The Eagle Way

Edition 2012 #6 - Fun at Preschool(s)

2012-02-15T04:52:00.000-08:00

by William K.

By popular demand, St. Ethelreda has grown from 2 to 3 preschool rooms. Each room has a great teacher helping our youngest kids to grow and learn: Ms. Clair, Ms. Holland, and Ms. Blakeley.

Preschool with Ms. Clair
Ms. Clair has been teaching preschool for the longest here at St. Ethelreda. She explained that in addition to the extra preschool room this year, each classroom is a mix of 3 and 4 year-old preschoolers. In the past, these age groups were taught separately.

We are fortunate to have two UIC students aiding Ms. Clair in preschool: Charlise Berkel and Kenneth Brown. I spoke with Ms. Berkel and she explained that the UIC graduate students were there as part of a Department of Education grant on creating preschools of excellence. The grant hopes to study and create a preschool curriculum with a strong literary focus. Excellent.

Preschool students are busy! Some of the activities going on this day included:

Dramatic play at the laundromat: sort clothes, wash, fold, put clothes away,
Computer time using the Starfall educational website for reading,
And work at the writing center

Of course, there's always painting!

Preschool with Ms. Holland
Ms. Holland runs our second preschool room, and she has a long history with St. Ethelreda. She is an alumni of our school and also is a member of the St. Ethelreda School Board.

Ms. Philpot is Ms. Holland's aide in the classroom. She is new this year and things are "going well so far." Ms. Philpot lives right in the St. Ethelreda neighborhood.

During our visit, Ms. Holland was playing a memory game with the preschoolers.

Preschool with Ms. Blakeley
This is Ms. Blakeley's second year teaching preschool at St Ethelreda. She enjoys the new combined 3 and 4 year-old arrangement as it provides "more balance" in the classroom.

The children had an elaborate ice cream parlor setup where they were playing and learning housekeeping tasks. A number of the other preschoolers were at the computer accessing the www.pbskids.org educational website.

Here, Ms. Blakeley is helping some inquisitive students with their wood block puzzles.

Thank you so much to our preschool teachers and students.
What a great group!

More preschool photos can be seen at our photo set: Fun at Preschool(s) photo set
Photos by William K and Chanel B.

Edition 2012 #5 - 100 Days of Kindergarten

2012-02-08T12:49:00.000-08:00

by Dejah W

It has been 100 days of school already, can you believe it. Wow. The kindergarteners, Mrs. Boatman, and Mrs. Griffin had a party celebrating 100 days of school. When I walked into the classroom they screamed 100 days of school. All the boys and girls had on their adorable 100 day hat and glasses. They were so excited. They were really having a lot of fun.

Mrs. Griffin gave Trechelle a very special 100 award (below). Trechelle was at class each day for the first 100 days of school. Way to go, Trechelle!

I went around the classroom and I got a lot of different answers from the kids. Here is some of the response I got:

What have you learned in 100 days?

Kyra F: I learned how to tie my shoes.

Laniya W: I learned my words, ABCs, and my numbers.

Zariah J: I learned how to count by tens.

Miracle S: I learned my words, numbers, and to count by five.

Why are you are 100 days smarter?

Brooklynn C: I am a hundred days smarter because I am good.

Tony D: I am a hundred days smarter because I do my work.

Eric F: I am a hundred days smarter because I do my homework.

I asked Mrs. Griffin: What is your best memory out of the 100 days we’ve been in school?

Mrs. Griffin: My best memory was the first day I saw the kids try to read on their own.

Big thanks to Mrs. Griffin, Mrs. Boatman, and especially the Kindergartens. I really enjoyed spending time with you guys.

Photos by Mr. Bill and Chanel B

You can see our entire Kindergarten photo set here:

100 days of of Kindergarten photo set

Edition 2012 #4 - 4th Grade Spelling Bee

2012-02-02T13:05:00.000-08:00

by Chanel B

The 4th graders did a spelling bee using their vocabulary words from Unit 3. Mr. Cooper and I really enjoyed doing the spelling bee because it helped the students understand different ways to explain a word.

Splitting up into groups

First rule: There is absolutely no talking!!!!

Here are the spelling bee groups:

Group 1- Antonie J, Christian H, Trey D, Zachary B, Marquise C, and Alonzo V

Group 2 - Heavyn B, Bryan H, Kintrell J, Aeriell W, and Demaija E

Group 3 - D’shanti B, Elijah W, D’shayah C, Pauline W, and De’Janae B

Group 4 - Marquail S, Kenya W, Marquis D, and Donald N

Mr. Cooper interview

Q: Do you think it was a challenge? Why?

A: Obviously, my students were embarrassed by the lack of participation within their group. I’ll bet next time they will be prepared.

Q: Was this a great chance to see if the students studied or not?

A: Absolutely. I could have easily told you those who studied their list.

Q: How did you like the spelling bee?

A: I thought it went smoothly for being the first time. The way you used all four skills was very neat.

Q: Would you like them to do the spelling bee again?

A: Yep! We’ll let you know when unit 4 begins!

Places

1st - Group 4

2nd - Group 1

3rd - group 2

4th - Group 3

A special thank you to Mr.Cooper and 4th Grade for letting me use your time!

Edition 2012, #3 - Our Christmas Gallery

2011-12-20T13:34:00.000-08:00

Well, our photo contest didn't go as well as we had planned or hoped. Next year!

Until then, here are three Christmas photos from The Eagle Way staff. Enjoy!

1. Chanel B

Well. My friend was supposed to be putting up her own tree, but she wasn't sure how. So, I took over.

I like this picture because I decorated the tree, and I like the mirror reflection in the blinds.

"My Friend's Fantastic Christmas Tree"

2. Dejah W

This is my most important ornament. It's a snowflake on my Christmas tree.

I like the blue wall in the back. It looks different, frozen.

"Frozen Snowflake"

3. Mr. Bill

This is a light on a strand of lights on my staircase. It's a closeup. Duh.

I like this photograph because of the twisting wires that are in the background. I also really like the reflection of the light in the wood behind it. And... it's square!

"Light on a stairway"

Merry Christmas!

See you in 2012.

Edition 2012, #2 Christmas Photo Contest!

2011-12-07T13:22:00.001-08:00

Announcing!

The Eagle Way

Christmas Photo Contest!

Here are the rules:

To Enter - Email your Christmas-themed photo to senior_editor@stethelreda.org

Eligible - only St. Ethelreda students grade 6, 7, & 8 can participate

Judging - our criteria will be originality, creativity, a Christmas theme, and usage of Ashley's Top 10 rules as your guide. The judges will be The Eagle Way staff and our celebrity judge, Sister Caroline.

Due - Monday December 19, 2011

Prize - One winner will be selected. The winner's photo will be posted here at The Eagle Way (fame), and he/she will receive a deluxe prize package (fortune).

Bonus prize - The homeroom class of the winner will receive $50 of school supplies!

Notes - When you email your photo, please include your name, grade, and a description of why you liked your photo. Also, please comment on which of Ashley's Top 10 rules you used in taking your photo. Any student may submit up to 3 photos. Please email them in separately. All photos must be new and the original work of the student.

Good luck to everyone!
Peace.

Ashley's Top 10 Photo Tips

Ashley Macknica is a friend of The Eagle Way and a professional photographer in New York City.
Her website is: www.ashleymacknica.com

Here are Ashley's top 10 helpful tips for taking great photographs:

See it in your head - look at a situation and start to see where the best photo could be
Move around - a step to the left, climbing on a chair, or lying on the ground can make for a better shot
Stop to compose - it is easier to take a non-crooked photo the first time than to fix it later
Be bossy - human subjects may need to be told what to do
Notice the background - and change it if you don't like it
Turn off the flash - see what happens when you shoot in a room with fluorescent lights, a lamp, or just natural window light
Take the wheel - try turning off the "Auto" setting; cameras have lots of different modes which give you more control
Get insider access - ask for a seat up front or some extra time to take photos
Save your "outtakes" - wait until later to delete them, sometimes you will find good shots you might have deleted
Take your camera - take it with you everywhere and shoot as much as possible

Edition 2012, #1 Mrs. Johnson and Book Fair

2011-10-27T07:46:00.000-07:00

By Chanel B & Dejah W

We are having a Book Fair on Nov 1, 2, 3, & 4th. On Tues, Wed, & Thu, the Book Fair will be open during school hours (8:30-3:00). On Friday, it will be open during Report Card Pickup/Parent Conferences. On Friday, we will have free books and used books along with the new book fair books.

I interviewed Mrs. Johnson, the library teacher, and she sat down and answered some questions for me about the Book Fair. Here are the questions she answered.

Q: What is the best part of doing the book fair?
A: The best part of the book fair is getting new books for the library.

Q: Do you think children would buy a series of books?
A: Yes, because we will be giving out a series of books.

Q: How long do you think children or adults should read?
A: People should read every day for an hour.

Q: What grade levels books are you going to have?
A: Every grade level from K-8 and adult books.

Q: What do you think children will get out of reading books?
A: It will help them with spelling, test scores, reading skills and writing skills.

Q: What will inspire children to read?
A: Seeing the latest books and new things.

Q: What are your recommendations?
A: Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Ugly Animals, Bad Kitty Meets the Baby, and Super Diaper Baby.

Q: Which books will be the most popular?
A: The Dude Diary and the Girl Diary.

Q: How long is the book fair?
A: November 1^st – 4^th

Q: What are your goals for the book fair?
A: To add books to the library so students can get new books.

Q: Are you doing a raffle?
A: Yes, it’s going to be called “Books of your choice.” The raffle will be 25 cents per student. The students' will enter their name and the book they want. We will have at least 5 winners.

Q: Will there be any deals?
A: Yes. We will be giving out free books and coloring books. We will be selling used books as well.

Thank you Mrs. Johnson. We hope to see everyone at the Book Fair.

"Row of books" by Dejah W

Edition 2011, #18 Eagle Way Art Contest

2011-06-03T06:35:00.000-07:00

by Chanel B, Dejah W, and Mr. Bill

Welcome to...

The First Annual Eagle Way Art Contest!

We invited every student at St. Ethelreda to contribute some work of art to our contest, with the promise of "fortune and fame" for one lucky winner in each classroom.

We were overwhelmed by the great response we got to our contest. The creative entries we received from grades kindergarten through 7th grade were unbelievable. There is a strong creative fire burning at St. Ethelreda School to be sure.

Chanel B, Dejah W, and Mr. Bill were the judges. You see the winners and their work listed below. What you are missing is the incredible quality of so many of the entries that we received. It was a privilege to have so many students and teachers at St Eth contribute their time and energy to our fun contest.

This photo set includes all the works below and pictures of each winner receiving his or her prize!

Eagle Way Art Contest Photo Set

Thank you to all the students who entered our contest. And thank you to the teachers for their help in motivating their students to do their best. Thanks and enjoy some of the best of St. Ethelreda!

Kindergarten contest: Color the fox
Winner: Kiriana
Judge comments: I like this one because it is neat and the colors pop out at me.

1st Grade Contest: Color the horse
Winner: Kelli G.
Judge comments: I like this one because it is neat, and I liked the use of the colors used.

2nd Grade Contest: Color Spongebob
Winner: Ariel R.
Judge comments: I like this one because it's neat and the colors go pretty together. It's different because lots of kids didn't color the ground.

3rd Grade Contest: Write a story or draw a picture
Winner: "A Hero is Born" by Elijah W.
Judge comments: This is a fun, simple story with a great picture accompanying it.

A Hero is Born

When I was walking down the street I heard something fall out of the sky. It looks like a rocket. When I open it I saw a baby.I took it home with me. Then I showed it to my Mom. She said we could keep it until we found its parents.

Years went by and nobody said that it was their son. Finally he became an adult. Then one day someone hit him. He became very strong, then found his true home at the police special ops.

4th Grade Contest: Write a story or draw a picture
Winner: "The Story of Mass" by Caron V.H.
Judge comments: This is an inspirational short story overflowing with positive feeling. The picture was wonderful as well!

The Story of Mass
Mass begins when we all start practicing our song we sing when Father comes. He says, "Please stand." We start out with "In the name of the Father, and the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. Amen."

When I first came to mass I was amazed at the artifacts about Jesus. My Mom told me that mass was church, and it's on Wednesday and Sunday. So this is mass. How amazing!

the end

5th Grade Contest: Write a story or draw a picture
Winner: "Blue Witch" by Nyya W.
Judge comments: Most 5th graders submitted a story, but we were overwhelmed by the haunting, surreal picture of the blue witch!

6th Grade Contest: Haiku
Winner: "What am I?" by Jonathon R.
Judge comments: I like Johnathon R's poem because it describes a bee in a different way than most people describe it.

Yellow and black fuzz
Making honey for the queen
Live inside a hive

7th Grade Contest: Haiku
Winner: Untitled by Gregory T.
Judge comments: This is one of our very favorite entries of the whole contest. We talked about what the author is describing and each of us thought something different. It's amazing how much is packed into 17 little syllables.

Your eyes are in pain
If you stare too long you cry
Clicking all the time

Will there be an art contest next year? Stay tuned to The Eagle Way... we'll see you next year.

Edition 2011, #17 - Homework

2011-04-20T14:14:00.000-07:00

Eagle Way Homework
by The Eagle Way staff

It's standard operating procedure. The students at the Eagle Way decide what stories to cover and how to cover them. Independent work is a big part of working at The Eagle Way.

Last week, however, I asked my Eagle Way bloggers to do a rare "homework" essay. I asked them to read and then comment on this article:

“So you want to work at Google” by Anne Fisher
management.fortune.cnn.com/2011/04/07/so-you-want-to-work-at-google/

To me, “working at Google” is a metaphor. It's a metaphor for life and how you go about your business. It's a lesson we implicitly adopt at The Eagle Way. The article focuses on 4 important qualities of success and happiness:

Passion for learning and growing
Passion for what you do
Creativity
Initiative

Here's a similar (wonderful) article by Dilbert creator Scott Adams:

“How to get a real education” by Scott Adams
online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704101604576247143383496656.html

The student essays in reply to my request appear below. I found them interesting and enlightening. I was also proud of the effort and energy that the students' put into their essays. I hope you enjoy reading them as much as I did!

Outside the Square
by Dejah W

What I think about the four elements Google looks for is that it is a great way of showing what they are mainly looking for. Now I think I would be able to do this job, but I am not too good with technology. I know the basics, but the hard stuff I don’t know. Out of the four qualities, I think I’m the strongest in creativity and initiative. I really think I am able to get ready for a task, take pride in it, and to be creative. Sometimes you have to be creative.

What I think I should improve in is the passion for technology. I am really not that into technology. It can get very complicated at a certain point. St. Ethelreda helps me improve at being creative. I really get the chance to think out of the box. Ms. Finn really has some creative projects. She is always coming up with something fun. To me, being creative is not thinking in a square. It’s about going outside that square.

I think we do emphasize these things at Eagle Way. We always have to be creative. We have to have the passion to do a story. It's like a rule. If you don’t have passion or take pride in your work, then why are you taking the time to do it? If you are not going to put your all in it, then don’t do it. Also, you have to be ready and have the ability to do whatever you have to do.

Last but not least you have to have the passion for your team. Mr. Bill even said in the email he sent to us about this assignment that “I think we do emphasize a lot at the Eagle Way” Mr. Bill I agree, we do.

Photo by Dejah W

Ain't Seen Nothing Yet
by Terrance R

No, I don’t see myself working at Google. To me, to be in Google is a gift to a really gifted person who can really work the computer like designing, organizing, uploading, publishing, etc. I am more of an outdoor physically-gifted person who likes basketball, football, baseball, science, etc. Google is a great place to work, but I don’t feel very suitable for the job.

I think The Eagle Way has what Google is looking for right now. We all have the passion for technology and the organization. Whenever one falls, we pick them back up. We all have creativity, NO QUESTION. Just look at the structure of our stories, the view of our pictures, the organization of the blog page, and the background chosen as a team. Of course, we all take the initiative. When we see a story, we go after it. If it’s something the people want to see, we get it for them. We all have a time where we need to step up to the plate and take a swing.

I feel the strongest in INITIATIVE. I always want to get the job done. I take leadership and responsibility for myself and even others. I lead The Eagle Way to do better. I take a stand; I show leadership; I get it done before the idea even comes up. When people look at me, they don’t see just another person, number, or student. They see a leader, and if they don’t, you bet they will very soon.

Now that’s what I have to say. These are my thoughts and opinions. So, if somebody doesn’t believe what I have said in this, then they’re wrong, and they haven’t seen nothing yet!!!!!!!!!!

Photo by Terrance R

Google It

by Brandice W

I think their 4 qualities are perfect; right on the spot. I think the people being hired should have the drive to work for the company. I wouldn’t want to work somewhere that I don’t love what I do. They should love their job, where they work, and feel open to be a leader and express their ideas. I think Google offers all of that and more. If I had to pick my dream job, it would probably be working for Google. They offer me everything I love to do.

I think my strongest quality out of the Google’s qualifications would be passion of technology, creativity, and initiative. If I love something enough, I would feel free to express my thoughts and ideas to improve the company. Once I have my mind set to something I have a passion for, there’s no stopping me! Things that I have a passion for get me thinking about new ways to improve at it.

I think if it was anything I need to improve in, it would be the passion for the company. I don’t know about everything Google has to offer and what other services it provides, but what I do know is that the service that I use from Google is great.

YES, I would definitely be interested in working at Google. I love computers and technology. I like to figure out technical problems. It makes me feel like my brain is actually working. Plus I already adore Google’s service, such as my search engine.

St. Ethelreda helps me improve in passion for technology and initiative. Once we got the computer lab, I started liking technology more and more. Using the internet, and Microsoft Word and Excel have really opened my eyes to new ways to use technology. Just using Google, I can find ways to use Excel to make line graphs, bar graphs, and charts. Google has also helped me learn tricks to using Microsoft Word. Sometimes in school, students don’t want to do something because it may not be interesting to them, or they just don’t feel like doing it, or maybe they just don’t understand. My teachers always tell me there is never a dumb idea. So I’ve learned to always ask questions and always give ideas thanks to St. Ethelreda.

Photo by Brandice W

Passion for Technology
by Khadijah J

I think I would be interested in working at Google mainly because you have to know a lot about publishing and editing things on the computer. I work with computers, electronics, and editing a lot, so I know a lot about the technical engineering world.

Google wants workers who love their job and like being there, so they show them respect and passion. The people working at Google have passion while working there, so they want to be able to have a good imagination and good creativity.

I personally feel strongest in passion for technology. I need to work on my creativity image. I think St.Ethelreda helps improve passion for the company because they want every child to love the school and have respect for it.

We emphasize the most on passion for technology and creativity because we work with computers and cameras which help us for our life if we work in the field for technology.

Photo by Khadijah J

Conclusion - No Secret Ingredient

by Bill "Mr. Bill" Krieger

To young students, the notion of success and creating something from nothing seems overwhelming, implausible. The message in both these articles is BELIEVE! Work hard. Start something: a club, a company, a group, whatever. Immerse yourself in what you enjoy doing and keep doing it over and over again. Not only is success within your grasp, but you'll have a great time in the doing as well.

If I may quote the famous philosopher, Kung Fu Panda:

“There is no secret ingredient.”

It's no secret. All you need to succeed is to believe in yourself.... work hard, grow, and enjoy every day!
peace... yow, bill
wkrieger@stethelreda.org

Senior, Dejah, Rodriguez, and Kh... The Eagle Way
Photo by Mr. Bill

Edition 2011, #16 - 5th Grade Hero Award

2011-04-12T06:05:00.000-07:00

5th Grade Hero Award
By: Dejah W and Brandice W

With their book reports, 5th graders are sharing what their story is all about. Now don't think it's the old, ordinary book report. Mrs. Rex added her own little twist.

The format for the book report is way different. The students had to pick out items they thought would illustrate the story to their classmates. Also they put their items in a brown paper bag so their classmates couldn't see it. The students had to make up an award called "The Hero" to give to the person in their book they thought deserved it.

We got the privilege of sitting in the classroom, and the students were eager to share what their book was about. Here is what Mrs. Rex thought:

"I am always looking for new ways to engage my students in the learning process. I thought that my students would enjoy telling about their books using items from a bag. It also was a fun way to present book reports. My favorite part was when the students awarded "The Hero" award to a character."

Edition 2011, #15 - A Late Easter Break

2011-04-06T13:34:00.000-07:00

A Late Easter Break

by Khadijah J

We at the Eagle Way wondered why Spring break was so late this year.

Kh: "Mrs.Spells. Why is spring break so late this year?"

Principal Spells: "Catholic schools take Easter week off. It begins with the Monday after Easter. Instead of spring break we call it Easter break. Public schools call it spring break. Catholic schools call it Easter week because it always begins the day after Easter."

One of the minuses about late Spring break is that some children in public schools might already be back in school. We students at St. Ethelreda won't, and we may not be able to go out with our friends. The pluses about late Spring break are that we can get more rest and get more things done around the house. I am happy when Spring break comes. I won't have to wake up to go to school, and it gives me time to do fun things.

Thank you, Principal Spells, for allowing me to interview you and take up your time.

Photo by Rayan B.

Edition 2011, #14 - Vocabulary Challenge

2011-04-05T11:54:00.000-07:00

Sixth Grade Vocabulary Challenge
By: Brandice W.

When the sixth graders aren’t taking a test, eating lunch, or switching classes, they’re normally doing something in vocabulary. Vocabulary seems to improve a child’s speech. The more they use the word and see the word, the more familiar the word is to them.

We asked Sr. Bruno why every time we walk in the classroom the sixth graders are always doing vocabulary? This is how she responded:

“Vocabulary is very important. Because when you build up your vocabulary, you can improve your speech. If you want to study a specific subject in school, knowing how to spell a word, how to say it, and what it means helps you. Using new vocabulary words helps you express yourself more. You can use different adjectives instead of the general sad, mad, happy, or upset.”
- Sr. Bruno

We asked the sixth graders if they could use five vocabulary words in a sentence correctly. We call it the Challenge:

Kayla S: "This hypocrite is so disinterested that she will manipulate the serene assailant."
Kinta J: "Zachary is a martial, jovial, crotchety, pathetic, and gullible person."

Thank you to Sister Bruno and the whole 6th grade class. It was very captivating.

By: Rayan B

Edition 2011, #13 - Dr. Seuss and the Kindergarteners

2011-03-23T18:16:00.000-07:00

Dr. Seuss and the Kindergartners
by Terrance R

On March 15, the kindergartners spent Dr. Seuss Day doing a lot of creative and fun activities. They watched a movie called “Sneetchers” which was about a group that wouldn’t accept another group because they didn’t have a blue star on their stomachs.

They also made booklets about Dr. Seuss. I was able to look at one titled “Green Eggs and Ham.” The student made a booklet with rhyming words describing the actual story. The theme of the booklet was, “If you try it, you might like it.” They also colored some Dr. Seuss coloring sheets. All of the coloring sheets looked so creative and colorful.

The class had a “Mark Your Vote” board outside their room where all students could use stickers to vote for their favorite Dr. Seuss story. I think “Green Eggs and Ham” won. From my experience with the kindergartners, I can tell that they had a lot of fun that day. Dr. Seuss shall never be FORGOTTEN!!!

I notice the Dr. Seuss spirit in Ms. Boatman and Ms. Griffin. Ms. Boatman was a Cat in the Hat, and Ms. Griffin was Thing 1. Their costumes and joy really caught their students and everyone else's attention. They spread the Dr. Seuss spirit to the whole school. Even the kindergartners wore a Dr. Seuss hat to express their passion for Dr. Seuss.

It was exciting for me to write this story. The creativity from the students and teachers really got my attention. Who knew such young students had limitless creativity inside of them. I expect more stories to come from Kindergarten. They make a great addition to St. Ethelreda School.

Edition 2011, #12 - Can you spell "celery"?

2011-03-18T09:54:00.000-07:00

2nd Grade Spelling Bee

by Chanel B and Mr. Bill

The 2nd graders had a spelling bee on Friday, March 18, 2011. They had outstanding and challenging words to spell. There were nine spellers and within 4 minutes there were only four. Sr. Sheena and Mrs. Davis have taught those little ones some very complex words. When I listened to those 2nd graders spell I said “Wow these children can spell. They must have studied and studied all day long until they got tired”.

I talked to some of the students and here are their feelings:

Linda H – "I like spelling bees and I am very into them."
Kendall W – "I wanted to be in the spelling bee, but I didn’t make it."
Nekira W - "I like vocabulary."
Briana L - "The spelling bee was fun, and I liked the challenging words."
Mrs. Davis – "It was awesome. They had challenging words, and they were successful."
Sr. Sheena - "I wanted them to have a spelling bee because they are very good spellers and one day they will be in a real spelling bee."
Noadiyah J – "When I started out I was not good at spelling, but through studying, studying, studying I got good, and I always wanted to be a speller."

Celery was the final and winning word. Congrats to Noadiyah J on winning the 2nd grade spelling bee.

Thank you to Sr. Sheena, Mrs. Davis, and the whole 2nd grade class for your outstanding job.

The entire photo set of the 2nd grade spelling bee is available here:

Photo set - 2nd grade spelling bee

Edition 2011, #11 - 3rd Grade and Flat Stanley

2011-03-11T05:22:00.000-08:00

Flat Stanley
by Dejah W and Chanel B

"Flat Stanley" is a book written by Jeff Brown. It's about a boy that is flat because a bulletin board fell on him while he was in bed.

3rd grade and Mrs. Leonard came up with a brilliant project idea to send out their own Flat Stanley's all over the world. This project started in the beginning of October 2010. The students followed the adventures of their Flat Stanleys and their travels.

3rd grade students sent out 22 Flat Stanleys with each student’s picture. They decorated and colored each to make it their own. Flat Stanleys were sent to over 15 states in the United States. They also went to 3 countries: Canada, Australia, and England.

Each Flat Stanley went out with a letter asking their friends to let him learn about their community. They sent all of them out and got 18 back.

Here is a recap of where some of the letters went:

In a helicopter above Oklahoma
To Ohio state to see the Buckeyes football game
To Minnesota to visit a university
To Niceville, Florida air force space went in a fighter plane
To a local McDonalds
To the White House

The kids were so excited about some of the really cool things they got back:

Donald and Trey: "Our Flat Stanley went to the White House. We got a picture of the White House dog."
Kentrall: "Mine went to Ohio State. I got a jacket, CD, magazines, and photos of the campus."

And Mrs. Leonard said, "Flat Stanley was a great opportunity for our students to interact with people all over the world. We enjoyed reading all about each adventure and the pictures and souvenirs that were sent back to us. It will be a project that we all remember!"

Wow, sounds like Flat Stanley had a lot of fun and even made new friends. I wonder what it would be like to become flat.

3rd Grade and Flat Stanley (photo set)

Edition 2011, #10 - 8th Grade Questionnaire

2011-03-09T08:13:00.000-08:00

8th Grade Questionnaire

by Asia W and Mr. Bill

The 8th graders are our student leaders at St. Ethelreda School. So, we at The Eagle Way were interested in getting the opinions of our 8th graders on a variety of subjects. So, after the long Terranova test, we crafted a questionnaire and asked the 8th to take one more test.

You can see the full questionnaire here: 8th Grade questionnaire.

The 8th graders completed our questionnaire on Tuesday Mar 8, 2011, and results of the questionnaire are given below.

We wish to thank Mrs. Pass and the 8th grade students for the help and cooperation. We took a number of fun photos during and after the test that you can find here: 8th Grade Questionnaire photo set

Enjoy!

St. Ethelreda School - 8th Grade

8th Grade Questionnaire Results

The results of the questionnaire taken by 15 8th graders on Tuesday Mar 8, 2011.

Q1: In 25 years, which of these technology companies will be the most important?
Apple, Facebook, Google, IBM, Myspace, Twitter

Top 3 results:

Twitter - 6 votes
Facebook - 4
Apple - 3

...

Q2: In 25 years, which of these breakthroughs will happen first?
Man land on Jupiter, Computers smarter than humans, New energy source to replace fossil fuels, Cure for cancer, None of these will happen

Top 2 results:

Cure cancer - 7 votes
Computers smarter - 6

...

Q3: What is your favorite movie?

Results: Only 1 movie got more than 1 response, "Big Mama's House 3", with 2 students choosing it as their favorite.
Other movie favorites included: Friday, Titanic, I Robot, Medea goes to jail, Twilight movies, Race to Witch Mountain, Kiki's Delivery Service, I Am Number 4, John Tucker Must Die, Love and Basketball, Scary Movie 2, Coraline.

...

Q4: What is your favorite TV show?

Top 3 results:

Shake It Up - 2 votes
The Game - 2
Bad Girls Club - 2

...

Q5: What is your favorite book?

Top 2 results:

Twilight series - 3 votes
Diary of a Wimpy Kid - 2

Other books included: School of Fear, Impulse,The Wise Old Man, Matilda, Ghost Huntress, The Giver, The Ghost in Tokaido Inn, The Outsiders, Dead is a State of Mind, Blue Ford High series.

...

Q6: Who is your favorite musician?

Top result was Chris Brown with 3 votes. Other musicians receiving votes were: Mindless Behavior, Justin Beiber, Michael Jackson, Nicki Minaj, Beethoven, Trey Songz, Lil Wayne, Blink 182, Pink.

...

Q7: Who is your favorite athlete?

Top 3 results:

D-Rose - 6
LeBron - 3
"Me" - 2

...

Q8: Who in 8th grade is most likely to be rich and famous?

Top 2 results:

Terrance - 4
Anthony - 2

...

Q9: Who in 8th grade is most likely to be the President of the United States?

Top 3 results:

Robert G - 8
Kierra - 3
Virginia W - 2

...

Q10: Who in 8th grade is most likely to return to St. Ethelreda and teach?

Top 3 results:

Rayan B - 7
Deja - 3
Brandice - 2
Virginia - 2

...

Q11: What is your favorite Chicago sports team?

Top 3 results:

Bulls - 9 votes
Don't care about sports - 3
Bears - 2

...

Q12: After school, how do you usually communicate with your friends?
Email, Facebook/myspace, In person, Talk on the phone, Text message

Top 2 results:

Text message - 12 votes
Facebook - 2

...

Q13: Who is your favorite famous role model?

Top 2 results:

Tyra Banks - 3 votes
Oprah - 2

Other votes were for: Raven Symone, Lauren London, Chris Brown, Keri Hilson, Michael Jordan, Hayao Miyazaki, Malcolm X, LeBron James, Rajan Rondo, Monica Parales

...

Q14: Who is your favorite personal role model?

Top 2 results:

Mom - 10 votes
Brother - 2

...

Q15: What do you want to be when you grow up?

Top 2 results:

Entertainer - 3 votes
Doctor - 2
NBA/NFL player - 2

Other answers included: model, teacher, novelist or comic book artist, cosmetologist, tech person, journalist, author, art director, dentist

Edition 2011, #9- First grade Bible stories

2011-02-16T13:40:00.000-08:00

First grade Bible stories
By Mr. Bill

Last week, Sister Mary and her first grade class hosted parents and students for a Bible stories performance. The stories were done as a part of Catholic Schools Week at St. Ethelreda School. Each 1st grader got up in front of the audience and told a Bible story.

Sister Mary was very happy with the participation as "more than 15 parents were here." The students enjoyed the performance as well.

Here is each student and the story that he or she performed:

Damien - Jonah
Jeremiah - Noah
Kelli - Jesus in the marketplace
Jordan - God also loved the world
Davon - Joseph
Mikayla - Adam & Eve
Sirr - The blind man
Christopher - Jonah & the whale
Doria - Love your neighbors
Eriana - 10 girls
Datiara - The lost sheep
Terrance - David & Goliath
Imonie - Jesus & the wise man
Alexya - The tax collector
Joslyn - God made everything

I asked the 1st grade students whether 1st grade was the best class in all of St. Ethelreda School. They all replied, "Yes!" These students are a fun and enthusiastic group.

The 1st Grade photo set is at:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/stethelreda/sets/72157626069578086/

Thanks to Sister Mary and the 1st graders for this fine story.

Edition 2011, #8 - 7th grade science

2011-02-09T14:00:00.000-08:00

By Rayan B

Last week, Ms. Finn, the science teacher, and the 7th grade class did a project on “Electric Circuits.” The awesome idea of this project was to try and see if you could light up a light bulb with a wire and battery. Many of the projects succeeded and many of them did not. But no worries it was still an outstanding project.

I asked two of the students what they thought about the project and what they have learned... here is what they said.

Chanel B: “This project is great, it has taught me how to light a bulb using a wire and battery.”

Curtis H: “This project is very interesting. It has taught me that there are two different circuits. One of them are complete circuits, which is where all the wires are connected. The second is an incomplete circuit, which is where one wire is disconnected.”

Edition 2011, #7 - David Cain RIP

2011-01-28T11:25:00.000-08:00

by Terrance R

David Cain!!!!!! This was a man of honor and generosity. He was a machine because he knew how to fix problems. He had a big heart, and he would always show it . David Cain was honest, caring, generous, and fun to be around. He always had fun with the all the kids. He really brought out the kids’ joy.

Here are a few statements Principal Spells made at my interview:

Terrance R (TR): How did David Cain affect your life?
Principal Spells (PS): “ He taught me to give until you couldn’t give anymore. David Cain was always over my expectations.”

TR: What qualities would you use to describe David Cain?
PS: “Big heart, love for children, concern for everyone, fun-loving, never complains even when he was experiencing back problems, never says no, and always makes a way to get the job done.”

TR: How has David Cain made an impact on St.Ethelreda School?
PS: “ He always made sure the students had school supplies for the year. He gave computers to the Library. He donated furniture to Sr. Caroline’s and my office. He would collect toys from neighbors, family members, and friends. He always made sure that everyone had at least one toy for Christmas, and if there were 200 kids, than he’ll have 200 plus toys to make sure everyone got one. He was also able to spread joy by playing and dressing up as Santa. He always looked forward to playing the role of Santa, and he made sure the kids continued to believe in Santa.”

What an interview! So many kind words from Principal Spells. As you can see, David Cain was a man of his word. He will be deeply miss for his unfortunate death. He will forever be in our hearts. Principal Spells came up with a great idea and that is to name a scholarship or a room in his memory. So I know he’s in a better place now, and may he rest in peace.

Edition 2011 #6 - 4th Grade Recycling Project

2011-01-26T14:26:00.000-08:00

4th Grade Recycling Project
by Chanel B and Dejah W

You are now tuning in to EWB news. Hi I'm Dejah W, and hello I'm Chanel B. For today's news we are talking to the 4th graders and Mr.Cooper from St. Ethelreda school on recycling, reducing, and reusing.

The students documented items that they are able to recycle at home. They are trying to get parents to reuse things instead of throwing them out. Mr. Cooper said "If we reuse we will start to reduce the garbage each family produces."

Students are trying to get parents to buy items that come in recyclable packages. The 4th graders are bringing newspaper to recycle in St.Ethelreda's recycling bin. So, by Earth Day they will have a very successful project. Make sure you keep an eye out for 4th grade on their continuous project on recycling.

More photos for Mr. Cooper's 4th grade class can be seen here:

Photo set: Mr. Cooper's 4th Grade Recycling Project

Here are some comments that 4th graders sent us. Check them out:

Janae C: "I learned a lot about recycling and by us recycling we can save the earth."
Tre'Linique H: "I learned when you recycle you can reuse it."
James J: "I learn more things about recycling, reducing, and reusing that I didn't know before."
Mariah L: "I learned that I am able to reuse things."

See you next time on EWB news.

Edition 2011, #5-The last one until Jolly Saint Nick

2010-12-26T08:07:00.000-08:00

Christmas ideas

by Brandice W

Two Christmas haiku poems for you:

Please come and get me
My presents under the tree
Mom and dad love me

And...

Time for joy and fun
My sister's in the boxes
Everyone say cheese

Christmas Acronym

by Chanel B

Christ

Holiday

Respect

I won't forget this

Santa

Tender loving care

Mr. and Mrs. Clause

Another day

Santa is coming

Dashing through the snow

Angels

Yummy food

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year...
from the entire staff at The Eagle Way!

Edition 2011, #4 - Bathrooms with pants

2010-12-01T13:41:00.000-08:00

Bathroom, bathrooms, bathrooms

By Terrance R

Bathrooms, bathrooms, bathrooms!!! You have to keep them clean, both girls and boys. When people walk in, they may expect the bathrooms to not look so good. But if we all come together to keep it clean, they will know that we care about our school. Plus, you should keep it clean at all times by doing some of the following:

not wasting soap all on the ground,
not scraping the clean floor, and
putting all paper towels, tissue, and other trash in the garbage.

There are many more ways to keep the bathroom clean. If you care about your school, if you want to live a clean life, if you want to be known for your cleanliness, then join me, and together, we will keep our bathrooms clean.
I want each and everyone of you to think for a moment. Ask yourself this question, “ Do I want somebody to judge me on my cleanliness, or do I want somebody to acknowledge my character and say that he/she really cares about his/her surroundings.” I want everyone to join me in keeping our bathrooms clean, our surroundings clean, and, more importantly, our school clean.
This is Terrance R, and I'm encouraging you to stand up for St. Ethelreda School.

Girls With Pants 2

by Chanel B

I wanted to get Principal Spells' opinion on my Girls With Pants story.
Do you read the blog?
Yes, I read the student blog whenever there is a new posting. I have thought about putting this in the monthly newsletter to make the parents more aware of the student blog. This will give them the opportunity to read about the school from the students' point of view and also see their child's writing. They will also find out more of what's happening in school on a day-to-day basis as well. Then they can share this with co-workers, family and friends and get others interested in coming to St. Ethelreda School. What do you think about this idea?
Do you like the blog?
I absolutely enjoy reading the student blog. It gives me the opportunity to hear and to read what the students are thinking about our school. Reading stories and poems written by the younger students is enjoyable. I don't always see the good things going on in the classrooms all the time even though I try hard to visit each classroom every day. The blog helps to keep me aware of everything, especially the good that takes place in our school. It also highlights the great work that our students are accomplishing.
What do you think about girl wearing pants?
The school uniforms for the girls are a jumper/skirt with navy knee socks. On cold days, all girls are encouraged to wear pants under their skirt/jumper, navy tights or navy leggings under the uniform. On Tuesdays and Thursdays everyone wears jogging suits to school. I try hard to keep the building at a comfortable temperature so no one will be cold. With all of these options to keep your legs warm, I don't see us changing the uniform in the near future. If it is exceptionally cold in the building, I will quickly tell the girls to keep their pants on. In the meantime, wearing your skirts makes you carry yourselves in such a refined way and you are in uniform. Remember, girls, wear those tights or leggings (navy blue).

Edition 2011, #3- The last edition before Thanksgiving

2010-11-17T13:41:00.000-08:00

The season that keeps on giving
by: Dejah W

Falling leaves bare trees
Raking leaves from the ground
Messing up the pile
Now it’s time to do it again

THE ST.ETHELREDA LADY EAGLES VOLLEYBALL TEAM
By: Chanel B

Our volleyball team had a good season. We won 3 games and lost 5 games, I think. The volleyball members were:

8th graders: Brandice W, Courtney J, Virgina W, and Deja S
7th graders: Chanel B and Jazmine W
5th graders: Kaylin M, Ronena T, Kendyl M, and Therasa D

We moved on to the playoffs at St. Francis De Sales High School. We won the first game, but we lost our second game. The score was 8 to 25.

Volleyball was a lot of fun this year. We got to work with a lot of people. We would like to say a special thank you to Mrs. Spells and Coach Moore. Thanks to Mrs. Spells for letting us have volleyball and thanks to Coach Moore for coaching us. Thank you all so much.

We love to READ!
by: Brandice W

National Literacy Day happens every year on November 1st. This November 1st, St. Ethelreda observed National Literacy Day by reading stories, poems, and quotes (etc.) to our students, parents, and faculty. They read stories such as “O the Places You’ll Go”, “Pocket Poems”, “African Tales”, “Henry’s Freedom Box” and so much more.

Here is a quote from a teacher who attended St. Ethelreda’s national literacy night.

“I enjoyed it. I thought it was a great sight to see the parents reading to the students instead of the teachers reading to the students. It showed me how much the parents really care.”
- Mrs. L Pass

I attended literacy night as well. I had fun even though I came late. They had fun games to play on the wall, including hangman and a word unscramble game.

So if you love to read and show your support for a great school,
next year come on up to St. Ethelreda
and read a book to “tomorrow’s leaders”.

Edition 2011, #2 - St Eth Suggestions

2010-11-04T05:32:00.000-07:00

Pants vs. Skirts
by Chanel B and Asia W

We would like to change the uniform for the winter to let girls wear navy blue pants and our yellow shirt and vest. Why? Because it is cold in the winter and on Tuesdays and Thursdays, there is too much we girls have to put on under our uniforms.

The girls in junior high should have a choice whether to wear a skirt or a pair of pants(dark blue). It gets cold during the fall and the winter and the skirts are too short to cover the bottom half of your leg. When it's cold inside the building, most of the girls complain about wearing skirts both indoors and outdoors.

The pros and cons of St. Ethelreda
by Dejah W and Gregory T

Pro St. Ethelreda:
St. Ethelreda School is a very safe environment. What I love about this school is that someone is always there for you. The teachers and staff and principal truly care about the students. It is always something new that I learn every day. I appreciate my parents for sending me to this school. There are no cons to this school. There are only pros, and that is why I love this school.

One St. Ethelreda con:
I want to make some suggestions, like hallway patrol. The reason I want to enforce hallway patrol is because students always run, and they can get hurt. We can teach students a lesson by not running in the hallway, and if they run the will get a citation. When teachers are not in the hallway, students are always up to no good. So hallway patrol should be able to give them a citation for inappropriate conduct. I really think we should enforce this suggestion because it would stop a lot of commotion.

Eagle Way Upgrade: 2011

2010-10-27T14:13:00.000-07:00

Hello!
by Brandice W, Sr. Editor

The EAGLE WAY team now has new members.
Along with old members me (Brandice W) and Terrance R, our new members are:

Rayan B
Asia W
Dejah W
Chanel B
Gregory T

Photo "Mad Bird" by Terrance R

The EAGLE WAY is a growing family, and we are both honored and please that you decided to be a part of it, our readers. We hope that the Eagle Way team will grow and improve over the school year.

Kids who are looking for respectful school that offers a great education, great teachers, and great environment for learning, then you should come to St. Ethelreda. This school offers everything you’re looking for in a school. We show our strong belief in faith, our determination to learn, and we firmly believe that it takes a village to raise a child.

St Ethelreda's Kindness

by Rayan B
Something about St. Ethelreda gives me the chills. The love and care from both students and teachers is like no other. Everyone in this school is filled with a joyful spirit, friendships are everywhere, even if kids are brawling with one another. They either talk about it with the teacher or leave it outside of the school. The teachers are always there no matter what. Even in a family issue, they always listen.

I will kind of miss St. Ethelreda when I leave because I will be so used to all the care and love the teachers and students shared.

Photo by: Mr. Bill

Edition 10: Final Chapter 2010

2010-06-01T09:11:00.000-07:00

a) Poems and Stories
by William K. (aka Mr. Bill)

1st Grade Poems
The students in Sister Mary's 1st grade class wrote poems about nature for Earth Day. Four of the best of these poems were selected for publishing here in "The Eagle Way". Please click on the link below to read them:

Poems by Sister Mary's 1st Grade Class

The students enjoyed the assignment and said that writing their nature poems was "fun." Each of the first grade students created the poem themselves, working in class and at home. Then, each student typed their work in using the computers in the St Ethelreda computer lab.

Our 1st grade poets are pictured below:

1st Grade Poets: Briana L, Noadiyah J, Chanelle H, and teacher Sister Mary
Note: Poet Laila M. was not in school when pictures were taken. Sorry, Laila M!

6th Grade Stories
Sister Bruno's 6th grade class also submitted some substantial literary artwork to The Eagle Way. In this assignment, the students were directed to write stories related to a book called "Bud, Not Buddy" by Christopher Paul Curtis. This book deals with the difficult life of children in foster homes.

Sister Bruno was drawn to this book by its interesting title. In her class, each student read a chapter and then shared their reading with the other students. The students really "got into the story" and a writing assignment related to the book was born.

You can read four of the bests 6th grade stories by selecting the link below:

Stories by Sister Bruno's 6th Grade Class

6th grade authors: Angela W. and Curtis H.
Note: Authors Deja W and Christopher B were not in school when pictures were taken. Sorry!

Author Curtis H. was motivated to "tell people how it is to be a true orphan." In dealing with the difficult issue of foster homes, the students' stories were often very serious. But Angela W was heartened that "things seemed to work out in the end."

Thanks to all the excellent contributors (authors, poets, and more) to The Eagle Way!

b) Photo Entry
by Brandice W.

I took this picture in my room.

"Trapped in the Dark" by Brandice W.

c) My Jokes
by Terrance R.

I wanted to give you guys some blog comedy for the last edition.

What has a head and a tail but no legs or arms? A coin.
What did Superman go to for fun? The Super Bowl.
What has a bottom on its top? Your leg.
What do little ghost babies have? Boo-ties
Why did the deer cross the road? I have no I-deer.
What did the skeleton order at the restaurant? Ribs.
Who is cheap? Abraham Lincoln.
What type of underwear do boxers wear. Boxers.
What is a snake’s favorite subject? Hiss-tory.

d) Gigi Advice Column
by Gianna G.

Hey Eagle Way viewers,

Here I am (GiGi) coming to you once again with a challenging question from a concerned principal. Just to let you guys know that I will not be returning as advice columnist because of me graduating next week. So on to the next one as we young people say. So, here is the last and final entry that I have:

Dear GiGi,

Help! What do you suggest?
What action should be taken for students who verbally bully other students?
-Principal Spells

Dear Principal Spells,

I think that students who verbally bully are very bad people because you should not judge someone on their size, what their wearing, or even what kind of hair style they have. It’s just wrong of them to do that. I think that when a student reports verbal bullying to the teacher, principal etc... The bully(s) should be confronted and given a detention for their behavior. Also their parents should be called so that they can be notified of their child’s behavior.

Sincerely,
Advice Columnist GiGi

e) Comments from 8th Grade
by Aubrey S.

The year is coming to a close, and the 8th grade class will be leaving and going their separate ways. Most of the 8th grade class has been at St. Ethelreda since pre-school. I asked them what will they miss about St. Ethelreda School, and this is what they had to say.

“I will miss all the fun we had from preschool to 8th grade.” - Symone J.

“I will miss all my brothers and sisters that I made over the years.” - Angel B.

“I will miss the great learning experience” - Teron R.

“I will miss the great school environment and how everybody is close to each other and the strength of love from everyone.” - Kenneth C.

As for me, I will miss all the friends I've made and their kindness.

f) Reflection
by Symone J.

I have been at St. Ethelreda for 11 years. I have been here since preschool when I was 3 years old. Since then I have had many experiences. I have enjoyed my years here and hope everyone else has. I also enjoyed being senior editor of the blog. I will miss this school, friends, and teachers.

I am happy to graduate this year with the St. Ethelreda class of 2010.

Edition 9: Interviews

2010-05-10T18:39:00.000-07:00

6th Grader Interview
by Brandice W.

Interviewer: “What made you come up with the haiku?”

Angela W. “I walked outside and I saw a dandelion. Dandelions make me think about life and make me feel curious.”

Here is Angela W. haiku:

I grow in your grass
People say I am a weed
Blow me and seeds fly

Interview With Student Teacher
by Symone J., Teron R., and Aubrey S.

Recently we interviewed the student teacher Julie Banta. We asked her a few questions.

What have you learned so far about teacher here?
"I've learned how to teach reading and how to incorporate it with science."

Why do you enjoy being here?
"It is a positive environment. I also enjoy watching students learn. I think reading is really important"

Second Grade Poem
by Briana L.

I have seen the trees are green.
I also knew the sky is blue.
The leaves fall down upon the ground,
The water is light and very bright,
The flowers are beautiful, this is true.
And the plants are pretty too.

Lets Go Green
by Aubrey S.

"Earth Day" by Teron R.

Early Years are Learning Years At St.Ethelreda

Earth Day started on April 22, 1970. Earth Day helps people understand the extra use of electricity and water is not necessary. Some people join together and clean and plant flowers in their environment.

Kindergarten – 2nd grade and a few 8th graders cleaned around the school. They pick up trash, raked the grass, and planted flowers.

Spirit Day

Spirit Day

Edition 8: Spring Time

2010-04-15T10:26:00.000-07:00

Spring Break Stories

by Symone J.

The Eagle Way staff had a wonderful Spring Break.
Please enjoy the following Spring Break stories, real and imagined.

Symone's Spring Break Story

Over the spring break I was over my dad’s house. While there, I was babysitting my oldest nephew Jonathan. He is six years old. I was basically spending time with my other family. I got to spend time with my sister Menia, father, God mother, my two nephews Jonathan and Ethan. Ethan is the youngest. He is 1 years old, going on 2 in May.

We also went out to the movies and out to eat during the week. Mostly I stayed in watching movies with Jonathan. It was fun though while I was waiting for everyone to get home. We had dinner together every night. The food was delicious.

The thing that I didn’t do over break that I was supposed to do was my science project. Honestly I thought about it, but really didn’t want to do it because it wasn’t due till almost a week later. I wanted to spend this spring break just relaxing. Every spring break we have a project to do. I think this is the first time ever we didn’t have a project due when we came back on the next Monday. I really enjoyed my spring break.

Mr. Bill's Spring Break Story

I spent my Spring Break in Phoenix, Arizona. The weather was beautiful - 85 and sunny each day. I was lounging by the pool, when I realized that something was missing from my vacation. It was then that I decided to tryout for the Chicago Cubs upcoming 2010 season.

So, I ran to the store and bought a Cub jersey. I always bring my mitt on vacation, so that was no problem. I got in my rental car and drove to the Cubs spring training home, Ho Ho Kam Park. With price tags still dangling from my new jersey, I ran onto the field and played catch with the other players. It was so much fun. I was in line at the batting cage when a uniformed security officer asked who I was and why I was there. I smiled and happily explained my mission of making the Cubs team this year to the young security guard.

Well, I was promptly escorted off the field. I'm not sure, but I think they may have even banned me from attending any future Cub spring training games. That's OK. It was a fun time for me, and I returned to the pool a happy vacationer with an interesting story.

Terrance's Spring Break Story

This is what I did over spring break. I didn’t do much over the break, but I did do something. I played a lot of CODMW2 which is Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2. I watch some Family Guy, and some of the characters I can name are Peter, Stewie, my favorite, Brian, Lois, Meg, Chris, Quagmire, Cleveland, Joe, Francis, and Adam West. I played some baseball at Hayes Park with my team, the Wrightwood Yankees. I went to church where they made me serve mass on my day off. I mean when feel like relaxing you just want to do nothing, but you just got to do something. I had to go to the store with my mom, and don’t you dislike when your mom says she’s going to buy some milk, but you end up paying over $100. Anyway, I just ate, slept, played CODMW2, and watched a lot of TV over the break.

Brandice's Spring Break Story
What I did for spring break was so AWESOME!!!

First thing I thought about was…where to go? So I booked a trip to Africa to get to know my people and I met this woman who had 11 toes, 12 fingers, 3 eyes, and 4 ears. She knew EVERYTHING in her village! She told me that she saw my long lost cousin walking down the road the other day. Then she said my cousin booked a trip to Paris, France two days before I arrived in Africa.

The next day I booked a trip to Paris, France to try and find my long lost cousin. I ran into a woman that had only one foot with 3 toes and a monkey and she said that my long lost cousin went to Chicago to find me. Once I heard that, I rushed BACK to the airport and booked ANOTHER trip back to Chicago. After three hours looking for my cousin at the airport, I decided to head home and call around in the morning. Once I stepped in the door I saw my long lost cousin. All I could do was cry tears of JOY!!!! And that was how I spent my spring break.

As Fresh as Spring Time

by Teron R.

Edition 7 - Basketball, Advice, and Nachos

2010-03-02T10:17:00.000-08:00

"Killer Nachos"
photo by Teron R

Basketball All-stars
by Terrance R.

The 7th and 8th grade has been doing well this season. In fact, we won our All Star Game 64 to 39! The people who made the All Star Team were Kendall, Isaac, and myself, Terrance. Our full squad is Kendall, Isaac, Curtis, Alante, Kenneth, and Terrance.

If you want to check us out, come to our next game at St. Columbanus at 9:00 a.m. If you need additional information, contact Coach Moore or the teammates. I promise that you will be entertained if you come.

We practice on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the St. Ethelreda Harold Washington Assembly Hall and Saturdays at Ada Park. So please, take the time to watch us play.

Here are some comments from the team:

Kendall: “I think we will do well with the reliable and good teammates we have.”

Isaac: “I believe that we will get more wins. I can’t wait for the playoffs.”

Curtis: “Even though we have only six players, we still manage to win games and try our best.”

Alante: “ I like this team very much. They help each other out, they communicate during a game, they give you advice, and they always bring you up when you’re down.”

Kenneth: “ Even though I joined in the middle of the season, I still think we can beat many teams. I was shocked when I saw this team play. This team is tremendous.”

Terrance: “ I believe that this team can go far. I am really looking forward to the playoffs. With this squad, I expect to play well.”

GiGi Advice Column
by Gianna G.

Hey Eagle Way Viewers,

My first entry was a hit with the crowd, so the Eagle Way blog staff and I want this second entry to have even more supporters than the first one. This question that I’m going to present to you is a brain teaser, well not really {Ha-Ha}! So here is my second entry:

Dear GiGi,

I need your advice. What should I do about students who won’t complete assignments?

I have talked to them, called their parents, and had conferences. I have even emailed some of their parents. They might do their work for a week or two, and then they stop again. I have also kept them after school. Miss GiGi, I need your help. Do you have any other suggestions?

Thank you very much. I value your opinion.
Principal Spells

Dear Principal Spells,

All the answers you need are right here. I think that all the procedures you have gone through are great. If I were a principal I would go through the same procedures that you did. I think that you should start giving the teachers the “ok” to give the students the grades they deserve which will likely result in being a low grade because of the missing assignments.

Personally, as a student, I would really change my ways as the result of poor grades. Believe me; I have experienced receiving a poor grade because of missing assignments. Another suggestion is that you could inform the parents that the child has to remain at home until ALL the work is completed.

Sincerely,
Gigi
Advice Columnist

Edition 6 - Eagle Cheer Explosion

2010-02-18T10:19:00.000-08:00

Cheerleader Victory

by Brandice W.,photos by Teron R.

The cheerleading season for the Eagle Cheer Explosion has TAKIN' OFF!! The cheerleaders have come so far from what they used to be. The first competition for the Eagle Cheer Explosion was a HUGE step up from last year. We got third place out of six teams. Our previous competition at St. Rita was amazing. We also placed fourth out of nine teams.

The (ECE) cheerleaders have worked hard during the past four months. In fact, we're entering an ALL-STAR competition in March. ALL-STAR cheerleading is more skilled than school competitions, the stunts are more difficult, the dances are longer, and the uniforms have more sparkles.

Here are quotes from the Captain, Brandice, and Co-Captain, Lydia:

Captain: “I am proud to be the captain. I want to thank Coach Nash and Coach Murray for putting their time and effort into this team."
Co-Captain: “I’m excited to go to an ALL-STAR competition. I just hope my team is ready to blow the judges away!”

6th Grade Prayer

By Aubrey S.

In religion class, junior high students were asked to write a prayer for their class.

6th grade prayer

Lord, we thank you for allowing us to wake up this morning. Thank you for all that you have done and what you continue to do. We would like to pray that everyone who has been affected by the disaster in Haiti may find shelter, food and clothes. We pray for all those with financial difficulties that they may find comfort, and ease their struggling. Lord please protects us from any harm as we start our day at St.Ethelreda School. We thank you for protecting us from danger that has come our way and in the world. We pray that all forms of violence in the world come to the end.

Edition 5 - Season of Winter

2010-02-02T10:34:00.000-08:00

Winter Wonderland
By Aubrey S.

Hi! My name is Aubrey, and I decided to have a winter story contest for the junior high students. 8th grader Angel B. won the contest. Here is her wonderful story entitled "Winter Wonderland."

Winter Wonderland
I felt a shiver down my spine simultaneously as I stepped out of the door. I cringed as the wind gushed to my eyes, down to my cheeks, and finally to my now crusting lips from the blistering cold. It is officially winter.

I trudge down the street with little pieces of the sky filling my shoes. Squish, squish, squish is all that I hear. The streets and trees are pulverized with snow. It is completely deserted outside leaving me to my thoughts and my thoughts alone.

But I’m not alone.

I am surrounded with billions of my white, fluffy, flurry, microscopic friends. My hands are as cold as ice and solid as rock. I stretch my hand out to catch the little pieces of heaven. I catch a quick glimpse of the intricate designs before it quickly dissolves into my hand. The brilliant sun almost blinds me as its rays reflect on the streets and glisten against the mountainous powdery snow banks.

An SUV covered in snow rushes past me and slightly showers me with snow. I don’t mind. Just the thought of winter makes me feel care free. Like a weight has been lifted off of my shoulders. I take a deep breath of the crisp clean air. I feel free. I am completely in a daze. I stick my tongue out, and I can taste the pureness of it all. I reach out to the sky as if I can touch it…

RRRRIIIIINNNNNGGGG!

My eyes shot open. I then realize I am in my 5th period biology class, and I daydreamed through it all. “Miss Connors,” my teacher snarls though clenched teeth. “Thank you for finally joining us but unfortunately class is over. Good luck on the quiz tomorrow,” she says half amused. I peer out of the window with disappointment. The sun is gleaming on the foliage outside. Only 132 days until winter!

Angel B.

Crazy Sock Photos
By Symone J. and Teron R.

Wondering why you see all these crazy socks? The students had crazy sock day. Each student got a chance to wear their crazy socks to school. These photos show how much fun we had on crazy sock day.

GiGi Advice Column
By Gianna G.

Hey Eagle Way Viewers, I am the new Eagle Way advice columnist, Gianna, and this is my first entry for our wonderful student blog.

I wanted to start the advice column because I’ve always wanted to give advice to people who needed help with their problems, especially those who cannot talk to anybody else.

In the future, I would like to be helpful to other people. My advice column is open to anybody who wants to submit questions. Send them to senior_editior@stethelreda.org.

Here is my first entry:

Dear Gigi,
How can I balance homework and extracurricular activities
with recreational things?

Sincerely,
Angel B

Dear Angel B,

Homework should be the first thing you think of before anything else. If you have homework to do on a certain day, you would have to miss the extracurricular activities to do your homework. School always comes before anything else!

Sincerely,
Gigi
Advice Columnist

Edition 4 - Lego League

2010-01-21T10:33:00.000-08:00

St Ethelreda Lego League Team Wins Trophy!
by Symone J, Senior Editor

As you all know, our school has a science club called Lego League. We presently have four members: Ebony, Angel, Symone, and Deja. Lego League is based on Lego Robotics. Every year we go to a regional competition where the teams compete in the areas of robot mission runs, research, technical skills, and team work. We also have a research project that we have to create. The Saint Ethelreda team, Eagle Explosion, has competed for the past three years.

This year’s problem was about the safe passage of children from their homes to school, and we had to build a robot that would complete all of the missions on the mission table. We had to pick up loops, knock down access markers, go over or under the bridge, and end up in the target spot all without losing the people on the robot. For our research project, we created a solution called Eagle Eye, a camera that would be placed in outer space to watch youth travel daily from home and school so they would be safe. The Eagle Eye camera can catch criminals using nanotechnology. These cameras would be placed on every street corner at the stop lights. They would not be too obvious so criminals would not notice them.

At the end of this year’s competition we received a research award for our project Eagle Eye. We did not make it to state, but we did very well.

Lego League Team: Angel, Ebony, Deja, Symone

Edition 3 - Christmas Edition

2009-12-18T10:25:00.000-08:00

Edition 3 - Dec 18, 2009

Our new name
Welcome to "The Eagle Way."

Our new name was selected by a vote of the entire St. Ethelreda School students, faculty and staff. Thank you to everyone for helping. We look forward to bigger and better things... starting this holiday season.

As Coach Moore told us, "It's The Eagle Way or no way!"

Peace, The Eagle Way staff

Christmas Poem
Please enjoy an original Christmas poem by our own Junior Editor, Brandice W.

“The Best Day Ever” by Brandice W

Born on Christmas Day
The most special day of the year
A child is born whom you shouldn’t fear
Not in a house nor in an Inn
But in a manger filled with glistening wind
The Virgin Mary gave birth to the Son of God that day
Immaculate Mary the purest of all
I think about her every winter, spring, and fall
I close this poem wishing you the best Christmas ever
Let God live in our hearts forever and ever

Christmas photo by Teron R.

Merry Christmas!

Edition 2 - Our Name Vote

2009-11-17T10:06:00.000-08:00

Edition 2 - Nov 19, 2009

This edition includes 3 articles:

Name Vote
Interview with Coach Moore
Reviews from the opera

1. Name Vote
by Symone J, Senior Editor

Hello St. Ethelreda students and staff. In this addition of our blog we are choosing a name for the blog. So far our choices are:

The Eagle Way
The Eagleville Word

If you have anymore suggestions, please leave a comment or email the senior editor at sr_editor@stethelreda.org, also if you would also like to vote, leave a comment and we will add it
to our list and eventually choose a name. Please be on the lookout for more name suggestions.

We will also be coming to your classrooms to vote on the names. We would love to have one of your own thoughts in our blog. We would also love to hear from our students on other ideas, but for now let’s stick to the names.

Remember, if you have any ideas about what we can add to the blog please email the senior editor at sr_editor@stethelreda.org.

THANKS A BUNCH!!!!

2. Interview with Coach Moore
by Terrance R & Brandice W

This rather brief interview with Coach Moore was done on November 13, 2009. Coach Moore is a busy man and has little time to talk, so we tried to make the most out of his BRIEF statements. Coach Moore coaches at St. Elizabeth, St. Ethelreda and Ada Park. He is also a coach for tumbling, gymnastics, basketball, tackle football, softball, flag football and volleyball.

Terrance R: How do you expect the season to turn out?
"Great"

Brandice W: What is your BIGGEST accomplishment with a sport or team?
"2007... k-2nd grade division basketball team championship."

Terrance R: What grade do you think will go the farthest?
"K-2nd"

Brandice W: What sport do you expect to succeed the most?
"Track because they will reap all the benefits of hard work. The runners are disciplined and they know when to focus."

Brandice W: What is your favorite sport and why?
"Football... it gives gratification... giving you the satisfaction of hitting someone physically... it releases tension and it requires strength."

Terrance R: What was the first sport you coached?
"Basketball"

Brandice W: Why are you a coach?
"I LOVE KIDS...because I had excellent coaches and father figures when I was growing up. They showed me tremendous guidance. My coaches told me one thing is to give back to the kids. Once you start coaching, you get hooked. I've been coaching for 29 years. I get really emotional when I see 'my kids' graduate. I want to get kids off the street and get their heads together. My goal is to re-shape them to be something better."

A big thanks to Coach Moore for giving us 19 minutes of his time. Coach Moore is a man of his word, and as some people would say, he "LOVES THE KIDS." God bless you and have a nice day.

3. Review from the opera
by Aubrey S.

Recently, the 3rd through 8th grade went to Simeon Academy High School to see “The Elixir of Love” Opera. The opera took place in Italy during the 1800’s. It was about a young peasant named Nemorino that was in love with a wealthy young lady named Adina. There was also a sergeant named Belcore that wanted to marry Adina. She really didn’t like him but since he asked her to marry him she agreed although she was in love with Nemorino. Then Nemorino bought a love elixir from a quack doctor named Doctor Dulcamara that would make her fall in love with him. At the end ,the Adina married Nemorino,and they were very happy together.

The characters were:

Adina - a young wealthy lady/farmer
Nemorino – a poor, literate peasant who loves Adina
Belcore – a sergeant in charge of the local military
Doctor Dulcamara – a traveling salesman (or quack)

Here is what some teachers and students had to say about "The Elixir of Love"

The Reviews of “The Elixir of Love” Opera:

"The opera was educational and encouraging.”
- Sr.Bruno, 6th grade homeroom teacher

“The Elixir of Love was excellent! It gave students an experience of a professional opera performance”
- Ms.Finn ,7th grade homeroom teacher

“I enjoyed the opera it was funny and interesting”
- Symone J.,8th grade student

Our First Edition

2009-11-03T10:47:00.000-08:00

Edition 1.00 - Nov 3, 2009

Our first edition includes 3 articles:

Welcome
Interview with Principal Spells
Selecting our Name

1. Welcome

Welcome to the premier edition of the St. Ethelreda student blog. The goal of our blog is to showcase the talents and ideas of the students and faculty of St. Ethelreda for all to see on the web.

We are still defining our blog. We don’t even have a name yet! But we’re working to fix that and grow this blog into a great resource for our school and the community.
Our team so far is:

Publishers – Ms. Finn, teacher & William K, webmaster
Sr. Editor – Symone J
Jr. Editor – Brandice W
Reporters – Terrence R, Aubrey S , Gianna G

Thank you for reading.

2. Interview with Principal Spells
by Symone J and Aubrey S

Principal Spells was interview by Symone J and Aubrey S on Wednesday Oct 28, 2009:

1. Are you from a family of educators?

“No. I am the only member on my mother and father side that went to college.”

2. What inspires you everyday when you get up to come to St. Ethelreda?

“The students, because they have great potential and are very intelligent.”

3. What do you enjoy about being here at St.Ethelreda?

“The seniority, honesty, staff, and the love from the students.”

4. What inspired you to be a principal?

“Well, at first I wanted to be a nun. Then I wanted to teach at catholic school .After that, I wanted to do more than just teaching. So I became assistant principal. Then I wanted to be a principal at my own school.”

5. How do you feel about being principal?

“It is a challenge. I have plan A and plan B and God always give me plan C.”

6. What made you become principal at catholic school?

“Well I attended a catholic grammar school and high school, and when I taught at public school I missed praying at school. She accepted an opportunity to teach at a catholic school.”

7. How do you feel about the webmaster program?

“I think it’s fantastic, because it gives the children the advantage to take over and show creativity.”

Principal Spells with Symone J and Aubrey S

3. Selecting Our Name
We haven't selected our name yet. We would like to get our school's input on making this choice.

We currently have two candidates:

The Blue & Gold Word
Eagle News

If you have an idea for the name of our blog, please leave a comment on our blog or you can email our Sr. Editor Symone at sr_editor@stethelreda.org.

In our next edition, we'll announce a school-wide vote to choose our name.

This is a test.

2009-10-20T08:33:00.000-07:00

This is a test of our student blog.

Here's a picture that I added using the "Add Image" button.

Here's a picture I dragged into the editing window.

Nice.
thanks... yow, bill