Inwood Academy for Leadership Charter School
  • Blog
  • The Team
  • Blog
  • The Team
Reading and Writing Our Way Forward

#Inwood Reads #Inwoodwrites

2021 Senior Spotlight: Isolated Motivation by Elijah Nino

1/22/2021

0 Comments

 
Picture
My name is Elijah Nino, and if I'm honest, 2020 has been quite the experience for me. I mean, I'm sure it's been the experience of a lifetime for everybody, good and bad, but for me, it all just seemed to mesh into a storm of horrid. For example, just a month into 2020, I was dealt the hardest blow I think I may ever face, which was the passing of my grandmother that I loved dearly. It hit me like a truck, that's for sure, and while it may be forever in my thoughts, I learned a lesson from it all, and it's one I may never forget. It stems from something she would always tell me whenever I seemed stumped with grief or an immovable obstacle, and that was still to keep pressing on no matter what because at the end of the day, the world will move and progress with or without you. That lesson, coupled with the hardships ahead of me is what keeps me going and brings me to terms with the life I have ahead and the life I leave behind. But as far as tragic happenings go, this was luckily the only real one I had to deal with last year.

 As I said earlier, my grandma's passing away was probably the worst thing that happened to me in 2020, but sadly it certainly was not the last of bad things to come in 2020. To make matters worse, a global pandemic was spreading all over America and specifically New York. It scared me to death, and it was something I've never experienced before. It wasn't so much the fact that a virus was spreading like wildfire, but it was the fact that I'd be in a complete lockdown and isolated from everyone around me. It was a lot to take in at the time, but nowadays, as I type this in the comfort of my home months into the lockdown, I feel at peace and focus on my goals. This wasn't always the case, though, cause, as I said earlier, I was scared for my life when the pandemic first hit in America, and as was everyone else, it was pure silence for the first time in history since Living in Washington Heights

Never before in my life have I ever been in complete silence while there, but when that pandemic hit, all you can hear was a car every few minutes and the birds chirping, all the energy and excitement in the area stripped away within seconds, and I couldn't believe it. With the silence came a steady and constant amount of isolation due to the outbreak's potential spread and ability to spread at the time, but little did we all know that we'd be stuck in a state of isolation for almost a year now with no real signs of it getting better even with the vaccine we have. As for where this plays into my story it left me with a sense of dread and doubt of the future. I lost my way to put it simply and regressed into a slump where nothing was done, not even classwork, and it would have ruined me had I not fixed it up in the final days of the school year. This brings my story full circle and us in 2021: a new president, a working vaccine with minimal side effects, and a fresh start on life ripe with opportunity and progress.

Now while I can't fully say my old habits are all gone, and I'm in a better place, I can say for a fact that I am 100% a better percent than what I was once and am continually trying to move forward no matter the cost. I truly think the only reason I have even slightly changed my view of the world is the isolation of the nationwide pandemic. I can't fully explain it, but it was just all the silence and thinking that I could do while alone. It was cleansing in a way, and it washed my stress away. Nowadays, I spend most of my hours meditating and finding inner peace in Taoism's spirit as it is one of the very few things I believe. To this day, I will always live up to my grandma's words and legacy and push past all my restraints and overcome anything to reach my goals because progress and change will always be inevitable in my world. 

0 Comments

Keep Your Head Up by Edward Peralta, Class of 2020

6/22/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
​This year, 2020 has had a very unusual start—first, the U.S-Iran Conflict, then the unexpected death of the former Lakers star Kobe Bryant and now, the quarantine life during the pandemic of the Coronavirus. I've had to get used to this new lifestyle. A strategy that I've been using to manage this life is putting my schedule in order where I finish my responsibilities on time, and I get free time and breaks throughout the day. Before this pandemic, I had a very well organized and rigid schedule where I went to school and then home. Now, I can do things more flawlessly because I have more than enough time to do my assignments, and I don't have to stress while trying to complete my work under a time frame. I either do my homework in the morning or late at night, depending on how I feel. Sometimes I feel like late at night is the best time for me to complete my work because I can concentrate better and think of new ideas while everyone else is sleeping. Hey, maybe it's me practicing and preparing for late-night college work! 

If someone would have told me at the beginning of the year that there was going to be a virus that was going to spread all around the world to such magnitude and cause so much commotion, I would not have believed them. This was completely unexpected, and it caused my plans in preparation for college to make a full 360. No one would have imagined that COVID-19 was going to spread so rapidly and affect so many people. 

This new normal and way of life have affected the relationships in my family positively. I've created a well-knit relationship with my parents since the start of the quarantine, and I even started watching a show together with my mother that we both really enjoy. Now, what I mostly talk about with my mother is about that show! The way I've bonded with my father is through video games where we both challenge each other and spend time together. When it comes to video games, I have no patience. However, my dad does. When I am stuck in a game, trying to complete a level, I give my controller to my dad, and he will finish the challenge for me. Surprisingly, I have even formed a great relationship with my sister. Now, we are watching the same show on Netflix! Overall as a family, we've been spending more quality time together. We have been watching lots of movies and playing games. We look out for each other more than before. I don't want to say that this quarantine is the best thing that has happened to me, but it has helped my family become more united than ever. With all this happening, I've also maintained that strong relationship that I have with my friends. I've been checking up on them, asking them how they've been, and how they are dealing with these tough times. Sometimes I play video games with some of my friends. Also, we've helped each other out with our online work. Being stuck at home does not mean that we can't help each other and stay in contact. We have to find a way around things, especially now. What keeps on going through my mind is how quickly things can change in just an instant, so it's important to appreciate and enjoy life and the people around us every chance we get. 

Some of the challenges that I am facing is not being able to do things outdoors and that I enjoy. I miss playing baseball and spending quality time with my friends and family, and honestly, the change is what's been the biggest struggle for me. This has been one of the most significant changes I have experienced in my life. At the beginning of all this chaos, I felt that social distancing was alright, and I expected it to end very soon. Now, I am feeling very downhearted because this still hasn't ended, and it has affected what I thought would be an amazing senior year experience, and it didn't turn out that way. As I accept this adversity, I have formed a mentality of taking everything slow and not getting ahead of time. Now that I can see that this won't be ending anytime soon, I've decided to do things at my own pace and let time tell when this will be over.

Years after I graduate and I look back at my high school years, I won't think about how great my four years went because the memories of this pandemic will overflow all of the other ones. I will remember all the effects caused by the virus, including not being able to graduate formally; and that some family relatives passed away due to COVID-19, which made my year worse and more disappointing. Despite what we're going through, I always try to find ways to keep myself and my family positive. However, we have to adapt to any unexpected situation. It's the only way that we can learn how to live so, even though I'm disappointed, we need to keep our heads up and move on.

0 Comments

A Letter to the 8th Grade Class of 2020

6/20/2020

1 Comment

 
Picture
Dear 8th Graders, ​

When I walked into your fifth grade classes in September of 2016, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I was 23, it was my second year of full time teaching and I was already teaching a full schedule of 6th grade classes in addition to teaching you all. I don’t think I was able to learn everyone’s name until December! There were so many of you and I only saw you once a week! Little did I know that you all, cohesively as a group, would grow to develop a very special place in my heart.

Picture
5th graded quickly faded into 6th grade and I got to teach you again. Even then, I could sense a special connection with you. It might seem silly to you all, but my decision to move upstairs and teach 8th grade, and my decision to switch from teaching Social Studies to teaching English in order to do so, was all because of you. Telling you that I was moving up with you at the end of your 6th grade year is one of the most exciting things I’ve ever gotten to do as a teacher.

Picture

​Now it’s 2020. Many of you grew a literal foot taller before my eyes. While the physical growth is the most obvious to the naked eye, your growth as people exceeds it twofold. Among you are artists, athletes, gamers, leaders, comedians, and some of the most authentic people I have the privilege of knowing. I love all of my students, but I don’t know if I’ll ever again get to see a group through this way and I’m so thankful it was you that I got to grow alongside.

Picture
I feel extraordinary grateful to have had the privilege of spending September through March with you in the classroom. I’m thankful to have seen how many of you were so engaged with the storytelling of S.E. Hinton in The Outsiders. I’m thankful for how much I have seen each and every one of you improve in your writing (in a way that I know will make you more prepared for high school). I’m thankful for how many of you I’ve seen become activists and advocates for change on social media. But, even more, I’m thankful for the small moments: For laughs. For conversations about your lives. For lunches out with groups of you. For every time one of you stole my camera and snapped a selfie or took a funny video. For long days after school helping you with your science fair projects. (And for even longer ones when we pretended to work on science fair projects or quiz revisions, but really just hung out and talked). Even for the time a certain student “accidentally” locked another certain someone in the closet during advisory. (Thank god we got him out before he peed in there). When I think of you all, these are the moments that come to mind, and no virus or shelter in place order can take those away from us.

Picture
This is not at all how I pictured the end of our four years together going, and I’m so very sorry about that. Just know that I’m here. I’ll always be your teacher, even if you’re no longer students sitting in my classroom. I’ll be your teacher when you feel alone in this time of social distancing. I’ll be your teacher when you're transitioning to the new world of high school this September (a transition that can, and should, still be very exciting for you). I’ll be your teacher in four years from now when you’re applying to college. And I’ll even be your teacher years after that when you’re starting careers and families. You know where to find me.
Mr. J

1 Comment

Black Lives Matter by Anthony Santana

6/19/2020

1 Comment

 
Black Lives Matter by Anthony Santana
​
Dear Mom,
 
I am writing to tell you that your life matters very much to me. With everything going on in the world, I want to make clear that Black Lives Matter. Our lives matter. The reason your life matters is because you brought me into this world and carry me through it everyday. You've taught me everything I know. You work so hard to pay the bills and put clothes on my back. You're always there when I am sick or hurt. Even when I cause you trouble, you stick by my side and continue teaching me how to be better. 

You push me to see myself beyond the hood. You have dreams for me and I want to make you proud. You've taught me that everything has to be earned through hard work. There's no hand-outs. You've been both a mother and a father to me for my entire life. To honor you, I will go to college and be the successful young man that you want me to be. I will accomplish all the dreams that were out of your reach. I will be the future. I will make it somewhere in life. It will all be because of you. No matter what anyone says, your life matters so much. I love you, mom.

 
Sincerely,
 
Anthony


Picture
1 Comment

Introducing Ms. Porter's Love Library Series: A Celebration of African-American Folktales

6/11/2020

0 Comments

 
In celebration of African-American literary traditions, Ms. Porter narrates The People Could Fly, written by Virginia Hamilton.  It's a beautiful story of resilience and freedom-seeking. The kids are so lucky to have such a masterful storyteller!
0 Comments

How Survival Video Games Help Me Prepare for Adulthood by Ethan Cespedes, Class of 2020

6/11/2020

0 Comments

 
Quarantine life is not something for which you can really plan. Eventually, you will be consumed with the madness of losing track of time. You could even forget a meal or two if you are not careful. Our generation is not equipped to handle this; we are the most social generation after all… that does not sound correct. Let me rephrase, we are the most social… It just does not fit, does it? The words "most" and "social" when talking about our generation. Yes, we talk to each other, and we could make friendships with people from different cultures, but it's not like we are comfortable hanging out in person or doing anything spontaneous in real life. For us, it is easier to stay inside and use our screens to either hide some parts of ourselves or get lost in other people's worlds entirely. 

I suppose quarantine life hasn't been the worst. For me, at least, it's been alright. I'm coping with being alone and in my head for long periods. But then again, I always have my trusty phone at my disposal. I got a new phone recently, and it has only improved in its ability to transport me elsewhere while physically confined. I have diversified my music taste, communicate more with friends, and spend a lot of time playing games. I also have Netflix, what a wonderful invention that was. I've been binging on shows that I never thought I'd find time to check out. I started running, too, but that's a horrible experience that I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy. I'll keep doing it, though, so that I can keep from turning into a slob. 
Though I know many of my friends don't feel the same way, I'm doing alright. The only thing missing is  PS4. Talking to my boys would make my life better. I do miss that. But I am a weird person. I don't like being around people all that much. I hate actual phone conversations. Text messaging is preferable. 

I've been playing this survival horror game called "The Forest," and it's been helping me deal with the terrifying stuff in my life. There are cannibals, children to protect, new threats at every corner. Getting scared of something in the game distracts me from my actual fear of the future. The adrenaline is also a great feeling, and there is a better feeling than making it out alive. Besides immersing myself in alternate worlds, I've been thinking a lot about adulthood and the future. I've been wondering what it'll be like to live alone. I was initially terrified by this new reality, but I'm getting more comfortable with it as time goes on. I'll make sure to write about the experience when it happens, start keeping a journal or something. I think I"ll survive. Sure, I won't be fighting cannibals, but I'll be surviving adulthood. Even if it's not a life and death situation, it sometimes feels like it. Even though the thought may be terrifying at first, the idea of beginning this solo adventure also fills me with excitement. I'll keep you posted. 


Picture
0 Comments

The Media's Role in Healing a Divided Nation by Jose Pozo, Class of 2020

6/11/2020

0 Comments

 
Since leaving school due to the pandemic, it seems that our society has become more torn apart than ever before. I often wonder if social progress will ever catch up to our technological advancements. We are no doubt a very advanced country, but sometimes our social tensions reveal how much we still have to work on. Just a couple of weeks ago, we were scared of this unprecedented virus called COVID-19, and now the news cycle is saturated with images of violence, fear, and chaos. 

Like many others, the virus eventually affected those around me, and it became not that strange thing but something that intimately changed everything around me. With one major social issue still looming, now the next headline is "RACISM IN AMERICA."  I'm not suggesting that these headlines are untrue, but I'm wondering what will be the longterm consequence of depressing headlines and anxiety-inducing news segments. I've been thinking a lot about the ethics of journalism in light of everything going on. I can't help but feel that the media as a whole has spiraled into endless negativity. Just as racism divides and breeds mistrust, the media asks viewers to pick a side and start arguing with the others. This lack of journalistic integrity is evident in the scarcity of news pieces regarding people coming together to clean up after the rioting. Instead, they rather focus on the fighting amongst the people and police- as it draws more attention. Rather than bringing people together, the media has incited a mob mentality and false perception over what is socially acceptable.
​

As a young person preparing for my freshman year of college, I'm trying very hard to find the silver lining amongst all this chaos. How are we to come together to find solutions if we fear one another? Is it through the burning and looting of stores and homes to display one's resentment towards a corrupt system? Is it through the use of unnecessary force against unarmed people? The continued suffering of those who fear violence from the police? I honestly don't know what it will take to reach a peaceful outcome, but I know that whatever is going on now will not get us there. It’s time for the media to take responsibility for instigating violence and sensationalizing stories during a time that’s already hard enough for most people. We need different stories. We need to hear about the good that’s happening. Show more of the good stuff. 
Picture
0 Comments

#LetterToMyTeacher Series by Raldy and Ryan Reyes

6/3/2020

2 Comments

 

#LetterToMyTeachers by Raldy Reyes, 8th Grade

Picture
On my first day of school I felt very welcomed by the principal and all other staff, but mostly the principal. She gave me a senior sweater and she even let me play basketball. I am really thankful for the principal, she gave me a warm welcome to the school, making me feel like I never wanted to go back to my old school.

I came to the school at the end of January 2020 and I remember that Ms. Orquídea helped my mom in the process and my mom was  crying. She told her that I was going to be ok: "Yes, mom, I am more than ok, I am super."

Thanks to all teachers and thanks for all your support and understanding. I miss having the opportunity to be on the basketball team and to be able to have friends there. While being homeschooled, I feel more quiet, doing things on my own pace, but I miss socializing with others at school.

I am so thankful with for school's process during my transition because coming to Inwood Academy, especially in the middle of the year, was like finding a light at the end of a tunnel. Thank you so much for accepting me and for letting me be, my grades are good, my behavior is good. I was so frustrated where I came from and you can’t believe how much you guys made a difference on me just how the way you believed in me. Thank you teachers!

I really want to thank all my family for all their support, but especially mom and dad they have gave us all needed and more.  To all inwood families please stay  strong and stay safe. #priceless  #family #Inwood #thankyou

#LetterToMyTeachers by Ryan Reyes, 5th Grade

Picture
Once I came in school, the first day I felt nervous and welcomed by my teacher. I am thankful for the crossing guards who helped me every day to cross the streets and Mrs. Tatiana for helping me and my mom. I am full of gratitude.

I do not feel so good being homeschooled, I miss my friends and teachers . My expectations coming to school is to be safe and to join the basketball team. My plans during this quarantine is to help my mom on her YouTube channel and to continue helping in the community with her and my grandmother. In a world where you can be anything be kind. I hope to see you soon. I miss you all.

2 Comments

Change that Lasts by Erick Martinez, Class of 2020

6/1/2020

 
Picture

America has long advertised its commitment to freedom and liberty. We call this place the “land of the free and the home of the brave.” We should certainly be proud of our history of welcoming immigrants and freedom of expression. But as the country erupts with riots over police brutality and stories from many deprived of liberty, we should take a second to ask ourselves some questions.  Who gets this freedom? What justifies taking it away? Some have the freedom to breathe, and others of us have to hold our breaths. We are seen as the enemy. Many of us live in fear of those sworn in to protect and serve. Cops are no longer seen as heroes but as threats to those of us who many seem suspicious for something like a hoodie. There's something deeply wrong with this.     

With the heartless murder of George Floyd, history once again repeats itself, and the anger bursts into riots. This has been a civil war between the country and racists people. And those in power are failing to act. We should recall Dr. King, Rosa Parks, and Malcolm X and their contributions to antiracism in these moments. No doubt, our country would not exist without the contributions of African-Americans and no matter which way you look at, they deserve better than what our society is giving them.  

The death of George Floyd angers me. Of course, not all cops are bad, but recent incidents are calling into question how police activities are routinely carried out. This is not the first case of its kind. What angers me the most is knowing that there’s nothing George could have done to prevent his death. I saw the video from different angles, and those three cops were on him like they meant to do some harm that day. I’m disgusted. The people who are taking to the streets are fed up, and they want change now. They are protesting a system that has failed them time and time again. People like me are seen as disposable. For us, this is not the “land of the free and home of the brave.” No matter how hard we work, what accomplishments we reach, we face the same old systems of prejudice. The media is reporting one-sided stories that seek to tear us apart.

Let me say that the only responsible thing to do right now is fight for justice and fairness.  We need to stand up for what’s right and demand justice for those who’ve died at the hands of police. But, most importantly, we need to bring about some peace. We can accomplish change without having any more blood on our streets. We all bleed the same color, and every death is a death too many. People my age will have to find ways to protest and express their anger, but in ways that actually lead to long term change. I imagine that the satisfaction of lighting up buildings and precincts is immediate and short-lived. We need to spark a change that lasts through the night and leaves room for a brighter tomorrow. 

We're Free by Jose Vazquez, 9th Grade

6/1/2020

 
[A Tribute to the Mirabal Sisters]
May 2020

We’re free.
But at what cost?
Have we won,
Or have we lost?

We’re free.
But we’re dead.
The revolution we led,
But could we have done better instead?

We’re free.
Wouldn’t you agree?
The battle that we fought,
Was for the independence that we sought.

We’re free.
But have we left with doubt?
Have we perished with regrets?
Or do we rest proud?

We’re free.
But at the cost of our sorrow and grief?
Is this truly peace?
To be filled with uncertainty and disbelief?

We’ve finally rose,
But the pain lingers.
It lingers like a thorn.
But rest easy, it was only through our bottled pain that the revolution was born.

​
Picture
Picture

My Journey from DR to IAL by Arlenys Payano De La Cruz, 7th Grade

6/1/2020

 
Picture

 Arriving 
It was August 2019 and my mother came to the USA.  And she said that I would stay here for two more weeks. The two weeks passed and she told me that I would stay in the USA and that I wouldn’t return to DR.  That was the worst and the best moment of my life. I didn't know how to feel. I couldn't stop thinking about my friends, and it was hard to accept the idea of ​​not having friends where you are.


Orientation day
I was nervous. I went to the school with my aunt and when she was leaving  I told her  to don’t leave me here, I was petrified of this new life. I didn’t have any friends in school yet.   That day I met Ms.Kinney. She helped me and I asked her if I could go upstairs with her. She said it was ok, that I could go. Then I met Ms.Cuateco; since then we are friends. It’s not that bad having  a teacher as a friend. That day I also met my best friend, Leimy.

First Day & Advisory
The first day  I  was lost and nervous because I was not used to changing classrooms my teachers used to in the DR. I thought I wasn't going to understand anything, but I did. It was hard but I kept going. Leimy and I spent all of our time together. And I made other new friends.  I also loved advisory and  had so much fun with Ms.Santana. She played a lot of games with us and gave us great advice.

January-March 15th 2020 
During the months of January and February, I was not happy with my grades.  What was happening was that I was not focusing on my work, I was not doing enough, I started bringing my grades up. Suddenly, on March 13th the schools were closed and I thought we’d be back on Monday.  However, that hasn’t been the case. 

March 15th 2020- present
Since March 15th we are in social distancing, supposed to stay at home, classes online. This is hard because sometimes you need your teacher to explain in person, to be next to you, but now it’s not possible.
Some days I don't even know what to do, it's like I'm lost for a few seconds and I've done so many things at home.   I have done everything [Tik Tok,instagram,clean,watch movies,netflix,hulu,disney +  ] and others and now I don’t know what to do. I just want to go back to my normal life.
Eventually I found out I made the Junior Honor Society.  I was surprised and so happy!  The JHS celebration helped me feel a little normal again.

Summer?
I think this summer is hard because we need to stay at home and it’s probably gonna be hot .Summer at home is going to be like being in the oven. I hope corona is leaving. I don’t want to stay at home.  I don’t know why I feel like this but when I’m at home for too long I feel sick ,not actually sick but sick & tired of being at home.  ​
The question on my mind and everyone else’s is: What will happen next?

Never Saw This Coming by Kassidy Murchinson

5/29/2020

 
Picture
​Quarantine for me has gotten to the point where all the days seem to blend together. My sleep schedule has been completely flipped upside down. I sleep only when I see the sun come up and hear the birds chirping and wake up when the sun is gone. If it weren't for the google classroom due dates, I would have no real perception of time or what day it was. 
 
When we first started quarantine, I had no idea that it would be lasting so long or getting so bad, especially in New York, although it makes sense considering how many people rely on public transportation here. Starting, I would've never guessed that it would cost us our graduation, prom, and summer vacation plans. Making the transition from an actual school where I can see my friends and receive help from teachers in-person to online school has been pretty hard because I can spend half my day doing my work because of how slow I work on my own. A plus side to this though, is that I can always call my friends if I need help with something or if I want to talk. Within the days of quarantine, I can spend up to ten hours on FaceTime with them, talking to one person or a whole bunch at once. We talk about the dumbest things, but at this point in the quarantine, talking to friends about silly things for hours is better than sitting alone talking to no one. The idea that feeds my spirit is the conversations I have with my friends. They are genuinely some of the funniest and easy-going people I've ever met. The fact that they are so chill and approachable makes everything a lot easier to deal with. 

Something I've learned from being in quarantine is that having a conversation over phone or FaceTime is never going to be the same thing as seeing them in person and being able to feel them there with you physically. But these talks we have are probably one of the only things keeping me sane during the quarantine. It's funny how our conversations of, "Our Minecraft dog house isn't close enough to our Minecraft mansion" are enough to keep me entertained while under lockdown. Some conversations are a lot more academic, or future-oriented though and follow along the lines of, "I wonder what life will be like for us in college?" or "I hope that I won't struggle with my classes too much without you guys around to help me understand". That being said, quarantine has made things a lot harder for me in terms of academics, not just in high school but for making decisions that will affect my future at college. 
During the beginning of the year, we were all together and were able to talk about things like college and our future careers with our counselors in person who made it seem a lot easier to deal with. 

When you're sitting at home with nothing to do other than think about what life will be like when this ends, my conversations with my friends over FaceTime usually steer to the fact that by the time this is over, we'll be in college or at least about to be. I've also had to accept the fact that the college I choose, whatever it is, will be a huge change that I'll have to adapt to myself, without the friends I've grown up with. Deciding without having someone always available to help you through it isn't easy because at the end of the day, I'm making a choice that will determine what my future may look like, both academically and career-wise. I'm glad that we at least have our emails as a way to communicate with the teachers and counselors. My friends, even though they aren't as qualified, make me feel like whatever I choose, wherever that may be, is perfect because of how supportive they are. These friends are all going to be away from me throughout college which may be the part that sucks the most. Still, somehow they manage to make a 2-hour drive upstate to see them seem exciting because of all the stories we'll have to listen to and tell each other about how the school is going even though we, already have made promises to each other that we'll FaceTime almost every day, even if we have to create a schedule. They help me cope through so much while this is going on, again solidifying the fact that they are one of the only reasons I haven't gone insane during the quarantine. 

This quarantine has also helped me improve a lot personally. Before this, I was already someone who would prefer staying indoors, or maybe going out with a few friends over going out to a party, so this isn't too big of a change for me, but I do miss hanging out with my friends because being around them meant that I would rarely find myself bored. Now, during quarantine, I'm becoming more independent than I already was, which is saying something because I was already pretty independent. I've had no other choice but to find ways to entertain myself, and by doing that, I've been cooking and cleaning a lot more than I would usually be. I've also been taking this free time to make goals both for the time I have now and for after this is over. In a nutshell, quarantine has been both a torturous experience and an enlightening one for me.

The Greatest Lesson by Ginelly Rodriguez

5/29/2020

 
Picture
My high school years have shaped me in ways I'm still coming to appreciate. Though I did spend most of these years complaining about all the homework and assignments, I can imagine myself sharing these memories and experiences with my kids in the future.

In light of COVID19 and also just from getting older and more mature, I'm starting to understand how dangerous our situation is right now. For the Class of 2020, the news of not being able to attend prom or graduation feels devastating. But just as others are finding ways to cope, I turn to music for comfort. 

I've been obsessed with this song I heard a few months ago. As soon as I listened to this song, memories of my last three years of high school came rushing back to me. It's called To me by an underrated singer, Alina Baraz.This song means everything to me. 

When I was a freshman, I came into high school, thinking that my friends from middle school would still be the same. Man, was I naive? Everyone changed the summer going into 9th grade. I was friends with about two of the people I was close to in middle school. 

It wasn't until sophomore year where I realized that not only had everyone else changed, but I had too. I didn't t realize it. In a way, I grew up that summer entering 10th grade. It was the one where I learned to cut through the bull. Because of that lesson, I lost a few friendships that year, but I gained some new ones too. 

That was the year I became best friends with Madeline. Funny enough, we became friends over a boy we both liked. Instead of arguing and hating each other as other girls would have. We bonded over the experience and the way we both reacted to the situation. Even after the boy was out of the picture, our friendship grew stronger and stronger. It's still growing to this day.

I never thought I'd be so close to a group of girls as I did throughout my sophomore and junior year. As a kid, I always gravitated towards the guys since I grew up knowing that girls were drama and guys were not. I had more guy friends than girlfriends and never thought I needed a female friend group. But during those years, I learned that not all girls live up to the stereotype of drama. Some girls avoid it. Sure we have our secrets and our issues like any other group would, but unlike those other groups we know how to keep stuff in our small circle.

Still, you can't keep one friend group forever. Towards the end of my junior year, my friend group expanded. We all became friends with a few more girls and a few guys. We became super close to one teacher who was like the father of the group. He's the one we all go to for advice. We may be closer to specific people within the group, but there's no jealousy between anyone. We all love each other and know that when we need each other, we'll be there for each other.

Senior year was my place to grow and mature. Though I thought I had already matured during junior year, I realized that you don't stop learning lessons that help you grow as a person. You don't stop meeting people who you begin to create memories with. People grow, people change, and that's okay. I learned that bad things in life are just as good as the good things. They make you stronger, and they teach you lessons so that those bad things don't happen again. 

The number of times I have gotten hurt over the years, whether it be by losing a friendship, because of a guy or just family issues, is a lot. But I don't see those things and ask why they happen to me or do I deserve for these things to happen to me. Instead, I see them and think, "how can I learn from this experience." I've learned a lot of things throughout the years, and I know I'll keep learning just because it's a part of life.

"To me" speaks on these lessons and experiences in life and shows how one can appreciate them. The song raises a glass and proposes a toast to all of these memories, good or bad. Its chorus goes like this: "Here's to: good people, good nights, good highs, good health, some tears, some stress but, I count my blessings. Here's to: good music, great sex, little time to feel alive, little time to get it right."

The reality of it is, the things that happen to us in life are blessings we carry. No matter how much they hurt or make you smile, its lesson is the blessing. In a short life, you'll feel like there wasn't enough time to accomplish anything, but honestly if something were to happen to me right now, god forbid, I'd leave knowing I did the most I could've with the time I had. 

I made amazing memories with amazing people and even some not so amazing people, but they were important at some point in my life nonetheless. I traveled as much of the world as I could've with trips to Paris, Italy, Colombia, Panama, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and some cities in the United States. I live in New York City. The Big Apple! I got to live other people's dreams. I spent so much time with my family. I went through the worst and got myself back up. I lived. 

The best thing you can have in life is the ability to appreciate everything because others might not be as lucky as you have been. The greatest lesson you can take from life is to live it. 

The Future is All Roses by Jacob Munoz, Class of 2020

5/29/2020

 
Picture
I live in the Dyckman Projects in uptown New York City. While I’ve come to call this place home, it’s not the most nurturing environment for a young man to grow up in. When you add a pandemic to this environment, well then, it’s just all bad. You have to always be on alert and it’s hard to relax. My unit is right next to the stairway. At night, I’m often woken up by loud noises. The projects are setup so that you are always on guard and this is tiresome. The smell of marijuana is constant and sticks to the wall like paint. With COVID-19, I’ve had to find ways to escape mentally just to give myself a break from it all. Even when I have opportunities to leave, my parents often say it’s too dangerous to be out.  My parents are really overprotective which means that we often argue about the smallest things like me leaving the house to buy food. At the end of the day, though, I know that they are doing the best they can with what they got.

Even though COVID-19 has really changed my life, I can appreciate the time I’ve had to focus on what’s next for me. I want to create a better path for my family. I want to disprove stereotypes about people who look like me and grow up in the projects. I want to prove to myself that I have what it takes to take care of my family no matter what obstacles I have to overcome. When I focus on these goals, I often recall my favorite book from English class with Mr. Garcia. In the poem “The Rose that Grew from Concrete,” Tupac Shakur writes “funny, it seems, but by keeping its dreams, it learned how to breathe.” To me, this metaphor speaks to how something beautiful can come from a tough environment like concrete. In order for this to happen, though. you have to believe in yourself and ignore the haters. Also, you must never take the easy way out. 

To be honest, sometimes I see other guys in my neighborhood who have all the clothes and cars and I get angry about how unfair it is. Even with temptations and the negative stereotypes, I’m determined to hold on to my dream of finishing college and becoming a cop. Though cops are often in the news for bad things these days, I’ve had the opportunity to meet NYPD officers like Mr. Edward Reyes who looks out for people in the community. Officers like Mr. Reyes make this community a better, safer place for all of us. He earns respect the right way and lifts people up. I want to contribute to my community in the same way. Coming from where I'm from, I know that we need to improve some things around here. For example,  recently this guy was shot and killed outside of my building minutes after I entered it. My mom was terrified. This is not the reality that I want for myself or my family. Don’t get me wrong, there is definitely good people in the projects that have helped me out and encourage me but I know that I’ll be leaving this place for good soon.

​When I’m posted up in my room for hours because of COVID-19, I reflect on my last four years at Inwood. I’m grateful to my coaches and the teachers who’ve treated me like their son. It’s weird to think about how different these two places are--school and home--and that I've spent most of the past four years going back and forth between these two worlds. But just as COVID-19 has been teaching us a lot about ourselves and how diseases work, I’ve learned important lessons in the projects. From the projects, I learned that the guys who take the easy way out always get caught up in drugs and violence. I’m proud of myself for being staying clear of all of that. I’m proud to be ending my high school career--finishing strong with a 3.0 GPA and a city-wide championship flag football trophy under my belt. At Inwood, participating in team sports taught me many lessons about perseverance, sportsmanship, and hard practice. Staying at practice until 8 or 9 pm became a normal occurrence. From volleyball, basketball, and football I learned how to focus on the end goal in order to get through the tiresome workouts. From my teachers and mentors, I learned that it’s never bad to ask for help and guidance.

Even though I still get mad about not having graduation and being stuck in this building due to COVID-19, I’m proud of all of us who are finishing up at Inwood and moving forward no matter what gets in the way. I know there will be many more challenges for us along the way and that sometimes we may feel like giving up. 

Later on, in the same poem, Tupac writes, “Did you hear about the Rose that Grew from Concrete?” This rare occurrence is remarkable because everything has been set up for it to fail. Sometimes I feel this way as a resident of the Dyckman Projects. Tupac writes that the rose “proved nature’s laws wrong and learned how to walk without feet.” Like Tupac’s metaphor, I plan to prove people wrong and accomplish everything necessary to be the kind of man that protects and serves like Mr. Edward Reyes. I plan to prove all the stereotypes wrong and hopefully pay it forward when I make it. This time in quarantine has allowed me to prioritize my goals and take action.  I'm ready to show the world that there's more to me than just a kid from the Dyckman Projects. I’m the rose that grew from the concrete. Not even COVID-19 can touch me.

Research in Action Series: The President versus The Virus

5/28/2020

 

by Rachelle Santos, 8th Grade

“The number one priority from our standpoint is the health and safety of the American people” is what President Trump said in a briefing on February 26, 2020. The coronavirus had its first few cases in China in late 2019. Soon after it spread fast to other countries around the globe. The United States is one of them with over 30,000 reported cases (as of the time this article was written). Many Americans are alarmed having to result in self-quarantine, social distance, and panic buying. Moreover, schools have been closed in the entire country impacting at least 55.1 million students. Despite Trump's efforts creating plans that will help against the coronavirus, his response was not the best because he did not take the disease seriously in the beginning and he is not responding to the situation quickly because he’s unsure of how to react to it. 

Before the coronavirus hit the United States, Trump took it lightly. According to PBS NewsHour, “The president also said that this is going to get better in April, that, once it gets warm, things are going to get better.” Moreover, the article“What Governors Say About Trump’s Response to Coronavirus” by Richard Fausset and Julie Bosman states “Other members of his party have criticized him for confusing messages and a sluggish response from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.” This illustrates Trump’s little to no concern about the danger of the virus as he sees it as a small threat. In addition, he has been passive and has been trying to convince the public that it’s nothing to worry about, even though the coronavirus is new and people should be cautious.

Trump wasted time being indecisive when everyone depended on him. According to the Los Angeles Times, “One reason federal health officials took so long to act appeared to be Trump’s reluctance to declare a national emergency, which would have conflicted with his repeated efforts to downplay the seriousness of the epidemic”. We can also see Trump delaying important decisions in an article from PBS NewsHour, “But Republican leaders in Congress slowed the deal, wanting assurances that Trump would publicly support the agreement before signing off on it ahead of any vote.” This demonstrates how the solutions were not as effective since it was kind of too late. Furthermore, his lack of responsibility affected everyone since others can’t act before him which held back progress. 

Some people think Trump is doing his best to deal with the situation regarding this terrifying disease. Evidence those arguing the other side might use is “Trump administration’s plan to send Americans relief money which includes payments totaling $500 billion, broken up into two tranches. The first one would be $1,000 per person, $500 per child.” as stated by CNBC News. This demonstrates his good intentions and desire to help. However, slowing the spread of the outbreak needs quick decision making which he failed to do. Based on the article  “Trump declares national emergency over coronavirus” by the Associated Press on PBS NewsHour “Trump has not yet publicly backed the package, making its outcome uncertain in Congress, as he prepares his own response, which was still evolving in the hours before his press conference.” This represents poor effort as his role is important and everyone was waiting for him especially in the race against time. 

Considering the fight with the coronavirus being a global pandemic that will take its place in history, it’s important to have the president take measures for this crisis. Trump did not do his job well since he didn’t see this as an emergency early on, as if the possibility that the virus will hit us is unlikely. However, realization came that this can come after anyone. Furthermore, if he would’ve responded faster, so much could have been done already and reduced the severity of the situation. This is important because if scarier things happen in the future and the President of our country doesn’t uphold his responsibility, we can be in serious danger. As Trump stated our health being his priority, his actions have a big influence on whether we become safe or not. The United States needs good leaders for a secure place to live in.

Students as Writers Series: 6th Grade Poetry

5/27/2020

 

Hope-Alicia Garcia

Picture
Out of nowhere a virus came 
And took us by surprise

All the schools and stores closed for the night

A night that has lasted months with no end in sight 

Maybe even a whole year 

So many of us filled with fear

But we came together

At the most unlikely time 

Knowing this will change our lives forever  

We know we’re in it together 

We are staying home

We are alone together 

We still have hope

Doing DIY’s

Cooking with each other

Creating delicious meals

Sometimes getting in our feels

Discovering things we didn’t know we could do 

“Wait I can draw! That's new!”  

Creating new playlists

Starting new YouTube channels

To pass the time

To spread the joy

Even though it might be weird 

With the streets so clear 

We have to remember 

Things are going to go back to normal soon 

But for now we are playing video games till noon 

Holding onto hope that we will come out of this soon 

Keeping our heads high and our minds strong


What Have I Become- Celine Gonzalez

Picture
I look so different
Why did it happen?
My shaven hair
My visible smile
My bubbly attitude
I finally feel better about myself
When I look at the mirror
I like what I see
It makes me happy
It could just be quarantine
But I like what I become
Even though I never thought it would happen.

Outside-Celine Gonzalez

What is that in the window?
Is that the sun?
It looks so new yet familiar.
The fluffy clouds, 
The swaying of the trees,
And the warm breeze makes my heart light up with joy.
I would love to breathe in the clouds
Feel the sun beam in my face
But yet, the curtains are drawn.
That world I once knew is now gone
It’s too far away to get a grasp of it
Yet, it is so close to be in it
It was such a beautiful sight!
It’s too bad I might not see it again
Why?
Because it is outside.

Isolation-Celine Gonzalez

I’m in a place that was my heaven and it's my dull hell
Trapped here and can never escape

Many ways to leave, but can never go 

Stuck in a maze that is my home

And everytime I lay asleep, I try to talk in the world of silence that is my dreams

But they only respond with, “We are fine! No need to worry!”

But they don’t care that the silence and the darkness is consuming us

All they care about is trying to survive beneath the four walls 

They don’t care about the hidden abyss they will find

They just want to see if they will live for one more day 

It is what I call Isolation.

Video Games-Celine Gonzalez

It always puts a smile on my face
Even though I rage a bit

It’s oddly addictive

Is it hurting or helping us?

I don’t care, they will always be close to my heart

A fantasy universe where you have a quest to complete

Or a deeper story to find

No matter which one, it makes you want to forget the cruel reality that is life

But the best part is to restart

Either to replay memories

Or have a different story path

And we just want to live in that beautiful fantasy 

But we can never restart

Because we aren’t in a video game.

Dear Covid-19,

We never knew about you,
We thought you never existed,

But here you are now. 

Spreading lies on when you will leave,

Breaking people from the inside out,

The murders you committed,the lives you stole.

All we have is hope,

But you might never go, 

Maybe you will never leave.

Even if you do leave, 

there’s a chance you might come back.

​               
                              In your nightmares, Celine Gonzalez

Students as Writers Series: Life During a Pandemic by Lenin Rosario

5/19/2020

 
Picture

On January 1, 2020 at 12:00am the bells rang to indicate the beginning of a new year and a new decade. I was full of excitement as this new year was portrayed to be the best year for me! I am a senior at my middle school (Inwood Academy Charter School). I was looking forward to all the perks of being a senior, graduating middle school and going to high school. My mom had planned a wonderful family vacation to celebrate this accomplishment and I was hoping to attend the high school of my choice. All of this changed in March 2020 when coronavirus made its grand entrance into my life and changed it completely.

On March 13, 2020 the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus outbreak a pandemic. This same day I learned that my school was going to be closed for the next three weeks and we were going to transition to remote learning. Governor Andrew Cuomo signed the Pause Act, which states that we are on lockdown and have to stay home unless you are an essential worker. At first, I was excited, it was like I was on vacation. I got to stay home and do my schoolwork online; how hard could that be? Oh, was I wrong. This was just the beginning of a scene in a horror movie.

The three weeks got extended to four and so on, until the Governor announced that we will be continuing remote learning for the rest of the school year. Getting used to this way of learning has been hard. I miss the interaction with my teachers and having fun with my friends. As you can guess the coronavirus cases kept rising and the Pause Act got extended. This caused my senior trip, prom and graduation to get canceled. Could it get any worse? Yes, my family vacation also got canceled. Hooray! There goes my summer, stuck at home with nothing to do. On a positive note, I got accepted to Columbia Secondary School which was my first choice on my high school application. It was about time for something good to happen.
​

Coronavirus has affected my life in many ways, but I must learn to live in this “new normal”. I need to wear a mask whenever I go out and practice social distancing. During these difficult times I have learned to love spending time with my brother and sister and playing games with my parents. I give thanks to God that my family and I are healthy and have food to enjoy, as this is not the case for many people out there. I hope this pandemic is over soon so I can enjoy the world as I know it.

Introducing the 5th Grade Dear Journal Series

5/18/2020

 
Picture
During the month of May, 501 and 502 began keeping interactive class journals.  The purpose of this activity was to encourage conversations with each other through writing.  We noticed that students were missing each other and this felt like a great opportunity to continue our relationships and join the #InwoodWrites initiative.  Each day, students receive a new prompt to reflect on.  Some of the prompts are specific to our experiences at this time.  Through our journals, students are able to share what is on their mind and hear from each other.  This is helping us stay connected while we are apart!  I feel very grateful that so many students are willing to share what is on their mind with us and I look forward to reading their writing every day.
For our blog feature, we decided to highlight a few students who had inspiring responses to the following prompt:

If you could have any superpower during this time, what would it be and why?  


Mrs. Jaworskyj

If I could have any superpower during this time, it would be to have the power to heal and stop COVID-19 from spreading. One of the reasons is because I don’t want my friends and family to lose their loved ones. A second reason is because I miss seeing my teachers, friends and family. I miss having a normal life and having the freedom to go out and play. That is why I chose my healing superpower. 
Joshua Done, 501

Picture
​If I were to have any superpower, it would be to find a cure to deadly diseases. I would want that super power because I want to save a lot of people’s lives. I just want to help a lot of people because a number of people are dying. I know that I wouldn’t want someone in my family to get sick or die. For example, I would want to find a cure for COVID 19 to save a lot of people. Or like the new cure that has been getting a lot of kids sick. I also would want to find the cure for that too because I really like helping people because it makes me happy.
Jaylene Pina, 501

Picture
If I had to have power during this time, my superpower would be to be invincible. Because it would be really good to be invincible that way you don't get sick. Also, imagine how useful I could be if I couldn't get sick.  Plus, it would be really helpful because I could help people get food and give people masks without worrying about getting sick.  In conclusion, I would be doing a lot for others and I'm helping people. 

Amaraya Herrera, 502 ​

Senior Spotlight Series: Don't Let COVID-19 Define Your HS Experience by Bernix Fermin

5/16/2020

 
​This year might be the worst one yet. At first, it seemed unbelievable and somewhat funny. I initially enjoyed looking at memes about the COVID-19 and sending them to friends. That was just in the beginning, though. The seriousness of this whole thing took time to sink in. Even when school was canceled as a safety measure, my friends and I celebrated the news. We cheered for our new freedom and independence. We didn't realize at the time what social distancing meant and how it would impact us. We didn't know we'd be losing access to the only place we had to gather and be ourselves: IALCS. We didn't realize that NYC would be the "epicenter" of the virus. 

The hardest part has been not being able to gather with friends. Ever since I can remember, having school canceled was good news. The best news ever. In my younger years, I took it upon myself to cancel school by making up excuses that never seemed believable to my mom. This school cancellation is different, though. This is forced isolation. I mean, I have started learning new ways to manage my time and committed to learning how to cook finally. But it's hard to plan every second of the day. Honestly, sometimes I don't feel like doing much. It seems like motivation is hard to come by these days. The funny thing is that our class was planning a secret prom on the low, but now it's no secret that everything is cancelled. I feel bad for the group of students who put in time and energy to plan this secret prom only to have everything ruined. Another interesting thing is that our year (2020) would always feel superior to underclassmen since we felt like we were the "last of the old generation" at IAL. We felt that we had all the fun memories and experiences that the younger kids did not go through. We took pride in this unique status, but now we have to come to terms with getting dealt a terrible hand. We have to accept online celebrations and alternative events. I know it's no one's fault, and my mom says I shouldn't compare experiences, but I guess I just wanted the whole traditional prom and graduation. I know I can't be angry at anyone and that no one wanted this to happen, but it's still hard to accept. I'm so tired of doing the same thing. All I do is wake up, do my homework then play online because that's the only way my friends and I get to bond aside from studying together.

I want to go back to how things were before. I wonder what it'll feel like when we are finally able to go out again. Will it feel like taking our first steps again? Will we forget what it's like to be social?  For seniors, these first steps back into the world might be after our scheduled graduation or even after our college semester was supposed to start. It's weird not having college tours or orientations before having to decide on your final choice. 

On the positive side, I've connected with my family more due to all the time we spend with one another. I try to remember that this is just a few months out of four years, and I shouldn't let COVID-19 define my high school experience. On that note, I want to thank all my teachers at IAL for supporting me even when things got rough. I especially want to thank my closest friend, Edgar Sanchez. Thanks for showing me how to never back down from anything and for giving me the courage to be social in school. I know that I can sometimes be moody and rude. Even so, you always have my back and bring positivity wherever you go. For some reason, I found myself thinking about how you'd stay with me afterschool in 10th grade when I had to complete missing work. You were there basically every day when you could've just gone straight home. You waited and supported. You kept telling me to keep my head up and try my best at school. Just like brothers, you and I argue, share food, and always find a way to laugh through the hard stuff. You're my brother from another mother. Just as you've been there for me, I'll always have your back. Having friends like you makes this whole thing more manageable. That's all, and also, you're banned from making fun of me because of this shout out. Though we aren't in school physically, I know that these types of friendships were born at IAL. The past two months and the next few weeks will not define my high school career. Inwood Academy will always be the place where I challenged myself and found my own "crew." Prom or no prom, I will always be grateful for the lessons and friends that IAL gave me. 
Picture

Senior Spotlight Series: In My Humble Opinion by Ryan Dohnert

5/16/2020

 
Picture
As the country adjusts to the "new normal" with COVID-19, we've gotten better at this whole social distancing thing. Spectrum News recently reported that Florida, among many other states, has required online learning modules for students of all ages, with some class lectures going as long as forty minutes (Turco). Of course, we can all appreciate the efforts that schools are making to keep youth engaged while also preventing the virus from spreading and infecting more people. Teachers have gotten very creative with their tactics for getting the attention of students. For example, a recent USA Today article spotlighted a teacher named Kalpana Sharma who has taken her lessons to live TV. This is to provide opportunities for students without internet at home to view the class materials.  
​

Without a doubt, the way schools have adapted to our new normal is impressive. The way teachers are using technology is a step in the right direction. Inwood Academy is an excellent example of schools adapting quickly and evolving based on how students respond. We began our online learning phase almost immediately, while many schools in other states took weeks to put something together for kids. Many teachers have sent out surveys to figure out how kids are adjusting and what we need from them. My advice to teachers everywhere is commonsense and straightforward: remember that what is happening right now is not "normal" and many students are facing new challenges with less support. Though I find it easier to concentrate by myself at home, distance learning does not necessarily mean more free time for everyone. As I think about my friends, I realize that we are all reacting to these changes differently. But we all agree that it can be overwhelming to balance house chores, schoolwork, and life in general. Teachers must think carefully about the amount of work being assigned. Sometimes teachers forget that teenagers have real responsibilities outside of homework. 

Through conversations with friends in other schools and my cousins in other states, I've realized that some teachers are merely continuing the plans they had before COVID-19 struck. This will not work for a variety of reasons, including a lack of in-person support and independent learning challenges. All schools across the country should be making adjustments based on the mental health of students. Many of my peers are now caring for sick relatives, exposing themselves through new jobs to make ends meet, or babysitting siblings while parents go to work. ​

I guess my point is that there is no "new normal." There exist only "new" challenges for teenagers to overcome. As we learn to balance the different needs of schools and students, we must remember that health comes first. Don't forget that the best learning happens when students are happy and healthy. Being a teenager is already hard. Shout out to my teachers who try to incorporate my feedback when making new assignments. I'll miss you when I graduate soon! 


​

Research in Action Series: Are We Really Distant From Learning?

5/11/2020

 

by Jency Carmona, 8th Grade

Coronavirus or CoV is a large family of viruses that generally affect the respiratory system and cause symptoms ranging from a common cold to much severe ones such as SARs (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome). Coronavirus disease or Covid-19 is a new strain within this viral family.  Due to its rapid spread, it is hard to say if it’s only airborne or can it be transmitted via physical contact to infected droplets. Coronavirus (Covid-19) disease was discovered in 2019. It was not previously identified in humans until then. This disease is rapidly spreading. This rapid spread is causing an increase in remote work and school. Remote means distant or having little to no physical contact with the population. In order to contain the spread and decrease the number of newly infected individuals, remote work and learning has been established. Some people think remote learning is better than going to school because it can save money and time and it's very convenient and some don't agree. Although some people think remote learning is better because it provides the comfort of your home, schools should not continue remote learning because of the increased temptation of doing other things and not school work. Also technology may malfunction causing problems.

Schools should not continue distant (remote learning) because of the increased temptation of doing other things and not school work. According to EZ Talks, “Learning in a brick-and-mortar institution presents students with the opportunity to meet and interact with people from different locations on a personal level.” This means students are used to seeing people from other classes but are now limited to their class due to remote learning. Also according to India Education, "Distance education is not a good idea if you tend to procrastinate and can't stick to deadlines” This means some people are too lazy/ irresponsible to do remote learning and stick to it, and go do other things instead like play games.  In conclusion this together means some people are too lazy to do their work and prefer playing the games that are surrounding them.

Furthermore schools should not continue distant learning because technology can malfunction in any given time. According to India Education, “Any malfunctioning software or hardware can bring an ongoing class to a standstill and interrupt the learning process." This means if your laptop turns off the whole class would have to wait for you to reset your laptop and join the class again. Lastly, according to India Education, "Similarly, if a student is not computer or tech savvy, his learning experience can be dissatisfactory." This means if the student does not know how to use a laptop well he may find his experience terrible and cancel his subscription and would not be able to go to school in person. In conclusion, this means if a student does not know how to use a computer he may slow down the class and his time on the computer will be horrible.

People think remote learning is better because you don't have to get up and go outside. According to the Distance Learning College Guide, "This saves you money and time that you would otherwise spend on travel back and forth to school. You can schedule learning around other aspects of your personal and professional life.” This means instead of spending 20+ dollars to get to school you pay 10 dollars for the online class saving travel money. Lastly according to Master's Degree research, "You make your own studying schedule during the time the course is given." This means the student can save extra money and they can study and do school on their bed and anywhere as long as you have the internet.  However a lot of places don't have internet but if they do you have to pay for it. Also if you are using the public internet you may get hacked letting your privacy get exposed. Lastly when given the material directly you gain a better understanding of the lesson cause a lot of people learn in different ways.This means some people may not understand what is being taught because they don't see it, feel it, or hear it

In conclusion when you, the student is doing distant learning you risk losing your data, slowing down other people and your laptop or computer can malfunction. While  risking that you also risk your internet crashing making your experience horrible. People should go to school because, even though you pay extra money to get to school you get a better education and experience. If you do online school with all that in place, going to school in person is a better choice.

Picture

Introducing the 8th Grade Research in Action Series

5/8/2020

 
As we navigated the overwhelming and sometimes rocky transition to remote learning, students (and teachers) at the middle school were processing a number of thoughts and emotions. The transition coincided with our 8th Grade ELA argumentative essay unit. In the unit, students were asked to choose a controversial topic and develop a well-researched thesis-driven argument around that topic. For some students, this allowed them to engage with the world around them, thoughtfully processing the new realities of the pandemic and its repercussions. For others, it allowed them the opportunity to escape, diving deep into a subject area interesting to them, but not at related to this new normal. We were extremely impressed by the submissions and found a few of them to be particularly relevant.


As a part of #InwoodWrites, we would like to feature some of the 8th grade argumentative essays. We will be focusing on featuring writing that responds directly to issues related to the pandemic. In a cultural moment when opinions are often presented as facts, I find it imperative to point out that each of these essays represent the opinions of each individual student. The students’ writing should, in no way, be seen as representative of the point of view Inwood Academy or myself (although it might be hard not to agree with them after an initial read).
Mr. J

#LetterToMyTeacher Series by Jose Pozo

5/8/2020

0 Comments

 
Dear Ms. Karen Cardosa, 

I couldn't let Teacher Appreciation Week pass without reaching out to you. I want you to know that meeting you has been one of the most pleasant experiences of my life. I consider you a mentor, but most of all, a ray of sunshine whose light and warm-heartedness will forever impact my character. Through your teaching and mentoring, I gained the privilege of meeting one of the most vibrant individuals in our city. I soon noticed how your openness and expressiveness began to influence my own personality. You encouraged this once shy and reserved young man to get out of his comfort zone. 

Even with your unmatched personality, it was your story that captivated me the most. Not just your ability to withstand adversity but also your ability to make those experiences stepping stones for a brighter future. To say that you've influenced me would be an understatement.  

Now that I look forward to my freshman year at New York University, I feel excited to bring my full personality to campus. I know I owe this newfound confidence and risk-taking abilities to you. Having met your daughter, I can already see that she has this same spark and curiosity that I admire in you. I know that she, too, will inherit the spirit that makes you such a profoundly impactful teacher.  Thank you a million times.  

Sincerely, 


Jose Pozo 
​
Picture
0 Comments

Senior Spotlight Series: Joseph Pichardo

5/8/2020

0 Comments

 
Picture
This is what a family looks like. This is what going to Inwood Academy looks like. The idea of family is built into our chant. For those of us who play sports for Inwood Academy, the following words are ingrained in us: “1,2,3 FAMILY 4,5,6 TRAILBLAZERS!” In this picture, I’m huddling with my basketball teammates who also are my family. We’ve built bonds on and off the court. Whether the outcome was smoking teams by 90 points or losing very close games by just 10 points, we all stepped onto that court with the goal of bringing home another IAL basketball championship. 

About a month before the season started, I suffered an ankle injury that threw off my plans for the season. At first, I performed with adrenaline and pushed through. I kept it to myself. Before I knew it, standing up felt like being hit with a bat. My coaches set me aside and spoke with me about the importance of physically healing. They said I had a responsibility to only perform at my best and that involved taking a break. I missed four home games and missed being with my family. But even when injured, my teammates supported me like family. 
​

Throughout the process, I realized that my injury was teaching me about patience and new ways to stay connected with my IAL family. I know that there is no storm that God won’t help me through. My coaches supported me as I recovered and many teammates reached out with updates and pictures from games. They checked up on me and kept my spirits up when I felt like I was letting the team down. Even when I wasn’t on the court, they made me feel like a valued player. If you can’t call that a family, then I honestly don't know what is. I’m proud to call myself a Trailblazer and Inwood Academy senior. Best place ever.

0 Comments

Students as Writers Series: Escapism by Jaylee Martinez

5/8/2020

0 Comments

 
This submission Is brought to you from Ms. Ines Garcia's 9th grade virtual classroom. Students are encouraged to use poetry as a way to process current events and connect with peers through shared work. 
Picture
0 Comments
<<Previous

    IALCS Students and Staff

    Blog posts are written, revised, and posted by IALCS community members

    Archives

    January 2021
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020

    Categories

    All

    RSS Feed

Proudly powered by Weebly