Based on the principle that most people, regardless of age, cannot effectively concentrate for an unbroken period of more than a couple of hours at most, the School's schedule endeavors never to have more than two class periods meet back-to-back during the day. So the two morning periods are followed by a change of pace in the form of 25-minute advisory/tutorial/clubs periods. The next 55-minute class is followed by lunch. After lunch three classes meet in succession -- and in order to keep that long stretch from becoming unproductive, the schedule inserts a 10-minute break (rather than the usual 5-minute passing period) before the last period of the day.
Students have voiced some dissatisfaction with that last break, wondering what it is for and why it keeps them from going home five minutes sooner, so newly elected president Noah Levenson initiated an official questionnaire, administered during advisory period with teachers' opinions included, in order accurately to gauge opinion on the matter. The administration is currently considering whether and how the results might be incorporated into school policy.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Oyster Conservation Pilot Program at TMS
The Watershed Project was back today (10/28) with part II of their program "Oysters on the Half Shell" that they are piloting at our school. The program aims to restore the native Olympia oyster population in the bay. Today the students learned about the oyster's life cycle and how they play an important role in the food web of the bay. Next stop will be the Marin Rod and Gun Club on 11/18 where we'll be counting and measuring baby oysters.
"Race to Nowhere" Director to Visit TMS
On Wednesday, November 10, we are presenting an evening with Vicki Abeles, Producer and Director of the film Race to Nowhere, a featured film at this year’s Mill Valley Film Festival. The screening of the film and discussion with Ms. Abeles is an extraordinary opportunity for our community, and we hope you will attend.
The important film documents an issue vital to the health and well-being of all our students – the stressful challenge of the college application process in America today. Unfortunately, this intense push to get into the best colleges often begins long before students even get to high school, and it has become increasingly more stressful as teens and parents compete with others to build a resume that includes not only the highest possible GPA (with honors classes, AP, high SAT’s and ACT’s, multiple extracurriculars, community service, internships, and on and on. And when do our kids get to be teens? When do they have time to enjoy their youth, socialize with their friends and family, have some fun, and simply get a good night’s sleep? When is enough, enough?
And how is this process working for our teens? Their physical and emotional health is being strongly compromised; they are suffering “burn-out” at higher levels than ever before; their fear of not getting into the “best” schools is creating a level of anxiety that is leading to depression and even worse.
And the truth is that all this stress, this added pressure is ineffective. Colleges have lowered their standards and report that the basic skills of incoming freshmen are so low that an alarming number of students must take remedial classes. And yet our fear, that of parents and educators, is that if we let up, if we reduce the pressure, we are somehow failing – our kids and ourselves.
Students in the film suggest this whole process is a “race to nowhere.” If this is true, then what are we going to do about it?
Comments from members of our community who saw the film recently at The Mill Valley Film Festival:
Diane Darrow, TMS Parent: The film posed the question "how are we teaching our children and why?" The disconnect between what it takes to be a top student and get into a "good" college versus the kind of work skills the 21st century now demands is widening. Time and again test scores and external forces seem to be directing our students' lives. It was clear from the movie that the present educational methods are not only stressful and disengaging but inappropriate for the real world they will face after college.
Molly Grey, TMS Student: The movie was not only inspiring, but it brought attention to a nationwide problem that high school students like me are going through. It gave hope and encouragement on what steps everyone can take to reduce the pressure. Vicki truly listened and honestly represented what teens, parents, and teachers are feeling.
Ashley Vidal, TMS Student: Colleges are always asking what are you interested in and what are you going to major in; when are we supposed to have time to even figure that out? I think it would benefit colleges if they just took out a calculator and use the addition button over and over again to add up all the hours they expect of us, so they could see how physically impossible it is. There just simply isn’t enough time in the day to actually do all they expect. The system sets impossible standards, and the beautiful thing about this film is that it captures that pressure perfectly. This movie reminded me how grateful I am to go to a school like TMS and my strong desire to help other people get to the same place we are.
As you can see, this is a film that we do not want to miss. Our student body will be seeing the film on the afternoon of the 10th.
I encourage all of you to attend and to bring friends who would also benefit from seeing this film. Seating will be limited, and we expect seats to fill quickly, so get your RSVP in as soon as possible. A $10 donation at the door will be appreciated and will help to cover the cost of this event. Please see attached Invitation.
A special thanks to Kieran Ridge, TMS teacher and Director of The Marin School’s Filmbridge program, for his commitment to bringing this film to our community.
-Barbara
The important film documents an issue vital to the health and well-being of all our students – the stressful challenge of the college application process in America today. Unfortunately, this intense push to get into the best colleges often begins long before students even get to high school, and it has become increasingly more stressful as teens and parents compete with others to build a resume that includes not only the highest possible GPA (with honors classes, AP, high SAT’s and ACT’s, multiple extracurriculars, community service, internships, and on and on. And when do our kids get to be teens? When do they have time to enjoy their youth, socialize with their friends and family, have some fun, and simply get a good night’s sleep? When is enough, enough?
And how is this process working for our teens? Their physical and emotional health is being strongly compromised; they are suffering “burn-out” at higher levels than ever before; their fear of not getting into the “best” schools is creating a level of anxiety that is leading to depression and even worse.
And the truth is that all this stress, this added pressure is ineffective. Colleges have lowered their standards and report that the basic skills of incoming freshmen are so low that an alarming number of students must take remedial classes. And yet our fear, that of parents and educators, is that if we let up, if we reduce the pressure, we are somehow failing – our kids and ourselves.
Students in the film suggest this whole process is a “race to nowhere.” If this is true, then what are we going to do about it?
Comments from members of our community who saw the film recently at The Mill Valley Film Festival:
Diane Darrow, TMS Parent: The film posed the question "how are we teaching our children and why?" The disconnect between what it takes to be a top student and get into a "good" college versus the kind of work skills the 21st century now demands is widening. Time and again test scores and external forces seem to be directing our students' lives. It was clear from the movie that the present educational methods are not only stressful and disengaging but inappropriate for the real world they will face after college.
Molly Grey, TMS Student: The movie was not only inspiring, but it brought attention to a nationwide problem that high school students like me are going through. It gave hope and encouragement on what steps everyone can take to reduce the pressure. Vicki truly listened and honestly represented what teens, parents, and teachers are feeling.
Ashley Vidal, TMS Student: Colleges are always asking what are you interested in and what are you going to major in; when are we supposed to have time to even figure that out? I think it would benefit colleges if they just took out a calculator and use the addition button over and over again to add up all the hours they expect of us, so they could see how physically impossible it is. There just simply isn’t enough time in the day to actually do all they expect. The system sets impossible standards, and the beautiful thing about this film is that it captures that pressure perfectly. This movie reminded me how grateful I am to go to a school like TMS and my strong desire to help other people get to the same place we are.
As you can see, this is a film that we do not want to miss. Our student body will be seeing the film on the afternoon of the 10th.
I encourage all of you to attend and to bring friends who would also benefit from seeing this film. Seating will be limited, and we expect seats to fill quickly, so get your RSVP in as soon as possible. A $10 donation at the door will be appreciated and will help to cover the cost of this event. Please see attached Invitation.
A special thanks to Kieran Ridge, TMS teacher and Director of The Marin School’s Filmbridge program, for his commitment to bringing this film to our community.
-Barbara
Monday, October 26, 2009
Nighthawk Soccer Finishes the Season Strong
TMS' most successful soccer season in years drew to a close at the Small Schools Bridge League championship tournament last weekend. The Nighthawks defeated their first opponent, Orinda Academy, but lost in the final to Hanna Boys' Center. Over two months of play, the TMS team worked hard to improve their skills and teamwork -- with great results.
New Student Council President Elected
Last week 90% of students cast votes in the election for Student Council president. Four fine candidates competed for the job, but it was senior Noah Levenson who won a clear majority of the votes. Noah quickly sprang into action, establishing a community-service program to transfer leftover bagels each day from The Bagel Shop, a popular student destination next door to the school, to Women For Helping All People in Marin City. The program is set to get off the ground today. Congratulations to Noah!
Noah is pictured above with the TMS soccer team and the coach's baby at a recent tournament.
Climate Change Presentation at TMS
A representative from the Alliance for Climate Education visited The Marin School today to discuss climate change. He challenged students to take action and to create a group within the school to lead the way.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
College Planning for the Week of 10/26
IMPORTANT INFO FOR JUNIORS
College Night for Juniors and Parents - Choose the date you want to attend - either Wednesday November 4th at 7:00 or Thursday November 5th at 7:00 in the Hawk's Nest. The agenda will include all the must-know information for juniors launching the college planning process. We'll talk about testing, characteristics of colleges, types of colleges, how to search for colleges and when to visit colleges. Juniors are expected to attend one of the evenings.
FOR EVERYONE
Colleges Visiting TMS: A full list of the colleges currently scheduled to visit as well as a list of a few Open House events and local information sessions are posted on the Family Connection site. Here are the colleges scheduled to visit us in the next two weeks. Please add your name to the sign up sheet on my door and get the permission of your teacher to attend.
* Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising - Monday 10/26 at 11:45
* Goucher College - Wednesday 10/28 at 10:15
* Chapman University - Thursday 10/29 at 12:00
* McDaniel College - Monday 11/2 at 8:30
* University of Oregon - Wednesday 11/4 at 10:15
College of the Week - One of the few College That Change Lives colleges located in a metropolitan area, Goucher College (pronounced "Gowcher") has made its mark with an emphasis on foreign study and the strength of its internship program, both of which are required. Faculty is focused on teaching undergraduates rather than on research and Goucher students rave about their professors. Located in Baltimore, Maryland (and not far from Washington D.C.), this small liberal arts college with 2362 students is a real gem!
Do you know? - There is no shortage of traditions on college campuses and Halloween brings out the best in them. UC San Diego is no exception. UCSD is divided into smaller residential colleges and Muir College's oldest tradition is a smash hit. Students drop a 300- to 400-pound pumpkin (named and stuffed with candy) from the top of 11-story Tioga residence hall. A Halloween carnival is coordinated around the event.
My Schedule this Week - I'll be on campus Monday 9-4:30, Wednesday 9-4 and Thursday 9-4:00.
FOR SENIORS
"Senior year grades don't count" - Think that's true? Guess again! Many colleges ask to see your grades for the fall semester of senior year and use this information in making their admission decision. In addition, after you graduate in June, we send your final transcript to the college where you have enrolled. If your senior year grades have taken a dive, the college may withdraw their offer of admission. Each year UC campuses rescind offers to hundreds of students who thought that "senior year grades don't count".
Transcripts and Recommendations - The bright blue form is due this week (Nick, Alex C, Jordan, Kevin, Ryan H, Dustin, Ryan K, Noah, Tali, Kaya, Katie, Ashley and Mara are on my mind...). If you don't have one, see me ASAP. If you need recommendations from teachers ...
1. you should speak to the teacher(s) you'd like to write for you ASAP. Then.......
2. complete the "Request for Teacher Recommendation" form for each teacher and give the completed form to the teacher. The form is available in the document library on Family Connection.
3. The next step is to complete the bright blue " Request for Application Components", which is due to me three weeks before your first deadline but in all cases by 11/1.
Confused? See me and we'll work it through!
UC and CSU Application Deadlines are 11/30 - Just a reminder to keep slugging through these applications. You should submit your applications as soon as you are finished with them.
Application Help on Wednesday 2:35-4:00 - I'll bring some food, you bring your college stuff and we'll work on whatever is your top priority. Don't know what to do first? No problem - we'll figure it out.
SAT/ACT Registration Deadlines - If you need to take or retake the SAT, SAT Subject Tests or ACT this fall, the registration deadlines are approaching. The regular registration deadline for the December 5th SAT or SAT Subject Tests is October 30th. To register go to wwwcollegeboard.com. The regular registration deadline for the December 12th ACT is 11/6 and you can register at www.actstudent.org.
Applying for Financial Aid? The first step in the financial aid process is for the student and parents to apply for a PIN (that's personal identification number). You can do this now at http://www.pin.ed.gov/PINWebApp/pinindex.jsp. For more information about financial aid, visit How Stuff Works or the federal student aid site.
Susan
--
Susan Gotshall-Maxon
College Counselor
College Night for Juniors and Parents - Choose the date you want to attend - either Wednesday November 4th at 7:00 or Thursday November 5th at 7:00 in the Hawk's Nest. The agenda will include all the must-know information for juniors launching the college planning process. We'll talk about testing, characteristics of colleges, types of colleges, how to search for colleges and when to visit colleges. Juniors are expected to attend one of the evenings.
FOR EVERYONE
Colleges Visiting TMS: A full list of the colleges currently scheduled to visit as well as a list of a few Open House events and local information sessions are posted on the Family Connection site. Here are the colleges scheduled to visit us in the next two weeks. Please add your name to the sign up sheet on my door and get the permission of your teacher to attend.
* Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising - Monday 10/26 at 11:45
* Goucher College - Wednesday 10/28 at 10:15
* Chapman University - Thursday 10/29 at 12:00
* McDaniel College - Monday 11/2 at 8:30
* University of Oregon - Wednesday 11/4 at 10:15
College of the Week - One of the few College That Change Lives colleges located in a metropolitan area, Goucher College (pronounced "Gowcher") has made its mark with an emphasis on foreign study and the strength of its internship program, both of which are required. Faculty is focused on teaching undergraduates rather than on research and Goucher students rave about their professors. Located in Baltimore, Maryland (and not far from Washington D.C.), this small liberal arts college with 2362 students is a real gem!
Do you know? - There is no shortage of traditions on college campuses and Halloween brings out the best in them. UC San Diego is no exception. UCSD is divided into smaller residential colleges and Muir College's oldest tradition is a smash hit. Students drop a 300- to 400-pound pumpkin (named and stuffed with candy) from the top of 11-story Tioga residence hall. A Halloween carnival is coordinated around the event.
My Schedule this Week - I'll be on campus Monday 9-4:30, Wednesday 9-4 and Thursday 9-4:00.
FOR SENIORS
"Senior year grades don't count" - Think that's true? Guess again! Many colleges ask to see your grades for the fall semester of senior year and use this information in making their admission decision. In addition, after you graduate in June, we send your final transcript to the college where you have enrolled. If your senior year grades have taken a dive, the college may withdraw their offer of admission. Each year UC campuses rescind offers to hundreds of students who thought that "senior year grades don't count".
Transcripts and Recommendations - The bright blue form is due this week (Nick, Alex C, Jordan, Kevin, Ryan H, Dustin, Ryan K, Noah, Tali, Kaya, Katie, Ashley and Mara are on my mind...). If you don't have one, see me ASAP. If you need recommendations from teachers ...
1. you should speak to the teacher(s) you'd like to write for you ASAP. Then.......
2. complete the "Request for Teacher Recommendation" form for each teacher and give the completed form to the teacher. The form is available in the document library on Family Connection.
3. The next step is to complete the bright blue " Request for Application Components", which is due to me three weeks before your first deadline but in all cases by 11/1.
Confused? See me and we'll work it through!
UC and CSU Application Deadlines are 11/30 - Just a reminder to keep slugging through these applications. You should submit your applications as soon as you are finished with them.
Application Help on Wednesday 2:35-4:00 - I'll bring some food, you bring your college stuff and we'll work on whatever is your top priority. Don't know what to do first? No problem - we'll figure it out.
SAT/ACT Registration Deadlines - If you need to take or retake the SAT, SAT Subject Tests or ACT this fall, the registration deadlines are approaching. The regular registration deadline for the December 5th SAT or SAT Subject Tests is October 30th. To register go to wwwcollegeboard.com. The regular registration deadline for the December 12th ACT is 11/6 and you can register at www.actstudent.org.
Applying for Financial Aid? The first step in the financial aid process is for the student and parents to apply for a PIN (that's personal identification number). You can do this now at http://www.pin.ed.gov/PINWebApp/pinindex.jsp. For more information about financial aid, visit How Stuff Works or the federal student aid site.
Susan
--
Susan Gotshall-Maxon
College Counselor
Sunday, October 18, 2009
College Planning for the Week of 10/19
Colleges Visiting TMS: A full list of the colleges currently scheduled to visit as well as a list of a few Open House events and local information sessions are posted on the Family Connection site. Here are the colleges scheduled to visit us in the next two weeks. Please add your name to the sign up sheet on my door and get the permission of your teacher to attend.
* University of Washington - Tuesday 10/20 at 12:00
* University of the Puget Sound - Thursday 10/22 at 10:15
* Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising - Monday 10/26 at 11:45
* Goucher College - Wednesday 10/28 at 10:15
* Chapman University - Thursday 10/29 at 12:00
College of the Week - Located In Tacoma, Washington, the University of Puget Sound campus is on a bluff overlooking the water. While a traditional liberal arts curriculum is at its core, UPS also offers business, which is its most popular major. Asian Studies are a big drawing card and every three years, the university offers a 9 month school sponsored mobile classroom through Japan, Thailand, Korea, India, China and Nepal.
Do you know? - What do the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Virginia and Dickinson College have in common? They were all founded by signers of the the Declaration of Independence - Ben Franklin, Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Rush.
My Schedule this Week - I'll be on campus Tuesday 9-3:30, Wednesday 9-4 and Thursday 9-4:30.
FOR SENIORS
Beware, "You are special" applications - Have you gotten a "special" application from a college, indicating that they want you to apply now, they'll waive the application fee and eliminate an essay? Such applications are essentially a marketing gimmick, encouraging lots of students to apply and thereby making a college appear more selective. It's fine to use such applications if you were planning to apply anyway but don't apply just because you get a "special" application. The truth is that you probably have the same chance of admission whether or not you received a "special" application.
Transcripts and Recommendations - If you need recommendations from teachers ...
1. you should speak to the teacher(s) you'd like to write for you ASAP. Then.......
2. complete the "Request for Teacher Recommendation" form for each teacher and give the completed form to the teacher. The form is available in the document library on Family Connection.
3. The next step is to complete the bright blue " Request for Application Components", which is due to me three weeks before your first deadline but in all cases by 11/1.
Confused? See me and we'll work it through!
Going to the Humboldt Admission Day on 10/24? See me for your transcript prior to 10/23. Print your test scores from the College Board or ACT websites (Humboldt will accept them this way but wants you to follow up later by sending official scores too). Submit your Humboldt application by 10/16 and pay the associated fee. Register to attend the event. Easy!.
Application Help on Wednesday 2:35-4:00 - I'll bring some food, you bring your college stuff and we'll work on whatever is your top priority. Don't know what to do first? No problem - we'll figure it out.
SAT/ACT Registration Deadlines - If you need to take or retake the SAT, SAT Subject Tests or ACT this fall, the registration deadlines are approaching. The regular registration deadline for the December 5th SAT or SAT Subject Tests is October 30th. To register go to wwwcollegeboard.com. The regular registration deadline for the December 12th ACT is 11/6 and you can register at www.actstudent.org.
FOR JUNIORS
PSAT is PAST! Well done, juniors! I'll let you know when your scores arrive in early December. In the meantime, keep working hard in your classes.
College Night for Juniors and Parents - Choose the date you want to attend - either Wednesday November 4th at 6:30 or Thursday November 5th at 7:00 in the Hawk's Nest. The agenda will include all the must-know information for juniors launching the college planning process. We'll talk about testing, characteristics of colleges, types of colleges, how to search for colleges and when to visit colleges. Juniors are expected to attend one of the evenings.
Susan
--
Susan Gotshall-Maxon
College Counselor
* University of Washington - Tuesday 10/20 at 12:00
* University of the Puget Sound - Thursday 10/22 at 10:15
* Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising - Monday 10/26 at 11:45
* Goucher College - Wednesday 10/28 at 10:15
* Chapman University - Thursday 10/29 at 12:00
College of the Week - Located In Tacoma, Washington, the University of Puget Sound campus is on a bluff overlooking the water. While a traditional liberal arts curriculum is at its core, UPS also offers business, which is its most popular major. Asian Studies are a big drawing card and every three years, the university offers a 9 month school sponsored mobile classroom through Japan, Thailand, Korea, India, China and Nepal.
Do you know? - What do the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Virginia and Dickinson College have in common? They were all founded by signers of the the Declaration of Independence - Ben Franklin, Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Rush.
My Schedule this Week - I'll be on campus Tuesday 9-3:30, Wednesday 9-4 and Thursday 9-4:30.
FOR SENIORS
Beware, "You are special" applications - Have you gotten a "special" application from a college, indicating that they want you to apply now, they'll waive the application fee and eliminate an essay? Such applications are essentially a marketing gimmick, encouraging lots of students to apply and thereby making a college appear more selective. It's fine to use such applications if you were planning to apply anyway but don't apply just because you get a "special" application. The truth is that you probably have the same chance of admission whether or not you received a "special" application.
Transcripts and Recommendations - If you need recommendations from teachers ...
1. you should speak to the teacher(s) you'd like to write for you ASAP. Then.......
2. complete the "Request for Teacher Recommendation" form for each teacher and give the completed form to the teacher. The form is available in the document library on Family Connection.
3. The next step is to complete the bright blue " Request for Application Components", which is due to me three weeks before your first deadline but in all cases by 11/1.
Confused? See me and we'll work it through!
Going to the Humboldt Admission Day on 10/24? See me for your transcript prior to 10/23. Print your test scores from the College Board or ACT websites (Humboldt will accept them this way but wants you to follow up later by sending official scores too). Submit your Humboldt application by 10/16 and pay the associated fee. Register to attend the event. Easy!.
Application Help on Wednesday 2:35-4:00 - I'll bring some food, you bring your college stuff and we'll work on whatever is your top priority. Don't know what to do first? No problem - we'll figure it out.
SAT/ACT Registration Deadlines - If you need to take or retake the SAT, SAT Subject Tests or ACT this fall, the registration deadlines are approaching. The regular registration deadline for the December 5th SAT or SAT Subject Tests is October 30th. To register go to wwwcollegeboard.com. The regular registration deadline for the December 12th ACT is 11/6 and you can register at www.actstudent.org.
FOR JUNIORS
PSAT is PAST! Well done, juniors! I'll let you know when your scores arrive in early December. In the meantime, keep working hard in your classes.
College Night for Juniors and Parents - Choose the date you want to attend - either Wednesday November 4th at 6:30 or Thursday November 5th at 7:00 in the Hawk's Nest. The agenda will include all the must-know information for juniors launching the college planning process. We'll talk about testing, characteristics of colleges, types of colleges, how to search for colleges and when to visit colleges. Juniors are expected to attend one of the evenings.
Susan
--
Susan Gotshall-Maxon
College Counselor
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Juniors & Seniors Attend Mill Valley Film Festival Screening
TMS juniors and seniors went to the Rafael Theater today for a screening of Soundtrack for a Revolution. After the film the students participated in a Q&A with the director. Here is some of the program notes about the film from the Mill Valley Film Festival website:
A young black man sits politely at the "whites only" counter in a diner as white men berate him, throw food at him, and eventually beat him. But when he hits the floor, another man takes his place at the counter. Watching this ghastly footage, captured during the bitter days of segregation, it seems impossible to imagine anyone willing to endure such senseless brutality. But pair images like this with soul-stirring folk songs like "I'm Gonna Sit at the Welcome Table," "Keep Your Eyes on the Prize," and "We Shall Overcome," and suddenly anything seems possible. Soundtrack for a Revolution tells the story of the American civil rights movement through the music that fortified protestors as they struggled for equality.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Just another day in the science department
The freshman biology class at Muir Beach checking the sand crab population (as part of the LiMPETS program run by the Farallones Marine Sanctuary Association), then back to the lab where the zoology class looked at hydras. Check out Zohar and Kevin using a video microscope.
Tree Falls on TMS Student's Car
Yesterday's storm caused a tree to fall on TMS student Hannah Aubry's car while she was in class. Luckily the students were inside the school when the tree fell in front of building four.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Candidate Speeches
Here are the speeches from the four candidates for TMS Student Council President:
Meredith Sacks
Hello I know most of you know me, but for those that don’t, my name is Meredith sacks and this is my fourth year here. Since freshman year I have been involved in as many school groups as possible. However I didn’t do for college acceptance and because I had lots of free time. I did it because I wanted to be involved in the school and make it the best it can be, not that Barbara and Steve haven’t done a great job so far. If you vote for me for student council president, you will be voting for someone who will use her power to listen to every voice no matter now small. You have seen me at all of the meetings, in the school and out. You’ve seen me bringing you bake sales and Halloween contests and almost everything else you have asked for.
Meredith Sacks
Hello I know most of you know me, but for those that don’t, my name is Meredith sacks and this is my fourth year here. Since freshman year I have been involved in as many school groups as possible. However I didn’t do for college acceptance and because I had lots of free time. I did it because I wanted to be involved in the school and make it the best it can be, not that Barbara and Steve haven’t done a great job so far. If you vote for me for student council president, you will be voting for someone who will use her power to listen to every voice no matter now small. You have seen me at all of the meetings, in the school and out. You’ve seen me bringing you bake sales and Halloween contests and almost everything else you have asked for. I have acted as vice president for two years and even president for a short while. I have learned over the course of those years how to properly run the council and also make sure I hear everyone’s voice, whether they are in the council or not. I also want to create a better connection between the administration and the students. I want to bring you new school gear, so we can feel proud of our teeny little nighthawk. I also want more ideas from everyone on how to make the school a better environment for learning and a reasonable amount of fun. So I’m digging that suggestion box out of the dust and putting it back on Mary-Beth’s desk. So if you want to have someone in office that can make things happen and really listen, then vote for me for student council president. I know I can take you and this school to great places.
Ashley Vidal
Good morning everyone I appreciate your attention as it is a monday morning, my name is Ashley and I am running for student council president. I have been privileged to have been your vice president last year and your acting president this year. And that is not to say that the other three candidates aren’t qualified, because they are but I do have an advantage over the other candidates that I have been able to act as the president for the last couple weeks. I am grateful for it though because I have had the opportunity to feel what the responsibility is like as president, and that know that I am up to it. On that note, I don’t want you to vote for me if it is just for the simple reason that I have been the person standing up here the last couple weeks, it should be about whether you think I will do a good job in office and take the job seriously. I cannot absolutely guarantee that I will run my job flawlessly but I can guarantee that I will take the job seriously and work the hardest I can to do the job well. This is my third year of being an acting member of the Student Council and I am telling you this because I know the ropes, I understand how the process works, I am the kind of leader that rolls up her sleeves to pitch in and get stuff done. And being apart of this system I know all too well how important it is for the leader to keep people on task, so that the work can be distributed evenly. I’ve helped work on projects like Candy Grams, and selling food at the theatre events, but we can do much more by setting clear goals and staying focused on those goals.
All the people on Student Council have great ideas, and you students who aren’t necessarily even members of the council have great ideas, and I just want to be the one to organize things for all of you, mediate and take all your ideas and work as a collective unit, which is how I think we can be most successful. I am not coming into office promising that these certain events will happen, I am coming in to just facilitate the conversation. I have ideas of good things that the council could do, but at the end of the day all of us candidates are standing up here giving speeches, maybe a bit nervous, but it’s for all of you guys. I think the beautiful thing this year, about having 3 very qualified candidates standing behind me is that you the students really get to be apart of the process. We get to have an election not just of a winner, winning due to no opposition and what that means for freshman or those of you who are new to the school is that in past years only one person has run for each office so in essence they got the job simply because no one ran against them. If you have any ideas for the Council were always there during lunch on tuesdays and whoever is president I know will be more than willing to hear your ideas. It would be great for you guys to continue to be apart of the process that is our school. I think this could be the beginning of a great year of student involvement not only in the Student Council specifically but in the school. Because without you guys there really is no reason for all four us to stand up here, and talk about what we want to do because you guys are why we do it and I really appreciate what all of you bring to the school.
And I will just end with, it’s been an honor being your acting president, and if I am elected I would be grateful to continue to lead you guys, and if not I’ve really enjoyed standing up here and running the meetings as well as running the meetings during lunch with the council. I hope its been as enjoyable for you guys as it was for me.
Hannah Aubry
I know that if I am elected president, you are all going to have to listen to me run the morning meeting on Mondays. So before I talk to you about what a good president I’d be, I’m going to let you hear my “Good Morning Marin School”. Good morning Marin School! I could even switch it up and do accents. Good Morning Marin School! We’ll see what happens. Now some of you may know me and some may not, but to clear things up, my name is Hannah Aubry, and today I’m going to tell you why you should elect me as your student body president.
First, a vote for me is a vote for justice. We all feel sometimes, that things are working against us, rather than for us. Maybe the snack machine ate your money, or there are no cups and plates in the IC. Or maybe it just smells awful in there. I pledge to work with you to fix what isn’t working. Believe that you can come to me with problems, and I will try my best to fix those issues, so that you can feel relaxed and happy when you are here. Barring classes of course, I can’t make algebra more exciting. No offense, Iain and Keith.
Second, a vote for me is a vote for liberty and fun, because I believe that we students should have the freedom to enjoy ourselves, even while we’re at school. Since announcing my candidacy, I’ve talked to students about what they want to see happen in this school. Nadav wants Otter Pop Fridays. Jake and Joey want a trip to In and Out. I want the hot water machine back because I go nuts for peppermint tea. All these things could be possible, and many more things, too. All you have to do is ask me and whether you elect me as your president or not, I will try to make it happen.
So remember, my fellow students, that casting a vote for me is like voting for yourself, because I will be your mouthpiece on Student Council. I will work hard for what you Marin Schoolians want, and I will deliver. So tomorrow, when you’re looking at the ballot, ask yourself: “Do I love justice, liberty, fun, and myself?” If your answer is yes, then remember what I have said today, and vote for Hannah Aubry as your Student Council president!
Noah Levenson
For those of you who I haven’t yet, met I am Noah Levenson AKA Nobamah and I’m a go getter. As anyone who truly knows me will tell you I’m obsessed with accomplishing my goals, in this case my goal is to make sure your ideas and suggestions get turned into realities. I have heard your complaints about the 10 minute break and this is the first issue I am tackling. I have already talked to Steve multiple times about getting the break removed so that we can get out 5 minutes earlier. Instead of just having 5 minutes of downtime. I know my posters are mostly humorous but I assure you I am serious about trying to make your views heard. My whole policy is this, I may suggest a few ideas but my main goal is to help you all get what you want whether it’s more student council barbeques or new policies. But most of all I merely want to be the middleman that fights for your ideas to be heard and implemented by student council and the administration. I don’t feel the need to be the brainchild behind every idea because I already know all of you have great ideas that just haven’t been expressed yet. To sum this up, my main goal as your president is to give strength to the student voice, which is often overlooked. In conclusion I would like to tell you all something on a personal note…I have a dream, that one day my kids Jebediah and Quantias will look at me with their little shining eyes and say papa did you ever accomplish anything, to which I will reply yes, yes I did, at 17 years old I became president………. Of The Marin School. Thank you all NOBAMAH OUT!
Monday, October 12, 2009
Fall Trips Recap: Juniors/Sophomores Monterey
Students on the Monterey trip spent three days and two nights exploring the scenic California coastline. Day One found them traveling to Pigeon Point lighthouse and Ano Nuevo for a short hike and beachcombing. Some of the students took an extended hike along the shore to view the lounging elephant seals; they reported their extra steps had been well worth it. The next day all of the students visited the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium where they enjoyed the sea horse installation and encountered a special guest visitor (cue Jaws' music)--a Great White Shark! That evening the students bonded around a campfire--some even took the opportunity to relax in the comforts of a sauna. Everyone agreed in departing the next day--after a quick stop off at a pumpkin farm--that it had been "one of the best overnight trips ever."
School Announcements for Week of October 12
On Monday, October 12, during the all-school meeting, candidates for Student Council wil share with us their platforms and their reasons for running in their "candidate speeches". Student Council elections will commence at 11:45 AM.
A College Application Workshop for Seniors is planned for Wednesday, October 14. Seniors are required to attend. Details coming.
Sophomores will take the PLAN test on Wednesday, October 14 at 8:20 AM
Juniors will take the PSAT on Wednesday, October 14 at 8:20 AM.
Biology students will monitor sand crabs, Wednesday October 14, leaving campus at 8:30 AM.
An informational meeting for Senior parents on the Rites of Passage program will be held Thursday, October 15, from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM on campus.
Parent/Student/Advisor Conferences are scheduled for Friday, October 16. Please look for the scheduling link later this week in the navigation bar on the left.
The First Quarter ends on Friday, October 16.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Soccer Team Receives New Jerseys
When she heard that the TMS soccer team needed a new set of jerseys, Laura Vidal, parent of Ashley (2010), offered to donate them. The team, which has been playing games in pennies, received their new shirts yesterday, just before traveling to Santa Rosa to play a match against Summerfield Waldorf Academy. TMS did not win the game, but the players were thrilled with the gift and felt more like a team than they have all season. Our next game is at home on Monday, October 5.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
TMS Zoology Students Team Up with Ecologists on Field Research
The Marin School has been chosen to pioneer a high school level program created by the Watershed Project called Oysters of the Half Shell. This program integrates ecological education and restoration in a hands on program for high school students. It gives students the opportunity to work alongside researchers and scientists in the field, monitoring the native oyster population in San Francisco Bay, in order to build valuable data over time. The curriculum has been designed to allow both classroom and field trip activities to cover a range of topics in science and math. Discussion topics include: Bay Area ecology and marine ecosystems, tides, research techniques, oyster biology, population dynamics, restoration practices and water quality. We are collaborating with the San Francisco Bay Native Oyster Working Group to count and measure the young oysters growing on the oyster reefs planted at each site. Students will analyze their data and communicate the results to provide information that will be compiled in the restoration project’s study results.The zoology classes will be participating in this project - the first presentation will be today at 1:30 in the Hawk's Nest.
Grade-Level Parent Potlucks Wrapping Up
In the last of a series of potluck dinners this fall, where all families with students in the same grade have had a chance to meet informally with each other and with the people who work with their children, 9th-grade parents will get together this Thursday with 9th-grade core teachers and school administrators at the home of one volunteer family. These evenings, held every year, encourage mutual support between families and more personal communication with the school. Thanks to all those families who volunteered their homes this year!
Student Council Election Campaign Under Way
Four students have thrown their names into the ring for consideration as the next president of TMS' Student Council: Hannah Aubrey, Noah Levenson, Meredith Sacks, and Ashley Vidal. Candidates will be campaigning this week with fliers and hand-shaking, followed by speeches to the student body on Monday, October 12. Voting will take place on Tuesday the 13th. The school is thrilled to have such a fine field of senior candidates in the running. Good luck to all!
Fall Trips Recap -- Sophomore/Junior Camping
A Sophomore/Junior 'Fall Trips' group traveled to Grouse Ridge in Tahoe National Forest last September 23-25. The group spent two nights camping at Grouse Ridge and made day hikes to surrounding lakes and viewpoints. The evenings were spent around the campfire listening to Vern tell stories and students play the guitar. Thanks to all students and staff for making our first trip to Grouse Ridge a enjoyable experience!
Fall Trips Recap - Sophomore/Junior Backpacking
A mixed group of ten intrepid sophomore and junior boys joined teachers Jo Sandry and Chris Pflueger for a three-day journey into the wilderness area around Grouse Ridge, just north of I-80 in the Sierras. Half the group had never backpacked before, and as the team made its way four miles to their pristine destination, it looked as though some hard lessons were learned about how much (or little!) gear to bring. Once encamped at Glacier Lake (elev. 7500'), though, the group enjoyed swimming and climbing during the day and unseasonably warm nights under the stars, far from anything mechanical. One student, when asked whether he would ever go backpacking again, said, "I don't think so!" but then he thought about it for a moment and continued, "Well, maybe if I packed differently..." Success!
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
TMS Teacher and Students Interview Baseball Writer
U.S. History teacher Matt O'Donnell along with junior students Robert Little and Bryan Nickerson, participated in an interview with New York Post baseball writer and author Mike Vaccaro about his new book The First Fall Classic. The book chronicles the 1912 World Series between the Boston Red Sox and the New York Giants. You can listen to the interview below.
Monday, October 5, 2009
School annoucements for the week of 10/5
Seniors are introduced to the Rites of Passage program on Monday, October 5, 10:50 AM, immediately following the all-school meeting. Seniors should remain in the Hawk's Nest.
Monday, October 5, TMS students play a league soccer game against El Sobrante Eagles here atTMS. 4:30 PM.
10th Grade parents have their potluck with teachers on Monday, October 5 at 6 PM.
Film students are off to the de Young Museum on Tuesday October 6 (8:30 AM to 12:30 PM) and on Wednesday Oct 7 (8:00 AM to 4).
Zoology students see an oyster monitoring presentation, Wednesday, October 7 from 1:30 PM to 2: 25 PM.
9th Grade Parents come together for a potluck, Thursday, October 8, 6 PM.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Advanced Drama Trip to Marin Theatre Company
On Tuesday, September 29th students from the advanced drama class took a field trip to Marin Theatre Company to see the current, acclaimed production of My Name is Asher Lev. An adaptation of the Chaim Potok novel, the play chronicles the struggles of a young painting prodigy torn between his desire to pursue his art and the strictures of his Hasidic upbringing. In preparation for the matinee performance, students workshopped scenes from the play themselves. Immediately following the Marin Theatre Company performance, the students participated in a question-and-answer session with the play's cast. Two TMS drama students, junior Mollie Wilson and senior Hannah Aubry, currently serve on the Marin Theatre Company's Teen Advisory Board.
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