10th Grade: [2023-2024]

• ENGLISH - "No Fluff Crap," - Mrs. Muckley

This year in English class has been a journey of growth, especially when it comes to the grammar demons. From run-on sentences to confusing verb tenses, I’ve faced plenty of challenges, but I’ve learned to be more careful and thoughtful in my writing. Practicing grammar exercises, editing my work, and getting feedback helped me recognize patterns in my mistakes and fix them. Grammar was not always my strong suit, but by the end of the year, I have seen myself grow and see my mistakes more on my own, and as I continue to write for myself and about myself to overcome challenges, I still do to this day.

We also read powerful novels that made me think deeply about society and deeply about identity. Fahrenheit 451 showed a world where knowledge and free thought are dangerous, and it made me appreciate the importance of books and critical thinking. The Great Gatsby revealed the dark side of the American Dream and how appearances can be deceiving. Both novels pushed me to look beyond the surface and connect literature to real-life issues. These stories, combined with the writing and grammar work we did, helped shape me into a more thoughtful and confident student with the argumentative assignment we were assigned to, as well as helping to combat the mental problems I face.

• HISTORY - America - Mr. Walsh

This year in U.S. History class, I gained a deeper understanding of how America was shaped by key events, people, and movements. From the founding of the colonies to the Civil War and beyond. We explored how ideas like liberty, democracy, and equality have evolved over time. I learned how historical documents like the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence continue to influence our government today, studying and gaining knowledge with truggles and successes of different groups, and helped me see how complex and diverse our nation’s past really is.

We also connected the past to the present by looking at how history repeats itself and why it’s important to learn from it. Topics like the Civil Rights Movement, the Great Depression, and the World Wars helped me understand how Americans responded to challenges and fought for change. By the end of the year, I could see how every part of American history from wars and protests to inventions and elections, plays a role in the country we live in today. This class helped me appreciate the value of history and how it shapes our identity as a nation, and continued my interest into history and political ideas in our United States Government.

• ‘CO-CURRICULAR/EXTRA CURRICULAR’ - Sophomore Documentary Project

Working on my documentary project was one of the most valuable experiences of the year. It challenged me to step out of my comfort zone and use my communication skills in new ways with a group of people instead of myself. My group and I had to plan interviews, ask thoughtful questions, and listen carefully to people’s responses. Whether I was talking to classmates, teachers, or community members, or my group itself, I learned how to speak clearly and confidently while staying respectful and professional. This project showed me how important it is to connect with others.

Researching for the documentary also helped me get better at collecting and organizing information. I had to find reliable sources, take detailed notes, and make sure the facts I used were accurate and relevant. It taught me how to sort through different types of information and decide what was most important for my message. Putting everything together into a clear, meaningful documentary taught me how to combine research and storytelling. In the end, I came away with stronger skills in both communication and investigation skills I know will help me in many future projects.

• WORLD LANGUAGE - Spanish II, Señora Dennison.

Spanish II has been a big step forward in my journey of learning the Spanish language. Compared to Spanish I, this year pushed me to use the language in more practical and meaningful ways. I expanded my vocabulary, improved my grammar, and practiced speaking more confidently in conversations. Whether it was writing short essays or holding small, basic conversations, I felt myself becoming more comfortable with the language. Spanish II helped me move beyond just memorizing words and start actually using the language in real-life situations.

What made Spanish II even more meaningful was how much more I connected with Spanish-speaking cultures. We explored traditions, holidays, music, and food from different Spanish-speaking countries, which helped me see how rich and diverse the culture really is. This deeper cultural understanding made me more curious and respectful, and it inspired me to keep learning even outside of class. Spanish II didn’t just improve my language skills, it helped me grow as a more open-minded and globally aware person.

• SCIENCE - Chemistry, Ms. Arter.

My year in chemistry was full of new discoveries, especially when it came to understanding compounds and mixtures. I learned how elements combine to form compounds through chemical bonds, and how mixtures can be separated based on their physical properties. Working with formulas and chemical equations helped me see how substances interact and change during reactions. Through hands-on labs and class activities, I was able to see these problems in action, which made them much easier to understand and clearly set the basis of the class.

Studying compounds and mixtures also helped me think more critically and pay attention to details. I learned to observe changes and make predictions based on scientific reasoning. This class didn’t just teach me facts about matter; it helped me see the world in a more scientific way, and it gave me a solid foundation for future science classes.

The JAGS Sophmore trip to Costa Rica was one of the best trips that I have ever had outside of the US without my family. It was one of the best trips I have had with friends, and enjoyed every minute of it. Even through the airport customs asking A saying "Where are going in Costa Rica" A replied "Costa Rica." This trip was a eyes opening trip and I will forever remember it as I may nto be able to go back to the airport.

My trip to Costa Rica was an unforgettable experience that helped me see the world from new perspectives. Being in a different country with a unique culture, language, and way of life opened my eyes to how people live outside of my own community. I had the chance to interact with locals, try traditional foods, explore natural landscapes, and learn about Costa Rican values like "pura vida," which taught me to appreciate simplicity, nature, and positive attitudes. This trip helped me become more open-minded, curious, and respectful of different lifestyles, and it showed me the value of stepping outside my comfort zone to grow as a person.