May 2024
Student Run Newsletter
Department of Justice Partnership
We are very grateful for our partnership with the U.S. Department of Justice this year. The DOJ plays a crucial role in upholding the rule of law, promoting public safety, and safeguarding the rights and interests of Americans at the federal level. Our students have learned about neighborhood safety, internet safety, human trafficking, and the dangers of recreational drugs. They also discovered various career opportunities in law and law enforcement and participated in numerous discussions about future goals and life choices.
The Y.E.S Program
The Young Entrepreneurial Program recently concluded its intensive 12-week session, during which students dedicated themselves to brainstorming innovative business ideas and refining their entrepreneurial skills. The culmination of this program was marked by a series of compelling business pitches, showcasing the creativity and determination of these young entrepreneurs. Among the standout presentations was Johnathon McCullough's visionary concept for a car detailing business, Shine Pros, which really impressed the judges. McCullough's dedication and entrepreneurial spirit have rightfully earned him recognition as the program's winner. Congratulations to Johnathon McCullough and all participants for their inspiring efforts and commitment to turning their dreams into reality.
Four Seasons Spa
Our school is truly blessed to have such compassionate and thoughtful administrators who go above and beyond to ensure that everyone on campus feels appreciated and valued. During Teachers and Staff Appreciation week, they orchestrated a delightful Four Seasons Spa. It was a rare opportunity for teachers and staff and to unwind, recharge, and indulge in some self-care. Whether it was enjoying some refreshments, relaxing with cucumbers on their eyes, or even attempting an exhausted teacher yoga pose, everyone found a way to embrace the spirit of relaxation and gratitude.
Tiger Awards
Congratulations to our remarkable Tigers who received special awards for demonstrating outstanding academic and behavioral excellence. We are so proud of you all!
Middle School Awards:
Outstanding in PE: Steven Tyner
Outstanding in ELA: Milan Benford
Outstanding in Social Studies: Dominic Bonano
Outstanding in Math: Rhys McKinnon
Outstanding in Science: Dominic Bonano
Outstanding in Artistic: Makhi Comice
Most Improved in PE: Milan Benford
Most Improved in ELA: Milan Benford
Most Improved in Social Studies: Fabiel Figueroa
Most Improved in Math: Angel Mejia-Pena
Most Improved in Science: Miles Jung
Most Improved in Artistic: Davion Swint
Most Improved in Behavior: Lizarenee Robertson
Tiger Stripe: Makhi Comice
HS Awards:
Outstanding in ELA: Joshua Nguyen
Outstanding in Math: Strengthen Milton
Outstanding in Science: Julie Gonzalez
Outstanding in Social Studies: Lamont McCray
Outstanding in PE: Jordan Falcon
Outstanding in Artistic: Jaylah Tirado
Most Improved in ELA: Trenton Cabaniss
Most Improved in Math: Jordan Falcon
Most Improved in Science: Trenton Cabaniss
Most Improved in Social Studies: Trenton Cabaniss
Most Improved in PE: Trenton Cabaniss
Most Improved in Artistic: Ivy Leatherman
Most Improved in Behavior: Trenton Cabaniss
Tiger Stripe: Lamont McCray
CARES Awards:
Outstanding in PE: Amer Aly
Outstanding in Social Studies: Carmin Mazza
Most Improved in ELA: Jordyn Davis
Most Improved in PE: Dominic Meyers
Most Improved in Behavior: Marquise Little
Perfect Attendance: Amer Aly
Tiger Stripe: Dominic Meyers
"Behind the Scenes: Students' Insider View on School Perks and Pet Peeves"
As another year ends, we bid farewell to many of our students who are returning to their zoned schools. It's a bittersweet moment filled with a mix of pride for their achievements and sadness at their departure.
At the end of every semester, we like to gather feedback from our students about their experiences at EPEA. Their insights, thoughts, and reflections serve as valuable guideposts for us, helping us to continuously improve and refine our approach to education. So, before we part ways, we'd like to share some of their thoughts with you.
Almost every student we interviewed said that their favorite part about the school was the teachers. Jaden said that "the teachers are really helpful," and Josh added that teachers give students a chance to bring their grades up. Sebastian also mentioned that the teachers are not only helpful, but many of them are funny. Dupri said that everyone on campus is nice and helpful.
Jaylah said that what she enjoyed most about the school was the teachers because they get to know their students and were always open to questions. According to Jaylah, for most teachers, the students are not just a number. Julie said that most teachers are very kind and encouraging. She said she is very grateful for Ms. Brophy who kept encouraging her and her clasmates to keep looking forward to the future and to never be scared of failure. Julie said that Ms Brophy helped everyone figure out their strengths and possible career paths and that she believed in her students' success. Julie also said that she will always remember what she learned in Ms. Brophy's class, especially when she is an adult working on her taxes. She learned many life skills she hadn't learned in her other school. Jordan, who is an athlete and is pursuing a career in sports, mentioned that he is really grateful for Coach Gonnella. He also said that PE was his favorite class because it gave him a little bit of much-needed freedom. Khamani also said that gym was his favorite class, although he also really liked Mr. Harris's class. A few students mentioned how much they love Mr. Lee. Lamont said EPEA should keep Mr. Lee forever. Another student who preferred to remain anonymous said that unlike in his other school, all his teachers here are respectful and don't look down on the students. Dee B. really liked our school store because it had good snacks. She loved Ms. Rudolph's class as well. When asked about what he liked most about EPEA, Elijah said "Ms. Rudolph, Ms. Moore, and Dr. Mink". Kingston said that EPEA is a good learning experience and that he liked the fact that it has fewer kids than his zoned school. Johnathon agreed with Kingston and added that he liked that this is a small campus and class size is smaller.
On the downside, many students complained about the school schedule, the uniform color, and the cafeteria food. Our students don't seem to enjoy the no-phone policy either. Some believe that the students should have no uniforms and that everyone should be allowed to wear whatever they wanted, including hoodies. Steven said that the only thing that could be improved at EPEA was the double rims for the basketball courts. Jayda said that the AC did not have to be so cold and that she would prefer to have less online work. Johnathon and Kingston both complained about the bus rides—they are very long, and the buses are almost always late. Nevertheless, Steven concluded, "it's not as bad as everyone says".
As we say goodbye to our students, their feedback inspires us to keep improving. We cherish the connections made and the growth seen at EPEA. Looking forward, we're dedicated to supporting every student and creating an environment where learning flourishes. To those leaving, we wish you success and remember, EPEA will always be your home. Thanks for being part of our journey. Be the difference, no matter where you go and GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO TIGERS!!!!!!!!!!!!
