The Como Crier » Life at Como

Passing The Time

whageman — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 17:05:22 +0000

Here at Como Park Senior High there has been a consistent theme pertaining to students and the argument that the passing time is not quite long enough for all of the business they must attend to.
This is why I feel we would best be served by adding another five minutes to each passing time. The insertion of a 10 minute passing time would be beneficial not only to students, who always seem to be running behind, but also to the unfortunate security guard that has the cumbersome task of writing out each individual detention slip for the students who didn’t make the bell.
It would take away from the hindrance of having a student coming into class late, breaking the very brittle concentration of their fellow classmates. The change would also take away from the class time wasted by the teacher who has to write the immeasurable assortment of passes; ranging from bathroom passes for those with weak bladders to the newer phenomenon of a pass to complain to the counselor that they’re assigned.
Though there are some legitimate arguments that could very well nullify my claim. The activities students participate in during passing time are not necessarily the best use of their time, as many students use their passing time to socialize and clog up the hallways.
Another claim against my strategy would be that the extra time allotted to passing time would subtract over thirty minutes from our already diminishing class time, which has already been hit hard by the new scheduling.
While I recognize both of those arguments, hold a lot of weight on the decision to have the length of passing time change. I feel the gains outweigh the costs. The kids who waste their passing time blocking up the hallways will be just as big a distraction in the classrooms. The extra thirty minutes taken away from the school day is a significant number but I implore the critics to consider the fact that those minutes are already lost for the reasons previously mentioned.
The suggestion is a bit of a drastic change but I consider it a must.

Testing and Testing and Testing

whageman — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 19:01:25 +0000

For the past few years there has been an endless stream of tests being given at Como Park Senior High. Many of them have been given in the computer lab that sits adjacent to the library. These tests consist of the M.A.P., or Measure of Academic Progress test, the GRAD test that is given to those who were unsuccessful on the hand-written version, and the MCA science test, which is reserved for students who take Biology.
The M.A.P. test is designed for ninth graders and is taken three times during the year; in September, January, and May. In those three months there are two weeks of testing, ranging from reading to math.
The GRAD test is required to graduate so for the entire year, for several weeks a month, the lab is reserved for the seemingly endless numbers of retakes. The tests given are the reading and math tests that interchange from month to month, with five days being set aside for reading this month.
The final type of test is the MCA science test for the students who take biology. But it is not yet a required exam for students. This test is given only once to students in the class, though each class gets separate periods to take the test towards the end of the school year.
Every one of these tests has been deemed important for students to take, each one playing a vital role in the development of students academic progress. Unfortunately, there have been some unintended side effects of this change. One of the biggest obstacles for Como Park is the use of the school’s main computer lab, which leaves all of the teachers scrambling to get a reservation for the smaller lab on the ground floor, not to mention all of the students who are taken out of their classes for these tests.
There are a lot of great opportunities and chances given to students through this change, unfortunately the price is paid by the teachers that battle valiantly for the lab in a sometimes futile effort. This has left some teachers dejected and relatively frustrated about the set up, calling for a rectification of sorts.
An over-booked lab and test burned-out students does no good for this country’s future.

Alumni Voices II Christine Claiborne

adviser — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 17:08:32 +0000

So how does a 20 year old girl go about working not one, not two, but three jobs, plus go to school full time? I’d say pure dedication and determination. Exactly what is a typical week for me some may ask?

It’s not as hard as it sounds. Being in college you have way more time between classes to do things rather than in high school, you have to be there for a whole six and a half hours and the only break you have is lunch. College is the total opposite, instead of watching the clock waiting for the lunch bell, you looking at your watch and schedule thinking when you can fit in a lunch break. Usually I’m snacking on the go until I finally make it home to relax.

I have classes Monday, Wednesday and Friday until 12:30 in the afternoon, and then I usually head to my first job until about 9pm. After work I’m usually starving so I pig out on food, shower then do some homework and squeeze in some studying. On Tuesday and Thursday I have two classes. One is 12:50-2:20, the second is 2:30-4 then I usually head to work until 11pm. On Tuesdays I wake up a little earlier than usual to head to my second job before class. At the end of my week days I’m usually exhausted and happy to be home.

I know, my schedule sounds insane but most college kids have busy schedules. Keep in mind you make your schedule according to how big of a work load you’re willing to take on. I still have plenty of time to hang out with my friends and family. Although sometimes I do feel like I need a break from the college life, I wouldn’t want to trade it for anything in this world!

Welcome to America

dbaden — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 16:59:52 +0000

On a frigid December day, the air outside Como Park Senior High School is so cold the trees are shivering, and puffs of air rise above a group of students like steam in a sauna. These students are waiting for the bus that will take them to the Minnesota state Capitol. But this is no normal field trip. Most of the students have never been on a bus before. This is the level one English Language Learner class and many of them have been in the United States less than two years.
They have been preparing for this trip for weeks, learning how to ride the bus, how to get a transfer and, for a special treat, ordering at McDonald’s — in English.
“This is the third year that we’ve made the trip,” said Jeff Caulum, the instructor for the level one ELL students. Mr. Caulum is accompanied by Mr. Aung-See, who acts as a translator for the large number of Karen and Karenni students. Karen and Karenni are two separate cultures from Burma. In recent years there has been a large increase in the number of Karen and Karenni students attending Como.
But the Level 1 ELL class has more than just these two cultures. Somalis, Mexicans, Puerto Ricans, Hmong, Oromo and Mon represent a full spectrum of ethnicities in this class. Some have never been to a restaurant before, having grown up in refugee camps.
The trip to the Capitol is eye-opening for them, a completely novel experience for this new generation of Americans. They even met a politician up close: Sen. Mary Jo McGuire, DFL-St. Paul, who explained her role at the Capitol and inquired about concerns the students might have. There were no responses until the translator stepped in and rephrased the questions in multiple languages.
After the tour ended, the group walked along University Avenue, heading for the nearby McDonald’s, and the conversation turned to food. Each student was allowed to buy two items from the dollar menu through the school, but could bring extra money if they wanted more food.
Here was where all those weeks of preparation came into play — the puzzling, painstaking task of ordering American fast food with an English-speaking cashier. Everyone passed with flying colors. Soon the initial confusion of ordering food was replaced by excitement when the food arrived. When everyone sat down to eat, the buzz of excited voices coming together for a simple meal expressed the satisfaction felt by everyone.
The meal was cut short by a rush to catch the bus, which they missed by minutes. A second bus arrived soon, with everyone piling in for a crowded ride back.
The bus dropped the group off a little ways from Como, which added a few more blocks to walk and another chance to burn off those calories. Soon everyone was delivered back at Como, all accounted for. Once they got back, smiles broke out all around.
“They all know just how lucky they are,” Mr. Caulum said, referring to their chance to live in America and come to school here at Como Park.

How To Spend Your Winter Break

blanger — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 01:06:45 +0000

As the end of the year rapidly approaches, so does everyone’s favorite holiday, Christmas! One thing that goes with Christmas the way peanut butter goes with jelly, is Winter Break. Students from kindergarten to high school all look forward to this long, well deserved break. Now, in order to prevent your being bored out of your mind this Winter Break, we here at the Crier have several suggestions on how to pass the time in your week and a half off.
1.) Go sledding! It’s America’s winter pastime. Gather up some amigos and hit the slopes of our very own Como Golf Course! Sure there’s the whole “cold weather thing,” but our response is, just don’t be a pansy!
2.) Feeling brave? There is always ice skating! Places like North Dale, Northwest Como, or Langford will all flood the fields and make their own hockey rinks. Feeling extra brave? Come on down to North Dale and test your hockey “skills” and get dangled against our very own Brandon Langer, and Ben Watson!
3.) Christmas Cookies! Everyone loves them! Make lots and lots and make sure to share with all your friends and family!
4.) Christmas Themed Movies! Bring your Christmas Cookies along and throw in your favorite classic Christmas movie. From “Elf” to “Polar Express” You can’t go wrong with any Christmas movies!
These are just a few suggestions for you Cougars! The real point is to just have fun! Enjoy your time off, and have a blast Cougars!
P.S. Apparently Mr. Stahlman wants me to remind all of you to not forget everything you’ve learned, and to do your homework! (What a loser!)

Christmas Memories!

scollins — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 01:00:59 +0000

Christmas is a wonderful time of the year. Getting gifts, enjoying great food, or just simply keeping up the family traditions brings lots of people happiness. Most people have a favorite memory from the holidays of their past. Cougars shared those Christmas memories with us.
I wanted this pair of shoes, but my parents said they weren’t going to get them. Until Christmas morning I found the shoes I wanted under the tree.
- Donvan Banks
I love playing boot hockey with my cousins. I wore boots, because I didn’t know how to skate!
- Ms.Knutson
Every year for Christmas I and my family would cook a large dinner. And other family members would come over to open presents under the big Christmas tree.
- Lexii Magee
Every year my family and I would play a game called “Dirty Santa.” Everyone would either wrap a good gift or a silly one, and everyone takes turns picking a gift. But if someone doesn’t like their gift, they get to steal someone else’s gifts!
- Ms. Bates
I don’t really celebrate Christmas, because I feel I don’t need anything. But I like watching other people enjoy their Christmas and opening their presents.
Ryan Blesener
I received my first basketball at the age of 8. I was so excited, I couldn’t wait for the snow melted so I could play outside with it.
- John Freeman
On the morning of Christmas, I will jump out of bed, run down the stairs, and check to see what I got under the Chistmas tree. I will also check to see if Santa ate my cookies and milk, which he does every year!
-Ayele Agbobly
I go to my grandmother’s house every year for Christmas. My family and I will do Secret Santa and exchange gifts. Later we will all sit down and enjoy the huge delicious Christmas dinner.
- Jacob Dixon
Every year , my family and i would go to stores , then i split up tp pick – out gifts , then wrap gifts up . them on Christmas day we hand them out .
-Daisha Collins

When I was in the 7th grade, my teacher drew a picture of me with a Santa Claus hat. She drew a salamander wrapped around it, because brought one to school before, To this day I still have that picture hanging as an ornament on my Christmas tree. -Mr.Malachi

My family and I get together to watch and listen to Christmas movies and shows. After that we open our presents by the fire place where it’s warm. -Khadijia Georje

One Christmas year my family and I Knew my grandfather would be passing away. So we threw him the biggest and bestest Christmas party ever. I loved the look on his face, he was just happy to enjoy another Christmas with his family. -Dariel McDonald

The Battle of Thunder Thighs!

cbrown — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 01:36:30 +0000

Year after year, thousands of Americans enter a battle that rages from November through December, the battle against caloric world domination! With the arrival and passing of our most cherished holidays comes the arrival and passing of “that shirt I once fit in” or “that belt that just wasn’t big enough anymore.”
The terrorizing menace known as saturated fat, armored in gravy, and wielding a deadly blade of deep fried turkey drumstick, strikes fear into the loins of innocent gluttons nation wide.
Although defeat for many is imminent, some brave souls have inquired about how to combat this seductive greased-beast. With an arsenal of physical tools at your disposal, victory is a brisk walk away! Our old friend the weight room is often times open and welcoming to students, lifting weights is a great way to build muscle and battle the Saturated Nemesis.
Don’t forget about those old running shoes! Try taking a walk, jog, prance, hop, skip, gallop, just SOMETHING to get those extra pounds to hit the road! With a little creativity, and a good bit of perseverance, we can win the battle of Man vs. Meatiness!

Are You Above the Influence?

britta scott — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 16:23:14 +0000

On Wednesday, November 23rd, Ms.Bade’s health class heard a speaker tell them his story about his addiction to drugs and alcohol for sixteen years.
His addiction started when he was only fourteen in the summer before 9th grade. He thought that since he was only smoking cigarettes and weed, and occasionally drinking that it wouldn’t really matter. He got drunk for the first time at twelve. Then as his life went on, in 10th grade he had a dope dealer, and tried cocaine for the first time. His brother showed him how to turn cocaine into crack.
Not long after he tried heroin, acid, and psychedelic mushrooms. Then when he was seventeen, he was introduced to methamphetamines, which he thought was the ultimate high.
In 11th grade, he got caught selling drugs on camera at school. They gave him a choice to either call the police and have him arrested or have him leave the school. He chose to leave the school. By the time he finished going to school, he had attended five different high schools and still did not graduate or go to college because he got a girl pregnant when he was nineteen. Fifteen years ago while he was in treatment, his year-old daughter came to visit him and it just broke his heart to see her.
His addiction got so bad that it came to the point where he was basically living in a drug house. There were four guys living there. He had dead bolts on every door and guns and knives for protection with cameras outside of the house. And five days a week there was a sheriff at his door. He also had a friend who would come over and bring his meth lab.
While he was high during this period, he would normally stay up from five to seven days. Once he was up for eighteen days. He doesn’t recall showering in those eighteen days, and on the eighteenth day he made himself a bath and there was a whole bunch of people out in his house doing drugs, not caring about anything, or why he was in the bath for three hours. He had fallen asleep in the bathtub and almost drowned because his head was under the water. That didn’t stop him from doing drugs again and again.
There are no obvious reasons that he started using drugs and then became addicted. He grew up in a normal home and the neighborhood wasn’t even bad. Unfortunately, addiction in his family is hereditary, so one of his children could easily become addicted as he did.
Paul spent 120 days at Glenmore Recovery Center in treatment, and although he has been happily sober for five and a half years, there is still the chance that he will not stay sober for the rest of his life.
Every morning he wakes up and thinks, does he really need drugs to be happy? Does he want to suffer the consequences? Today he now has six children and has been happily married for three years now. His daughter Lily attends Como Park.
Cougars make the right choices no matter what people say!

Marine Corps Birthday Celebrations

chanson — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 01:44:23 +0000

On Thursday, November 10th, the United States Marine Corps celebrated its 236th birthday. The Marine Corps was founded in 1775 and has played a major role in military operations around the world. On the birthday of the Corps it is very important to honor the fallen soldiers who have fought hard for this nation. Sergeant Major Dennis Rehbein explained that the Marine’s birthday is more important to him than his own.
At Como Park High School, the JROTC program celebrated the birthday in grand fashion. Most people probably noticed that all ROTC students didn’t go to their 6th period classes. Instead, they took a run around Como Lake while singing “Hey That Jody Boy,” also known as the Marine cadence. Joining them were two sergeants currently active in the Marine Corps. They were very impressed by how good and motivated the cadets were. After the run they had a little celebration in the Field House and ate cake.
The major celebration, however, took part the next day on Veteran’s Day at the Saint Paul Hotel. The Birthday Ball was organized by the seniors in Alfa-company. The celebration was opened by a very nice color guard march and some very nice speeches. The guest of honor, Captain Aldean of the Marine Corps, talked about the core values of the Corps. After a nice dinner, the dance started. There was a great mix of music with both slow dancing and the “party music” we all know. Even Sergeant Major and Major Foley got involved in the party dancing by showing some of their personal moves.

The Great Wall Of Como…Gone?

scollins — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 14:20:24 +0000

This year, lunch detention moved out of the In-School-Suspension room and into the cafeteria. “There wasn’t room for lunch detention, that’s why it’s in the cafeteria, and it’s easier for the students to get their lunch,” said Administrative Intern, Nicole Bates. “We are hoping that it will be a tough enough consequence to students so they would try not to be assigned lunch detention.” Students are given lunch detention if they are late to class. The administration hopes that the wall will shut students off from their friends and that they will want to do everything they can to avoid that.
For students who are not very observant, there was a new structure in front of the lunch detention table. It was a wall. It was placed there Monday, October 25th. Como Park High School’s administration had requested the wall before the school year had started, but it didn’t arrive until the last week of October.
The wall was up for a few weeks, and Ms. Bates said lunch detention had improved. “It made lunch detention a little quieter, and it kept other students away.” Some students complained about there not being a good reason to put up the wall, and that it makes them feel lonely being separated from their friends. The great wall of Como isn’t so great anymore. The wall has been up for at least a month and now it’s gone and there isn’t a replacement.
It was Mr. Mesick’s idea to get some type of divider in the cafeteria, to separate the students and the lunch detention table. What he didn’t expect was that it was going to be a ten foot wall. The wall was starting to tilt and it was leaning to one side. Pretty soon if someone bumped it by accident some Cougars would been squashed!
Did things stay the same when the wall was taken away? “No! Students starting coming back, bothering the kids in the detention area. Now that the divider is gone, the staff are the human dividers and it’s hard work!” said Mr. Kunz. “The wall was really a big help.” Cougars stop giving the staff such a tough time! If you have lunch detention, serve it. If you don’t, stay away from the table! And hey Cougars, if you don’t want to get detention, all you have to do is get to class on time.