Post Preparation Parties
NUAMES students have finished AP tests providing leniency in classes
Eat. School. Eat. Homework. Sleep (sometimes). Repeat. This is the vicious cycle of preparation for AP classes. These advanced courses have classwork at the college level in order to help prepare students for the exam at the end of every year.
“Oh, AP Euro, if that is not preparing me [for college classes] then I don’t know what is,” said sophomore Julia Adams.
NUAMES offers a total of four AP classes currently, consisting of Biology, English, European History, and Psychology. Once the test is over, the classes are no longer preparing for the exam, so teachers are able to choose what they would like to do in class.
“We are going to watch some Ted talks in class regarding psychology and the brain,” said junior Allison Bergold.
At NUAMES, it is a tradition for AP Euro teacher, Diana Bass, to have the class participate in the class Olympics. The class is divided up into teams where they represent a specific country. They then paint tee-shirts to show who they represent so they can participate in the Olympics. Sophomore Dominik Stewart said rather than just partying after the test is over, the activities in class provide a way for students to incorporate history in their class time.
“You realize what you are going to be doing in class after the test and it’s like, ‘Holy cow, I’m free’,” said Stewart.
By Michelle Rechis, Senior
“Oh, AP Euro, if that is not preparing me [for college classes] then I don’t know what is,” said sophomore Julia Adams.
NUAMES offers a total of four AP classes currently, consisting of Biology, English, European History, and Psychology. Once the test is over, the classes are no longer preparing for the exam, so teachers are able to choose what they would like to do in class.
“We are going to watch some Ted talks in class regarding psychology and the brain,” said junior Allison Bergold.
At NUAMES, it is a tradition for AP Euro teacher, Diana Bass, to have the class participate in the class Olympics. The class is divided up into teams where they represent a specific country. They then paint tee-shirts to show who they represent so they can participate in the Olympics. Sophomore Dominik Stewart said rather than just partying after the test is over, the activities in class provide a way for students to incorporate history in their class time.
“You realize what you are going to be doing in class after the test and it’s like, ‘Holy cow, I’m free’,” said Stewart.
By Michelle Rechis, Senior
Rising Up to the Challenge
associate degrees rising in number
On May 1, 2015, approximately 90 of NUAMES’ seniors graduated from Weber State University with an Associate’s degree. While the students worked many long hours studying and testing for this accomplishment, Vice Principal Dau would like to acknowledge those behind the scenes that made it happen. Because of a combined effort by the administration and counselors here at NUAMES, the numbers for the amount of degrees each year has been growing.
By hearing from the student body, the administration and counselors have, “eliminated some of the tripping stones on the way to an Associate’s,” said Dau. Offering CE classes in place of hard class requirements such as History 1700, English 1010, Chemistry 1010, and Math 1050 & 1060 have helped students significantly. “We had instructors that were qualified and did a good job of maintaining that same rigor while still providing opportunities,” said Dau.
Just because early college at weber is only open to juniors and seniors that doesn’t mean the sophomores are being ignored. Dau and administration have “sought out many opportunities for sophomores to get college credit.” They have put in a special effort to create many CE and AP courses to allow students to accrue a dozen or more college credits before they enter Weber.
By Haley Boman, Senior
By hearing from the student body, the administration and counselors have, “eliminated some of the tripping stones on the way to an Associate’s,” said Dau. Offering CE classes in place of hard class requirements such as History 1700, English 1010, Chemistry 1010, and Math 1050 & 1060 have helped students significantly. “We had instructors that were qualified and did a good job of maintaining that same rigor while still providing opportunities,” said Dau.
Just because early college at weber is only open to juniors and seniors that doesn’t mean the sophomores are being ignored. Dau and administration have “sought out many opportunities for sophomores to get college credit.” They have put in a special effort to create many CE and AP courses to allow students to accrue a dozen or more college credits before they enter Weber.
By Haley Boman, Senior
Build On It
taking the capstone further
NUAMES students are required to do a capstone project to graduate. The project type is completely up to the individual student. The class of 2015 capstone projects ranged anywhere from building a computer to making a YouTube video.
“I built a computer for my capstone,” said senior Trey Yu.
NUAMES students are told about their capstone projects at the beginning of sophomore year. This allows them to build on their capstone projects and take it further.
“I got a job offer for automated mechanics, if I accept this job offer it will allow me to pursue the mechanical engineering field.” Says senior Trey Yu.
NUAMES students were encouraged to build upon what they learned from their capstone projects, some students like Trey Yu may take it throughout the rest of their careers.
By Ivan Torres, Senior
“I built a computer for my capstone,” said senior Trey Yu.
NUAMES students are told about their capstone projects at the beginning of sophomore year. This allows them to build on their capstone projects and take it further.
“I got a job offer for automated mechanics, if I accept this job offer it will allow me to pursue the mechanical engineering field.” Says senior Trey Yu.
NUAMES students were encouraged to build upon what they learned from their capstone projects, some students like Trey Yu may take it throughout the rest of their careers.
By Ivan Torres, Senior
Steps for Success
learn how to enroll for early college and advice from counselors
Early college is a way to earn college credit while still in high school. Students are able to double dip with credit, which means that the college classes taken also go towards their high school diploma.
Counselor Lori Drake has this advice for all students. “ Learn how to do your homework and turn it in on time.” There are six steps towards “success” that the NUAMES counselors talk about.
Step one is to attend a parent information night. The people in charge will give information that students need to know about how to prepare for early college and to know what things are required for it.
Step two is to meet with a NUAMES counselor, either Drake or Mindy Nelson. They will help students decide if they meet the requirements, and whether or not they are ready for it.
To know if the student is ready, Nelson said, “[Have] good attendance, strong study habits, and the ability to maintain a 3.0 or B+ average.”
Step three is to apply to Weber State. Information on how to apply for admissions is found on this page: http://continue.weber.edu/nuamesearlycollege/students/admissions.aspx . There is a thirty dollar fee that is required, but only has to be paid once.
Step four is the meet with a WSU-NUAMES early college advisor. Once students have been admitted to Weber and their NUAMES counselor approves them, they can meet with an early college advisor. They will help you to know what classes you should take to help you graduate from high school and with an Associates degree.
Step five is to apply for a WSU scholarship. Steps to apply for a scholarship is found on this page: http://continue.weber.edu/nuamesearlycollege/students/scholarships.aspx . The scholarship needs to be accepted before the new college semester starts.
Step six is an optional step and is not required by NUAMES, but students attend a new student orientation hosted by Weber State. It’ll get students more prepared for the college experience and help them get familiar with the college campus. More information can be found here: http://www.weber.edu/orientation/early_college_students.html .
Early college isn’t for everyone and that’s okay. It’s okay to just be a high school student. Talk with your high school counselor to see if it is right for you.
If you have any question, talk with your counselor or advisor. You can also go to this site: http://continue.weber.edu/nuamesearlycollege/.
By Carly Fairbourn, Senior
Counselor Lori Drake has this advice for all students. “ Learn how to do your homework and turn it in on time.” There are six steps towards “success” that the NUAMES counselors talk about.
Step one is to attend a parent information night. The people in charge will give information that students need to know about how to prepare for early college and to know what things are required for it.
Step two is to meet with a NUAMES counselor, either Drake or Mindy Nelson. They will help students decide if they meet the requirements, and whether or not they are ready for it.
To know if the student is ready, Nelson said, “[Have] good attendance, strong study habits, and the ability to maintain a 3.0 or B+ average.”
Step three is to apply to Weber State. Information on how to apply for admissions is found on this page: http://continue.weber.edu/nuamesearlycollege/students/admissions.aspx . There is a thirty dollar fee that is required, but only has to be paid once.
Step four is the meet with a WSU-NUAMES early college advisor. Once students have been admitted to Weber and their NUAMES counselor approves them, they can meet with an early college advisor. They will help you to know what classes you should take to help you graduate from high school and with an Associates degree.
Step five is to apply for a WSU scholarship. Steps to apply for a scholarship is found on this page: http://continue.weber.edu/nuamesearlycollege/students/scholarships.aspx . The scholarship needs to be accepted before the new college semester starts.
Step six is an optional step and is not required by NUAMES, but students attend a new student orientation hosted by Weber State. It’ll get students more prepared for the college experience and help them get familiar with the college campus. More information can be found here: http://www.weber.edu/orientation/early_college_students.html .
Early college isn’t for everyone and that’s okay. It’s okay to just be a high school student. Talk with your high school counselor to see if it is right for you.
If you have any question, talk with your counselor or advisor. You can also go to this site: http://continue.weber.edu/nuamesearlycollege/.
By Carly Fairbourn, Senior
Stunning Statistics
The Class of 2015 defeats the odds and out does last year’s senior class statistics
Seniors everywhere are encouraged to apply for and be awarded scholarships that can be used for their upcoming college years. They are encouraged to work towards and receive college credit through their high school years. For many, this seems a hard task because of the tears, stress, excitement, and anxiousness that goes into such work.
“Live as if your success was inevitable,” says NUAMES counselor Lori Drake about the stresses and work of applying for scholarships and working towards reaching a higher level of success than previous years students.
As of May 12, 2015 the NUAMES senior class of 2015’s hard work paid off. They defeated the odds and outdid the last year’s seniors. “The most recent count of scholarships reported is 3.224 million dollars; whereas, last years was 2.47 million dollars,” said counselor Mindy Nelson who has been keeping track of such records all school-year long.
However, not only did the seniors do better in scholarship amounts but at least 90 of them will have an associate’s degree by the time they start college in the fall of 2015. “You seniors are amazing,” said both Drake and Nelson.
By Ashley Desmond, Senior
“Live as if your success was inevitable,” says NUAMES counselor Lori Drake about the stresses and work of applying for scholarships and working towards reaching a higher level of success than previous years students.
As of May 12, 2015 the NUAMES senior class of 2015’s hard work paid off. They defeated the odds and outdid the last year’s seniors. “The most recent count of scholarships reported is 3.224 million dollars; whereas, last years was 2.47 million dollars,” said counselor Mindy Nelson who has been keeping track of such records all school-year long.
However, not only did the seniors do better in scholarship amounts but at least 90 of them will have an associate’s degree by the time they start college in the fall of 2015. “You seniors are amazing,” said both Drake and Nelson.
By Ashley Desmond, Senior
Acquired Accomplishments
All the stress, all the tears, all the sleepless nights are all worth it when you get invited and attend the NUAMES annual scholarship banquet. The 2015 banquet will take place on May 18th in the Davis Conference Center at 6 p.m.
“We want all students there,” said Counselor Mindy Nelson.
Any, and all students, who receive and report their scholarship awards are welcome and invited to attend the scholarship banquet and will be given a free ticket to attend. It is a night for students, family, and friends to celebrate the accomplishments of the NUAMES Class of 2015 scholarship recipients.
“It is a night to celebrate you, the seniors,” said Counselor Lori Drakes and Nelson.
As the Class of 2015 is getting closer and closer to graduation, Drake and Nelson expressed what a great way this was to end your time at NUAMES.
“Come find your counselor if you need help with anything…except math”, said Drake when talking about helping students receive scholarships.
By Ashley Desmond, Senior
“We want all students there,” said Counselor Mindy Nelson.
Any, and all students, who receive and report their scholarship awards are welcome and invited to attend the scholarship banquet and will be given a free ticket to attend. It is a night for students, family, and friends to celebrate the accomplishments of the NUAMES Class of 2015 scholarship recipients.
“It is a night to celebrate you, the seniors,” said Counselor Lori Drakes and Nelson.
As the Class of 2015 is getting closer and closer to graduation, Drake and Nelson expressed what a great way this was to end your time at NUAMES.
“Come find your counselor if you need help with anything…except math”, said Drake when talking about helping students receive scholarships.
By Ashley Desmond, Senior
focusing on more than the A
students of the term honored for more than grades
Kim Davis’s room in D2 was full of pizza, students, teachers, and certificates on Thursday, April 9 for lunch for student of the term. The focus? Students who do more than just maintain A’s.
“This is really to honor students who do more for the school and for others,” said Davis.
Sage Jensen, Zach Rogers, Catherine Patrolia, Kierianna Merkley, Amanda Wiltsie, Katrina Cernucan, Andrew Plum and Sapphire Finn each received a certificate, a letter for their portfolio, and a gift card for their dedication. Students were honored for anything from how they treat others to how much of an improvement they made over the course of the term.
By Shalyn Roberts, Advisor
“This is really to honor students who do more for the school and for others,” said Davis.
Sage Jensen, Zach Rogers, Catherine Patrolia, Kierianna Merkley, Amanda Wiltsie, Katrina Cernucan, Andrew Plum and Sapphire Finn each received a certificate, a letter for their portfolio, and a gift card for their dedication. Students were honored for anything from how they treat others to how much of an improvement they made over the course of the term.
By Shalyn Roberts, Advisor
Rags to Riches
what it was like growing up with Nelson Mandela as a grandfather
On the 10th of February, Weber State University was fortunate enough to have the grandson of the late Nelson Mandela, Ndaba Mandela, speak to students, professors, and the public about his life and his efforts in changing the world.
The first time Ndaba met his grandfather was when he was eight years old. His grandfather had been put in jail and was about to be released. The jail was fancier than Ndaba’s home and he said, “When I grow up, I want to go to jail.”
Three years later his grandfather sent for him and soon enough, Ndaba moved in with him. While living with his grandfather, Ndaba got to go around the world on his grandfather’s campaigns. He was often asked about the animals and crime, and whether or not you needed a bodyguard when visiting South Africa. He response was, “I’m the grandson of the president and don’t need a bodyguard. Why do you need one?”
Growing up with his grandfather gave him the drive to want to change the world. “[Nelson Mandela] treated everyone the same. I wanted to do the same,” claims Ndaba.
One of the things he has focused on changing was racism. He discussed some of his ideas and ended the event with a question.
“How do you truly create an equal world?”
By Carly Fairbourn, Senior
The first time Ndaba met his grandfather was when he was eight years old. His grandfather had been put in jail and was about to be released. The jail was fancier than Ndaba’s home and he said, “When I grow up, I want to go to jail.”
Three years later his grandfather sent for him and soon enough, Ndaba moved in with him. While living with his grandfather, Ndaba got to go around the world on his grandfather’s campaigns. He was often asked about the animals and crime, and whether or not you needed a bodyguard when visiting South Africa. He response was, “I’m the grandson of the president and don’t need a bodyguard. Why do you need one?”
Growing up with his grandfather gave him the drive to want to change the world. “[Nelson Mandela] treated everyone the same. I wanted to do the same,” claims Ndaba.
One of the things he has focused on changing was racism. He discussed some of his ideas and ended the event with a question.
“How do you truly create an equal world?”
By Carly Fairbourn, Senior
More than just Academics
students honored for hard work and compassion
Having an A is an awesome feeling for most people, right? It's true that NUAMES focuses on high academic standards. But sometimes the things that come first are things like a decent work ethic. Things like caring about other people.
Second term's student of the term program focused on more than high academic achievement. For example, Whitney Lee and Jay Smith were honored for their effort to get assignments turned in and turn their grades around. Lisa Stoneham was recognized as someone who helps other students succeed. Kyle Martos was rewarded for not giving up, no matter how far behind he felt. Aziah Obcemea for compassion. And the list goes on. "These students have what it takes to succeed," said Davis. "It's about more than good grades. It's about hard work," said Principal Alan Stokes. Other students honored last term include Laura Sanchez, John Mamuyac, Jacob Hill, Victoria Gossling, Jacob Scarborough, Gillian Ellis, and Cameron Campbell. Student of the term takes place each term, and students are honored with a free lunch, a gift card, a certificate, and official letter from the school. By Shalyn Roberts, Adviser |
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BRING IT HOME: NUAMES students participated in the American Legion oratorical contest earlier this term, with Zach Zundel bringing home a 3rd place spot. NUAMES students who participated include Zundel, Adam Linman, and Karissa Wang. Kaden Rawson from Viewmont High School and Carson Robb from Davis High were part of the team as well.
(Pictures courtesy of Deb Hefner and American Legion)
(Pictures courtesy of Deb Hefner and American Legion)
Open for Opportunities
a message from Dau
NUAMES is a school that increases opportunities for students. Whether these opportunities are early college, more rigorous classes, high end robotics teams, or bettering transcripts for scholarships, NUAMES expands opportunities on all fronts.
One thing that Vice Principal Dave Dau says that drives him crazy is when NUAMES students leave at graduation with 12 or 15 credit hours of college and they feel like they’re a failure because they didn’t earn an associate’s degree. It bothers him because even though NUAMES has high standards, those standards must be adapted for each individual student based upon their own abilities.
“I’ve got kids that seriously think that a B+ is a tragedy, and some that find a B+ to be a miracle,” said Dau, but in the end, “it’s all relative.”
It’s known to most that NUAMES has extraordinarily high test scores, but to the administration they take the most pride not in these scores, but rather in the growth their students have achieved since first arriving to high school. “When a kid performs better academically than when they first came here, that means they have more opportunity than they did when they first came here,” Dau said.
This academic growth for the students represents the growth in the amount of opportunities they have and will have in the future. During an interview with Dau, he pulled out a graph comparing NUAMES students’ growth with other high schools that have similar demographics—NUAMES blew everyone else out of the water in every subject. When presenting this, Dau was practically beaming with pride over his successful students and ended with this note: “I love our kids—they’re the most accepting, kindest, quirkiest group of students I’ve ever worked with and I’ve loved every minute of dealing with them.”
Update: Director of Business Deb Hefner would like to remind all juniors about the ACT test on Tuesday, March 3rd—No school for everyone else! The test should be taken seriously as it represents our school’s growth as a whole. Study hard and good luck!
By Haley Boman, Senior
One thing that Vice Principal Dave Dau says that drives him crazy is when NUAMES students leave at graduation with 12 or 15 credit hours of college and they feel like they’re a failure because they didn’t earn an associate’s degree. It bothers him because even though NUAMES has high standards, those standards must be adapted for each individual student based upon their own abilities.
“I’ve got kids that seriously think that a B+ is a tragedy, and some that find a B+ to be a miracle,” said Dau, but in the end, “it’s all relative.”
It’s known to most that NUAMES has extraordinarily high test scores, but to the administration they take the most pride not in these scores, but rather in the growth their students have achieved since first arriving to high school. “When a kid performs better academically than when they first came here, that means they have more opportunity than they did when they first came here,” Dau said.
This academic growth for the students represents the growth in the amount of opportunities they have and will have in the future. During an interview with Dau, he pulled out a graph comparing NUAMES students’ growth with other high schools that have similar demographics—NUAMES blew everyone else out of the water in every subject. When presenting this, Dau was practically beaming with pride over his successful students and ended with this note: “I love our kids—they’re the most accepting, kindest, quirkiest group of students I’ve ever worked with and I’ve loved every minute of dealing with them.”
Update: Director of Business Deb Hefner would like to remind all juniors about the ACT test on Tuesday, March 3rd—No school for everyone else! The test should be taken seriously as it represents our school’s growth as a whole. Study hard and good luck!
By Haley Boman, Senior
Double Take
Seniors work together on capstone project
Two worlds, one family. NUAMES Seniors Emily Adams and Haley Boman had completely different ideas in the beginning, but as time went on, it worked out for the better. It all started with a $5,000-$10,000 scholarship to Utah State University that is given to those who help promote and educate people on healthy lifestyles. Adams has been interested in this and decided that it would best reflect her if she did it for her capstone. But she decided she couldn’t do it alone.
“You know vegetarian, I know cooking…we got this,” Boman said.
Taking only one week of preparation, many hours were spent meeting after school, buying supplies, preparing, and waking up early the morning of the project. Because food was involved, it had to be prepared in a commercial kitchen, and the one they had was in Bountiful. At least 2 of the hours was driving time. Once they got to school however, students crowded around the table of vegetarian food.
“It was a lot to do in a very short amount of time,” Adams said.
Double teaming is something that some students don’t think about when planning their capstone. Adams and Boman agreed that it was not only better to split the work between the two of them, but they both had different talents and ideas to improve the project. Not to mention they said it made the project more enjoyable.
“We could bring what we knew to collaborate…in the end, we learned to work together to make it good,” Adams said.
By Michelle Rechis, Senior
“You know vegetarian, I know cooking…we got this,” Boman said.
Taking only one week of preparation, many hours were spent meeting after school, buying supplies, preparing, and waking up early the morning of the project. Because food was involved, it had to be prepared in a commercial kitchen, and the one they had was in Bountiful. At least 2 of the hours was driving time. Once they got to school however, students crowded around the table of vegetarian food.
“It was a lot to do in a very short amount of time,” Adams said.
Double teaming is something that some students don’t think about when planning their capstone. Adams and Boman agreed that it was not only better to split the work between the two of them, but they both had different talents and ideas to improve the project. Not to mention they said it made the project more enjoyable.
“We could bring what we knew to collaborate…in the end, we learned to work together to make it good,” Adams said.
By Michelle Rechis, Senior
ACT: Easy as 123
How Juniors are preparing for the ACT
What is ACT test? It is defined as a national college admissions examination that consists of subjects including English, math, reading, and science. To NUAMES students, it means staying up all night and studying hard in preparation for this test. On March third NUAMES juniors are required to participate in the ACT testing. Most students feel that they are ready to take the test because they have studied hard and know their stuff. There are many different means for studying for the ACT, these include online tests, books, and flash cards.
“I’m using Schmoop, which was recommended to be used by NUAMES,” said junior Jessica Edwards.
Many of our students have had the opportunity to participate in the ACT as a sophomore. They prepared for themselves, through the ACT prep course offered to sophomores at our school. Many students are returning to their notes from the class to study for the ACT.
By Annie Hayes, Sophomore
“I’m using Schmoop, which was recommended to be used by NUAMES,” said junior Jessica Edwards.
Many of our students have had the opportunity to participate in the ACT as a sophomore. They prepared for themselves, through the ACT prep course offered to sophomores at our school. Many students are returning to their notes from the class to study for the ACT.
By Annie Hayes, Sophomore
FAFSA for Everyone
NUAMES counselors Mindy Nelson and Lori Drake encourage all students to fill out their FAFSA application
FAFSA, otherwise known as Federal Application for Federal Student Aid, is something all high school students are encouraged to apply for regardless of their aid qualifications. Many NUAMES seniors feel like they shouldn’t have to fill out FAFSA because they won’t get aid but as counselor Lori Drake persists “don’t assume you won’t get pell grants or aid”.
February is commonly known as FAFSA month for seniors at NUAMES. “If you don’t think you’ll benefit from doing it, than do it anyway. Often times it is required for the colleges you plan on attending”, said counselor Mindy Nelson.
The counselors are more than willing to help students fill their personal application out. Your parents personal information, your personal information, and your parents tax information is what is required to fill out and submit your application for possible aid. “It is important to prepare to fill out your FAFSA” said Nelson, if you have everything you need it doesn’t take too long to complete.
As Drake stated, “fill our your freakin’ FAFSA”.
By Ashley Desmond, Senior
February is commonly known as FAFSA month for seniors at NUAMES. “If you don’t think you’ll benefit from doing it, than do it anyway. Often times it is required for the colleges you plan on attending”, said counselor Mindy Nelson.
The counselors are more than willing to help students fill their personal application out. Your parents personal information, your personal information, and your parents tax information is what is required to fill out and submit your application for possible aid. “It is important to prepare to fill out your FAFSA” said Nelson, if you have everything you need it doesn’t take too long to complete.
As Drake stated, “fill our your freakin’ FAFSA”.
By Ashley Desmond, Senior
Acing AP
the adventure of learning how to write in AP
It is no secret that the AP test for some students can be difficult. But AP Essay club is here to help. The club helps students practice the skills needed to pass the AP Exam. The club focuses on writing; they write FRQs (Free Response Questions) and DBQs (Document Based Questions). They meet once every month and practice new writing skills to improve their essays. According to Sophomore Cameron Taylor the club doesn’t just help students to prepare for the AP test but with writing for other classes. He enjoys coming and feels like he learns a lot more than in the normal courses. He can apply what he learns a lot more than in the normal classes.
“Come wanting to learn or you won’t learn anything,” said Taylor.
On December 8, 2014 the AP Essay Club met and learned about writing better thesis statements. First, Shalyn Roberts, the advisor, gave examples on how to write a “killer” thesis statement. Next she had the class practice writing. They got into groups and chose one of the prompts Roberts provided for them to write about.
AP Essay club is an amazing way to prepare for the AP Test, improve your overall writing, and learn a lot.
By Annie Hayes, Sophomore
“Come wanting to learn or you won’t learn anything,” said Taylor.
On December 8, 2014 the AP Essay Club met and learned about writing better thesis statements. First, Shalyn Roberts, the advisor, gave examples on how to write a “killer” thesis statement. Next she had the class practice writing. They got into groups and chose one of the prompts Roberts provided for them to write about.
AP Essay club is an amazing way to prepare for the AP Test, improve your overall writing, and learn a lot.
By Annie Hayes, Sophomore
Break or no break? That is the question.
Early College students have close to no homework over Christmas Break
For some students, Christmas break is just that: a break. Students in Early College at NUAMES complete finals week at Weber State University a week before the high school break. Senior Donovan Wixom agrees that Early College students don’t have as many classes at NUAMES as the other students, so they don’t have as much homework over the break.
“I could only get homework from US Government because I’m mostly in Early College,” Wixom said. “I had one thing of homework and I did it before the break even started”.
Senior Kim Huddleston explained that she had mostly concurrent enrollment classes so she did get all the homework along with them. However, she decided to get all of her homework done before the break so that she wouldn’t have to worry about it.
“You hear about kids like, ‘Oh, I didn’t do my homework at all and now it is due tomorrow’ and it’s like, ‘Hmm, you should’ve done it’,” said Huddleston.
By Michelle Rechis, Senior
“I could only get homework from US Government because I’m mostly in Early College,” Wixom said. “I had one thing of homework and I did it before the break even started”.
Senior Kim Huddleston explained that she had mostly concurrent enrollment classes so she did get all the homework along with them. However, she decided to get all of her homework done before the break so that she wouldn’t have to worry about it.
“You hear about kids like, ‘Oh, I didn’t do my homework at all and now it is due tomorrow’ and it’s like, ‘Hmm, you should’ve done it’,” said Huddleston.
By Michelle Rechis, Senior
Putting Stress to the Test
the NUAMES administration encourages students to take some much needed time for themselves every once in awhile
Many people know that NUAMES students tend to stress a lot more than necessary. The NUAMES administration wants students to relax and take time for themselves as the term comes to an end, but to not forget about their homework obligations either.
As counselor Mindy Nelson stated, “sometimes in order to push ourselves we need to take a short break.”
Between classes, homework, jobs, and social lives school can be hard to manage. The NUAMES administration feels it is important to be able to accomplish all of these things, and still have fun. Some ways they feel students could accomplish this would be through meditation, taking breaks between studying, going to your favorite place, and practicing breathing exercises.
“Just take time to get away from everything for a few minutes,” says Nelson.
By Ashley Desmond, Senior
As counselor Mindy Nelson stated, “sometimes in order to push ourselves we need to take a short break.”
Between classes, homework, jobs, and social lives school can be hard to manage. The NUAMES administration feels it is important to be able to accomplish all of these things, and still have fun. Some ways they feel students could accomplish this would be through meditation, taking breaks between studying, going to your favorite place, and practicing breathing exercises.
“Just take time to get away from everything for a few minutes,” says Nelson.
By Ashley Desmond, Senior
TOP GUN: The Best of the Best
teachers aim to have students of the term represent the best of their class
We're #1
NUAMES students excel on SAGE exams making it the top school in the state
NUAMES students have always been known for their ability to excel and strive for success, but this last year’s SAGE exams brought that to a whole new level. Principal, Alan Stokes is impressed with the way students “don’t miss out on opportunities” and claims that he has the “best job in the world!”
The SAGE exams were new during the 2013-2014 school year, and were very different from any of the state tests students had taken previously. NUAMES scored the highest in both English and Science, and than third in Mathematics.
Deb Hefner, NUAMES Business Administrator, encourages students to “maintain this great standing as #1 school in the state, and to keep up all of the good work because it reflects well on us when we graduate with a NUAMES diploma.”
Students, teachers, and administrators are all “thrilled with our test scores,” as Vice Principal Dave Dau stated. Keeping a high standing for our school is important to everybody, and nobody has a doubt in their mind that we can’t keep it up. As both Stokes and Hefner stated, “NUAMES is high school heaven.”
By Ashley Desmond, Senior
The SAGE exams were new during the 2013-2014 school year, and were very different from any of the state tests students had taken previously. NUAMES scored the highest in both English and Science, and than third in Mathematics.
Deb Hefner, NUAMES Business Administrator, encourages students to “maintain this great standing as #1 school in the state, and to keep up all of the good work because it reflects well on us when we graduate with a NUAMES diploma.”
Students, teachers, and administrators are all “thrilled with our test scores,” as Vice Principal Dave Dau stated. Keeping a high standing for our school is important to everybody, and nobody has a doubt in their mind that we can’t keep it up. As both Stokes and Hefner stated, “NUAMES is high school heaven.”
By Ashley Desmond, Senior
Tradition and Change
journalism staff members face yearbook deadlines and newspaper changes
The life of a journalist can be tough- especially at NUAMES. The yearbook students here work on both the annual yearbook and monthly newspaper. The staff has recently made changes to the way they do things while working through a deadline.
“You think you’re on top of things, then two days later, you’re not,” said senior Ashley Desmond. Desmond is the Index Editor for this year’s ‘The Choice’ and makes sure students are accounted for what pages they’re on. She also makes sure every caption in the yearbook is up to standards. Desmond must do this for 48 pages on this first deadline.
While yearbook is going through its first deadline, the newspaper is going through some changes. Rather than having a word document for students to rummage through, the staff has unanimously decided on creating this website.
Newspaper editor Eva Pitchford says she “hopes students will pay more attention to the newspaper now that it’s a website.”
Desmond urges students buy a yearbook soon, before the price goes up and/or they sell out.
By Sidney Marchant, Senior
“You think you’re on top of things, then two days later, you’re not,” said senior Ashley Desmond. Desmond is the Index Editor for this year’s ‘The Choice’ and makes sure students are accounted for what pages they’re on. She also makes sure every caption in the yearbook is up to standards. Desmond must do this for 48 pages on this first deadline.
While yearbook is going through its first deadline, the newspaper is going through some changes. Rather than having a word document for students to rummage through, the staff has unanimously decided on creating this website.
Newspaper editor Eva Pitchford says she “hopes students will pay more attention to the newspaper now that it’s a website.”
Desmond urges students buy a yearbook soon, before the price goes up and/or they sell out.
By Sidney Marchant, Senior
You Are Not Alone
you're amazing
Have you ever felt like you're alone? Like nobody is there to help you when you're so stressed you can barely help yourself? Well, you are always more than welcome to stop by and talk to a counselor, vice principal, and even the principal. You aren't the only one that is feeling stressed this first term.
"The main thing to know is if you're struggling or stressed, just come in to the office and talk," Vice principal Dave Dau said.
NUAMES administration said that the main way to lower your stress level is to turn your homework in on time. It is harder to catch up than to stay caught up. Recognize that the homework load here at NUAMES is a lot more than anywhere else. Stop procrastinating. Procrastinating does no good for you and it only gets worse the more you procrastinating. Study a lot! The next piece of advice is to study so much that when you have to take a test you can do "instant recall." Instant recall is where you study something so much that when it comes to the test and see the questions you will already know the answer because you studied enough for it. Be prepared, because if you're prepared then you won't have to worry about anything. One last thing is to come to school. How do you expect to learn if you aren't even at school to learn? Don't skip; don't be absent unless you absolutely have to. It just makes you behind in school.
"Its not sexy, but the harder you work the luckier you get," said Dau.
The administration said that our teachers here at NUAMES are absolutely amazing. They are always willing to help you out when you need it. All you have to do is go and talk to them. NUAMES teachers are willing to help you as much as they can. It may not be as much help as you need, but at least you know that they tried to help you the best they can. Principal Alan Stokes said we are number one in the state. Without our amazing administration, students, and teachers then we wouldn't be number one.
"Our kids are amazing," said Stokes.
By Alexis Cowles, Sophomore
"The main thing to know is if you're struggling or stressed, just come in to the office and talk," Vice principal Dave Dau said.
NUAMES administration said that the main way to lower your stress level is to turn your homework in on time. It is harder to catch up than to stay caught up. Recognize that the homework load here at NUAMES is a lot more than anywhere else. Stop procrastinating. Procrastinating does no good for you and it only gets worse the more you procrastinating. Study a lot! The next piece of advice is to study so much that when you have to take a test you can do "instant recall." Instant recall is where you study something so much that when it comes to the test and see the questions you will already know the answer because you studied enough for it. Be prepared, because if you're prepared then you won't have to worry about anything. One last thing is to come to school. How do you expect to learn if you aren't even at school to learn? Don't skip; don't be absent unless you absolutely have to. It just makes you behind in school.
"Its not sexy, but the harder you work the luckier you get," said Dau.
The administration said that our teachers here at NUAMES are absolutely amazing. They are always willing to help you out when you need it. All you have to do is go and talk to them. NUAMES teachers are willing to help you as much as they can. It may not be as much help as you need, but at least you know that they tried to help you the best they can. Principal Alan Stokes said we are number one in the state. Without our amazing administration, students, and teachers then we wouldn't be number one.
"Our kids are amazing," said Stokes.
By Alexis Cowles, Sophomore
Captivating Capstones
capstone projects that set NUAMES apart
One of the hardest projects any NUAMES students will have to face is the senior capstone project. This project requires the use of many skills such as creativity, planning, and goal setting. Every senior must complete a project in order to graduate. You are assigned a mentor and work closely with them to finish this requirement. Each student chooses an area which their project will fit in. The areas you can choose are internship, research project, preparation and competition, service learning, or an artistic expression. Some students work on books, robotics, volunteering, etc. Junior Christian Kafton is writing a book titled, “The Chronicles of Ravariya.” For his capstone project. He chose to write the book because he said it gave him a reason to and he had always wanted to write one.
Kafton said, “Passion is what defines it,” when speaking about his experience with the capstone projects.
NUAMES requires capstone projects because it sets the students apart. It makes them set goals and work hard to see what they are truly capable of. Even though this is a senior project many students decide to start as a sophomore or junior so they can get farther ahead in the project. Included with your project is a portfolio that reflects upon your high school career. Included in the portfolios are certificates, awards, and other works that show your achievements at NUAMES. These projects express college readiness and are great to show off in interviews and applying to colleges.
After all the hard work that is put in, students get to show off all their hard work at Senior Capstone Night. The night celebrates the seniors and all of their hard work over the years. Lori Drake, school counselor, is blown away by what the students can accomplish.
“It’s a glorious celebration of accomplishment,” said Drake.
The capstone projects are one of the main things that separate NUAMES from other high schools and help to motivate and teach our students.
By Annie Hayes, Sophomore
Kafton said, “Passion is what defines it,” when speaking about his experience with the capstone projects.
NUAMES requires capstone projects because it sets the students apart. It makes them set goals and work hard to see what they are truly capable of. Even though this is a senior project many students decide to start as a sophomore or junior so they can get farther ahead in the project. Included with your project is a portfolio that reflects upon your high school career. Included in the portfolios are certificates, awards, and other works that show your achievements at NUAMES. These projects express college readiness and are great to show off in interviews and applying to colleges.
After all the hard work that is put in, students get to show off all their hard work at Senior Capstone Night. The night celebrates the seniors and all of their hard work over the years. Lori Drake, school counselor, is blown away by what the students can accomplish.
“It’s a glorious celebration of accomplishment,” said Drake.
The capstone projects are one of the main things that separate NUAMES from other high schools and help to motivate and teach our students.
By Annie Hayes, Sophomore