PANTHER PRESS OAK HILL MIDDLE SCHOOL Issue 1
September and October 2009
Interview with Ms. Thompson
A Student’s Education
By: Julian
By Veronica
Last year, longtime principal Hank Van Putten left Oak Hill to retire and spend time with his family. Recently, the Panther Press interviewed the new principal, Ms. Eva Thompson. What was your first impression of Oak Hill? There are a lot of friendly people; the kids were very enthusiastic about being here. What will you change about Oak Hill? We’re going to look at the cafeteria routines, it’s a little too rowdy.We’re starting a community block once a month.This community block is about panther pride. What did you do before you came here? I was the Principal of Pierce Elementary school in Newton. What is different about working with middle schoolers? The students are a little bit older, a little bit more mature. Social relationships are really important to children at this level, and I think kids are really thinking about who they want to be in life. Note: Since this interview was conducted, the school administration has implemented Panther Pride Community, a new policy of switching around the students extension rooms, and improvements in the cafeteria as well.
After a few months as interim principal at Oak Hill, Ms. Thompson shows her sense of humor!
INSIDER:
On September 8th, 2009, Barack Obama gave a speech in Arlington, Virginia about education. This speech was addressed to mostly school children, and meant to encourage and advise them to stay in school. Mr. Obama talked about his experience with school, but he focused on our education. He explained that our country needs each and every one of us to stay in school so that we can grow up and be successful. If we are successful and responsible members of society than society can progress and the world can become a better place to live in. Obama said, “At the end of the day, we can have the most dedicated teachers, the most supportive parents, and the best schools in the world – and none of it will matter unless all of you fulfill your responsibilities. Unless you show up to those schools; pay attention to those teachers; listen to your parents, grandparents and other adults; and put in the hard work it takes to succeed.” His speech was telling all students that they may have the talent to be writers, but will never find out until they write an English paper or have to write a book report, because in order to have a good future in a career, students must put in the effort during their school days to become good at a particular subject. He also told the students that whatever job they will have, they will undoubtedly need an education to do it well. The point he made was that all of us need to do work, such as homework, to succeed.” Obama believes that students are the most important part of their education. Another point that he made was that television gives us the impression that we can have it every luxury we wish for without trying, but that’s not reality. Of course you can have the best singing voice in your school or be the track start and believe that you don’t need an education to do one of those things, but as Obama said, “chances are, you’re not going to be any of those things.” Obama said that line because it is very hard to be famous and get noticed and beat all of the others competing for the same prize. Lastly, Obama told us that success isn’t always something that comes easily; you have to work hard for it. To be successful, you first might fail many times.You will have to try over and over again. You can’t just drop out of school or cut a
to do what will help your country, your parents, and you. Even though Mr. Obama intended to urge students to study more, some parents did not fully agree with the speech. Parents were most concerned about President Obama directly speaking to their child alone. A parent stated “I don’t want our school being turned into some socialist movement.” Although some parents do disagree with the speech, students still should continue to work hard in school and keep giving themselves more and more opportunities for their future.
An ominous storm sets over Oak Hill. Photograph by Liam
A congratulations to the Cross-Country, Soccer and Football Teams for a well-played season. Photograph by Liam
•• Oak Hill News •• Around Our World •• A Closer Look •• Oak Hill Happenings
A example of the 63 member Cross-Country’s teamwork shown through out the season!