COA Times

Columbus City Schools

Volume 4, Issue 4

The following students qualified for honor roll by earning a 3.0 or higher GPA for quarter two.

By Tiffany Tatum

The school has successfully implemented the PBIS framework, which promotes a positive school culture. Students are being recognized for demonstrating kindness and core values, which are essential aspects of the COA community.

There are exciting rewards for students who engage in positive behaviors this month. Principal Angel has planned some surprises for those who are working hard. Click Here for Presentation of December Winners.

Reward Pickup: Students can pick up their rewards at COA on Tuesdays or Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The tickets for the rewards are available at the COA prize table.

This framework encourages COA students to exhibit positive behaviors and fosters a sense of community and recognition among peers. Keep up the great work in promoting kindness and engagement at COA!

January Nominations: Click HERE to nominate someone for a COA Kind award for January.

If you have any questions, ask any teacher or Principal Christian Angel.

By Xenia Broadnax and Legend Lattimore-Woods

Seniors at Columbus Online Academy are making a difference in their community through the “Lead for Change” program, a leadership initiative tied to their senior seminar. The Lead 4 Change program is a leadership initiative designed to empower students to make a positive impact in their schools and communities. It focuses on developing leadership skills while encouraging students to take action on important issues.

The senior class kicked off the program on Jan. 14 with an in-person meeting at COA, led by senior advisors including Tiffany Tatum, Michelle Jeffries, Julia Mac Nair, Anita Lindsay, Rachel Narra, Lisa Ciminillo, and Mary Young. Students worked in teams on projects designed to address community needs, from helping teen parents to promoting cultural understanding.

"Lead for Change" Structure and Goals

“Lead for Change is a global program for students to create and implement community service projects that bring positive change,” said Tatum. “The goal is to develop leadership qualities while contributing to the community. Students take a pre-assessment to rate their leadership skills, and by the end, we hope to see growth in those areas.”

The program is part of the senior seminar curriculum and serves as an alternative pathway to graduation for students who may struggle with standardized testing. By completing the program, seniors earn three graduation points toward their required total, contributing to an industry credential seal.

Projects and Leaders

The senior class is divided into six groups, each with a teacher advisor. Projects include:

• Charger Guardians: Advised by Julia Mac Nair and student Xenia Broadnax; this group supports teen parents by providing baby supplies such as diapers, clothing, and accessories. Supplies are donated by teachers, families, and community members.
  
  

• Reading Buddies: Advised by Anita Lindsay and student Mame Diara Sy; literacy initiative pairing students with younger children to promote reading skills.
  
  

• Community Cleanup: Advised by Rachel Narra, Lisa Ciminillo, Mary Young and student Emily Hass; focused on beautifying local areas, with plans for additional cleanup days in the spring.

• Ronald McDonald House: Advised by Michelle Jeffries and student Tre Jones; supporting families with children in the hospital through donations and volunteer work.
  
  

• International Potluck: Advised by Cassandra Lewis and student Tyla Hall; organizing a multicultural event where families can share dishes from their heritage, scheduled for Feb. 4 at 6:00 p.m. Sign up here.
  
  

• Stop Teen Violence: Advised by Tiffany Taylor-Tatum and student Robert Norman; raising awareness on ways to Stop teen Violence and fostering a safe space for students to discuss their experiences such as bullying and physical violence, with plans for a Feb. 19 Zoom event. Sign up here.

Next Steps

As the program concludes in the coming weeks, students will finalize their projects and submit them to the Lead for Change organization. Submissions may include videos, reflections, and marketing materials documenting their journey. “The goal is to tell the story of how we started and where we ended,” Tatum explained.

Reflecting on her involvement, Tatum emphasized the impact of the program’s creator, David Novak, and his book Taking People with You. “It’s a great resource on leadership and creating change,” she said.

The seniors’ dedication to these projects exemplifies the values of leadership and service, paving the way for a brighter future—for themselves and their community.

By COA Staff

Seniors met Jan. 14 to clean up around the school. They wanted to earn internship hours but later realized volunteering is about more than earning a credit. A sense of accomplishment was realized when the kids had cleaned the grounds around school. Working together and making memories is a great way to give back to COA. Photos by Tiffany Tatum.

From left to right: Kabriah Mitchell, Tyree Fountain, Ja'Sean Steward, Kenya Nelson, Noella Criswell, Emily Haas, Kelvin Moffitt, Tre Jones, Vanessa Hernandez, and Ariana Hernandez

By Kathy McQuate

The wellness department of Columbus City Schools initiated a walking challenge through the YuMuuv application to encourage staff members to exercise. Fifteen staff members joined the challenge, and teacher Michelle Jeffries (pictured below) provided a treadmill for staff members to use while working. The 30-day step challenge started on Jan. 13 and ends on Feb. 11. At the end of January, COA was in 50th place out of 120 teams with an average of 107, 516 steps taken per person.

Teacher Lindsay Santen meets students, staff members, and families at various parks to participate in the Metro Parks winter hike series. Click on the buttons below to view the hike videos.

By Kathy McQuate

A combined group of 25 students from Walnut Ridge and COA attended the 2nd Kitchen of Life trip on Jan. 30. Photos by RJ Buggs and Kathy McQuate.

Maree Bednar-Warren's seventh-grade students wrote objective summaries for their English class. Two of the students who mastered the standard wrote paragraphs on plastic pollution and the internet.

By Aubri Best

In the article How Has The Internet Evolved it states that in the 1960's the internet was used for scientists and researchers to share information about their research. In the 1990's the World Wide Web was introduced to the world giving access to websites and sending emails to other people around the world. Today the internet provides us many things like playing games with friends, sending emails, social media and doing schoolwork. The internet can bring us many good things, there are also bad things too like cyberbullying, misinformation and personal privacy.

By Ahleonah-Lou Daughon

In The Impact of Plastic Pollution the author gives the idea that Plastic pollution is bad for the environment. The author gave evidence to support that idea. Plastic takes hundreds of years to decompose and it harms any animals that mistake it for their food and eat it. Sea turtles often accidentally eat plastic bags thinking it's jellyfish. And they get injured or die. Every year millions of plastic waste get into our oceans and land. There are many efforts to stop plastic pollution.

By Amia Page

The article, "The Impact of Plastic Pollution" explains how plastic waste harms the environment and animals. Since plastic takes so long to break down, it causes long-term problems, like animals mistaking it for food. The article also talks about ways to reduce plastic pollution, such as recycling and using biodegradable materials. These efforts are important for protecting wildlife and keeping the Earth clean for the future.

By Tyla Hall

Every January, Unchain a Dog Month raises awareness about chained dogs and encourages people to be a voice for the voiceless. While some dogs get to run around in big yards or stay cozy inside homes, sadly, many others are left outside on chains, suffering from loneliness, bad weather, and even abuse.

Some people believe tethering their dogs is fine, either because they’re uneducated or don’t know any better, but in reality, it can cause a lot of harm. Dogs are social animals, and being tied up for long periods can make them anxious, aggressive, or deeply unhappy. They often lack proper food, water, or medical care, and extreme weather puts their health at risk. Many chained dogs are abandoned when their owners move away, left to starve or suffer alone.

A great example of this issue was shown in the comic strip “Mutts”, which helped bring more attention to the issue of tethered dogs by sharing stories and comments from readers who were moved by the dog’s plight. In the story, Sparky (formerly known as Guard Dog) spent 27 years chained before finally being rescued, adopted, and given a second chance at life. His story opened many people’s eyes to the struggles of chained dogs and inspired action.

According to a list published by Michigan State University, 23 states and Washington, D.C. have passed laws to limit or restrict dog tethering, but it means the majority of states still lack proper protections for these animals. It means more needs to be done. You can help by advocating for anti-tethering legislation, signing petitions, supporting rescues and shelters through donating or volunteering, educating others on the dangers of tethering, spreading awareness on social media, kindly offering guidance or alternatives to owners who tether their dogs, reporting neglect if you see a suffering chained dog, or join or create a community group.

Even though this month is coming to an end, it doesn’t mean we can’t stop the injustices that chained dogs endure. Together, we can break the chain.

By Andra VanBlarcume

Meet your Superintendent Student Ambassador (SSA), Trinity Forbes. Forbes (pictured left with teacher Charlene McChesney and photo bomber Samantha Burk) is our one and only SSA at Columbus Online Academy.

When asked about her experience applying for SSA, she stated, "Applying for SSA was super easy, not that hard. I filled out a Google form, and a teacher reached out to me and informed me that I was eligible for the program. I completed the form, waited two weeks, and then an SSA advisor reached out to me and told me that I was accepted."

As an SSA, Forbes participates in activities such as shadowing board members, going to conferences, planning conferences, and participating in the media surrounding Columbus. SSAs also receive opportunities to speak up for their communities in public and via podcasts. They also meet high-status lawyers, judges, and school board members.

Being an SSA means supporting your school, speaking up when needed, speaking in front of large crowds, keeping your word, being timely, being prepared, and being an exemplary leader. Forbes said, "It sounds like a lot, and it is! However, this program provides so many opportunities."

Forbes explained that the pros of being an SSA are that you can do the program until graduation. You can embrace new experiences and develop who you are, not just as a leader but as a person. They learn new techniques on how to support themselves and their peers. The program connects SSAs to scholarship opportunities.

Forbes stated, "You can have eight different things happening simultaneously, and you have to get them all done at a specific date. With the title of Student Ambassador also comes a very, very tight, busy, and strict schedule."

Forbes says, "You only get a few absences for the meetings before you're kicked out of the program." Forbes said, "My favorite thing about being the Student Ambassador for COA is I get to speak up for my school. I am the only person in the program who supports an online school. When a guest speaker starts calling out schools, Columbus Online Academy is usually last or even forgotten about. But, I am the one who stands up and says, 'You're forgetting a school! This is my school, and we are amazing!'" Forbes collects data and shares how our school is great and does things that no other school does. Forbes stated, "I love showing people that my school isn't invisible."

Forbes says, "If you are interested in the SSA, ask about it! If you would like to take that next step in being a good leader, do it!" She explained that there are so many varying opportunities that it's kind of ridiculous. However, if you struggle with staying on task, prioritizing, or procrastinating, this program may not be right for you. Transportation is also vital to participating in the program as Student Ambassadors travel all around Columbus and even out of town for events. With this being said, if transportation is an issue, then this program may not work for you, as physical attendance is absolutely required."

Forbes wants COA Times readers to know that their SSA will and has done everything in her power to support our school in every possible way. She strives to make sure our school is recognized. She ensures that we, as a school, are heard. Forbes said, "Our voices will not be heard unless we stand up for ourselves, and sometimes that is what we do, so that's what I'm doing." She will continue to ensure COA is not invisible and stands out in our community. Her final note is, "I promise that I will continue to support and work hard for our school." Photo By Samantha Hernandez Hernandez.

By Samir Dolison

Gemma Park, a dedicated math teacher, has an inspiring story that led her to her current role in education. Before stepping into the classroom, Park had an impressive career as a business consultant. Her professional path took a turn when she had a child, prompting her to transition to a role at a government funding agency.

Interestingly, Park landed a spot on the iconic game show "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" She plays tennis year-round as a passion and manages three dogs. In her downtime, she likes to unwind by watching detective shows such as "High Potential" and "True Detective," which suit her analytical mind and love for problem-solving.

Park’s academic background is as impressive as her career. She studied human development and family studies before earning a business degree, equipping her with a unique blend of empathy and analytical skills that help her in the classroom. She also attended prestigious universities, including Cornell University and Carnegie Mellon University.

Park’s journey from consulting and advocacy to teaching highlights her commitment to making a difference in young people’s lives.

By Te'Marie Sebring

Kathy McQuate currently teaches freshman English and publications and co-advises the garden club at Columbus Online Academy. McQuate’s journey to COA started with a connection to Principal Angel, with whom she previously worked at Linden McKinley. Since joining the school, she’s found it to be her favorite position in a teaching career that spans three school districts and seven different schools.

Before becoming an educator, McQuate worked an eclectic range of jobs, starting with a paper route at 9 years old. She’s also worked as a lifeguard, hotel desk clerk, in a book factory, at a call center, and in food service.

Outside the classroom, McQuate has a deep passion for travel. She funded her first international trip to Ireland at the age of 12 with money saved from her paper route. That early experience sparked a lifelong love of travel. Notably, she spent a year in India as an exchange student, where she attended school and formed lifelong connections with her host family.

McQuate earned her undergraduate degree in communications education from Bowling Green State University, which certified her to teach English, speech, and journalism. Her master’s degree and reading endorsement were earned through Ashland University, and her technology license was earned through The Ohio State University. Though her college years were primarily focused on working to support herself, McQuate’s hard work and dedication to her studies have led her to a fulfilling career. Today, she lives close to Walnut Ridge, which she considers an advantage, as it allows her to be readily available for her students.

Our Seniors and Parent Consultant Cassandra Lewis have been working hard planning an International Night celebration of food and fun. Please come, bring a dish, and celebrate seniors graduating in just four months! Use the tiny URL above to sign up. You must RSVP for this event.

Parents, be prepared to drive your students to COA for testing. These tests are mandatory for all CCS students and have to be done in person. Read your emails to find out when your child needs their tests. Test lists are posted in Canvas and will be discussed in morning meetings.

CLICK HERE for the internship hours application form. Students need 120 hours to meet their graduation requirement. Contact Internship Coordinator Steve Baker at sbaker5930@columbus.k12.oh.us or submit your hours through School Links.

Shoutout to Abigail Berrios, who made animal and flower art gifts for staff members.

Shoutout to Sha'kiya Dickerson, who worked several days in-person in January so she could better focus on her schoolwork.

Shoutout to the staff members such as Traci Cottrell and all of the students who work hard on in-person days at COA.

CLICK HERE to submit announcements or story ideas. Any student or staff member may submit an announcement, column, or article. Our volunteer publications staff meets every Tuesday and Friday during period 6 and Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m. Contact McQuate for the Zoom link if you are interested in joining our team.

Articles in this issue were edited with support from OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT [Large language model].

Volume 4

October 2024

November 22, 2024

December 20, 2024

January 2025

February 2025

March 2025

April 2025

May 2025

Volume 3

December 2023

January 2024

February 2024

March 2024

April 2024

May 2024

Publications Staff: Erica Henderson, Anita Lindsay, Kathy McQuate, Trinity Forbes, Andra VanBlarcume, Charles King, Xenia Broadnax, Samantha Burk, Noella Criswell, Zaire Cunningham Samir Dolison, Elijah Forbes, Emily Haas, Tyla Hall, Kaitlyn Jones, Legend Lattimore-Woods, Kelvin Moffitt, Laveah Morrison, Kenya Nelson, Keion Pace, Laila Parker, Emir Richardson, Te'Marie Sebring, and Mame Diara Sy.

Email: colsonlineacad@columbus.k12.oh.us
Website

Facebook

Location: 4841 E Livingston Ave, Columbus, OH 43227, USA
Phone: (614) 365-8472