you are having trouble getting into the building by 6 am, please tell you coach and we can determine what is the problem.
The first doors open are doors 5, 6 and 7. Then the custodians work around and normally the rest are open by 6 am as well.
If you are having trouble getting into the building by 6 am, please tell you coach and we can determine what is the problem.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
SW Alumni Mike Snavely Macalester Renaissance Man
In the three years since Mike Snavely arrived at Macalester from Southwest High School, he has conducted research with a professor, worked in a University of Minnesota lab, and studied abroad in Botswana where he volunteered at a pediatric HIV clinic and organized a charity soccer tournament. he was also part of
Macalester's first winning football season in 24 years.
Not surprisingly, wide receiver Snavely chose Macalester largely because it made his juggling act possible. "I knew I'd have the chance to balance a varsity sport with unique academic and extracurricular opportunities." he says. "Mac has prepared me for success in all aspects of life, from being a scholar to working with teammates."
Snavely, a biology and chemistry major with a Community and Global Health concentration, worked with a Mac biochemistry lab he summer before his sophomore year. That's when the balancing act kicked into high gear. "I was cloning bacteria by day and lifting weights by night." he says.
Last summer, Snavely was part of a new applied health research program, where he was paired with a mentor at a University of Minnesota infectious disease center. He worked in the lab and shadowed his mentor, who is both a microbiologist and a physician -- a path Snavely plans to pursue after graduation. "It was a perfect fit," he says, "My mentor's speciality is HIV, which was my focus in Botswana, but I had never before observed the doctor-patient dynamics of the disease. It was a powerful experience."
"Mike is the epitome of what a student-athlete should be," Head coach Tony Johnson says. "He truly strives for excellence in everything he does. He is a gifted leader, a trusted friend and a tremendous teammate."
-- copy for Macalester publication --
Macalester's first winning football season in 24 years.
Not surprisingly, wide receiver Snavely chose Macalester largely because it made his juggling act possible. "I knew I'd have the chance to balance a varsity sport with unique academic and extracurricular opportunities." he says. "Mac has prepared me for success in all aspects of life, from being a scholar to working with teammates."
Snavely, a biology and chemistry major with a Community and Global Health concentration, worked with a Mac biochemistry lab he summer before his sophomore year. That's when the balancing act kicked into high gear. "I was cloning bacteria by day and lifting weights by night." he says.
Last summer, Snavely was part of a new applied health research program, where he was paired with a mentor at a University of Minnesota infectious disease center. He worked in the lab and shadowed his mentor, who is both a microbiologist and a physician -- a path Snavely plans to pursue after graduation. "It was a perfect fit," he says, "My mentor's speciality is HIV, which was my focus in Botswana, but I had never before observed the doctor-patient dynamics of the disease. It was a powerful experience."
"Mike is the epitome of what a student-athlete should be," Head coach Tony Johnson says. "He truly strives for excellence in everything he does. He is a gifted leader, a trusted friend and a tremendous teammate."
-- copy for Macalester publication --
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Southwest Marches in Holidazzle Parade
A free family event now celebrating its 20th season!
Once again it's time to bundle up the kids, pick up the grandparents and head to the Target Holidazzle Parade. Every year since 1992, when the first parade marched down Nicollet Mall, over 300,000 spectators converge on downtown Minneapolis to join the sparkling fun.
Southwest Marching Band will be part of the show with music and lights and fun. Come to the parade on December 17th and 18th.
This year's parade begins Friday, November 25, at 6:30 pm
Thrilling the crowds on Nicollet Mall from 12th Street to 4th Street, Target Holidazzle continues Thursdays through Sundays until December 18.
Once again it's time to bundle up the kids, pick up the grandparents and head to the Target Holidazzle Parade. Every year since 1992, when the first parade marched down Nicollet Mall, over 300,000 spectators converge on downtown Minneapolis to join the sparkling fun.
Southwest Marching Band will be part of the show with music and lights and fun. Come to the parade on December 17th and 18th.
This year's parade begins Friday, November 25, at 6:30 pm
Thrilling the crowds on Nicollet Mall from 12th Street to 4th Street, Target Holidazzle continues Thursdays through Sundays until December 18.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Dangers in Bullying
I really don't like to continue writing about this. According to this morning's newspaper a college band member was found dead from the antics of his band members' hazzing. This is not a drug deal gone bad. This is not a careless vehicle accident. It is not the irresponsible drinking death. This is friends killing friends.
Having fun, playing a little joke, breaking in the new kid, being part of the crowd are no reasons to die. There are lots of names for what is happening to someone else, but it usually is humiliating, crewl and degrading. "Well, they did it to me. I had to go through it when I was a freshman." These are extremely weak excuses for bullying a friend, team mate, fellow band member or class mate.
When did the value of life become so meaningless? When did the concept of friendship become so fraile? When did we stop caring?
Talk to your kids. Thing about the examples you see and how you deal with it as an individual, a family. We must take care of one another.
Be thankful and generate actions for which we can be thankful.
Having fun, playing a little joke, breaking in the new kid, being part of the crowd are no reasons to die. There are lots of names for what is happening to someone else, but it usually is humiliating, crewl and degrading. "Well, they did it to me. I had to go through it when I was a freshman." These are extremely weak excuses for bullying a friend, team mate, fellow band member or class mate.
When did the value of life become so meaningless? When did the concept of friendship become so fraile? When did we stop caring?
Talk to your kids. Thing about the examples you see and how you deal with it as an individual, a family. We must take care of one another.
Be thankful and generate actions for which we can be thankful.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Five Days of Energy in Two
Big break prior to the holiday. Two days of school to get settled whatever the issue. A family holiday that for too many is not the most pleasant thought and not too family oriented.
We were full of energy and enthsiasm. We made it through. Most periods went well Monday and Teusday. Tuesday afternoon was a bit more ragged than we would like. But we are now off for the next three week days and the regular weekend -- long break.
For many of our stduents that is a trip to Grandma's or the event of the weekend with bunches of family gathered around. But that is not all our children.
For too many in our school, city and country, this weekend is a reminder of what they do not have. It is not a social gathering with too much to eat and complaints of great aunt somebody pinching the cheek. It is a reminder that there is poverty and too little. It is a reminder of what is missing in the home or life. It is a reminder of what is bad and missing.
Take a moment to be thankful. Take a moment and review what you can do to make a difference. Take a moment, hug your kids, family members and friends.
We were full of energy and enthsiasm. We made it through. Most periods went well Monday and Teusday. Tuesday afternoon was a bit more ragged than we would like. But we are now off for the next three week days and the regular weekend -- long break.
For many of our stduents that is a trip to Grandma's or the event of the weekend with bunches of family gathered around. But that is not all our children.
For too many in our school, city and country, this weekend is a reminder of what they do not have. It is not a social gathering with too much to eat and complaints of great aunt somebody pinching the cheek. It is a reminder that there is poverty and too little. It is a reminder of what is missing in the home or life. It is a reminder of what is bad and missing.
Take a moment to be thankful. Take a moment and review what you can do to make a difference. Take a moment, hug your kids, family members and friends.
First Snow
The first snow school day went rather well. All buses were out and running and reasonablly on time. The ice on the side streets did not cause too many problems. The hill in front of school wasn't a problem this time.
Remember that cold and snowy weather may cause buses to run a little late. Leave home earlier than normal to be to school on time if you bring your students or let them drive. Parking gets continuing terrible and snow builds throughout the winter. Plan on longer walks.
Dress accordingly. Many of the students are still not wearing coats -- but really nice boots. It does get cold in Minneapolis and standing in the cold waiting on a bus or walking an extra block from the car probably should trump fashion.
Remember that cold and snowy weather may cause buses to run a little late. Leave home earlier than normal to be to school on time if you bring your students or let them drive. Parking gets continuing terrible and snow builds throughout the winter. Plan on longer walks.
Dress accordingly. Many of the students are still not wearing coats -- but really nice boots. It does get cold in Minneapolis and standing in the cold waiting on a bus or walking an extra block from the car probably should trump fashion.
Monday, November 21, 2011
Area C Parent Meeting - Thursday December 1, 2011
Thursday December 1,, 2011
AREA C Parent Advisory Meeting
Where:
Emerson Dual Spanish Immersion Learning Center, 1421 Spruce Place
When:6:00 – 8:00pm
*dinner – La Loma Tamales
childcare available ages 3 & up all children welcome ~
Spanish & Somali interpreters available
Agenda
Welcome and Introductions – Chris Rigert – DPAC co-chair, parent
DPAC report/ meet the reps & alternates for 2011-12
Enrollment IncreasesUpdate
Go-To Cards Update
“Planning for Successful Academic Programs”
Q&A –Theresa Battle, associate superintendent
Next Meeting
Thursday January 12, 2012
Hale Community School
AREA C Parent Advisory Meeting
Where:
Emerson Dual Spanish Immersion Learning Center, 1421 Spruce Place
When:6:00 – 8:00pm
*dinner – La Loma Tamales
childcare available ages 3 & up all children welcome ~
Spanish & Somali interpreters available
Agenda
Welcome and Introductions – Chris Rigert – DPAC co-chair, parent
DPAC report/ meet the reps & alternates for 2011-12
Enrollment IncreasesUpdate
Go-To Cards Update
“Planning for Successful Academic Programs”
Q&A –Theresa Battle, associate superintendent
Next Meeting
Thursday January 12, 2012
Hale Community School
ANCHOR - SW student newspaper
The Anchor Student Newspaper is Back!
The Print Edition is available in school.
The online editions is available at http://anchornews.net/
The staff meets every Monday after school and all it takes is a little time and effort to write an article for inclusion on the online version from which we will draw articles for our next print edition.
Hopefully you have seen printed copy. Nice edition from the entire ANCHOR staff.
The Print Edition is available in school.
The online editions is available at http://anchornews.net/
The staff meets every Monday after school and all it takes is a little time and effort to write an article for inclusion on the online version from which we will draw articles for our next print edition.
Hopefully you have seen printed copy. Nice edition from the entire ANCHOR staff.
STEP-UP appication for summer work available
STEP-UP
Applications are are now available in the Career and College Center, located in Room 104.
Step-Up is a City of Minneapolis Summer Jobs Program that will train thousands of students the skills you need to be successful and then place students in a paid, professional summer job.
The Benefits?
• Explore a career that interests you
• Earn up to $2,000 over the summer
• Build professional career skills
• Meet people who can help you with your college and career goals.
Step-up is open to Minneapolis residents age 14-21 who meet income guidelines and are not enrolled in college. If you are not sure or are close to meeting the free/reduced lunch guidelines, you are encourages to submit an application.
Applications are are now available in the Career and College Center, located in Room 104.
Step-Up is a City of Minneapolis Summer Jobs Program that will train thousands of students the skills you need to be successful and then place students in a paid, professional summer job.
The Benefits?
• Explore a career that interests you
• Earn up to $2,000 over the summer
• Build professional career skills
• Meet people who can help you with your college and career goals.
Step-up is open to Minneapolis residents age 14-21 who meet income guidelines and are not enrolled in college. If you are not sure or are close to meeting the free/reduced lunch guidelines, you are encourages to submit an application.
Debate Victorius!
Debate! Debate! Debate!
Out of forty six experienced novice teams at Century High School in Rochester, Henry Aoki and Joe Hanson earned 2nd place and Taylor Leighton and Noah Rothman earned 3rd place. Both teams went undefeated.
Madelaine Foster and Vince Puzack earned 11th place in the novice B division.
Varisty team Mariah Oxley and Sophia Deady earned 8th place.
Congratulate these wonderful students. Today's practice is the Media Center after school for debate.
-Mr. Hoselton,
Debate Coach
Out of forty six experienced novice teams at Century High School in Rochester, Henry Aoki and Joe Hanson earned 2nd place and Taylor Leighton and Noah Rothman earned 3rd place. Both teams went undefeated.
Madelaine Foster and Vince Puzack earned 11th place in the novice B division.
Varisty team Mariah Oxley and Sophia Deady earned 8th place.
Congratulate these wonderful students. Today's practice is the Media Center after school for debate.
-Mr. Hoselton,
Debate Coach
Doing Nothing is not a Good Excuse
One of the problems with bullying is that there are too many people standing around doing nothing. The joy for the bully is the audience. There is no point in being powerful if no one knows. Doing nothing is not a good excuse.
As individuals and groups of people we need to stand for what we believe. Being silent provides a quiet acceptance that some people deserve to be beat or hassled or killed. I do not believe that any of us what that to be true. But doing nothing is a harmful action that permits the continuation of these practices.
Take a stand and let your friend know that humiliation of others is not permitted. Make sure your classmates know that taking advantage of someone is not going to be tolerated by you and or your friends. Immediately report any behavior that intimidates or humiliates another person.
You do make a difference. Make sure that is a positive one!
As individuals and groups of people we need to stand for what we believe. Being silent provides a quiet acceptance that some people deserve to be beat or hassled or killed. I do not believe that any of us what that to be true. But doing nothing is a harmful action that permits the continuation of these practices.
Take a stand and let your friend know that humiliation of others is not permitted. Make sure your classmates know that taking advantage of someone is not going to be tolerated by you and or your friends. Immediately report any behavior that intimidates or humiliates another person.
You do make a difference. Make sure that is a positive one!
BULLIED: THE STORY OF JAMIE NABOZNY Dec 1
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Email: youthprograms@crcminnesota.org
BULLIED: THE STORY OF JAMIE NABOZNY
“A student, a school, and a case that made history”
On December 1st, 2011 at 7 pm, there will be a community education forum featuring Jamie Nabozny , a former Ashland, Wisconsin student who was tormented by bullies for years while his schools did nothing to protect him. Jamie will show the documentary Bullied: A Student, a School and a Case that Made History and will speak about his experience.
The film chronicles Jamie’s story and the lawsuit that led to a landmark decision that held school officials accountable for not stopping anti-gay bullying. The Southern Poverty Law Center produced the film.
WHAT: Community Education Forum and showing of : A Student, a School and a Case that Made History, featuring Jamie Nabozny, sponsored by the Conflict Resolution Center. Jamie will also speak about comprehensive approaches to deal with bullying, prevention, and the legal and societal environment that needs to be addressed.
WHEN: 7:00-8:30 pm Thursday December 1st, 2011
WHERE: Southwest High school auditorium 3414 W 47th Street Minneapolis, MN 55410
COST: $25 Person
Email: youthprograms@crcminnesota.org
BULLIED: THE STORY OF JAMIE NABOZNY
“A student, a school, and a case that made history”
On December 1st, 2011 at 7 pm, there will be a community education forum featuring Jamie Nabozny , a former Ashland, Wisconsin student who was tormented by bullies for years while his schools did nothing to protect him. Jamie will show the documentary Bullied: A Student, a School and a Case that Made History and will speak about his experience.
The film chronicles Jamie’s story and the lawsuit that led to a landmark decision that held school officials accountable for not stopping anti-gay bullying. The Southern Poverty Law Center produced the film.
WHAT: Community Education Forum and showing of : A Student, a School and a Case that Made History, featuring Jamie Nabozny, sponsored by the Conflict Resolution Center. Jamie will also speak about comprehensive approaches to deal with bullying, prevention, and the legal and societal environment that needs to be addressed.
WHEN: 7:00-8:30 pm Thursday December 1st, 2011
WHERE: Southwest High school auditorium 3414 W 47th Street Minneapolis, MN 55410
COST: $25 Person
Friday, November 18, 2011
Dance Improvements and Self Respect
Student Council student leadership is addressing the issues surrounding dances and the perceptions. It trying to work with both the reality and the misconceptions, student leadership is putting together some guidelines that might provide a format for fun and entertainment without the problems associated with inappropriate behaviors or actions.
Each decade produces its own music, moods of expression, styles, words and dances. For those of us remembering our own childhood and high school years, the conflict between child and parent was usually a line of constant push and pull. In the 50s most adults thought that Elvis was going to ruin free society. And maybe he did. But even that was surpassed by the heavy metal and "free love" and the flower people. So the conversation today about what is too much is only to be expected.
The good side is that student leadership wants to be respectful and supportive. Having fun and enjoying the evening is important. Inappropriate behavior and degrading activities do not have to be part of the events. The point is that the students understand what is happening and are working toward solution.
This might be an opportunity to talk with your children and get their views on what behaviors really are inappropriate and how we can support other students who want to have fun without the nonsense.
Each decade produces its own music, moods of expression, styles, words and dances. For those of us remembering our own childhood and high school years, the conflict between child and parent was usually a line of constant push and pull. In the 50s most adults thought that Elvis was going to ruin free society. And maybe he did. But even that was surpassed by the heavy metal and "free love" and the flower people. So the conversation today about what is too much is only to be expected.
The good side is that student leadership wants to be respectful and supportive. Having fun and enjoying the evening is important. Inappropriate behavior and degrading activities do not have to be part of the events. The point is that the students understand what is happening and are working toward solution.
This might be an opportunity to talk with your children and get their views on what behaviors really are inappropriate and how we can support other students who want to have fun without the nonsense.
Facebook and Bullying
Morning newspaper front page news. Not exactly sure that is the major story of the day but at least it catches attention to a continuing problem. Kids are not nice to one another when they are face to face. They can be very horrible to one another when they are sitting in front of a computer screen or laughing at their cell phone.
Young people need to be responsible for their actions. You pay the bill. That makes you partly responsible. Then there is that whole thing about being a parent. Facebook is not the evil party here. It is a great social networking system - and there are many others - it is the user. Calling one another names and make cruel and crude comments is not new. The scope and endlessness of it all has changed. Kids forget and move on every few minutes. The Internet is timeless and spaceless. What gets put out there stays forever.
Please remind your sons and daughters that we need to be respectful of ourselves and others. Bullying is not a cute childish behavior. It is cruel and mean.
Young people need to be responsible for their actions. You pay the bill. That makes you partly responsible. Then there is that whole thing about being a parent. Facebook is not the evil party here. It is a great social networking system - and there are many others - it is the user. Calling one another names and make cruel and crude comments is not new. The scope and endlessness of it all has changed. Kids forget and move on every few minutes. The Internet is timeless and spaceless. What gets put out there stays forever.
Please remind your sons and daughters that we need to be respectful of ourselves and others. Bullying is not a cute childish behavior. It is cruel and mean.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
SWHS and SMILE in Mexico
Emiliano, one of the children
The medical and SMILE team at dinner
Pictures from Puebla, Mexico
Southwest High School and
SMILE NETWORK
The cleft palate/harelip conditions are often heredity, which is observed by seeing so many of the parents with repaired lips. Also, there is a heavy concentration of the conditions here in the Puebla area, which some on the team are talking about researching. We also learned that in really tiny infants (we have seen three 1-month-olds), the lip can be repaired but it is not advisable to do the palate surgery, as the tissues are too tender; they prefer to wait some months until the tissues are stronger. So if a tiny one ONLY needs the harelip repair he is a candidate for surgery, but if the palate is involved he is deferred until later.
Some of these families travel many hours or days to get here. And occasionally someone wanders into the clinic with an issue that we can't help. One lady asked me for help with her young son who had a very large abdominal tumor. She had she had been coming to the hospital many times, but no one seemed willing to help her. I was able to put her in contact with the local doctor who is doing all of our medical histories. Hopefully something good can come for this youngster.
We are working in a children's hospital (Puebla Children's I suppose you could call it), and the place can be cold. There is a sign in the main lobby (I photographed it) asking for donations of blankets, sweaters, socks, jackets, etc. for the parents waiting for so many hours in the lobby while their children are in intensive care or therapy.
Some of these families travel many hours or days to get here. And occasionally someone wanders into the clinic with an issue that we can't help. One lady asked me for help with her young son who had a very large abdominal tumor. She had she had been coming to the hospital many times, but no one seemed willing to help her. I was able to put her in contact with the local doctor who is doing all of our medical histories. Hopefully something good can come for this youngster.
We are working in a children's hospital (Puebla Children's I suppose you could call it), and the place can be cold. There is a sign in the main lobby (I photographed it) asking for donations of blankets, sweaters, socks, jackets, etc. for the parents waiting for so many hours in the lobby while their children are in intensive care or therapy.
SMILE NETWORK
and
Southwest High School
skype between
SHS and Puebla, Mexico
Becca and Emma on the screen at Southwest speaking live from Puebla, Mexico
Ms. Wegner in pre-op on the screen at SWHS and live in Puebla
Emma Keiski, Becca Mattson and I are in Puebla, Mexico with the SMILE NETWORK, assisting a strong medical team as they repair cleft palates and harelips on about 50 children.
There is a heavy incidence of this condition in the Puebla area, and several cases are hereditary.
Our team includes two plastic surgeons from Montana, one anesthesiologist, two anesthetists, one general nurse, two medical records keepers (all from MN), one local doctor, and a group of volunteer students from the Universidad del Valle de Mexico. A wonderful group of people.
As of this writing (only one day in), Emma has been weighing and measuring the children for the local doctor taking their medical histories, and Becca has been writing the biographies of the children, all of which will help in determining exactly which children are operated on during this trip (the surgeries begin Monday). The girls started the day giving out the order numbers to the children, so they could be called up in a designated order. I'm doing some interpretation for the doctors and nurses.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Fifty-Two Days and Still Counting
Today was the first program that really marks the beginning of the end. It was an all-senior (Class of 2012) assembly announcing the sale of graduation materials.
30% of the senior year is now behind them. College applications, military suggestions, early apps, what do I do now ... are all part of these months. And it gets worse.
It is an exciting time but also painful. We work so hard to get here and then what. Does it really start all over? Graduation is the first mark of maturity and a definite mile stone. Independence, responsibility, bills and debt are all still out there.
Well we have 120 days left before we have to face that cold, hard world. Let's make the best of every moment!
30% of the senior year is now behind them. College applications, military suggestions, early apps, what do I do now ... are all part of these months. And it gets worse.
It is an exciting time but also painful. We work so hard to get here and then what. Does it really start all over? Graduation is the first mark of maturity and a definite mile stone. Independence, responsibility, bills and debt are all still out there.
Well we have 120 days left before we have to face that cold, hard world. Let's make the best of every moment!
Southwest Student Council and SMILE
Student Council is embarking on a bold campaign with Smile Network to fund 50 surgeries for cleft lip patients in Puebla, Mexico. In order to educate the staff and student body about the campaign, student council representatives, Becca Mattson and Emma Keiski and faculty member, Stephanie Wegner, traveled to Puebla to participate in the identification of the patients and the actual surgeries.
On Monday, the student body observed the event on a live skype broadcast. At the presentation the students saw Alita Watson, SW alum '87 and Smile Network representative, provide background information about the occurence of cleft lip deformity and she provided translation services.
The students met 2 patients: Nellie who had a bi-lateral cleft lip and Sebastian who had a cleft palette and was also deaf in one ear. Southwest students were able to meet the familles and ask them questions. The parents were able to explain to us exactly what the surgeries meant to their families.
The stories were powerful and the students and faculty were astounded by the magnitude of the positive effect these surgeries provide for these people. Next, the students met doctors Raj Sarpal from the Mayo Clinic and Dr. Eseduro from Mexico City.
The students asked the doctors about the surgeries and why they volunteer their time to the Smile Network campaign. Finally, the students spoke to Becca, Emma, and Ms. Wegner. This portion of the broadcast had an astounding effect on the students as they heard from their peers stories about meeting patients, observing surgeries. and other realities about the life changing surgeries.
On Monday, the student body observed the event on a live skype broadcast. At the presentation the students saw Alita Watson, SW alum '87 and Smile Network representative, provide background information about the occurence of cleft lip deformity and she provided translation services.
The students met 2 patients: Nellie who had a bi-lateral cleft lip and Sebastian who had a cleft palette and was also deaf in one ear. Southwest students were able to meet the familles and ask them questions. The parents were able to explain to us exactly what the surgeries meant to their families.
The stories were powerful and the students and faculty were astounded by the magnitude of the positive effect these surgeries provide for these people. Next, the students met doctors Raj Sarpal from the Mayo Clinic and Dr. Eseduro from Mexico City.
The students asked the doctors about the surgeries and why they volunteer their time to the Smile Network campaign. Finally, the students spoke to Becca, Emma, and Ms. Wegner. This portion of the broadcast had an astounding effect on the students as they heard from their peers stories about meeting patients, observing surgeries. and other realities about the life changing surgeries.
Monday, November 14, 2011
More from Mexico and SW student council
This was an incredible day. It began with the girls banding the children for surgery. There is constant attention paid to make sure that we have the right child. There was one child today whose chart I caught with her name misspelled three times and then identifying her as male; lucky catch. Then we moved to preparing the children for surgery, everything from a perfectly cheerful 4-month-old to a 4-year-old who screamed in terror for almost an hour. His mother broke down in tears and we had to lead her away and let someone else try to comfort this child.
The girls observed a bit of surgery today and I moved into the recovery room. One of the little boys I had "prepped" for surgery woke up from the anesthesia and stood up almost immediately screaming for dear life. Took a very long time to comfort him. Then other people tried to relieve me of him, but he would not go to them. Finally I transferred him to the ward in an ambulance and waited with him till his mom got there.
You can just imagine how much these kids hurt. The palate surgery causes a lot of blood, and I now have a SW purple shirt stained a bit on the collar. Most of these kids came out of the anesthesia in horrific pain and crying for long periods of time, often having to be sedated a bit again.
Tomorrow I'm hoping to attend surgery. Someone actually suggested that I do some translating in the OR, but I'm not sure just how good an idea that might be. I do have very good medical terminology in English which translates well in to Spanish, but translating as to exactly which forceps or knife is to be handed over might be a bit dicey. We'll see....
So, it's been quite the day, and a good one. And tomorrow's the last one. We so enjoy this wonderful team we are working with, both American and Mexican. Most of the team is from MSP. There are two individuals from IA and two surgeons and one anesthesiologist from Billings MT.
See you on Thursday.
Stephanie
The girls observed a bit of surgery today and I moved into the recovery room. One of the little boys I had "prepped" for surgery woke up from the anesthesia and stood up almost immediately screaming for dear life. Took a very long time to comfort him. Then other people tried to relieve me of him, but he would not go to them. Finally I transferred him to the ward in an ambulance and waited with him till his mom got there.
You can just imagine how much these kids hurt. The palate surgery causes a lot of blood, and I now have a SW purple shirt stained a bit on the collar. Most of these kids came out of the anesthesia in horrific pain and crying for long periods of time, often having to be sedated a bit again.
Tomorrow I'm hoping to attend surgery. Someone actually suggested that I do some translating in the OR, but I'm not sure just how good an idea that might be. I do have very good medical terminology in English which translates well in to Spanish, but translating as to exactly which forceps or knife is to be handed over might be a bit dicey. We'll see....
So, it's been quite the day, and a good one. And tomorrow's the last one. We so enjoy this wonderful team we are working with, both American and Mexican. Most of the team is from MSP. There are two individuals from IA and two surgeons and one anesthesiologist from Billings MT.
See you on Thursday.
Stephanie
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Southwest Marching Band at Bachman's on Lyndale
SANTA TAKES THE STAGE
Santa and his trusted sidekick Albert the Elf arrive in style next week via a reindeer-drawn sleigh. Welcomed by music from the Southwest High School Marching Band, families are invited to sample gourmet goodies, participate in activities and see the reindeer up close.
A short production, "The North Pole Goes Green," tells about an elf who misunderstands Santa's initiative to make the North Pole ecologically friendly.
There will also be caroling and photos with Santa. (10:30 a.m. Sat. Play performances at 11 a.m., 12:20 & 2 p.m. Sat.-next Sun. Free. Bachman's, 6010 Lyndale Av. S., Mpls. 612-861-7600. bachmans.com.)
Santa and his trusted sidekick Albert the Elf arrive in style next week via a reindeer-drawn sleigh. Welcomed by music from the Southwest High School Marching Band, families are invited to sample gourmet goodies, participate in activities and see the reindeer up close.
A short production, "The North Pole Goes Green," tells about an elf who misunderstands Santa's initiative to make the North Pole ecologically friendly.
There will also be caroling and photos with Santa. (10:30 a.m. Sat. Play performances at 11 a.m., 12:20 & 2 p.m. Sat.-next Sun. Free. Bachman's, 6010 Lyndale Av. S., Mpls. 612-861-7600. bachmans.com.)
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Nov 12 in Mexico with SMILE
Today was very special for me. I spent the day at the side of one of the surgeons, interpreting for him as he screened each individual surgical candidate. He was so kind and took time to explain to me the nature of each problem, what could/could not be done in each case, and at times had me even look at the anomaly. Quite the education! And I just loved the challenge of instant medical interpretation. This was one of the most memorable days of my entire life.
Have a good weekend, everyone.
Stephanie
Have a good weekend, everyone.
Stephanie
College Week Nov. 14 - 18 at Southwest
MN College Application Week Nov 14-18
As part of a national initiative, Governor Mark Dayton will be proclaiming the week of November 14th-18th 2011, Minnesota College Application Week. The main goal of this initiative at the high school site is to increase the number of all students completing a college application with a special focus on first generation college goers (and also on underrepresented populations including students of color and low-income students) about the college application process and to highlight college and career readiness efforts occurring throughout the state.
SW is focusing on having every senior submit a college application. We are hosting College Application/Essay workshops in the CCC during the following times:
Nov 1st 2:30-4:00
§ Nov 7th 3:00-4:00
§ Nov 15th 2:30-4:00
Counselors are hosting “office hours” where they will be available to answer questions and work with students. Teachers will have discretion as to whether students can be released from class to meet with their counselor.
Tuesday, November 15, during 3rd hour:
Wednesday, November 16, during 6th hour
Counselors can be found in the following locations:
o Morseth (A-E) in CCC
o Sherwood (F-K) in Media
o Mountin (L-Q) in Media
o Kreisher (R-Z) in 40
As part of a national initiative, Governor Mark Dayton will be proclaiming the week of November 14th-18th 2011, Minnesota College Application Week. The main goal of this initiative at the high school site is to increase the number of all students completing a college application with a special focus on first generation college goers (and also on underrepresented populations including students of color and low-income students) about the college application process and to highlight college and career readiness efforts occurring throughout the state.
SW is focusing on having every senior submit a college application. We are hosting College Application/Essay workshops in the CCC during the following times:
Nov 1st 2:30-4:00
§ Nov 7th 3:00-4:00
§ Nov 15th 2:30-4:00
Counselors are hosting “office hours” where they will be available to answer questions and work with students. Teachers will have discretion as to whether students can be released from class to meet with their counselor.
Tuesday, November 15, during 3rd hour:
Wednesday, November 16, during 6th hour
Counselors can be found in the following locations:
o Morseth (A-E) in CCC
o Sherwood (F-K) in Media
o Mountin (L-Q) in Media
o Kreisher (R-Z) in 40
Fall One Acts 17 th, 18th and 19th
One Acts – A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Odds Are
At the Southwest High School Auditorium...Thursday, November 17, Friday, November 18 and Saturday, November 19
All shows at 7pm
Come see the one acts (a radically edited version of A Midsummer's Night Dream and Odds Are). It's going to be a lot of fun and laughter.
These plays are directed by Southwest Faculty, David West and Technical Support Director David Premack
Donations to the theater department at collected at the door
At the Southwest High School Auditorium...Thursday, November 17, Friday, November 18 and Saturday, November 19
All shows at 7pm
Come see the one acts (a radically edited version of A Midsummer's Night Dream and Odds Are). It's going to be a lot of fun and laughter.
These plays are directed by Southwest Faculty, David West and Technical Support Director David Premack
Donations to the theater department at collected at the door
College Info Night 15th
Network/Home.html
Juniors and families: College Information Night – Tuesday, November 15th
The Counseling Department and the Career and College Center will be presenting the College Search 1 Workshop.
Topics to be covered include an introduction to the college search process, the student profile, primary admission factors and testing calendar.
Juniors have had a brief introduction to this information during the week of 10/24, but are STRONGLY encouraged to attend with their families.
Tuesday, Nov 15
7:00 pm
SW Auditorium
Juniors and families: College Information Night – Tuesday, November 15th
The Counseling Department and the Career and College Center will be presenting the College Search 1 Workshop.
Topics to be covered include an introduction to the college search process, the student profile, primary admission factors and testing calendar.
Juniors have had a brief introduction to this information during the week of 10/24, but are STRONGLY encouraged to attend with their families.
Tuesday, Nov 15
7:00 pm
SW Auditorium
Parent Portal down morning hours
Attention All Parent Portal Users!
We will be moving the database server on Saturday, November 12th, during the morning hours. This means that both the Student & Parent Portals, as well as the Teacher’s gradebook, will be down during that time. Thanks in advance for your patience and we apologize for any inconvenience.
We will be moving the database server on Saturday, November 12th, during the morning hours. This means that both the Student & Parent Portals, as well as the Teacher’s gradebook, will be down during that time. Thanks in advance for your patience and we apologize for any inconvenience.
SMILE Network story from Puebla
OK, here goes:
Emma Keiski, Becca Mattson and I are in Puebla, Mexico with the SMILE NETWORK, assisting a strong medical team as they repair cleft palates and harelips on about 50 children. There is a heavy incidence of this condition in the Puebla area, and several cases are hereditary. Our team includes two plastic surgeons from Montana, one anesthesiologist, two anesthetists, one general nurse, two medical records keepers (all from MN), one local doctor, and a group of volunteer students from the Universidad del Valle de Mexico. A wonderful group of people. As of this writing (only one day in), Emma has been weighing and measuring the children for the local doctor taking their medical histories, and Becca has been writing the biographies of the children, all of which will help in determining exactly which children are operated on during this trip (the surgeries begin Monday). The girls started the day giving out the order numbers to the children, so they could be called up in a designated order. I'm doing some interpretation for the doctors and nurses.
We learned some interesting things yesterday. The cleft palate/harelip conditions are often heredity, which is observed by seeing so many of the parents with repaired lips. Also, there is a heavy concentration of the conditions here in the Puebla area, which some on the team are talking about researching. We also learned that in really tiny infants (we have seen three 1-month-olds), the lip can be repaired but it is not advisable to do the palate surgery, as the tissues are too tender; they prefer to wait some months until the tissues are stronger. So if a tiny one ONLY needs the harelip repair he is a candidate for surgery, but if the palate is involved he is deferred until later.
Some of these families travel many hours or days to get here. And occasionally someone wanders into the clinic with an issue that we can't help. One lady asked me for help with her young son who had a very large abdominal tumor. She had she had been coming to the hospital many times, but no one seemed willing to help her. I was able to put her in contact with the local doctor who is doing all of our medical histories. Hopefully something good can come for this youngster.
We are working in a children's hospital (Puebla Children's I suppose you could call it), and the place can be cold. There is a sign in the main lobby (I photographed it) asking for donations of blankets, sweaters, socks, jackets, etc. for the parents waiting for so many hours in the lobby while their children are in intensive care or therapy.
More later. Have a good weekend, everyone. Yes, I'll print some pix for the front gallery when I get back.
Stephanie Wegner
Emma Keiski, Becca Mattson and I are in Puebla, Mexico with the SMILE NETWORK, assisting a strong medical team as they repair cleft palates and harelips on about 50 children. There is a heavy incidence of this condition in the Puebla area, and several cases are hereditary. Our team includes two plastic surgeons from Montana, one anesthesiologist, two anesthetists, one general nurse, two medical records keepers (all from MN), one local doctor, and a group of volunteer students from the Universidad del Valle de Mexico. A wonderful group of people. As of this writing (only one day in), Emma has been weighing and measuring the children for the local doctor taking their medical histories, and Becca has been writing the biographies of the children, all of which will help in determining exactly which children are operated on during this trip (the surgeries begin Monday). The girls started the day giving out the order numbers to the children, so they could be called up in a designated order. I'm doing some interpretation for the doctors and nurses.
We learned some interesting things yesterday. The cleft palate/harelip conditions are often heredity, which is observed by seeing so many of the parents with repaired lips. Also, there is a heavy concentration of the conditions here in the Puebla area, which some on the team are talking about researching. We also learned that in really tiny infants (we have seen three 1-month-olds), the lip can be repaired but it is not advisable to do the palate surgery, as the tissues are too tender; they prefer to wait some months until the tissues are stronger. So if a tiny one ONLY needs the harelip repair he is a candidate for surgery, but if the palate is involved he is deferred until later.
Some of these families travel many hours or days to get here. And occasionally someone wanders into the clinic with an issue that we can't help. One lady asked me for help with her young son who had a very large abdominal tumor. She had she had been coming to the hospital many times, but no one seemed willing to help her. I was able to put her in contact with the local doctor who is doing all of our medical histories. Hopefully something good can come for this youngster.
We are working in a children's hospital (Puebla Children's I suppose you could call it), and the place can be cold. There is a sign in the main lobby (I photographed it) asking for donations of blankets, sweaters, socks, jackets, etc. for the parents waiting for so many hours in the lobby while their children are in intensive care or therapy.
More later. Have a good weekend, everyone. Yes, I'll print some pix for the front gallery when I get back.
Stephanie Wegner
Friday, November 11, 2011
11-11-11-11-11
So a couple classes celebrated when we hit the magical number. Any reason to celebrate is a good one. As you might expect, these were math classes and a senior social studies. It had to be a sign of the time.
Veterans Day
There are numerous times for reflection. In these days of pain and suffering throughout the world it is necessary to remember those who gave their time and lives for others. Hunger, poverty, unemployment, needless death are also many of our current enemies. Like our heroes of the past, we must remember their deeds and scarifice.
What am I doing to make this a better place?
What am I doing to make this a better place?
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Study Help and Hints
Ten Traps of Studying
1."I Don't Know Where To Begin"
Take Control. Make a list of all the things you have to do. Break your workload down into manageable chunks. Prioritize! Schedule your time realistically. Don't skip classes near an exam -- you may miss a review session. Use that hour in between classes to review notes. Interrupt study time with planned study breaks. Begin studying early, with an hour or two per day, and slowly build as the exam approaches.
2. "I've Got So Much To Study . . . And So Little Time"
Preview. Survey your syllabus, reading material, and notes. Identify the most important topics emphasized, and areas still not understood. Previewing saves time, especially with non-fiction reading, by helping you organize and focus in on the main topics. Adapt this method to your own style and study material, but remember, previewing is not an effective substitute for reading.
3. "This Stuff Is So Dry, I Can't Even Stay Awake Reading It"
Attack! Get actively involved with the text as you read. Ask yourself, "What is important to remember about this section?" Take notes or underline key concepts. Discuss the material with others in your class. Study together. Stay on the offensive, e specially with material that you don't find interesting, rather than reading passively and missing important points.
4. "I Read It. I Understand It. But I Just Can't Get It To Sink In"
Elaborate. We remember best the things that are most meaningful to us. As you are reading, try to elaborate upon new information with your own examples. Try to integrate what you're studying with what you already know. You will be able to remember new material better if you can link it to something that's already meaningful to you. Some techniques include:
■Chunking: An effective way to simplify and make information more meaningful. For example, suppose you wanted to remember the colors in the visible spectrum (Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, Violet); you would have to memorize seven "chunks" of information in order. But if you take the first letter of each color, you can spell the name "Roy G. Biv", and reduce the information the three "chunks".
■Mnemonics: Any memory-assisting technique that helps us to associate new information with something familiar. For example, to remember a formula or equation, we may use letters of the alphabet to represent certain numbers. Then we can change an abstract formula into a more meaningful word or phrase, so we'll be able to remember it better. Sound-alike associations can be very effective, too, especially while trying to learn a new language. The key is to create your own links, then you won't forget them.
5. "I Guess I Understand It"
Test yourself. Make up questions about key sections in notes or reading. Keep in mind what the professor has stressed in the course. Examine the relationships between concepts and sections. Often, simply by changing section headings you can generate many effective questions. For example, a section entitled "Bystander Apathy" might be changed into questions such as: "What is bystander apathy?", "What are the causes of bystander apathy?", and "What are some examples of bystander apathy?"
6. "There's Too Much To Remember"
Organize. Information is recalled better if it is represented in an organized framework that will make retrieval more systematic. There are many techniques that can help you organize new information, including:
■Write chapter outlines or summaries; emphasize relationships between sections.
■Group information into categories or hierarchies, where possible.
■Information Mapping. Draw up a matrix to organize and interrelate material. For example, if you were trying to understand the causes of World War I, you could make a chart listing all the major countries involved across the top, and then list the important issues and events down the side. Next, in the boxes in between, you could describe the impact each issue had on each country to help you understand these complex historical developments.
7. "I Knew It A Minute Ago"
Review. After reading a section, try to recall the information contained in it. Try answering the questions you made up for that section. If you cannot recall enough, re-read portions you had trouble remembering. The more time you spend studying, the more you tend to recall. Even after the point where information can be perfectly recalled, further study makes the material less likely to be forgotten entirely. In other words, you can't overstudy. However, how you organize and integrate new information is still more important than how much time you spend studying.
8. "But I Like To Study In Bed"
Context. Recall is better when study context (physical location, as well as mental, emotional, and physical state) are similar to the test context. The greater the similarity between the study setting and the test setting, the greater the likelihood that material studied will be recalled during the test.
9. "Cramming Before A Test Helps Keep It Fresh In My Mind"
Spacing: Start studying now. Keep studying as you go along. Begin with an hour or two a day about one week before the exam, and then increase study time as the exam approaches. Recall increases as study time gets spread out over time.
10. "I'm Gonna Stay Up All Night 'til I Get This"
Avoid Mental Exhaustion. Take short breaks often when studying. Before a test, have a rested mind. When you take a study break, and just before you go to sleep at night, don't think about academics. Relax and unwind, mentally and physically. Otherwise, your break won't refresh you and you'll find yourself lying awake at night. It's more important than ever to take care of yourself before an exam! Eat well, sleep, and get enough exercise.
1."I Don't Know Where To Begin"
Take Control. Make a list of all the things you have to do. Break your workload down into manageable chunks. Prioritize! Schedule your time realistically. Don't skip classes near an exam -- you may miss a review session. Use that hour in between classes to review notes. Interrupt study time with planned study breaks. Begin studying early, with an hour or two per day, and slowly build as the exam approaches.
2. "I've Got So Much To Study . . . And So Little Time"
Preview. Survey your syllabus, reading material, and notes. Identify the most important topics emphasized, and areas still not understood. Previewing saves time, especially with non-fiction reading, by helping you organize and focus in on the main topics. Adapt this method to your own style and study material, but remember, previewing is not an effective substitute for reading.
3. "This Stuff Is So Dry, I Can't Even Stay Awake Reading It"
Attack! Get actively involved with the text as you read. Ask yourself, "What is important to remember about this section?" Take notes or underline key concepts. Discuss the material with others in your class. Study together. Stay on the offensive, e specially with material that you don't find interesting, rather than reading passively and missing important points.
4. "I Read It. I Understand It. But I Just Can't Get It To Sink In"
Elaborate. We remember best the things that are most meaningful to us. As you are reading, try to elaborate upon new information with your own examples. Try to integrate what you're studying with what you already know. You will be able to remember new material better if you can link it to something that's already meaningful to you. Some techniques include:
■Chunking: An effective way to simplify and make information more meaningful. For example, suppose you wanted to remember the colors in the visible spectrum (Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, Violet); you would have to memorize seven "chunks" of information in order. But if you take the first letter of each color, you can spell the name "Roy G. Biv", and reduce the information the three "chunks".
■Mnemonics: Any memory-assisting technique that helps us to associate new information with something familiar. For example, to remember a formula or equation, we may use letters of the alphabet to represent certain numbers. Then we can change an abstract formula into a more meaningful word or phrase, so we'll be able to remember it better. Sound-alike associations can be very effective, too, especially while trying to learn a new language. The key is to create your own links, then you won't forget them.
5. "I Guess I Understand It"
Test yourself. Make up questions about key sections in notes or reading. Keep in mind what the professor has stressed in the course. Examine the relationships between concepts and sections. Often, simply by changing section headings you can generate many effective questions. For example, a section entitled "Bystander Apathy" might be changed into questions such as: "What is bystander apathy?", "What are the causes of bystander apathy?", and "What are some examples of bystander apathy?"
6. "There's Too Much To Remember"
Organize. Information is recalled better if it is represented in an organized framework that will make retrieval more systematic. There are many techniques that can help you organize new information, including:
■Write chapter outlines or summaries; emphasize relationships between sections.
■Group information into categories or hierarchies, where possible.
■Information Mapping. Draw up a matrix to organize and interrelate material. For example, if you were trying to understand the causes of World War I, you could make a chart listing all the major countries involved across the top, and then list the important issues and events down the side. Next, in the boxes in between, you could describe the impact each issue had on each country to help you understand these complex historical developments.
7. "I Knew It A Minute Ago"
Review. After reading a section, try to recall the information contained in it. Try answering the questions you made up for that section. If you cannot recall enough, re-read portions you had trouble remembering. The more time you spend studying, the more you tend to recall. Even after the point where information can be perfectly recalled, further study makes the material less likely to be forgotten entirely. In other words, you can't overstudy. However, how you organize and integrate new information is still more important than how much time you spend studying.
8. "But I Like To Study In Bed"
Context. Recall is better when study context (physical location, as well as mental, emotional, and physical state) are similar to the test context. The greater the similarity between the study setting and the test setting, the greater the likelihood that material studied will be recalled during the test.
9. "Cramming Before A Test Helps Keep It Fresh In My Mind"
Spacing: Start studying now. Keep studying as you go along. Begin with an hour or two a day about one week before the exam, and then increase study time as the exam approaches. Recall increases as study time gets spread out over time.
10. "I'm Gonna Stay Up All Night 'til I Get This"
Avoid Mental Exhaustion. Take short breaks often when studying. Before a test, have a rested mind. When you take a study break, and just before you go to sleep at night, don't think about academics. Relax and unwind, mentally and physically. Otherwise, your break won't refresh you and you'll find yourself lying awake at night. It's more important than ever to take care of yourself before an exam! Eat well, sleep, and get enough exercise.
Winter Temperatures
Well it is either too hot or too cold. As usual we are attempting to get the building balanced. Some of the rooms are too cold and some too hot and some just right. Makes for a good fairy tale setting but not for serious academic work.
We have all kinds of people working on it and expect resolution soon. Today is the first day of somewhat nasty weather but we know it will get worse. Layers are the answer which is true of all parts of Minnesota.
We have all kinds of people working on it and expect resolution soon. Today is the first day of somewhat nasty weather but we know it will get worse. Layers are the answer which is true of all parts of Minnesota.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
First Southwest Math Team Results
The Southwest High School Math Team was well represented at Meet #1.
On Monday, November 7, five of the Minneapolis high schools and one charter school met up at Patrick Henry High School for the first meet of the year.
Some statistics from the meet.
164 total students from six schools in the Minneapolis division participated
80 Southwest students participated individually at the meet
78 of the Southwest students scored at least one point. This is one of our highest success ratios ever.
One student from Southwest had the second highest individual point total at the meet.
The varsity team (official scoring team) earned 62 of a possible 136 points, finishing in first place within the division. It was not our all-time best effort, but still respectable. Official state rankings are unknown at this point.
Official state rankings can be viewed at http://mnmathleague.org/
The cumulative rankings are located by clicking on the meets and standings tab on the top of the page.
On Monday, November 7, five of the Minneapolis high schools and one charter school met up at Patrick Henry High School for the first meet of the year.
Some statistics from the meet.
164 total students from six schools in the Minneapolis division participated
80 Southwest students participated individually at the meet
78 of the Southwest students scored at least one point. This is one of our highest success ratios ever.
One student from Southwest had the second highest individual point total at the meet.
The varsity team (official scoring team) earned 62 of a possible 136 points, finishing in first place within the division. It was not our all-time best effort, but still respectable. Official state rankings are unknown at this point.
Official state rankings can be viewed at http://mnmathleague.org/
The cumulative rankings are located by clicking on the meets and standings tab on the top of the page.
Monday, November 7, 2011
McLean and Powell Soccer All-Stars
Ryan Mclean and Garrett Powell will be representing Southwest in the senior classic all-star game. This will be 8pm Wednesday, Nov 9 at the Metrodome.
Come out and support Laker Soccer Seniors Wed. 8 pm at the Dome.
Come out and support Laker Soccer Seniors Wed. 8 pm at the Dome.
Debate Winners!
Debate! Debate! Debate!
At the Benilde St. Margaret's tournament Southwest had a strong showing. Avi Gori and Mariah Oxley earned 1st place in the varsity division.
In Novice A Taylor Leighton and Noah Rothman earned 9th place and Henry Aokia and Joe Hanson earned 14th out of 36 teams.
In Novice B Russell Pakala and Ben Stevens earned 13th place out of 35 teams.
Congratulations Laker Debators!
Join the debate team by showing up to Mr. Hoselton's room E116 Tuesdays and Thursdays after school.
At the Benilde St. Margaret's tournament Southwest had a strong showing. Avi Gori and Mariah Oxley earned 1st place in the varsity division.
In Novice A Taylor Leighton and Noah Rothman earned 9th place and Henry Aokia and Joe Hanson earned 14th out of 36 teams.
In Novice B Russell Pakala and Ben Stevens earned 13th place out of 35 teams.
Congratulations Laker Debators!
Join the debate team by showing up to Mr. Hoselton's room E116 Tuesdays and Thursdays after school.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
At State Champion Cross Country robin winner!
Robin Fassett-Carmen 26th at cc state.
Congratulation Robin!
Congratulation Robin!
New Debate Topic First Tournament
Twenty members of the Debate Team moved off into the mornings hours for a debate tournament using the second topic dealing with foreign policy. The chill of the morning air did not dampen the spirit of the teams. With parent volunteers gathering, bringing food, and dropping off the debaters the thrill of the upcoming event heightened.
The Debate Team has done well so far this year and is moving into the second half of the season. State tournament is the first weekend in December. Several more weeks for the teams to earn the hardware and enjoy the moments of victory.
The Debate Team has done well so far this year and is moving into the second half of the season. State tournament is the first weekend in December. Several more weeks for the teams to earn the hardware and enjoy the moments of victory.
Friday, November 4, 2011
Senior Pictures Due
Senior pictures Due by November 19, 2011
There are two different methods to submit pictures:
1. Submit on-line directly to Jostens.
Log in is : 400133989
Password: lakers
Link: https://images.jostens.com
2. Drop off a hard copy 2X3 or larger in the red box in the mail office. If on a CD - 300dpi and 1.75h x 1.5w inches
Place the picture in an envelope with the student’s name and ID.
What senior pictures? If you need to get Senior picture taken, check this out!
Juniors and families: College Information Night – Tuesday, November 15th
Juniors and families: College Information Night – Tuesday, November 15th
The Counseling Department and the Career and College Center will be presenting the College Search 1 Workshop.
Topics to be covered include an introduction to the college search process, the student profile, primary admission factors and testing calendar.
Juniors have had a brief introduction to this information during the week of 10/24, but are STRONGLY encouraged to attend with their families.
Tuesday, Nov 15
7:00 pm
SW Auditorium
The Counseling Department and the Career and College Center will be presenting the College Search 1 Workshop.
Topics to be covered include an introduction to the college search process, the student profile, primary admission factors and testing calendar.
Juniors have had a brief introduction to this information during the week of 10/24, but are STRONGLY encouraged to attend with their families.
Tuesday, Nov 15
7:00 pm
SW Auditorium
Chipotle Fundraiser for Minneapolis Alpine Ski Team
Chipotle Fundraiser for Minneapolis Alpine Ski Team
What: A fundraiser for the Minneapolis Alpine Ski Team--MAST
When: Thursday evening, November 10th, 5pm to 9pm
Where: Chipotle near Lake Calhoun at Lake and Excelsior
Show the Chipotle flyer and 50% of the proceeds will go to MAST—where Southwest skiers lead one of the best teams in the state! Just mention “MAST” or download this flyer and bring it with you.
Support MAST and bring your friends with you for some great food at Chipotle on Thursday, November 10th, at Lake and Excelsior!
What: A fundraiser for the Minneapolis Alpine Ski Team--MAST
When: Thursday evening, November 10th, 5pm to 9pm
Where: Chipotle near Lake Calhoun at Lake and Excelsior
Show the Chipotle flyer and 50% of the proceeds will go to MAST—where Southwest skiers lead one of the best teams in the state! Just mention “MAST” or download this flyer and bring it with you.
Support MAST and bring your friends with you for some great food at Chipotle on Thursday, November 10th, at Lake and Excelsior!
Thursday, November 3, 2011
End of Quarter Number One
Where did the school year go? It is now one-quarter completed. Times just flies by. For the most part it has been exciting and a great beginning.
On the other hand, it has been study and strange weather and Runaways musical and lights on Friday night and state playoffs. Those are all good things but also busy.
Grades are due tomorrow and that means next week we will know the academic results of these 45 days. Some have remained focused. Others have struggled and bounced around. Regardless it is the end of the first 9 weeks and we need to move forward.
It really doesn't get any easier or slower from this point on. Before we know it the halfway point will be here and then graduation and we will again say where did it all go?
On the other hand, it has been study and strange weather and Runaways musical and lights on Friday night and state playoffs. Those are all good things but also busy.
Grades are due tomorrow and that means next week we will know the academic results of these 45 days. Some have remained focused. Others have struggled and bounced around. Regardless it is the end of the first 9 weeks and we need to move forward.
It really doesn't get any easier or slower from this point on. Before we know it the halfway point will be here and then graduation and we will again say where did it all go?
Final Score 3-1 Southwest Number 3 in the State!
Congratulations Men's Southwest Soccer Team. Final score in this morning's game was 3 - 1. Southwest Lakers finish a great and successful season as Third in the State!
First half score 2-0 Southwest
Early Metrodome results during first half -- Southwest leading 2-0.
Go Lakers!
Go Lakers!
No School for Students on Friday, Nov. 4
No School for Students on Friday, November 4th.
This is the end of the first quarter and Friday is a teacher work day.
Have a great weekend.
Monday, November 7 is the first day of the second quarter.
This is the end of the first quarter and Friday is a teacher work day.
Have a great weekend.
Monday, November 7 is the first day of the second quarter.
Thursday Soccer Game 8 am
The state Soccer Game is at the Metrodome starting at 8:00 am on Thursday, Nov 3, 2011.
Students are expected to return to Southwest at a reasonable time after the conclusion of the game this morning. Please telephone your permission for your son/daughter to attend and/or return to school late. Please include student ID number.
Remember there is no school for students on Friday Nov. 4.
Students are expected to return to Southwest at a reasonable time after the conclusion of the game this morning. Please telephone your permission for your son/daughter to attend and/or return to school late. Please include student ID number.
Remember there is no school for students on Friday Nov. 4.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Academic Help is Here
There is academic help available is every subject, at every level. Hopefully during parent teacher conferences you picked up a copy of the first edition of the Academic support, tutoring and study group resources. This booklet will be update periodically.
It is a listing, as of that date, of all the available resources available to support your son/daughter in her/his classes.
The large sign in the hallway by the court yard is one of many that reminds students that help is available. Now that we are at the end of the first quarter some may want to pay more attention to those signs and the resources listed in the support booklet.
The resources are also available on the Southwest web site. We want all of our students to academically do well. We want them to learn how to secure resources to be successful.
Thursday is game day and Friday is end of quarter
Attending the soccer game(s) on Tuesday or Thursday is not an excuse for a bad grade or not doing what is required.
Accepting responsibility is part of the learning experience. Nov 1 and 3 did not show up on the calendar instantly. The games have been posted well in advance. Yes, attendance at the games are excused with proper notes from home. But the work still goes on.
This has been a fun and wild week. But it is also the end of the quarter. It is important that all of our obligations are met and taken care of. Time management, responsibility and self discipline are all important learnings. In a few years none of us big people will be here to take care of you. Accept the challenge!
Accepting responsibility is part of the learning experience. Nov 1 and 3 did not show up on the calendar instantly. The games have been posted well in advance. Yes, attendance at the games are excused with proper notes from home. But the work still goes on.
This has been a fun and wild week. But it is also the end of the quarter. It is important that all of our obligations are met and taken care of. Time management, responsibility and self discipline are all important learnings. In a few years none of us big people will be here to take care of you. Accept the challenge!
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Men's Soccer Plays Thursday 8:00 am
Tough results from the Dome. Shot after shot missed by inches. Ball control, field position, tempo of the game were all controlled by the Lakers. But the ball has to go in the net to count. So the game ended and we were down 2.
That takes the Lakers to Thursday morning at 8 am. The team wants to go out a winner and ending third in the state is not a bad deal. Come out on Thursday morning and share in the event.
Remember that Thursday is an official regular school day. If you give your student permission then you need to telephone the attendance line or send on a note for the absence to be excused.
Check with you student. There may be a need to get work turned in by Friday or to come in and take a test. The grading period is
Over Friday.
That takes the Lakers to Thursday morning at 8 am. The team wants to go out a winner and ending third in the state is not a bad deal. Come out on Thursday morning and share in the event.
Remember that Thursday is an official regular school day. If you give your student permission then you need to telephone the attendance line or send on a note for the absence to be excused.
Check with you student. There may be a need to get work turned in by Friday or to come in and take a test. The grading period is
Over Friday.
Tuesday is a Regular School Day
Lots of excitement! Yes we have a fan bus(es) for the Men's Soceer Game leaving school at 1 pm today. If you signed the parent permission form that is an excused absence notice for your stduent.
If you are giving permission for your student to attend a family event you need to call teh atttendance line or send in a permission note with your student. These will be excused absences.
No note, no telephone call, no permission slip - then that is an unexcused absence.
Thank you
If you are giving permission for your student to attend a family event you need to call teh atttendance line or send in a permission note with your student. These will be excused absences.
No note, no telephone call, no permission slip - then that is an unexcused absence.
Thank you
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