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The Redwing Quarterly
Happenings from Marking Period 3
Principal's Message
Greetings Redwing Family!
And just like that we are in the fourth marking period. We do not slow down at all, as we begin AP Testing on May 6, 2024 and then go into NJSLA testing on May 20, 2024. We will remain focused in the classrooms as we work to ensure that students are all prepared for these exams.
These next few months are really exciting for our Class of 2024, with senior trip and senior prom. Then we have our Commencement on June 18, 2024 at 6:00pm. We did have one snow day, but in order to keep graduation day as originally scheduled, we took back two half days.
Take a few moments to enjoy the quarterly, as it provides great insight into what your child is working on in classes, as well as in co-curricular activities.
All the best,
Ms. Picc
Culinary Arts
In Culinary Arts 1, students engaged in a diverse array of culinary experiences that not only honed their cooking skills but also celebrated cultural and historical milestones. They kicked off the year by commemorating Lunar New Year, where they learned the intricate art of making dumplings from scratch. Safety and workplace rights were emphasized through OSHA Youth worker restaurant safety training, ensuring students' well-being in culinary environments. During Black History Month, students delved into research to honor the occasion, culminating in a school-wide celebration featuring dishes they meticulously prepared. Additionally, an Irish Heritage celebration provided students with the opportunity to master the craft of Irish meat pies and Chocolate Potato Cake, paying homage to culinary traditions.
In International Pastries, students explored a global palate with delicacies like egg tarts, sesame crisp, and scallion pancakes for Lunar New Year, while also delving into the world of sourdough starters. Cupcake Wars added a competitive edge to the curriculum, with students crafting inventive cupcakes and being judged by esteemed panel members.
In Culinary Arts II, students continued their culinary journey with elaborate dishes for Lunar New Year and Black History Month buffets, showcasing their culinary prowess and cultural appreciation. The introduction of the Student Chef program fostered leadership skills, as students curated menus inspired by diverse cuisines and hosted family-style lunches to share their creations. Moreover, their dedication extended beyond the classroom, with students preparing food for fundraisers and embarking on enriching field trips, such as exploring Chinatown in NYC, further enhancing their culinary education.
Math Department
In the second semester of the Aviation curriculum, students delved deeper into the multifaceted world of flight beyond piloting. Exploring diverse career paths within aviation became a focal point, shedding light on opportunities beyond the cockpit. The environmental footprint of airline travel emerged as a crucial topic, prompting discussions on sustainability and innovation within the industry. Hands-on learning took flight as students honed their skills as Air Traffic Controllers, utilizing cutting-edge simulators to navigate complex scenarios. A highlight of the semester was a captivating visit to the ATC tower at Newark Airport, providing invaluable insight into the intricate operations that ensure safe and efficient air travel. Through these experiences, students not only expanded their knowledge but also gained a deeper appreciation for the dynamic and interconnected aspects of aviation.
In the ever-evolving landscape of Computer Science, students embarked on a transformative journey from the simplicity of Block-Based coding to the robust realm of Python programming. With a keen focus on mastering fundamental concepts, the spotlight illuminated the power of loops, functions, and data types within Python's dynamic ecosystem. As the semester unfolded, anticipation mounted for the exploration of advanced concepts, including the intricate utilization of lists and other pivotal elements. With each keystroke and line of code, students not only honed their technical prowess but also embraced the creative problem-solving inherent in the world of programming, laying the groundwork for future innovation and mastery in the dynamic field of Computer Science.
In the realm of AP Computer Science, students were treated to an enlightening session with a guest speaker who delved into the fascinating realm of Quantum Machine Learning alongside other captivating topics, igniting curiosity and broadening horizons. As the semester progressed, the focus shifted towards meticulous preparation for the impending AP Computer Science Project and test, fostering a rigorous yet rewarding academic environment. Amidst the preparations, students delved into the foundational concepts of Binary and embarked on a comprehensive exploration of how the intricate machinery of the internet operates, unraveling its complexities and demystifying its inner workings. Armed with newfound knowledge and guided by a spirit of inquiry, students navigated the multifaceted landscape of AP Computer Science with enthusiasm and determination, poised to excel in both theory and practice.
In the dynamic world of Engineering, students embarked on a journey of innovation and creation, immersing themselves in the intricate nuances of the engineering process. With a keen focus on honing their design and development skills, they embarked on a series of hands-on projects that pushed the boundaries of their imagination and technical acumen. From the graceful flight of paper airplanes to the thrilling velocity of rubber band-powered cars, each project served as a canvas for experimentation and discovery. However, the pinnacle of their endeavors lay in the application of person-centered design principles, as students ventured into the realm of empathetic engineering. Through meticulous surveys and thoughtful analysis, they gleaned insights from their peers to craft the perfect chair, seamlessly blending form and function. Armed with ingenuity and a collaborative spirit, students emerged not just as engineers, but as visionaries poised to shape the world through innovation and empathy.
English Department
It has been an exciting marking period in Mrs. Troutman’s Pre-AP English I classes, filled with learning and growth. We have been diving deep into the world of poetry. Throughout Unit 2, we explored various forms of poetry, from sonnets to haikus. The students have shown great enthusiasm and creativity in exploring different poetic styles. The students put on a spectacular performance of Romeo and Juliet. The students worked tirelessly to bring this timeless Shakespearean tragedy to life, and their dedication and passion were evident in every scene. We are incredibly proud of their hard work and commitment.
During our Writing Workshop, we focused on developing strong analytical essays. The students honed their literature analysis skills and effectively incorporated evidence to support their arguments. Their essays showcased their ability to think critically and articulate their thoughts clearly.
As part of our poetry unit, the students analyzed the revision choices made in multiple iterations of a poem. They explored how different stylistic choices can impact a poem's overall meaning and tone. Their insightful analysis demonstrated their deep understanding of poetic techniques.
We commenced Unit 3 towards the end of the marking period. One of the key texts we explored in Unit 3 was "The Work You Do, the Person You Are" by Toni Morrison. Through close reading, we identified the rhetorical effects of contrasts in the essay. This allowed us to produce insightful analyses of individual paragraphs, uncovering the deeper meaning behind Morrison's words. In addition to reading Morrison's essay, we also took the time to closely read and analyze the structure of Danial Adkison’s “Drowning in Dishes, but Finding a Home.” By examining the visual elements of the text, we gained a deeper understanding of how these elements contribute to the overall meaning. This exercise helped us develop our skills in interpreting and analyzing different types of texts. As we progress in our English journey, we will continue building upon the skills and knowledge gained in Unit 3. We will further develop our analytical thinking, strengthen our writing abilities, and explore more captivating texts.
Mr. Huggins' English III classes began the marking period by focusing on literature that explores the consequences of gender stereotypes and the nature of relationships. We examined short stories, poems and plays such as The Wife’s Story by Ursela K. LeGuin, Barbie Doll by Marge Piercy, Trifles by Susan Glaspell and various other texts. Through our investigation students continued to hone their skills to recognize and evaluate narrative elements like, plot development, characterization, imagery, and figurative language. Students also continued to develop their analytical skills by writing evidence-based analysis of various texts. They have improved their ability to write clear and concise thesis statements and topic sentences and to strategically choose evidence to support their claims and write commentary that provide in-depth analysis of the text. Our current focus has shifted to the novel as we examine themes associated with the The Great Gatsby. Students continue to utilize technology like IXL to identify their academic strengths and weaknesses and have engaged in activities that will improve their communication and analytical skills.
The AP Language and Composition class continues to develop their ability to respond to AP free response and multiple choice questions. They have completed the curricular units and are currently engaged in a review for the AP exam. Students write three essays a week and engage in structured peer evaluations and targeted mini-lessons. They are also utilizing the Kaplan review program outside of class.
All eleventh grade students continue to develop their vocabulary by utilizing Vocabulary.com, Jamboard and by engaging in individual and group writing activities.
Guidance Department
Guidance Department
ACT Deadlines
You can still take the ACT this year in April, June, and July. Please reach out to your School Counselor if you would like assistance with registering.
Test Date: 06/08/24
Registration Deadline: 05/03/24
Test Date: 07/13/24
Registration Date: 06/07/24
*** Please keep in mind that the digital SAT test will be released on March 9th***
Scholarship Opportunities
Scholarship Application deadlines are FAST approaching and there will be no extensions on any deadlines. The following scholarships are for Hoboken High School Students only.
April 14th- Hearts Scholarship
April 15th- St Mary's Scholarship
April 26th- Hackensack Meridian Medical Center
April 30th- World Trade Center Scholarship
May 1st- Dustin Friedland Scholarship
May 1st- The Margaret O'Connor Scholarship
May 3rd-Collegebound Laptop Scholarship (FREE LAPTOPS)
May 14th- Puerto Rican Culture Scholarship
May 15th- The Namaste Scholarship
May 15th- The Doris Kruegar Scholarship
May 15th- The Jean Kennedy Scholarship
May 15th- The True Warrior Scholarship
May 15th- The Munoz Family Scholarship
All descriptions and requirements are in here:
Internships and Pre-College Programs
The University of Chicago created a database for high school students interested in applying for internship opportunities. To visit the database, click here.
For those interested in pre-college summer programs, please click here to view the list that was created with brief descriptions to help narrow down your interests.
The National Honor Society is finishing up our annual member selection process. The Faculty Council interviewed over 50 students and they will be notified of their selection or non-selection shortly. We are also focusing on preparations for the Senior Citizens Prom, scheduled for May 2, 2024. For this project we are again partnering with our good friends in the Spanish National Honor Society and Student Government.
The Yearbook staff are running around capturing pictures of spring sports and any other last minute photos we need. Our deadline is April 19! Seniors headed to the field one sunny afternoon this week to take our overhead drone photo. Thanks Mr. MacAulay and Mr. Fernandez for your help with this! The yearbooks will be delivered in early June.
Science Department
In science classes, students are engaging in hands-on activities that foster critical thinking and creativity. In Human Centered Design, they are immersing themselves in the principles of problem-solving by focusing on the needs of users. Through interviewing each other, they gather insights to envision the ideal classroom chair, utilizing these findings to design and construct prototypes. Meanwhile, in exploring concepts of speed, kinetic energy, and sustainability, students are challenged to design and assemble rubber band cars. They measure speed and kinetic energy while also considering environmental impact and sustainability, incorporating materials like bottle caps brought from home into their creations. These projects not only enhance their understanding of core concepts but also cultivate practical skills and awareness of real-world implications.
During marking period 3, students in AP Biology completed units on molecular biology, enzymes and genetics, evolution and ecology.
Students conducted a multi part lab as a capstone of their unit on molecular biology. They transformed competent E.coli bacteria with a plasmid conferring the bacteria with antibiotic resistance and for a gene that codes for GFP (green fluorescent protein). The students ran two experiments, one with bacteria transformed with the PGLO plasmid and the other without it. They cultivated the bacteria on agar plates of regular LB medium, LB + ampicillin and LB + ampicillin + arabinose sugar. Only bacteria that were transformed could survive on the LB + ampicillin treatment and only those plated on the LB + ampicillin + arabinose sugar glowed.
Following this, the students learned all about enzymes. Students learned that enzymes catalyze reactions in living systems and have a specific optimum for pH, temperature and concentration. They carried out an investigation using the enzyme catalase and paper discs soaked in yeast suspension (which contains catalase). The discs were then placed in solutions of hydrogen peroxide at various pH levels and temperatures. The discs actually rose to the top of the containers due to the formation of oxygen bubbles – and the students were able to calculate the enzyme activity by timing how long it took for the discs to rise!
The students also used a similar method to study photosynthesis - part of their energetics unit – by using discs punched out of spinach leaves and seeing if they rose due to oxygen formation from these leaves in solutions of calcium carbonate or pure water. They found that in calcium carbonate solution that the leaf discs rose whereas in pure water they did not. This is because the photosynthesis reaction could not run because there was no carbon source to run it.
They combined their knowledge of genetics with their study of evolution by studying Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. This principle states that populations will not have a change in allele frequency due to certain conditions: populations size must be large, mating must be non random, no natural selection can occur, there can be no genetic drift or gene flow. They simulated this process by using a card game and doing several mating trials under various conditions. They explored the conditions needed to preserve allelic frequency – and which ones can actually disrupt Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in real time. They pooled their data, completed the calculations and found it to be a really fun experience! Many of the students felt that this was their favorite lab of the many that we have done this year.
The students then connected many principles studied throughout the course by completing a lab experiment on artificial selection. The students took plastic petri dishes and double sided tape. They used a hole puncher to make a tape punch of this double sided tape. They then used a fine paintbrush to add a fixed amount of sea monkey eggs (Artemia sp.) to the tape. They made several solutions of sodium chloride (0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, 2.0%) and added these solutions to each petri dish. They then incubated the plates for one week. They counted the number of eggs added versus the number that hatched to obtain hatch rate data. They graphed the results and contrasted them with their hypotheses. Importantly, they connected this with our study of evolution by realizing that those Artemia sp. that hatched would have offspring with a greater hatch rate in the next generation - since the ones that hatch carry genes that would be well adapted to hatch at that particular concentration!
Finally, the students played a card game where they were able to use different types of cards to practice using the Simpson’s equation for quantifying biodiversity. They also reviewed concepts including nutrient cycling, eutrophication, energy flow through ecosystems and much more. They also reviewed the concepts of ecological succession, food webs and more.
During marking period 3, students in Pre-AP Biology completed an in-depth unit on evolution and began to explore the fascinating field of cellular systems.
The students went into a lot of depth on evolution. They learned all about how organisms are classified and then learned how they are categorized into various “clades” utilizing what is known as a cladogram. The organisms are sorted into categories based on shared characteristics which likely represent the true pattern by which the species evolved. Cladograms also show the order in which organisms evolved, with organisms having the most “primitive” or ancestral characteristics toward the left of the diagram and organisms having the most “advanced or derived characteristics toward the right of the diagram.
The students then moved onto natural selection, learning the various types (disruptive, stabilizing and directional) along with other forms of selection, which include artificial selection and sexual selection. The students did a really fun hands-on lab which simulates natural selection very well. The students learned about a specific case of natural selection in which a specific predator, the song-thrush bird, hunts a specific species of snail which has a lot of variation in terms of its color. The birds seem to target snails whose colors stand out the most on a background. To test whether snail color influenced the rate of predation, students put a small cup to simulate the bird’s stomach on a table. They used spoons to scoop up “snails” of various colors (white or black) on a background (dark or light). The students used spoons to hunt the snails and scoop them into the stomach – each time, this counted as a “kill”. They counted how many snails were left and which colors. Between rounds, the snails bred with each other to produce a dark, medium colored or light snail. They repeated this process over several hunting rounds. The students found that lighter color snails increased in frequency on a light background whereas darker colored snails increased in frequency on a dark background. Their data did indeed support the conclusion that snail color influences the rate of predation.
The students proceeded to study many case studies of real examples of evolution in class – from Ensatina salamanders as an example of reduced hybrid viability to brown-nosed bats as an example of genetic drift conferring resistance to a deadly fungus. The students concluded the unit by doing a project on a specific aspect of evolution that they studied and a real world example of that aspect. Students chose really interesting examples, such as pygmy animals as an example of directional selection (giraffe necks) and bananas as an example of a hybrid species produced via artificial selection.
The students then turned their attention toward biochemistry – learning about carbohydrates, proteins, lipids and nucleic acids. They tested the properties of water to examine hydrogen bonding, completed testing of unknowns for the presence of various macromolecules, built glucose and ATP using molecular models, and much more.
Then, the students learned all about enzymes and how they work. The students studied the effect of pH on the activity level of the enzyme catalase. Catalase is an enzyme that is found in many living organisms that catalyzes the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen gas. They also used beads to determine the effects of substrate and enzyme concentration on enzyme activity.
Finally, the students completed an advanced study of cellular respiration by completing a lab experiment in which they tested the effects of inhibitors and activators on the rate of reaction. The students once again used yeast and fermentation tubes to determine the amount of carbon dioxide produced by the yeast – a marker for the amount of cellular respiration that took place.
The students most recently completed an investigation of plant pigments. They ground down spinach leaves in order to extract the pigments and then ran paper chromatography to separate them. They were able to notice bands for chlorophyll a and xanthophyll which is a plant pigment we normally only see in Fall when chlorophyll has degraded. They also learned to utilize a spectrophotometer to observe the absorbance spectrum of chlorophyll. They noted two strong peaks - one corresponding with blue light, the other corresponding with red light.
Students in the Hoboken High School Environmental Science Club have been conducting hands-on research projects during marking period 3! All of the research projects have focused on environmental science.
The students have examined specimens and engaged in dissections to gain a better appreciation of the link between structure and function in living organisms. Recently, the students performed dissection on starfish.
Club members have been thrilled to welcome three red eared sliders to the Living Lab. They have been actively participating in the acclimation process of these organisms. They recently completed presentations on the organisms and on how best to care for them.
Also, students have been utilizing and developing skills in microbiology. They plated Hudson River bacteria and are studying to identify various microbial species. They have conducted staining of the bacteria and have visualized it under the microscope.
Finally, the students set up a habitat for mollusks. The tank includes steamer clams that were sampled by club members at Caven Point in Jersey City during a recent field trip as well as ribbed mussels that were found in the same location. Oysters were purchased at a local fish store and added to the tank. The organisms have been very actively feeding and filtering the water. The club hopes they may reproduce in the tank!
Unit 2 welcomes first year HHS Biomedical Science students to their workday at the PLTW Total Care Clinic! Each patient students "see" highlights key clinical skills and allows them to explore the way the human body works. Students applied what they have learned to design a plan for a routine visit of a patient with a chronic health condition. They explore the relationship between DNA, chromosomes, genes, and proteins and help a family interested in learning more about their genetic risk. Finally, they are tasked with helping a new patient at the PLTW Total Care Clinic. They need to evaluate all medical evidence, question the family, record vital signs, order and evaluate bloodwork, and synthesize data to make a diagnosis.
In Human Body Systems, the goal, in this lesson, is for students to investigate respiratory system anatomy and analyze how disease impacts function in this system as well as in other systems of the body. In the first activity, students are introduced to a young woman who is experiencing shortness of breath and wheezing during her normal activities. As they progress through her case and make a diagnosis, students explore the structure of the respiratory system and its connection to the cardiovascular system. Students explore the changes in the respiratory system that lead to a condition such as asthma. The second activity introduces students to the mechanics of breathing and to the use of a spirometer to measure lung capacity. Students will then analyze prescription medications and begin to think about how drugs work in the human body. Students will analyze how each medication prescribed to their patient relates to anatomy and physiology. Students will then play the role of a respiratory therapist to design a plan to help their patient manage her illness.
Life Skills Department
In Ms. Alts, Ms. Sivo and Ms. Jones' classes, students are engaging in various activities aimed at both practical skills and cognitive development. One such activity involves measuring and packaging ingredients for culinary endeavors, like crafting a delightful Shamrock Shake for St. Patrick's Day. Students embark on a shopping excursion to gather the necessary ingredients, meticulously measure them according to the recipe, and skillfully package them to create the delectable treat. This hands-on experience not only teaches students about precision in measurement but also fosters teamwork and collaboration as they work together to follow the recipe and enjoy the final product.
Additionally, students are participating in intellectually stimulating activities such as solving the New York Times Wordle and Connections puzzles. These activities promote critical thinking, vocabulary expansion, and problem-solving skills. Working collaboratively in groups, students engage in lively discussions and brainstorming sessions to decipher the clues and arrive at the correct solutions. Through these exercises, students not only enhance their language and analytical abilities but also learn the value of teamwork and cooperation in achieving common goals. Overall, the combination of practical culinary tasks and cognitive challenges provides students with a well-rounded educational experience that cultivates both practical and intellectual skills essential for their future endeavors.
Physical Education Department
During the exhilarating Third Marking Period, our students immersed themselves in a flurry of vibrant indoor activities! The pages of the S'more have been ablaze with tales of Badminton, Pickleball, Basketball, Volleyball, and Meditation, transforming our halls into bustling arenas of camaraderie and competition. From intimate gatherings to spirited group showdowns, our students reveled in teamwork and friendly rivalries alike.
As we near the close of this dynamic period, our students seized the opportunity to delve into thrilling new experiences, embracing the challenges of Pin Bombardment, Floor Hockey, and Mat Ball. Pin Bombardment, in particular, emerged as a thrilling amalgamation of skill and strategy, where throwing, catching, precision aiming, nimble dodging, and vigilant guarding intertwined to create an electrifying spectacle of athletic prowess.
But amidst the excitement, we remind our students of the importance of self-care and preparation. We urge them to tote a water bottle to quench their thirst, heed the weather forecast before venturing to school, and dress for comfort, ensuring they are primed to savor every moment of physical activity and fresh air. As we eagerly anticipate the dawn of the next Marking Period, we eagerly await the chance to take our endeavors outdoors, utilizing the vast expanse of the field to further enrich our educational journey.
Athletic Department
The Hoboken Varsity Softball Team, led by captains Alexa Bracero, Hayley Dobson, and Isabella Pisano, is showcasing its prowess with a current record of 4-4. Positioned 4th in the HCIAL American Division and 7th overall in Hudson County, they're making waves, especially ranking 4th for States in the North Jersey Section II Group I Bracket. Senior standout Alexa Bracero, with an impressive 15 hits, including 5 home runs, and 17 stolen bases this season, is on the cusp of hitting milestones—eyeing 100 career hits and 100 career stolen bases in the second half of the season.
Their commitment to community shines through events like the recent participation in Weehawken’s Autism Awareness Tournament, where they not only competed but also raised over $330 for the Parents of Autistic Children (POAC) organization. The team's camaraderie and dedication will be celebrated on May 1st during Senior Night, honoring seniors Alexa Bracero, Jalissa Johnson, and Arianna Marin in a game against Hudson Catholic.
With upcoming appearances in the Hudson County Tournament and the NJSIAA North II Group I State, the Hoboken Varsity Softball Team promises thrilling performances ahead.
The Hoboken Redwings are gearing up for an exhilarating second season in the NJIGLL Group 1 South Division, with Coaches Hall and Arciero returning to lead the team. Captained by senior Dallas Connors and juniors Annelien Schissler and Paz De La Torre, the Redwings boast a dynamic lineup. Notable returnees include sophomore midfielder Marina Boyajian and sophomore defender Addison Rumph, recognized for their prowess last season. Adding to their strength are freshmen Sylvie Strell and Gabriella Tarinelli, formidable goalkeepers. Despite recent challenges, including tough competition, the Redwings remain determined to elevate their game, anticipating growth and victories as they navigate the season ahead.
The Redwing Volleyball Team is off to a flying start through the first 7 games of the season. Sitting at 6 wins and 1 loss, the boys volleyball program has not missed a beat building off of last year's success. The team is led by seniors Christian Morales & twin duo Angel and Damian Acosta, who all 3 have combined for 84 kills in the teams first 7 games. This team is hungry for success and are looking forward to continuing their strong start to the season.
The Hoboken Redwing Baseball team is gearing up for the 2024 season with high expectations after clinching back-to-back Divisional Titles. Led by Head Coach Chipper Benway, alongside Assistant Coaches Rob Desanti and Mike Casazza, the team is ready for the challenge ahead. While bidding farewell to graduating seniors Jonathan Salinas, Mike D'Antonio, Tyler Schawlinski, and Connor Schawlinski, the Redwings welcome promising newcomers like Max Casazza, William Herrera, Jason Dale, Peter Stehli, and Dom Magaletta, each poised to make an impact. Keep an eye on returning players such as junior Ethan Ortiz, named Pitcher of the Year in 2023, and Adrian Tavera, an All-League standout. With a blend of youth and experience, the Redwings aim not only for another divisional triumph but also to contend for the coveted State Title. Coach Benway emphasizes the importance of continual improvement, striving to be a better team with each passing day and game, echoing the sentiment that it's not where they start but how they finish that truly matters.
Hoboken Boys Lacrosse has had a great start so far to the season as we build momentum heading into the second half of the season. The program is seeing some great goalie play from Declan Simons in his first season in net. Gage and Miles Angley have led the offense through the first few games and are the top 2 goal scorers on the team. We had our best offensive showing of the year so far against Newark East Side and look to build on that momentum to carry us through the season.
The track & field team is wrapping up the first third of the season. As we head into one of the last relay centric meets in this segment of the season, we are looking forward to a number of season debuts returning from injuries and vacations.
Music Department
The band and chorus have been diligently preparing for festival season, learning their most technically difficult and expressive music of the year in hopes of high ratings from adjudications and competitions. The chorus will be performing “Some Nights,” the 2012 hit single by the band Fun. Although the original band had only one main singer, the song became iconic with its tight, layered harmonies. The choral version features this, with four-part harmonies sung underneath solos and small ensemble sections. We are still sifting through music to pick our second and third concert songs, but “Some Nights” has kept us busy and excited with its challenging sections.
On the instrumental music side, small ensembles including the string ensemble, drum line, and flutes will be competing. The HHS String Ensemble will be performing “The Middle” by Jimmy Eat World. The drum line will be performing a medley of drum cadences, while the flute ensemble will be performing “Under the Sea.” Seniors Krystal Bilbao and Alana Rivas will be taking on the famous “Chanson Boheme” from the opera Carmen. The concert band is also hard at work on their first concert piece, “Gale Force,” a rousing portrayal of an oncoming storm and its aftermath. Meanwhile, the marching band has been quite active, preparing for the Hoboken Baseball Parade as well as the Memorial Day Parade. This year, the Rockin’ Redwings will be returning to Washington, D.C. to perform in the National Memorial Day Parade, marching down historic Constitution Ave. We look forward to this exciting trip, as well as our spring concert and honoring our seniors at graduation.
History Department
In US History II students have discussed and examined America as it emerged from the crucible of war. The post-war era witnessed a remarkable metamorphosis as the nation, with resolute determination, embraced its role as a global superpower. With an unwavering commitment to progress and inclusivity, America cultivated a rich tapestry of cultures, ideas, and aspirations, weaving them into the very fabric of its identity.
As the sun rose on a new era, America's landscape evolved, teeming with the vibrancy of countless communities and perspectives. From bustling metropolises to quaint rural towns, the mosaic of American life reflected a kaleidoscope of experiences, each contributing to the nation's collective strength. This diversity became not just a hallmark but a cornerstone of American resilience, fostering innovation, understanding, and unity in the face of adversity.
But America's ascent to global prominence was not solely defined by its military might or economic prowess. Rather, it was its unwavering dedication to fostering progress and prosperity for all that truly set it apart. Through diplomatic engagement, humanitarian aid, and the promotion of democratic values, America extended its hand to those in need, forging bonds of friendship and cooperation that transcended borders.
Indeed, the post-war era marked a pivotal moment in history, as America emerged not only as a superpower but as a force for good in the world. Empowered by its diversity, enriched by its values, and emboldened by its resilience, America stood poised to confront the challenges of the present and shape the course of the future for generations to come.
Holocaust, Genocide and Modern Humanity
As we approach the final Marking Period, students will now have the opportunity to apply their knowledge gained throughout the year to society. We are delving into Timothy Snyder's gripping work, "On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century," which eloquently underscores the imperative for citizens to vigilantly uphold democratic rights and ideals, as history starkly illustrates how swiftly they can be stripped away. The purchase of these books was generously funded by The Joan Lavine Keats Social Justice Institute/Holocaust Center at Rider University.
Throughout the year, we have delved deeply into subjects such as The Armenian Genocide, The Native American Genocide, The Jewish Holocaust, the Rwandan Genocide, Racism, and Women's Rights, and were honored to hear firsthand accounts from a Holocaust Survivor, Maud Dahme. Continuing our exploration of human rights issues, this book serves as our compass towards a better future. Students will reflect on the lessons learned from these human atrocities and utilize the book as a blueprint for preventing future horrors.
As students engage with each lesson in the book, they will collaborate in cooperative learning groups, applying these insights to contemporary societal issues. Upon completing the book, students will undertake a culminating project, presenting their findings to their classmates.
Throughout the year, this history elective has delved into the darker aspects of humanity. However, armed with this book, students now possess the tools to both prevent future atrocities and actively contribute to positive change.