By Eric Erickson
NAAPID assembly
The Como auditorium was filled for an assembly during the school day on Monday, Feb. 10 to celebrate National African American Parent Involvement Day (NAAPID).
The annual student-led event showcased songs from a Como choir ensemble, a woodwind quartet, student readings, spirit from the Como cheerleading team and an inspiring message from the girls’ basketball team.
The program was emceed by Como juniors Jonas Tetevi and Tylena Davis. The keynote speaker was Derek Emery from the Minnesota Department of Education, who is a community liaison and motivational speaker.
Emery connected with the audience and emphasized the critical roles parents, school staff and systems play in reaching students in all aspects of their education.
Mayor Melvin Carter made an appearance at Como for NAAPID, visiting with students, parents and staff.
College Knowledge Night
High school seniors face the challenge of meeting all their current academic responsibilities while also navigating their future endeavors.
Most seniors with plans for higher education have completed the college application process by this time of the year, but still need to wrestle with the financial pieces to the puzzle along with finding the right school fit.
Como’s Career Pathways Center (CPC), in coordination with the counseling department, hosted a “College Knowledge Night” to provide support and information for families and students on Feb. 19.
Students are always welcome to consult with Aisha Mohamed, who heads the CPC, during the school day. But the set-aside night is a great opportunity to navigate financial aid questions, the FAFSA form and scholarship offers.
The CPC will also be hosting Como’s annual Career and Trade Fair on April 16 from 9 a.m. until noon. Interested businesses and professional groups are encouraged to contact Mohamed at [email protected].
3DE National Chain Challenge
Como’s 3DE (three-dimensional education) curriculum for all ninth graders has moved into the second semester of challenges. Case 9.4 finds students consulting Arby’s Restaurants through the development and implementation of digital surveys.
Wells Fargo and Junior Achievement employees spent time in the 3DE classes during February, coaching and facilitating the case study.
Spring Musical
The spring musical at Como will be “The Little Mermaid.” Performances are planned for late April in the Como Auditorium.
Choir director Huy Tran, along with English teachers Michael Youle and Suzanne Myhre, conducted auditions and assembled the cast and stage crew during the last week of January.
Eric Erickson is a social studies teacher at Como Park Senior High School and a Bugle freelance writer.
Photo cutline: Derek Emery, from the Minnesota Department of Education, spoke at the recent NAAPID assembly.
