The Ewing Public Schools

Senior Spotlight: Meet Juan Vasquez

It is the start of the second semester at Ewing High School, any advice for your peers on how to be successful this semester? The main thing to do is to make sure you’re getting enough sleep. Things like staying on top of your work and making time to do your work is all crucial to keeping up not only with school, but with life.

What was or is your favorite class? My favorite class to date has to be Physics.

Who is your favorite teacher or coach/music director and why? My favorite Music teacher has to be Mr. Silipino. If it wasn’t for him I wouldn’t be playing my instrument today. Mr. Silipino helped me through tough times, and back in middle school, attending Stage Band and being part of something more, really helped me with my day to day stresses of school.

Can you tell us a little bit about your Senior Experience option this school year? For me Senior Experience has been a lot of help, and I would recommend it to others. The big point of school is to educate and prepare the student for life, not only in the numbers and texts, but the day to day struggles and battles. I believe this class really allows you to go out into the world, to learn how to communicate with others, and advocate for yourself in a safe way.

Who or what has impacted your life in a positive way? I think my teachers have impacted me the most, also Valeria Vélez. Vale helped me to stay focused on my work and pushed me forward on everything I had to do. She helps me keep my focus always, and she never failed to be there to support me on everything I was going through.

How do you define success? Success is your ability to pivot and overcome any adversary, as well as maintaining a self-discipline.

What are your plans after you graduate from Ewing High School? After I graduate from Ewing High School I plan to attend a trade school called UTI, in Orlando, Florida, to become an A1 mechanic for BMW, Ford, Porsche, and NASCAR.

Where do you see yourself in ten years from now? Ten years from now, I see myself working at BMW as an A1 mechanic. I also want to have my own car shop, where I can make my dream builds. I want to have a beautiful house with a huge garage.

Lore Hosts SEL Winter Wonderland Family Night

Lore School hosted its second annual Title I SEL Winter Wonderland Family Night in January 2023, and it was a hit with everyone in attendance. While teachers and staff members discussed social-emotional learning, Zones of Regulation, and mindfulness with parents and families, students engaged in activities intended to bring their mind, body, and breathing together. Students created mindfulness jars, painted or colored crafts, and engaged in Yoga activities. Students and staff members explained to families and guests that these strategies can be used by anyone who may be feeling upset or when emotions "get big," and everyone left with resources to continue using these strategies at home. One student explained it perfectly when he said, "Everyone gets angry or upset. It's totally normal. It's what you do to calm down that makes the difference."