Humanities 7 students did a wonderful job in their poetry presentations with Mr.Bogel's Sophomore Honors class. Besides sharing the work effectively with each other and their older student-partners, they also participated frequently and thoughtfully in student-led discussions. Indeed, more times than I can count, Mr. Bogel and I caught each other's eyes and nodded slightly to confirm a particularly insightful statement. After the last presentation, several students asked if we could do something else together. The 7th graders asked long ago if some of them could read independent writing to the older students, and that is a possibility.

Meanwhile, as the students have just turned in a major essay, we have regrouped and figured out how best to end the year. Because so much time was given to the poetry project and essay prep, we decided to have just one more unit and build in more full-class work this time. The theme question is "Which is more important, personal liberty or personal safety?" and we will be covering at a minimum the Constitution, Islam, bin Laden, and our country's relations with Pakistan. Two more essays are due by the end of the year. This class is well on track to being quite well prepared for Humanities 8 and beyond.

Foundations of Language and Culture students are finishing up their final language units of the year, with final demonstrations of learning on Monday. Students have been enjoying writing prompts, designed to get them thinking about the upcoming project wherein they invent an original language along with a country and culture where that language is spoken. Some students have already begun inventing vocabulary, writing systems, and even one alien culture with a long and rich history.

MOCA has been hard at work planning the many events that take place in May. Founders' Day, held last Thursday, May 5, was a success. This was due in part to the students' planning and in part to their good spirits and flexibility as we adjusted to the cold, blustery weather. We spent the morning sharing breakfast, watching a movie (they voted for "My Big Fat Greek Wedding"), and tie-dying t-shirts. Lunch was tasty even if the wind kept blowing out the grill and Mr. Deason had to relight it multiple times. Some students really wanted to go back inside after lunch, while others wanted to play Capture the Flag despite the chill. We were able to accommodate everyone's needs, and had an enjoyable day.

Plans are just about completed for the Middle School booth on Spearth Day, to be held this year on Thursday, May 12. The students decided to do a photo booth and also offer slushies. All money raised will go to a cause determined by Student Council. The full day begins with Little Sisters taking Big Sisters out for breakfast (the morning shuttle will leave 30 minutes early). The entire school spends the morning on various projects connected to Earth Day, we have a BBQ lunch, there is a talent show, we have an all-school picture, and everyone plays in a gigantic Capture the Flag game. The booths round out the day. It promises to be fun!