Quarantine Gardening
Kailyn McKay The Charter Opinion 5/14/2020 Recently we have all been confined to being home instead of being out with friends and socializing. This has been hard on many people who usually go outside or have a daily routine of leaving and doing things instead of sitting at home eating every hour and watching reruns on Netflix. People all over social media, actors, actresses, famous … Continue reading Quarantine Gardening
My Take On Swirl Cheesecake
5/14/2020 Kailyn McKay In my household, desserts and sweets are such an amazing treat in times of stress and confusion. We like to take family time and whip up something good. In this way we get a tasty dessert, and we get to talk and socialize. This recipe helps when you need something made easy or even just a surprise to the family at … Continue reading My Take On Swirl Cheesecake
World Language at ACA 2019-2020
What the World Language classes at ACA looked like during the 2019-2020 school year.
Continue reading World Language at ACA 2019-2020
COVID-19’s Effect on Healthcare
Cheyenna Hall The Charter News 5/11/20 During the current COVID-19 Pandemic everyone’s focus has been on staying home and therefore healthy. A lot of the following questions have not been answered: Is it safe to go outside? Should we refrain from going to the doctors? Are you putting yourself and your family in danger if you go to the store? What should we be doing … Continue reading COVID-19’s Effect on Healthcare
What ACA’s High Schoolers are Doing
Cheyenna Hall The Charter Features 5/11/2020 Students have been put in a difficult and trying situation along with the rest of the world. So while students try and get all their homework done at home they also are trying to think of ways to occupy their time. Cameron Burch, a freshman at ACA, has been spending more time in the great outdoors. “I’m a very … Continue reading What ACA’s High Schoolers are Doing
What Will Graduation Look Like For ACA Seniors?
Madalena Larkins The Charter News 5/4/20 The COVID-19 pandemic has thrown graduation ceremony plans up in the air, leaving school administrators around the world to figure out how best to celebrate their graduating classes. ACA sent out a survey to seniors and their parents, asking for their opinions on how best to celebrate ACA’s class of 2020, given the unprecedented circumstances of the pandemic. Respondents … Continue reading What Will Graduation Look Like For ACA Seniors?
The Virus Is Just Half the Battle
How COVID-19 will affect us economically Continue reading The Virus Is Just Half the Battle
ACA Rolls out New Leadership Class
Jack Taggart The Charter News 5/2/20 A close look at the course list for the 2020-2021 ACA school year will reveal that a new class will be available to highschoolers: Leadership. The idea for the class came about when Mrs. Gerstner first became an ES at ACA, at the start of the 2018-2019 school year. Gerstner was concerned that some of her new ES students … Continue reading ACA Rolls out New Leadership Class
ODE Releases New Guidelines for Awarding Grades And Credit to Students
Madalena Larkins The Charter News 4/30/20 State officials released new policies for awarding grades and credit to students in grades K-11, amid the ongoing school closure. Oregon Department of Education (ODE) released an announcement on April 15th, stating: “Students who demonstrate evidence of essential learning by the end of the spring 2020 term, shall receive a ‘Pass’ and the corresponding course credit.” During the second … Continue reading ODE Releases New Guidelines for Awarding Grades And Credit to Students
Which Streaming Service Should I Use?
Coronavirus, an unforeseen twist to the decade, has significantly altered people’s lives around the globe. Instead of going out with friends or interacting with the outside world at all, people are confined within their houses, and this new ordeal of self-isolation leaves many feeling adrift and listless, unsure of what to do with their time. Oftentimes, being productive is fulfilling and makes us feel good. … Continue reading Which Streaming Service Should I Use?
Comfort Food in Hard Times – Loaded Potatoes
Siena Geren The Charter Opinions 4/27/20 Loaded Potatoes It is my hope that those of us who love and miss our ACA baked potatoes can find some comfort in this recipe from Don’t Go Bacon My Heart and that those who aren’t the biggest fans might try this recipe and see how they compare. This recipe is not the same as what we are all … Continue reading Comfort Food in Hard Times – Loaded Potatoes
What is Religion’s Role in a School Environment?
Haladar Wright The Charter Opinions 4/27/20 Religion is an important part of culture and people’s lives which should not be disregarded, but there are difficulties in discussing it at school. Religion, at its core, is a social topic and an integral part of people’s identity, regardless of what they believe. For these reasons, I believe that religion should be discussed … Continue reading What is Religion’s Role in a School Environment?
Defunct: Live Updates: Coronavirus, April 23rd — May 24th
This Page is no longer updated– it will be superseded by The Charter’s reopening live updates page. Tazwell Brandabur The Charter News Last updated 5/24/20 at 4:30 PM PT The Pandemic At a Glance: Cases: Deaths: Jump to: Latest: Worldwide: 5,453,399 345,077 Current Policy On May 15th, Governor Kate Brown allowed almost all Oregon counties outside the Portland metro area to U.S. 1,673,678 98,831 State … Continue reading Defunct: Live Updates: Coronavirus, April 23rd — May 24th
OCSD Bans Most Forms Of Communication Between Students And Teachers.
Tazwell Brandabur The Charter News 4/22/20 ACA, like all Oregon schools, has been operating virtually in response to the ongoing pandemic since March 16th. In the weeks after the closure, instant messaging like Hangouts Chat and video conferencing services like Zoom and Google Hangouts quickly became a fixture of ACA’s distanced learning strategy. That changed on April 13th. A memo released on April 10th by … Continue reading OCSD Bans Most Forms Of Communication Between Students And Teachers.
Comfort Food in Hard Times
Siena Geren The Charter Opinions 4/18/20 Apple Pie Tacos Whenever you get an apple pie craving, these tacos really hit the spot! This recipe for apple pie tacos is fast, requires very little on the planning end and creates the perfect bite-sized dessert. These tacos are very fun to make, and it is easy to find something that even the youngest in your family can … Continue reading Comfort Food in Hard Times
Comfort Food in Hard Times
Siena Geren The Charter Features 4/18/20 In these days of social distancing, on-line learning, and nothing being normal, the simple distraction of back to basics time in the kitchen preparing a delicious meal can be a step in the direction of sanity. This week The Charter will be starting a weekly column of recipes with the goal of providing our readers with just such a … Continue reading Comfort Food in Hard Times
Governor Brown Lets Seniors Graduate Amid Ongoing School Closure
Madalena Larkins The Charter News 4/15/20 “It wasn’t our choice to start a pandemic our senior year, and we don’t deserve to not graduate because of it,” announced Paige Stickney, an ACA senior. On April 8th, Governor Brown announced that all schools in Oregon would remain closed for the remainder of the academic year, and distance learning would continue for all students not in the … Continue reading Governor Brown Lets Seniors Graduate Amid Ongoing School Closure
Student Honors Epic Poem with Original Song
ACA Student Creates Group Chat With More Than 150 Students
Madalena Larkins The Charter News 4/9/20 Twelve year old Levi Reynolds was at home without much to do after schools closed due to COVID-19. This resulted in him creating a group chat on Google Hangouts, which ended up having 167 members. “I made it because I was bored,” says Levi. It started out with around 12 kids from ACA that he knew, and one former … Continue reading ACA Student Creates Group Chat With More Than 150 Students
A Straight-Up DIY Mask Update:
The CDC says go ahead and make one. Tazwell Brandabur The Charter News 4/9/20 After several months of discouraging the use of masks by the general public, federal health officials now recommend that citizens wear improvised masks while “in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain.” The announcement came from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), on April 4th. … Continue reading A Straight-Up DIY Mask Update:
ACA Distributes Supplementary Materials, Equipment to Students on Fridays
To provide Distance Learning for All during the extended school closure caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the ACA administrative team worked with onsite classroom teachers to gather and organize materials. Those materials were distributed to students and parents during a carefully orchestrated drive-through, curbside pick-up, Friday, April 3. Another pick-up day is planned for Friday, April 10, alphabetically in 1/2-hour increments between 9-11:30am. See below … Continue reading ACA Distributes Supplementary Materials, Equipment to Students on Fridays
The Effects COVID-19 and Technology are having on Schooling
Jack Taggart The Charter News 4/01/20 Governments are meeting the spread of the novel virus, COVID-19, with many strategies to slow the contagion, such as social distancing, health precautions, and even stay-at-home orders from multiple state governors, including Oregon Governor Kate Brown. Among these initiatives is the temporary closing of schools in all states (some are scheduled to close in certain districts, some have or … Continue reading The Effects COVID-19 and Technology are having on Schooling
COVID-19 Updates– Defunct
Everything you need to know about the Coronavirus, updated daily. Tazwell Brandabur The Charter News 4/21/20 The ongoing outbreak of the SARS-CoV2 virus has given rise to an information storm, as news organizations, social media platforms, and governments scramble to keep the public informed. Much of this coverage has proven false. This page will be updated daily to include the most recent, accurate information about the … Continue reading COVID-19 Updates– Defunct
What COVID-19 Looks Like In Our Community
Siena Geren The Charter Features 3/20/20 COVID-19 is changing our public spaces inside and out. While people begin to get clear instructions on how to stay safe and keep others safe, most are taking meaningful action. Advice about social distancing is everywhere and the community seems to be taking it seriously. But has it actually changed the look of our community? Has there been a … Continue reading What COVID-19 Looks Like In Our Community
Students React to School Closure
Madalena Larkins The Charter News 3/19/20 Nearly 600,000 public school students in Oregon are out of school. This comes on March 17th, after Governor Kate Brown announced that all public schools must close and remain closed until April 28th, due to the COVID-19 outbreak. The decision of whether or not to reopen schools will continue to be re-evaluated. ACA students had mixed feelings about the … Continue reading Students React to School Closure
Tough Love Grading Practices Produce Results
Tazwell Brandabur The Charter Features 3/15/20 Teachers themselves determine how students are graded, creating a spectrum of severity as complex and varied as the teachers themselves. This spectrum may lead to long-term consequences. A study published by the Fordham Institute in February, 2020, found that the way teachers grade students dramatically affects the students’ long term academic success. Students in classes with higher grading standards … Continue reading Tough Love Grading Practices Produce Results
Milwaukie Declares Climate Emergency. Where Does Oregon City Stand?
Tazwell Brandabur The Charter Features 3/15/20 “NOW BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Milwaukie, Oregon, that a climate and ecological emergency, which threatens our city, region, state, nation, civilization, humanity and the natural world, is hereby declared.” This statement is part of a resolution passed by the Milwaukie City Council in January, 2020. The resolution, Council Resolution No. 7-2020, … Continue reading Milwaukie Declares Climate Emergency. Where Does Oregon City Stand?
The Other Side of Dyslexia
Siena Geren The Charter Features 3/11/20 In a typical classroom of 30 students there are on average three dyslexics reports, reports APM. Although there is no class at ACA as large as this, the proportions of students affected by dyslexia in a typical ACA classroom would be one to two. According to Learning Disabilities, as many as 43.5 million … Continue reading The Other Side of Dyslexia
Drama Club Junior Debates Next Production
Cheyenna Hall The Charter Opinions 3/11/2020 This year the Drama Jr. Class performed Lion King Jr. the Musical. Now they are brainstorming for next year. They should either do Charlie and the Chocolate Factory or The Wizard of Oz. Both of these would be great because we have done them in the past and it would be cool to see the differences with having a … Continue reading Drama Club Junior Debates Next Production
Oregon Legislative Session Adjourns Prematurely After Republican Legislators Boycott Cap And Trade Vote
Madalena Larkins The Charter News 3/9/20 On Monday February 24th, Republicans in the Oregon state legislature participated in a walk out in an attempt to kill the cap and trade bill, a piece of climate legislation that would require fuel companies to pay for greenhouse gas emissions. They have not returned to the Capitol since. This prevented the chamber from voting, as two thirds of … Continue reading Oregon Legislative Session Adjourns Prematurely After Republican Legislators Boycott Cap And Trade Vote
Border Wall Creates Unintended Consequences for Wildlife
Madalena Larkins The Charter Features 2/20/20 Whether or not a wall should be built at our southern border is an intensely debated topic, however people often overlook the effects doing so would have on wildlife in the area. Around half of the official 1,954 mile long U.S.-Mexico border is made up … Continue reading Border Wall Creates Unintended Consequences for Wildlife
“Whatever,” and Other Valid Excuses For Ignoring Climate Change
Jack Taggart The Charter Opinions 2/19/20 A long time ago, when top hats were in style, and movies were called motion pictures, two men sat in a warehouse, about to build what would be the first car (or automobile, whatever). “Now let me get this straight,” one said to the other. “This thing will pump out gases that make the entire planet warmer?” “Yep,” said … Continue reading “Whatever,” and Other Valid Excuses For Ignoring Climate Change
Do Relationships in High School Have Value?
Haladar Wright The Charter Features 1/28/20 In popular culture, high school is painted as a landscape full of turmoil. Saturated with battling cliques, rampant emotions, and constant drama, Hollywood high school has many stressors. While typical “teenage” movies can be wholly inaccurate, a mainstay in fictional and real high schools is romance and young love. Romantic relationships are a common part of high school life. … Continue reading Do Relationships in High School Have Value?
Is College Worth it?
Tazwell Brandabur Chartered Territory 1/22/2020 With rising tuition and increased competition, a debate is raging on both sides of the political spectrum over college. News outlets from the New York Times to Fox have questioned the worth of a degree. The Charter asked parents, teachers, and prospective students around ACA about their college experience, and whether they felt any higher education they’d received was worth … Continue reading Is College Worth it?
We Are The Only Ones Who Can Fix This.
The Student Debt Crisis in America & What You Can Do About It. Tazwell Brandabur For The Charter Editorial Board 1/22/2020 Higher education has long been touted as a way out of unemployment, poverty, and into the modern world, but roughly forty percent of students are skipping college entirely, or enrolling in a trade school. One major reason is the cost. Institutions vary wildly … Continue reading We Are The Only Ones Who Can Fix This.
Why Students Should Never Opt Out of State Testing
Madalena Larkins The Charter Opinions 1/22/20 Just like other public schools, ACA students in grades 3rd-8th and 11th participate in state testing. There’s one difference. ACA is required to meet or exceed the test and participation scores of conventional public schools in our district, and if we don’t we are required to create a School Improvement Plan, and failure to create or comply with the … Continue reading Why Students Should Never Opt Out of State Testing
How did you like the new timing of the fall music showcase?
Chloe Lute 1/22/20 This fall ACA’s musical showcase was in November as opposed to earlier years where it was in December. Aiden McMillan, Elementary Student “Well I felt a little unprepared but it was kind of nice to know that it was close, the only problem is they rushed us. “ Grana Khan, High school Student “Fine, I don’t care really” No picture available Natalie … Continue reading How did you like the new timing of the fall music showcase?
What’s the most unusual name you have ever heard?
Cheyenna Hall Chartered Territory 1/22/20 Continue reading What’s the most unusual name you have ever heard?
What advice would you give to a new student?
“Don’t do your homework last minute.” – Elijah Lute “It can be easy to get overwhelmed so take it a day at a time.” – Seanna Bloemer “Run!” – Kiera McKay “Give yourself a few months to get into your grove.” – Mrs.Lute Continue reading What advice would you give to a new student?
What’s the stupidest thing you’ve been dared to do?
Kailyn McKay Chartered Territory 1/22/20 “Do the floss on the highway.” -Winston Small “I once got dared to go out in the snow and stick my tongue to a metal pole and it got stuck, and it ripped off half of my tastebuds.” -Rebecca Burton “Stuck my finger in my eye after covering it in California reaper oil.” -Torren Lewis “When my brother scratched his … Continue reading What’s the stupidest thing you’ve been dared to do?
I’ll Come Up With a Headline Later
Jack Taggart 1/21/20 The Charter Opinions “You shouldn’t procrastinate,” says Roy. Roy is a little man that lives on my shoulder and tells me things that I know, but don’t want to do. Like an obnoxious shoulder angel, (“You shouldn’t eat another microwave burrito. You know you’ll regret it.)” He talks in an annoying monotone voice. But I ignore him and continue to read my … Continue reading I’ll Come Up With a Headline Later
Which staff member do you enjoy most at ACA, and why?
Connie Johnson, Parent. Mr. Toth. That man is amazing. He gets kids to learn. It’s just so amazing to see him teaching in a classroom, and to see it all click in the kids minds. Another great one is Mrs. Edinger. She is extremely patient with kids. I don’t know how she does it, but it is amazing. AJ McQuarters, Highschool Student. I really like … Continue reading Which staff member do you enjoy most at ACA, and why?
Do You Read The Charter? Why or Why Not?
Madalena Larkins Natasha Fedosov, 11th Grade ACA Student: “No, Because I don’t have time for it.” Diana Brainerd, Associate Director: “I read it like two weeks ago, because I like to see what students are writing about.” Abigail Reynolds, 8th grader: “No, it just doesn’t seem necessary to me.” Kathleen Ballard, ACA Parent: “Yes, I suppose because I was a journalism student in high school, and … Continue reading Do You Read The Charter? Why or Why Not?
Live Action Disney Remakes
Chloe Lute The Charter Features 1/13/20 Over the past few years Disney has released a number of live-action remakes of the classics. Dumbo, Alladin, and The Lion King are just a few of the many that have been made, or are set to be released in 2020. A live-action Mulan will be released this coming March. This school year Drama Club Jr. is performing Disney’s … Continue reading Live Action Disney Remakes
Math Coffee Shop
Oliver Heimbigner The Charter News 12/2/19 There is now a new math coffee shop in ACA. It was started by Mr. Toth to help students in his Consumer Math class learn how to deal with managing money. They serve many types of espressos like lattes, cappuccinos, and mochas, along with sugar and milk, diary and dairy-free milk. “The coffee shop is hoping to expand their … Continue reading Math Coffee Shop
Excuses Used at School
Cheyenna Hall Featured News 12/20/2019 Teachers and students alike have heard many excuses at school. Even if they aren’t the ones making the excuses they still remember them. “There was homework??” and “What’s today?” are both excuses used by Kailyn McKay who is a ninth grader at ACA. These excuses make it sound like she was oblivious to the homework that was due and makes … Continue reading Excuses Used at School
Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA) Club at ACA
By: Chloe Lute ACA’s Gender Sexuality Alliance, or GSA, has recently been reinstituted for the 2019/20 school year. The founder of the club believes it is perfect for anybody looking for somewhere where they can express themselves comfortably. Gender Sexuality Alliance would be defined as the state of everyone, regardless of gender or sexuality, being joined or associated. The GSA meets Tuesdays during lunch, in … Continue reading Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA) Club at ACA
Is ACA Safe?
Tazwell Brandabur The Charter Features 12/21/19 Charter schools have long been the center of an intense debate at the local and national level– a debate that’s intensified with the coming presidential election. At this point, the three frontrunning Democratic candidates, former Vice President Joe Biden, Senator Bernie Sanders, and Senator Elizabeth Warren, have openly called for a ban on charter schools. Sort of. Daunting as … Continue reading Is ACA Safe?
Inside The Charter Newsroom
Madalena Larkins The Charter Features 12/20/19 The class of nine and their teacher, Michael Lancaster, gather in the dimly lit media arts room for the last time before winter break. Kailyn and Cheyenna toss a half full plastic bottle back and forth across the room, Jack and Tazwell seem to be absorbed in something on their Chrome books, and Mr. Lancaster pauses in his explanation … Continue reading Inside The Charter Newsroom
Sleep Is Affecting Students In More Ways Than We Thought
While the teacher grabs some papers from a printer, students of Mr. Silwell’s Modern World History class seize the the opportunity to doze off for a few minutes. Continue reading Sleep Is Affecting Students In More Ways Than We Thought
Is the new playground better than the old one?
Kailyn McKay & Rebecca BurtonThe Charter News 11/20/19 Katelynn Reynolds, “No, my grandma’s living room is more interesting.” Laurie Phelan, “I don’t think so, but I’m not playing on it.” Allison Jackson, “No the old playground was way better.” Grana Khan, “I don’t think so, because that one was there for so long and I miss the old one.” Eljo (Elliot Lute), “ Yes, because … Continue reading Is the new playground better than the old one?
Underused Power-up Hiding in Plain Sight
It’s noon, and most of ACA is going on break. Ann Heppner isn’t. Instead, she’s preparing for what many ESes describe as a “tremendously helpful” class, one that can be “miraculously beneficial” for students’ grades. Mrs. Heppner walks into the classroom and greets her two-person class. This is business as usual for any one of ACA’s “Lunch and Learns.” The Lunch and Learn program has … Continue reading Underused Power-up Hiding in Plain Sight
ACA’s Lego Robotics Club
Jack Taggart The Charter News 11/18/19 ACA’s Lego Robotics club got started when Tara McLaughlin, Lego team coach and mother of two ACA students considered starting a Lego team at ACA, similar to the one she and her children had participated in at a school they previously attended. “I thought a homeschool environment could really benefit from [a] robotics outlet… I know how many kids … Continue reading ACA’s Lego Robotics Club
ACA Holiday Bazaar
Madalena Larkins The Charter News 11/18/19 ACA is hosting a holiday bazaar—on campus—on Friday December 6th and Saturday December 7th from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. There will be a variety of vendors, both student and local, as well as a bake sale, kids crafts area, raffle, food, and live music performed by ACA musicians. There will be 30+ vendors (as of 11-11-19) who will be … Continue reading ACA Holiday Bazaar
Beginning Band Class Created
Haladar Wright The Charter News Feature 11/18/19 You may hear the musical sounds of wind instruments emanating from room 114 on Mondays and Wednesdays. ACA has created a new class, the Beginning Band. It’s purpose is to teach students wind instruments and bring Band music to ACA. Valerie Johnson, the director of the class, created it to teach more instruments. “There was no music class … Continue reading Beginning Band Class Created
ACA’s Many Committees
Cheyenna Hall The Charter News 11/18/2019 ACA has many committees that staff members are involved in. Some are for the staff and some are more beneficial for the students. Staff members are the people who run the committees. There are many committees and each of them are different and do different things. “The purpose of committees are to focus on school improvement. To support the … Continue reading ACA’s Many Committees
Archery Club
By Oliver Heimbigner The Charter News 10/28/19 ACA has a new archery club coming soon, and many students are interested in joining. “The Archery club will be cool because I used to do archery, and archery is cool,” said Seth Ellicott, a 10th grader at ACA. Drew Holland the creator of this archery club says: “I think it is important to have a different variety … Continue reading Archery Club
ACA’s Fall Concerts are Just Around the Corner
by: Chloe Lute Students at Alliance Charter Academy are tuning their instruments and shining their dress shoes for the quickly arriving music showcase weekend. The students, teachers, and parents are anxiously awaiting the music filled weekend. The students have been working hard in preparation for the showcases. Kiera McKay, grade seven, says “It makes me nervous and excited at the same time, nervous about being … Continue reading ACA’s Fall Concerts are Just Around the Corner
Student Starts Dungeons & Dragons Club
Rebecca Burton The Charter News 10/30/19 You can now see dragons, elves, and witches roaming the halls of ACA! This year the school has added a new club, the dungeons and dragons club where people can discuss their favorite characters and levels. Come as you explore the world of dungeons and dragons. This club is for the inspired dungeons and dragons players who want to … Continue reading Student Starts Dungeons & Dragons Club
2019 Harvest Ball
Kailyn McKay The Charter News 19 The Harvest Ball was held in the cafeteria at 7:00 pm on Friday, October 25. Twenty tickets were sold from the study hall in advance of the event, according to Merrie Miller, our study hall teacher and ticket salesperson. She said that usually kids don’t start buying tickets till the last week. Sophomore Haladar Wright was one of the … Continue reading 2019 Harvest Ball
Taking in new families
Kailyn McKay The Charter News 10/2/19 ACA has seen some new faces, since 2007. This year there are 70 new students that registered, according to Mrs. Diana Brainerd. So many family and friends of other current students want in and start a new schooling life here, she added. Alliance can accept, at most, 395 students each year and as of late September we have 390, … Continue reading Taking in new families
Phone Policy
Oliver Heimbigner The Charter News 10/25/19. On the campus of ACA, a new phone policy has been ratified. Some students dislike it, and many students simply ignore the policy. The director of ACA Seanna Bloemer says about this policy, “I think phones can be a distraction in the classroom if there are not clear expectations. I believe the policy sets clear guidelines so all students … Continue reading Phone Policy
What classes do you miss at ACA? Why do you miss them?
“Sculpting and painting, because it was part of art and I like art” – Kiera McKay, grade 7 “They used to have fencing, and I always thought it was pretty cool, so I was sad when it left”-Naomi Lee, grade 7 “I don’t think I miss any classes”- William Poindexter, grade 12 “I miss having clay class, because it was a fun hands on experience for … Continue reading What classes do you miss at ACA? Why do you miss them?
The Issue of Suicide
The second most common cause of death people ages 10-34 in the U.S. is suicide. Ranking 15th in the U.S., Oregon has one of the highest percentages of deaths due to suicide. This sobering statistic is all the more disturbing when it is brought into consideration that it is a subject that hits close to home, as some students at ACA struggle with suicidal ideation. … Continue reading The Issue of Suicide
Astrobiology Brings Strange Visitor To ACA
Tazwell Brandabur The Charter Features 21 Oct. 2019. On October 21st, Mr Holland’s PE class found the gym invaded by a faintly humming silver dome, 20 feet in diameter and 10 feet high. Fortunately, this was no alien invasion of ACA, but rather the Starlab, a mobile observatory and planetarium, brought in by Mr. Lancaster’s Astrobiology class to teach constellations and planetary science. “Constellations serve … Continue reading Astrobiology Brings Strange Visitor To ACA
ACA’s New Counselor Mrs. Heinsoo
Cheyenna Hall The Charter News 10/28/19 Mrs. Alicia Heinsoo, ACA’s new counselor has been meeting with the students of ACA since the beginning of this school year. Mrs. Heinsoo states that she has “striven to provide a safe space for all students to feel respected and comfortable.” Although many students already have regular meetings with her there are also some slots in Mrs. Heinsoos schedule … Continue reading ACA’s New Counselor Mrs. Heinsoo
Stephanie Young Takes School Pictures
Madalena Larkins The Charter News 10/28/19 School pictures were different this year. Stephanie Young—a longtime ACA parent—took school pictures, instead of someone outside of ACA, like we’ve had in past years. It seems that there was an overall positive reaction to the new photographer and backdrop. Young chose to take the pictures outside in front of the bricks instead of doing them inside with a gray … Continue reading Stephanie Young Takes School Pictures
New Choir Teacher Hired
Tracey Edson, the new choir director, was just hired. For the past month, the choir program at ACA has not had a teacher. Several students interviewed expressed great excitement and happiness that Edson is here. Ashton Scott, a Junior, expressed feelings of surprise that Mrs. Edwards hadn’t returned, but says he is still committed to making the choir program fun. Lauren True, a Junior, says … Continue reading New Choir Teacher Hired
Do you think the do/due planner system is good or doo-doo?
by Oliver Heimbigner & Haladar Wright Paige Stickney: “I think it helps some students, but for me personally, I use a different way. So I think it just depends on the person.” Makenna Gilbert: “Well, I think it’s pretty helpful because then you’re more organized and you know like, okay, because then you can, plan out that I can do my homework right now, or … Continue reading Do you think the do/due planner system is good or doo-doo?
What advice would you give new students and families this year?
Donna Larson, an ACA parent, declined a photo, but said: “I’d say new families should remember to volunteer- it helps get you used to what’s happening around the school.” Raymond Kennedy: “Take Mrs. Whittet’s math class.” Jilene Modlin: “Make sure you show up with plenty of time to find parking.” Logan Scott: “Have fun, even if you aren’t having fun.” Chris Stilwell: “When I see … Continue reading What advice would you give new students and families this year?
If You Could Change One Thing about ACA What Would it be?
By Madalena Larkins Faith Shubin: “More fun [science] experiments.” Denice Crombie: “More parking.” Winston Small: “Bigger lockers, the lockers are way too small.” Seanna Bloemer: “That we could offer sports.” Calia Lancaster:“Longer lunch time.” Continue reading If You Could Change One Thing about ACA What Would it be?
How do you think ACA has changed over the years?
Cheyenna Hall 10/9/19 By: Cheyenna Hall Continue reading How do you think ACA has changed over the years?
Senior Prank or Legacy Project?
By: Cheyenna Hall Since the first day of grade school, to the awkwardness of middle school, through challenging high school and finally to senior year, seniors have been getting ready to go out into the world and give it their best, ready to prove that they have what it takes to go anywhere and accomplish anything. Even though sometimes they get a little ahead of … Continue reading Senior Prank or Legacy Project?
Changes to ACA Building
Chloe Lute The Charter News 10/2/19 Over the summer a few of Alliance Charter Academy’s rooms got refurnished to be more functional and appealing. Some of the biggest changes include the Guitar room and the Study Hall. The Guitar Room, room 116, got a new paint job and is now completely reorganized. There’s now a board on the back wall which holds all of the … Continue reading Changes to ACA Building
Back to School
Jack Taggart The Charter News 10/2/19 It’s that time of year again, as teachers, parents, and students set the ball rolling with the new 2019-2020 school year. And with more than fifty million students enrolled, (according to the National Center for Education Statistics), this is not only a big adjustment for the public school system, but also an adjustment for many students, parents, and teachers. … Continue reading Back to School
Other Jobs ACA Staff Do
Madalena Larkins The Charter Features 10/2/19 A recent poll of ACA staff members was conducted and sixty eight percent of staff polled had additional sources of income outside of ACA. Only thirty four percent said that they wanted only one job, so about half the staff polled who had another income enjoyed doing two jobs. Also, sixty seven percent of staff polled said that they … Continue reading Other Jobs ACA Staff Do
Student Planners: So Far, So Good
Tazwell Brandabur The Charter News 9/30/19 Much of success, both in school and later life, depends upon a set of critical skills known as executive functioning. These skills include scheduling, time management, and prioritization, which are all essential for staying organized. With this in mind, ACA hired Karin Bright, an executive function coach based in Portland, to help students, and to help teachers help students. … Continue reading Student Planners: So Far, So Good
Multnomah County Search and Rescue
Natalie Ramsey The Charter- 5/22/19 The team, MCSOSAR, is Multnomah County’s resource for Search and Rescue. Multnomah County Search and Rescue unit. They primarily do searches for lost hikers in the Columbia Gorge, urban searches in surrounding areas, and evidence searches. Multnomah County’s team is youth led and accepts applications from teens ages fourteen and up. If accepted, volunteers are required to complete an … Continue reading Multnomah County Search and Rescue
ACA and the Phone Dilemma
By: Alyssa DiLoreto – 5/20/19 The ACA admin is really wanting to work on reinforcing the phone policy. It’s a pretty hard subject that is argued on a lot. Cell phones are big problems for many schools. Students sometimes forget that they are not usually allowed to have their phones out during class. Here at ACA we have a phone policy in place that some … Continue reading ACA and the Phone Dilemma
Rummage Sale
By Natalie Ramsey The Charter- 5/21/19 An annual spring rummage sale is one of ACA’s traditions used to raise money for the school, as well as other charities. Families bring in donations and are able to volunteer to help plan, organize, and run the sale. The rummage was started as a fundraiser by the Parent Action Team. Donations of clothes, books, children’ toys, kitchenware, and … Continue reading Rummage Sale
Senior prank
Rachel Shulikov The Charter News 5/22/2019 Last year’s seniors may be the last ones to have done a senior prank, if Seanna Bloemer, ACA director gets her way. She want the seniors to do a “legacy project” instead. But Anna Pullella, this years graduate would rather be the last senior to do a prank. “My first reaction was shock because senior prank is something … Continue reading Senior prank
HOOPS Basketball
By Natalie Ramsey The Charter- 5/21/19 HOOPS is a homeschool basketball league that many students of Alliance Charter Academy take part in. Teams practice in Oregon City and Molalla, with games held at Clackamas Community College campus in Oregon City. HOOPS provides a Christian learning environment for improving and building skills and sportsmanship. HOOPS is run by dedicated volunteers: coaches, assistant coaches, team parents, paper/electronic … Continue reading HOOPS Basketball
Disagreements in our Country
By Rylie Young Charter-Ed Territory – 05/20/19 What is one thing that our country has done that you disagree with (longer than ten years ago)? “I wholeheartedly disagree with the internment of the Japanese people in America during WWII. I believe that the Executive Order 9066 issued by President Roosevelt was totally unconstitutional and based on wartime fears and emotions. The reparations and official Letters … Continue reading Disagreements in our Country
Drama Club Performs The Tempest
By Rylie Young The Charter News – 05/20/19 “Ten minutes!” Drama Club director, Paul Angelo shouts. “Thank you ten minutes,” the cast shouts back, some still pouring some last minute glitter on their costumes. The tension of anticipation builds until at last they are on stage and the curtain reels back. Drama Club has put on a variety of performances in the last several years; … Continue reading Drama Club Performs The Tempest
School Counselor Leaving ACA
By Evalina Shulikov The Charter News – 5/15/2019 ACA’s school counselor, Maryann Remburgs, is leaving and won’t be our counselor anymore next year. “It has been really awesome being here at ACA, and I really loved the people. The people here are really fabulous, so that’s why it was such a hard decision to leave,” said Remsburg. After Mark Silverman passed away, Remsburg knew someone … Continue reading School Counselor Leaving ACA
Chaos Controlled
By Miriam Lee The Charter News – 5/17/19 Picture this: it’s 2015, the last week of school, and class after class you’ve had a party. Stuffing your face with chocolate cupcakes, exotic fruit, or maybe some potato chips. A full week of endless parties, at school. Not too long ago, this was the reality at ACA. For those who have been attending for awhile, you’ve … Continue reading Chaos Controlled
Why Vaccines Matter in the 21st Century
By Hailey Fox Charter Opinions 5/17/19 Here at ACA only 71 percent of students are vaccinated. Currently, house bill 3063 is being voted on. This bill will make it so every student will be required to get vaccinated. The only waver from this law are people who are immunocompromised, a person with a immune system that’s so weak vaccines would hurt them. I believe this … Continue reading Why Vaccines Matter in the 21st Century
Jellyfish and Their Superpowers
By Matthias Armstrong The Charter News 5/17/19 From their bloodless brainless bodies to their extreme ability to regenerate and survive in extreme environments, jellyfish or more properly, sea jellies, are quite an extraordinary group of organisms. What’s so interesting about sea jellies? Well for starters they have been around for nearly six hundred million years appearing in the fossil records during the Cambrian Period. This … Continue reading Jellyfish and Their Superpowers
ACA Plant Delivery
By Hailey Fox Charter Newsroom – 5/d/19 On May 8th at seven am about six volunteers arrived at the kitchen side entrance to help unload the orders the plant sale had gotten. The plant sale ended up selling $843.05 worth of plants. To find out more about the plant sale read the story by Rachel Shulikov. The driver of the plant delivery truck had gotten … Continue reading ACA Plant Delivery
“What is nicest thing someone has ever done for you?”
By Rylie Young Charter-Ed Territory – 05/15/19 Continue reading “What is nicest thing someone has ever done for you?”
ES Expecting Baby in October 2019
By Sydney Starr The Charter News – 5/15/19 Jenna Friesen is expecting her first baby, a boy, towards the end of October 2019. She is currently 16 weeks along (as of May 6, 2019). Friesen says that she plans on hopefully working until she has her baby, and then she will be taking maternity leave. She anticipates being back “…by the end of January.” Diana … Continue reading ES Expecting Baby in October 2019
Volunteer Hours
By Natalie Ramsey The Charter- 4/15/18 Volunteering is an important piece of ACA. It keeps the school safe and clean while giving back to the community. Each school year, families are encouraged to complete thirty volunteer hours which equals about fifteen minutes of volunteering a school day. According to the Alliance Charter Academy handbook if families are unable to complete the volunteer hours, they could … Continue reading Volunteer Hours
What is the the best thing you are doing this summer?
By Evalina Shulikov The Charter Features – 5/3/2019 “I am going down to Utah and we’re going to have a family reunion down there. Our family is super big so we’re going to rent out this big, cool house and it’s going to be great. And then my cousins from Arizona are coming over for the entire summer. I am going camping a lot. My … Continue reading What is the the best thing you are doing this summer?
Testing opt-outs Affect ACA
Rachel Shulikov Charter News – 4/6/2019 ACA’s opting out rate for the Smarter Balanced testing is about 15 percent, and for every student who opts out this year, ACA gets a zero score for that student. State testing is for students in grades 3rd through 8th and 11th. There are two language arts parts and two math parts. The tests show the strengths that the … Continue reading Testing opt-outs Affect ACA
ACA Chamber Ensemble Played at the Schnitz
By Evalina Shulikov The Charter News- 5/1/2019 This year, our school Chamber Ensemble played at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. They played at the Schnitz on Monday, March 18th. The ensemble was invited when Ms. Mersereau signed up for the Oregon Symphony administration to get the opportunity to play at the Schnitz. “Playing at the Schnitz is a great opportunity. You get to play in … Continue reading ACA Chamber Ensemble Played at the Schnitz
Goodbye ACA, Hello Singapore!
By Rylie Young The Charter News – 05/01/19 Expanding your horizons doesn’t mean moving to Singapore for everyone, but for ACA’s art teacher, Todd Ingham, it does. After this school year ends, Ingham will not be returning to ACA because he, his wife and two sons are moving 8,283 miles away to Singapore. Ingham’s wife, who has been wanting to do an international job for … Continue reading Goodbye ACA, Hello Singapore!
The Red Cross Comes to ACA for Our Blood
By Matthias Armstrong The Charter News – 5/1/19 Saving three lives isn’t what most ACA students consider doing on a typical school day, but May 15 won’t be a typical day. The reason ACA and many high schools put on these blood drives is quite simple; it saves lives. According to the Community Blood Center and the Red Cross approximately 37 percent of the US … Continue reading The Red Cross Comes to ACA for Our Blood
ACA Student Going to Costa Rica in Exchange Program
By Sydney Starr The Charter Features – 5/2/19 Siena Geren, a 16 year-old ACA Sophomore, will be going to Costa Rica as an exchange student in 2019-2020 for six months. Geren will be the first student from ACA to be a part of an exchange program, according to Diana Brainerd, lead ES and Associate Director. Geren says that there are still many details that need … Continue reading ACA Student Going to Costa Rica in Exchange Program
NHS Plans Prom 2019
By Miriam Lee The Charter News – 04/29/19 High schoolers, mark your calendar for a special night of simplicity. Despite the “uniqueness” of ACA, our school still participates in one of the oldest traditions among high schools. That is, prom, a formal dance — thrown in almost every high school in the U.S. — dating back to the late 18th century. The ACA prom is … Continue reading NHS Plans Prom 2019
Avengers: Endgame Review
By Alyssa DiLoreto – 4/30/19 We’ve been waiting years for this, and it’s finally here. “Avengers: Endgame” released April 26th and it’s taken the world by storm. Scoring a 96% from “Rotten Tomatoes” and high reviews from all over, there’s no doubt that the climactic movie certainly prevailed. “The Russo brothers’ poignant, powerful finale more than lives up to the hype: It’s a thrilling conclusion … Continue reading Avengers: Endgame Review
