Odyssey
The
Summer Creek High School
M O N DAY, AU G U S T 23, 2010 t VOLUME 2, ISSUE 1 14000 WECKFORD BLVD. HOUSTON, T X
Inside
n After a year of junior varsity competition, Najee Bissoon and his teammates eye the Bulldogs’ varsity debut Friday night at Turner Stadium. Page 4 FOR ALL THE LATEST SCHS HAPPENINGS, CHECK OUT W W W.SUMMERCREEKHIGHSCHOOL.COM
first day of school
As second year starts,
Spirit Sizzles By Kristina Onwumere
Pep rallies, cellphone restrictions and new ID
badges can mean only one thing: the beginning of a new school year. For many, Day One just means the start of classes. They have already spent weeks at the school showing their dedication in practices with the marching band, color guard and the various sports. Students are already anticipating “I’m really excited and positive the students will enjoy this coming year,” principal Trey Kraemer said. “I want them to come Homecoming. The game against Kingto school excited to be here. I believe if the students are happy wood Park will be Oct. 1 and the dance and want to be here then everything else will take care of itself.” will be Oct. 2. School spirit will be Of course, every new year brings new changes. With approxi- showcased much sooner, however. The mately 550 new students and 50 new staff members, Summer first pep rally will be held this Friday. “I don’t have the details, but I know Creek is getting bigger. As about 1,400 students crowd the hallways, a third lunch shift will be added and the Silver house that it’s the school spirit a student will be used primarily for foreign language and a few history brings that makes each pep rally succlasses. Kraemer, who hired the new staff members, said he is cessful,” Kraemer said. Another new change is exceptionally pleased with the additions to the that varsity sports will be family. added; and programs like Students are looking forward to getting band, choir and theater will back to seeing their friends daily. compete in University Inter“I’m so excited this year because I get to see scholastic League (UIL) events. my friends and build new relationships with new Dual credit classes, auto tech and people,” Bhavini Patel, ‘13, said. more classes and clubs will open While there will be many changes, a numup opportunities for students. ber of traditions will remain the same. BeThe first varsity football game will be fore any student enters the classroom, handFriday at newly-renovated Turner Stadishakes and smiles are required. Every class um. There is even a section called the “Dog will then kick off with “Good Things.” ~ Principal Trey Kraemer Pound” for Summer Creek students. Car“We are keeping these traditions because bon I counselor Heidi Thompson said new it’s a positive way to start a class, it allows students the opportunity to open up with our staff and it varsity rivals will result in more school spirit from students. “It was hard to get excited about a big game when there makes communication easier,” Kraemer said. Hand signals will remain, while social contracts will be wasn’t really a big game to get excited about,” Thompson modified a bit to make them more successful than the year said. ”But this year will be more competitive because we are finally considered as competition.” before. This is a new year with new people, new grades and new Several successful events last year will also continue into this school year. Fun Fridays and Spirit Days will happen through- opportunities. The students and staff look forward to the changes and challenges ahead. out the fall and be filled with excitement and Bulldog pride. “Last year was good, but that was in the past,” Kraemer “That’s what I can’t wait for,” Kate Haney, ’13, said. “Spirit Day was my favorite thing about Summer Creek because it said. “Now I’m confident that this year will be even better and the following years will continue on that same path.” was always exciting.”
“It’s the school spirit a student
brings that makes each pep rally successful.”
I’VE GOT SPIRIT, HOW ‘BOUT YOU? Bria Washington, ‘13, practices a new routine with her teammates during team summer camp Aug. 4. Washington, a first-year Starlette, won “Best Showmanship” honors at camp. She was one of 41 dance team members who participated in the two-week camp. The Starlettes will make their fall debut during the football game Friday night at Turner Stadium. Photo by Lisseth Lopez.
VIEWPOINT
‘Bulldog Nation’ open for business, ready to roll Long-standing traditions may not exist at such a new school, but there is no shortage of Bulldog pride in hallways
T
he number one thing that every new and returning student needs to know about Summer Creek High School is that the school is huge on school spirit. The spirit is practically contagious, and everyone who witnesses it will catch it. SCHS demonstrates its school spirit everywhere. From handshakes and hand signals to pep rallies
Krysten Barnes
and sports, students at Summer Creek wear their pride where everyone can see it. At first, it was difficult bringing students from five different schools into one completely new and different school. Students complained about how they didn’t have varsity teams and how the school was plain boring. However, at SC’s first pep rally, the students and faculty seemed to melt together and the school became unified. Since then, SC’s school spirit has continued to grow to new lengths. The students have embraced their Bulldog pride and they aren’t afraid
to show it. Some students even made a “Summer Creek Anthem” and performed the rap at the first annual talent show. The credit for the success of the first year has to be handed to not only the students and faculty but also to the principal, Trey Kraemer. Mr. Kraemer has built a family that has each others’ backs at Summer Creek. He has made every student at SC proud to be a Bulldog. So if a student walks into SC that doesn’t want to be there, Mr. Kraemer will spot them and let them know that they are now a part of a Bulldog Nation!
Page 2
Special Report
Summer Creek High School
The Odyssey
Monday, August 23, 2010
say what? Q: How do you think the atmosphere will be different this year with varsity sports?
“
I think it will kick it up a notch. The spirit level will be higher. - Phyllis Cart, Copper I counselor
“
Leangela Bogar, ‘14, Madison Rice, ‘13, Deja Alexander, ‘13, Ashlee Plumme
Sure, you spent all of last year as a Bulldog. You spent more time at Summer Creek still doesn’t mean you’re necessarily an expert on all things Bulldogs. Are you read bigger than the sophomore class? Can you ace the Bulldog qui
Q: What is one rule everybody needs to know from Day One?
Bulldog Battle: ___1. What time does the first bell ring everyday except Thursday? A. 6:45 a.m. B. 7:18 a.m. C. 7:25 a.m. D 7:15 a.m.
Wear your ID. - Allyn Sloan, varsity running backs coach
“
___2. What is the mascot’s name? A. Spike B. Meaty C. Sparkle D. Bonez
Q: What do you think is the best thing about not having a senior class yet?
first graduating class.
- Imelda Sanchez, ‘12
Q: What is something cool that a newcomer should know on Day One?
Be prepared to get a handshake in front of classroom doors and become part of the family. - Eduardo Palomarez, Copper II principal Q: What is your best tip on getting from one end of the building to the other in seven minutes?
“ Run!
- Allie Crowl, ‘13
Inteviews conducted by Alex Blair, Bethany Proulx, Lisseth Lopez, Paris Dowd.
Photo by Rikki Hurt
SAY, “ID BADGE!” Nathanial Carrizal, ‘13, has his picture taken for his ID badge during Bulldog Camp Aug. 14 in the school library. Students and faculty are required to have their ID badges around their neck when at school.
___3. What are the school colors? A. Black and white B. Purple and white C. Yellow and gold D. Maroon and gold
Test yourself on essential SCHS facts?
___4. Who is the school principal? A. Mrs. Heffner B. Coach Ford C. Mr. Kraemer D. Mrs. Kite ___ 5. SCHS is one of the few schools in Texas with a _________ program. A. Culinary Arts B. Journalism C. Color Guard D. Cosmotology ___6. Last year, some faculty members and administrators danced to this song at a pep rally. A. God Bless Texas B. Thriller C. Best of Both Worlds D. Summer Creek Anthem.
ANSWERS: 1. B 2. A 3. D 4. C 5. A 6. B
We get to be the
“
Photo by Rikki Hurt
So you think you kn
Sergio Flores, ‘14, performed with the band in early August at Woodcreek Middle School.
STAFF COMINGS GOINGS
Where do you go when t
Once you can locate the different houses being used (Carbon, Copper and place. The long hallway going through the center of the school is “Main St football fields. Don’t underestimate how long it will take you to get from
Departures
Jenny Hausberger (math), Catherine Stephenson (math), Trecia Hasley (social studies), Daniel Ragsdale (social studies), Phillip Sanders (social studies), Kelly Matthews (special ed), Luke Doebele (PE), Brooke Piatt (ASL).
New Additions
Janet Boring (Spanish), Barry Briner (CR/FB/Track), Lynn Buttitta (special ed aide), Kristy Chapuseaux (special ed), Ryan Cote (science), Maria DeVeyra (special ed), Alfred Eastland (aide), Kandyce Ericson (French), Amanda Fast (art), Andrew Francis (math), David Frederick (math), Andrew Galeucia (business), Clifford Gantt (special ed/ coach), Koren Guillory (special ed/AB), Terri Hart (math), Cana HauerlandOdom, (English), Shawn Havranek (math), Paul Hinson (English/coach), Yvonne Ibarra (Spanish), Camille Jamerson (math/coach), Talya Johnson (social studies), Julie Johnston (English), Stephanie Kelly (social studies), Kyle Kent (auto tech), Tony A. Knight (math), James Marciniec (special ed), Jasmine McDuffie (English), Sean McGregory (science), Kerry Miller (special ed/coach), Tiffany Miller (science IC), Kayce Moore (special ed), Lauren Needham (science), Carrie Page (art), Samuel Pollard (social studies), Brandon Rayne (athletic trainer), JoLynn Reamy (aide), Ramona Riviere (English), Michael Roach (social studies/coach), Christopher Roberts (social studies/coach), Cindy Rockstrom (ASL), Tracy Samuel (science), Jack Sands (CC/Track), Angela Sanson (theater), Leslie Sproat (social studies), Lachele Stoeck (dance), Michael Tarver (PE), Ericca Tucker (math), Patrick Vick (basic math), Matthew Wolfford (history, coach).
SOCIAL SECTION (If you are in a hurry, avoid the hall between the copper houses and the PAC. It’s packed with stopped traffic.)
2100 2ND FLOOR CARBON I
2200 2ND FLOOR CARBON 2 MAIN ENTRY
ATHLETIC HALLWAY (An area students are allowed before school.)
LITTLE GYM BIG GYM TWO AREAS STUDENTS ARE ALLOWED BEFORE SCHOOL
BU
Page 3
Special Report
Summer Creek High School
The Odyssey
Monday, August 23, 2010
crunching NUMBERS
7
Minutes for students to get from one class to another. (Last year, it was six.)
490
Photo by Alex Blair
now Summer Creek?
er, ‘13, and Jazper Mabry, ‘13, take a break from volleyball practice.
Steps from one end of “Main Street” to the other.
Photo by Rikki Hurt
Cheerleaders Taylor Thomas, ‘12, and Bria Hatchet, ‘12, help out during the Humble ISD nurses conference at SCHS in August.
487
Students in the freshman class.
k over the summer than you did at the mall hanging out with your friends. But that dy to sing the school song at the first pep rally? Do you know if the freshman class is iz? We wish you luck. It’s your first test of the new school year.
501
Students in the sophomore class.
Name that hand signal...
348
Students in the junior class.
1
Wayne Barloco, ‘13
This is called: _______________ And it means: _______________ _______________ _______________
2
3
Paris Dowd, ‘13
This is called: _______________ And it means: _______________ _______________ _______________
This is called: _______________ And it means: _______________ _______________ _______________
ANSWERS: 1. “Time out” means to get quiet. 2. “Foul” means that someone has said something that wasn’t nice. They have to give you two sincere “put ups.” 3. “Check yourself” means you better get back on task. It’s a warning.
the bell rings? 2400 2ND FLOOR QUEST HS
new
THE SCHOOL SONG The school song is expected to make its debut at the school’s first pep rally Friday. It was written by Daphne Henderson, the instructional coach for English, Language Arts and Reading.
d Silver), everything else will fall into treet.” It’s the length of one and a half m one end of the building to the other. 2300 2ND FLOOR QUEST HS
Bethany Proulx, ‘13
ISS (Headquarters for in-school suspensions.)
2600 2ND FLOOR
US DROP OFF
JOURNALISM DEPARTMENT (This first day issue of The Odyssey was produced in Room 1856 by the following yearbook and newspaper staff members: Rikki Hurt, Kristina Onwumere, Lisseth Lopez, Paris Dowd, Alex Blair, Wayne Barloco and Bethany Proulx. Madison Rice and Krysten Barnes also contributed. Megan Ortiz is the adviser. Students interested in being a writer or photographer for the monthly newspaper or yearbook should visit room 1856 or talk to their counselors about adding Journalism I or Photojournalism I.)
thanks for telling me . . .
Hail to thee, our alma mater Summer Creek High so true,
Here are just a few reminders for returning Bulldogs and tips for all newcomers: • • • • •
• • •
Home of champions, guiding light, We’ll forever honor you.
•
For the strength and love you’ve given, For the wisdom we’ve attained.
•
For the glorious gold, And majestic maroon, We’ll give our all to uphold your name!
•
• • • •
Don’t ever forget your ID badges. If you’re not on the bus when it’s time to go and you don’t have another ride . . . start running! Don’t freak out when the two-minute bell rings. You’re not late . . . yet. If you don’t want sore feet, don’t wear heels. If someone wants you to carry their stuff because you’re fresh meat and they’re a “senior,” say, “No.” (We don’t have seniors.) Check the labels on the restrooms because they are opposite in each house. If you plan to eat lunch, get to the cafeteria fast or you’re not eating. If a teacher wants you to bring your book to class and you don’t want your head chewed off, bring it to class. If you’re having any sort of problem, talk to your counselors. That’s what they are there for. Boys, even if you want to, don’t try getting by with a piercing. It never works. Stay in dress code at all times. If you don’t, you have to walk around in an eye-catching, tasteless, neon yellow shirt or some other hideous outfit. The temperature in this school is minus 100 degrees. Bring a jacket or risk having frostbite. The doors in the back of the library are not entrances. Don’t be afraid to push your way through the hallways. On Thursdays, school starts at 9:25 -- not 7:25. ~ Kristina Onwumere
Page 4 Summer Creek High School
Sports
The Odyssey
Monday, August 23, 2010
CROSS COUNTRY
Countdown to first varsity football game: 5 Days
BOYS’ UPCOMING SCHEDULE 8.28 University of Houston Cougar Classic 9.4 Sam Houston Invitational 9.10 Houston Lamar Invitational 9.18 Humble ISD Region III Preview 9.23 Willis Wildcat Invitational COACH SHELTON ERVIN SAYS: “They have been working hard through the Texas heat. Athletically, I’d like to see them progress each week.” GIRLS’ UPCOMING SCHEDULE 9.4 Sam Houston Invitational 9.10 Houston Lamar Invitational 9.18 Humble ISD Region III Preview 9.23 Willis Wildcat Invitational COACH MATT FROST SAYS: “The girls have a good attitude this summer. My goal for this year is qualifying for Regionals.”
FOOTBALL
VARSITY SCHEDULE 8.27 Sam Rayburn (Turner Stadium) 9.4 Magnolia (Turner Stadium) 9.16 South Houston (Turner Stadium) 9.24 at Huntsville 10.1 Kingwood Park (Turner Stadium) 10.8 at Willis 10.14 New Caney (Turner Stadium) 10.21 Caney Creek (Turner Stadium) 10.29 at Porter 11.5 Humble (Turner Stadium) Photo by Alex Blair
THE HEAT IS ON. Even before the varsity team started practice, freshmen worked out in the heat for a week. Newcomer Dennis (DJ) Johnson took a break from one of the freshmen workouts to get cooled down by new athletic trainer Brandon Rayne.
Varsity hopes speed makes up for lack of experience, size G
Photo by Wayne Barloco
GAINING YARDAGE Trying to elude defenders, varsity running back Anthony Menard, ‘12, keeps fighting for yards during the team’s scrimmage Aug. 14 at Summer Creek. HIKE! Quarterback Gregory Hogan, ‘13, takes the snap from the center and looks to make a play in the varsity scrimmage Aug. 14. Hogan won the starting job in the offseason and is slated to start in the season opener Friday night at Turner Stadium.
Photo by Paris Dowd
By Rikki Hurt
oing from one of the top football programs in the state to one starting from scratch would be tough for just about anyone. But Summer Creek football coach Brian Ford said it’s not as different as you would expect. Ford spent 15 seasons at football powerhouse North Shore High School -- first as a freshman coach, leaving after the 2008 season as the varsity offensive coordinator. “What’s different about this is it’s a brand-new school,” Ford said. “What’s the same is when I got to North Shore with Coach [David] Aymond in 1994 they didn’t have any established winning traditions.” Not only do the Bulldogs lack winning traditions, they also lack a mentoring senior class. The class of 2012 will be the first group of seniors at Summer Creek. “When you’re competing in Texas with no seniors, no experience, it’s tough because they take football seriously in this state,” Ford said. Despite not have a mature senior class, Ford sees high potential. He said the team’s biggest strength is its speed. “We can run,” he said. “We’re not big and we don’t have much experience, but we can run.” There will be a new face at quarterback for the varsity squad. Sophomore Greg Hogan rightfully won the starting spot during the spring football seasons, Ford said. “He earned that starting spot,” he said. “He had a great spring and I’m really excited about his future.” Another strength of the team is the chemistry. Ford said he saw the team, school and community really come together. “We’ve come together since last season,” junior cornerback John Bellfield said. “Last year it was two schools and we were rivals kind of.” The team will have its first varsity game at 7 p.m. on Aug. 27 at Turner Stadium against Sam Rayburn.
Photo by Wayne Barloco
BUMP, SET, SPIKE Tianna Stith, ‘13, sets the ball during practice. The volleyball team is already off to a very successful start and has surpassed its win total from a year ago.
VOLLEYBALL UPCOMING VARSITY HOME GAMES 8.24 Huffman 6:30 p.m. 8.27 Crosby 4:30 p.m. 8.31 Westbury 6:30 p.m. 9.14 Kingwood Park 6:30 p.m. PLAYERS SAY. . . “Well for one thing, instead of learning how to rotate we are able to work on plays. But I think overall each of us have improved a lot skills-wise and we have the mindset to want to win.” ~ Tianna Stith, ‘13, on the difference between this season and last season. “They should come to see how much better we have gotten.” ~ Lauren Chambers, ‘12, on why everyone should go to their home game this Tuesday.