April 2024
Student Run Newsletter
Solar Eclipse
On April 8th, we were treated to a spectacular celestial event: a solar eclipse. As the moon passed between the Earth and the sun, it cast a shadow over the region, creating a breathtaking sight in the sky. The partial eclipse was visible for a few hours. Our students learned about the solar eclipse and were able to see it through special CE and ISO certified solar eclipse glasses.
Forensic Science Class
Our students are enjoying Mr. Jones' Forensic Science class. They are always involved in interesting hands on projects. For example, this month Mr. Jones led his Forensic Science students in a fingerprint lab. Students collected their fingerprints and placed on fingerprint cards. Other students then collected fingerprints off objects and worked to identify whose fingerprints matched.
School Advisory Council Meeting
On April 11th we held our last SAC meeting of the year. Our SAC committee serves as a vital link between students, their families, teachers, staff and administration enhancing EPEA's experience by providing opportunities for learning, growth, social interaction, and community engagement.
Garden Updates
Our Garden team has been working really hard this year. Here are some of the 23-24 accomplishments:
- New sink was installed on deck 2 to serve as wash area for vegetables.
- The garden and courtyard area has been mulched with pine straw.
-Vertigo system re-vamped with fresh growing medium, pumps and drip lines repaired and checked.
Our current focus is planting the pollinator garden, installing a sensor irrigation system for the Earth Boxes and plumbing for Rain Barrels.
Art Class
Our students are loving our Art Class! Art classes in school provide numerous benefits beyond just developing artistic skills. They foster creativity by encouraging students to express themselves through various mediums such as drawing, painting, sculpture, and digital art. Art classes also promote critical thinking and problem-solving as students learn to make aesthetic decisions and experiment with different techniques. Additionally, participation in art classes can improve students' confidence and self-esteem as they develop new skills and receive positive feedback on their work. Overall, art classes play a vital role in nurturing well-rounded individuals who are not only proficient in artistic expression but also equipped with valuable life skills.
Our students have done an amazing job in their paper mache animals including making background scenes to display. We love their creativity.
Career Research and Decision Making Class
Out students in Career Research and Decision Making Class are learning about income taxes and budgeting. This month our Career Research and Decision Making class had a special guest, Shayla Reighter, 4H Youth Development Agent from UF. Ms. Reighter facilitated a Game of Life simulation: the students learned how to budget and were learning how to make smart financial decisions based on their career and other life choices and circumstances.
Citizen of the Month - Jaylah Tirado.
Congratulations to Jaylah Tirado, our Student of the Month! Jaylah has been a model student who demonstrates hard work, dedication, and a positive attitude. Her kind heart and compassion towards others have not gone unnoticed as well. Jaylah was recognized by the Dade City Chamber of Commerce. One of her teachers, Mrs Campbell, was able to accompany and represent her at the event.
Career Exploration: Publix
One of our guest speakers this month was Mitchell Deitz, General Manager from the newest Publix (Innovation Springs).
A big thank you to Mr Deitz for generously sparing your time to enlighten our students about the exciting job and career prospects within Publix. Thank you Publix for always going the extra mile to empower our community and our students.
Career Exploration: Independent Electrical Contractors
Another guest we welcomed on campus this month was Sarah High, a Master Electrician from Independent Electrical Contractors. The students learned quite a bit about different trade, including the electrical trade. Electrical trade apprenticeships offer students hands-on experience in wiring, installation, and maintenance of electrical systems, preparing them for rewarding careers in the field. Through trade schools or apprenticeship programs, students can gain valuable skills in troubleshooting circuits, understanding blueprints, and adhering to safety protocols. As technology advances, electrical trades remain in high demand, offering students opportunities for growth and specialization in areas like renewable energy and smart home technology.
Thank you Ms Sarah for caring about our students, for sharing your expertise and encouraging them to work hard and pursue their goals.
Porter Campus Visit
By Jaylah Tirado (10th grade) and Julie Gonzalez (11th grade)
On April 26th, some of us went on a field trip to PHSC, Porter Campus in Wesley Chapel. We learned about different careers we could pursue, toured the campus, and received many useful college-related tips.
When I arrived to the Wesley Chapel campus I was immediately amazed at the difference between the Wesley Chapel and Dade City locations. I was introduced to actual nurse equipment and a virtual reality. I say that because I got an idea of what it would be like to work as a nurse on the clock. I really look forward to attending this school also because my sister already goes here and it's close to my house. (Julie)
My favorite part of the trip was learning about the nursing program and seeing all the new equipment. The mannequins and all of the hospital rooms were very realistic, and they even had an NICU room. This motivated me to pursue college after I graduate. I also enjoyed the campus layout, especially the hangout area, which included A Cup of Organic coffee shop. A Cup of Organic attempts to provide farmers the compensation that has been denied to them for years. The coffee shop owner is also determined to keep prices low, so they are college-budget-friendly. It is great to have something like this on campus (Jaylah).
Everyone we met on campus was very friendly. We met with a librarian, a college admissions advisor, an academic advisor, and we also got to speak with some faculty members. They were open to all the questions we asked. The library was pretty unique too. We even got to see model body parts in the library.
It was a great trip and we recommend it to every high school student.
Autism Awareness Month
By Elizabeth Freeman (10th grade)
Here at East Pasco Education Academy, we like to celebrate Autism Awareness Month, especially because we have had multiple students that have struggled with not only autism but learning disabilities in general. We know this makes learning a little more difficult, but the good news is at East Pasco we are very patient and will try to supply our students with everything they need to be successful! We also would like to shed some light on what autism really is so people can be more aware of their peers around them. Autism is a developmental condition that is typically lifelong. People with autism experience difficulties with communication, social interaction and restricted/repetitive interests and behaviors. These are often accompanied by sensory issues, such an oversensitivity or under sensitivity to sounds, smells or touch. So please show kindness to everyone around you because you never know how people interpret things and how it makes them feel.
Have a Happy April!
Exploring Other Cultures: Trinidad
By Lamont McCray (10th grade)
I'm writing this article because i want people to know what my family's home country is like. By me writing this I hope people can understand what Trinidad is some what like and to give some insight on how the country is.
Trinidad, the larger of the twin-island nation of Trinidad and Tobago, is a vibrant gem in the Caribbean Sea. Known for its rich cultural tapestry, mouthwatering cuisine, and legendary Carnival celebrations, Trinidad offers visitors an unforgettable experience that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. At the heart of Trinidad's allure is its diverse population, reflecting a fusion of African, Indian, European, and indigenous influences. This cultural mosaic is evident in every aspect of life, from language and music to religion and art. English is the official language, but Trinidadian Creole infuses conversations with its colorful expressions. No discussion of Trinidad would be complete without mentioning Carnival, the island's most iconic celebration. A riot of color, music, and revelry, Carnival is a spectacle of unparalleled energy and exuberance. Months of preparation culminate in two days of non-stop festivities, with masqueraders adorned in elaborate costumes dancing through the streets to the infectious rhythms of soca and calypso music. It's a celebration of freedom, creativity, and unity, drawing thousands of visitors from around the world to partake in the joyous revelry.
Exploring History: Prominent Historical Figures (Cyrus McCormick).
By Makhi Comice (8th Grade)
Cyrus Hall McCormick (1809-1884) was an American inventor and businessman whose groundbreaking invention revolutionized agriculture and became the cornerstone of modern farming practices. Born in Rockbridge County, Virginia, into a family with a strong tradition of agricultural innovation, McCormick demonstrated an early aptitude for mechanical tinkering.
In 1831, at the age of 22, McCormick unveiled his most significant invention: the mechanical reaping machine. This invention transformed the labor-intensive process of harvesting crops, particularly wheat, by automating the cutting of grain stalks. McCormick's reaper significantly increased efficiency and productivity, allowing farmers to harvest more crops in less time with fewer laborers.
McCormick's reaping machine was a marvel of engineering for its time. It featured a series of gears, blades, and a rotating reel that efficiently cut and gathered crops as the machine was drawn by horses or oxen across the fields. Its design not only saved countless hours of manual labor but also improved the quality of harvested grain by ensuring a more uniform cut.
Despite facing skepticism and resistance from traditionalists in the agricultural community, McCormick's invention eventually gained widespread acceptance. In 1847, he moved his operations to Chicago, where he established the McCormick Harvesting Machine Company (later McCormick Reaper Works) to meet the growing demand for his reapers.
McCormick's reaping machine had a transformative impact on agriculture, contributing to the growth of the agricultural industry in the United States and around the world. It enabled farmers to cultivate larger areas of land, leading to increased food production and economic prosperity. McCormick's invention played a vital role in the expansion of the American frontier, as it made large-scale farming feasible on the vast prairies of the Midwest.
Beyond his contributions to agriculture, Cyrus Hall McCormick was also a shrewd businessman and entrepreneur. He pioneered innovative marketing techniques, such as offering installment payment plans and providing warranties for his machines, to attract customers and build brand loyalty.
Today, Cyrus Hall McCormick is remembered as one of the most influential figures in agricultural history. His reaping machine not only revolutionized farming practices but also
laid the foundation for future advancements in agricultural machinery and technology, shaping the modern world of agriculture as we know it.
Dress Code
Students are to abide by the dress code of Pasco County Schools. Due to the nature of our school, we have a few additional expectations for dress code outlined below.
Students must wear the EPEA uniform shirt daily. Shirts can be purchased for $10 each.
Sweatshirts:
No hoodies, jackets with hoods, or hats/beanies will be permitted. Only EPEA crewneck sweatshirts will be allowed.
Crewneck sweatshirts will be available for $25, and students can wear the EPEA crewneck sweatshirt without the EPEA uniform shirt if they wear the EPEA crewneck sweatshirt all day.
Pants:
Jeans with holes are permitted; however, the holes cannot be so large or high that undergarments can be exposed. Administration will have final discretion as to whether the pants are acceptable.
Pants are expected to be worn at the waistline and not to expose undergarments.
Shoes:
Closed-toe shoes are encouraged to be worn daily. Students will be prohibited from sharing slides/shoes with other students.
Additional Items:
Reminder no purses, bags, or backpacks.
Please note: Old JIEC shirts & sweatshirts WILL not be considered in dress code. ALL students must have an EPEA shirt or EPEA crewneck sweatshirt for this school year.
Electronics
Electronics (cell phone, headphones, ear buds) will be placed into a velcro pouch upon arrival/check-in so that the focus remains on academics without distractions (wireless speakers will be confiscated).
Each student will be assigned a numbered pouch that they will carry with them throughout the day. Students will hand the teacher their pouches prior to entry into the classroom/cafeteria as an additional measure to keep the focus on academics without distractions.
Electronics are only permitted to be used prior to arrival to school and after dismissal.
Wireless speakers, video games, etc. should be kept at home and they are not permitted on campus. Students who bring them will surrender them.
Level System
Students will carry their point card with them around campus and be responsible for not losing it. All students will start on the Bronze level and then be able to move up to Silver and Gold. If students are not able to maintain points, they will drop down to Red level. On the Red level, students will attend the Think Tank until they improve grades/behavior. While on Red level, students are not permitted to participate in club day activities or field trips. Students who achieve Silver and Gold level will receive extra privileges, such as monthly ice cream socials, field day, etc.
