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New Designs A bi-monthly
publication of
The
www.newdesignscharter.net
Issue No. 4
TIMES - June 2012 -
New Design Charter
Schools
FROM THE CEO
Dear New Designs Community,
WINDSONG TRUST AWARDS
I hope you and yours are well.
As we prepare to graduate our fourth graduating class
of seniors, I want to take this moment to assure you
NEW DESIGNS $200,000
that New Designs remains committed to its mission to Windsong Trust has awarded a $200,000 grant
develop a multi-cultural college-preparatory learning to New Designs Charter Schools to support
environment that enables students to become literate, the development of middle school science labs
self-motivated and life-long learners. Our CAHSEE and intervention programs at New Design-
(California High School Exit Exam) pass rate contin- Watts and New Designs -University Park.
ues to increase each year. This year, at New Designs- The funds offered New Designs the opportu-
University Park, 89% percent of our sophomores nity to continue to strengthen the Medical
passed the math section (up from 85% last year), and Science Academy, which benefitted last year
85% passed the English section (up from 83% last from a grant for $50,000 from Karisma
year). New Designs-Watts also saw a 10% increased Foundation to upgrade the high school science
in CAHSEE pass rates in both subjects, from last laboratories at each campus.
year's 70% to 80% this year. All of our seniors gradu-
ate having completed the A-G course requirements to “Because of the state and federal budget cuts
attend college. I personally request that all seniors to education, New Designs has been actively
apply to at least two four-year colleges or universities, seeking private funding to support our school
so that they can exercise the option of going to college operations,” said Dr. Yaw Adutwum, CEO and
that the New Designs’ education provides. In addition, Founder of New Designs Charter Schools.
Mr. Sean Martin, one of our teachers at New Designs- “We are grateful to members of our Board of
University Park has been appointed Alumni Relations
Directors for their support in these efforts,
Coordinator, offering personal support and advice to
particularly our Board Treasurer Mr. Sheldon
our graduates throughout their college years.
Zaslansky, who connected us with Windsong
Trust.”
What this means is that at a time when some are
reporting that only 15% of high school graduates in
Windsong Trust was established in 2009 by
Los Angeles are eligible to apply to college, New
the late philanthropist Martin Crowley.
Designs Charter Schools can proudly say that 100% of
our graduates are college-ready. The rigorous instruc- Windsong Trust is a private organization that
tion our students receive from the time they join us in believes in making a difference and helping
sixth grade, through the honors and advanced place- students in grades K-12. The Trust supports
ment courses they take in high school makes the educational programs for children under the
attainment of the goal of going to college foreseeable. age of 18 around the world.
Our Career Academy classes and experiences allow
students to visualize their own future careers and the Half of the newly generated funds were used
roles they will play in the global, diverse, information- by New Designs to redesign middle school
based, and technologically advanced society of their science laboratories at each campus.
future. Construction for the laboratory at New
Parents of graduates of New Designs Charter Schools Designs-University Park was completed dur-
do not have to worry about whether or not their child ing winter break. Middle School students
will be able to apply to attend college. Our graduating returned to school in January to find a newly
class of 2012 can attest to that fact. renovated laboratory, complete with state of
the art equipment. me to tap into the full potential of all of my Ms. Anel Nevarez is New Designs’ new RtI
On behalf of the faculty and staff of New Designs students.” Coordinator, a position created as part of the
Charter Schools, I wish to extend to our seniors and “I am very excited about the potential that a grant from Windsong Trust. A fully certified
their parents our congratulations and best wishes for new science lab brings,” said Mr. Robert The second half of the Windsong Trust gift is teacher and counselor with more than ten
their continuing achievement and success. Assibey, who teaches sixth and seventh grade designated toward the hiring of a counselor to years of experience, Ms. Nevarez will provide
science at New Designs- University Park. “I provide behavioral and academic intervention services for students at both campuses.
Sincerely, think that it will greatly enhance the learning services for students at New Designs-
Yaw O. Adutwum, Ph.D. environment of all of my students and allow University Park and New Designs- Watts.
Founder and CEO
JUAN LUQUIN EARNS SCHOLARSHIP TO
TAUNTON SCHOOL IN ENGLAND
New Designs Board members (l-r) Sheldon Zaslansky and Kojoe Essien, and Board president Andrea
Cockrum congratulate Juan Luquin and his brother Jose, on their achievement on the CST. Also pic-
tured are Dr. Yaw Adutwum, CEO and Founder and Dr. Stephen Gyesaw, Principal of New Designs
Charter School - University Park.
New Designs Charter School- spend his eleventh and twelfth Schools’ Board meeting. “I was open to sophomores from At the end of his ninth grade year’s Student Body President,
University Park sophomore Juan grade high school years attend- appreciate New Designs for this eight schools serviced by the year, Juan was named student of and by creating a soccer tourna-
Luquin has received a two-year ing this boarding school which is opportunity.” Fulfillment Fund. One student the year in four subject areas. ment for local soccer teams,
scholarship to the prestigious located in Somerset, in south from Gertz-Wessler charter His “A” average has earned him including New Designs’.
Taunton School in England. west England. The scholarship was sponsored school and two students from a place on the Principal’s Honor
Selected from a pool of highly “ I want to thank you all for sup- by three private funders includ- New Designs, Juan and class- Roll for two consecutive years. “I want to make all of you
qualified students from the porting me,” Juan Luquin said at ing British former Ambassador mate Lance McNeil were final- Juan has demonstrated excep- proud,” said Juan. He already
Fulfillment Fund, Juan will a recent New Designs Charter Robert Pierce. The competition ists. tional leadership ability as this has.
2 New Designs TIMES www.newdesignscharter.com
ABOUT US New Designs Community
New Designs Charters Schools offer students a
Partnerships
blended academic and technical educational experience. * LA Dodgers - Mr. Sata announce the organization of friends and neighbors. The highly qualified tutors who
We are dedicated to providing a career-based, college- and Coach Stamper recently a YOUTH LEADERSHIP donations will contribute to offer students an opportunity
preparatory program for students in South Los Angeles. met with community CONFERENCE. This leading years of intensive research, to practice and prepare
Our goal is to prepare our students for advanced careers in representatives of the Los and learning opportunity will healthcare, advances in for the SAT tests required
the fields of Medicine, Engineering, and Information Angeles Dodgers. After chat- occur in June in collabora- medications, and programs to submit applications to
Technology. ting for about 30 minutes tion with the Heart of Los that enable families to stay college.
To that end, all students are provided a strong foundation in from a skybox overlooking Angeles (HOLA) organiza- together through treatment.
mathematics, science, technology and the arts. Dodger Stadium, the repre- tion. All those who would * Sound Art - The highly
This year we are serving students in grades 6th to 12th at our sentatives agreed to contin- like to enhance their leader- * Annual Manzanar innovative and successful
University Park school, and students in grades 6th through ue to be a supporter of New ship skills, are encouraged Pilgrimage - On Saturday, music teaching group
11th at our Watts school. Designs. It is anticipated to sign up immediately. April 28, 2012, Mr. Sata Sound Art will offer a six-
As a 6th through 12th grade school, we are creating a that the Dodgers will provide Participation is limited to the hosted a trip to Manzanar, week music course to stu-
seamless pathway from middle to high school. free tickets to games, field first 20 New Designs stu- the first of ten Japanese- dent at New Designs-Watts
seats for a raffle and batting dents who apply. American Internment camps beginning in May. Sound Art
New Designs Charter Schools has acquired a state of the art practice visit for the girls located in Inyo County, CA. comes to New Designs after
multi-million dollar building in the University Park softball team. Thank you, * LA Urban Debate Manzanar tells the story of "changing young lives
neighborhood, close to USC. This facility now houses the Dodgers! League - New Designs is over 120,000 Japanese through music" in the
former Slauson and Santa Rosalia campuses. pleased to announce the for- Americans who were taken greater Los Angeles area for
New Designs Charter Schools now has two locations which * USC Music Department mation of a student DEBATE from their homes and con- the past 10 years. Founded
are: - New Designs continues to TEAM.This unique opportu- fined in internment camps by Los Angeles native and
New Designs Charter School-University Park have musicians from the nity will begin practice this during World War II. graduate of Berklee College
2303 South Figueroa Way prestigious USC Thornton summer with competitions From 1941-1944, Manzanar of Music, Catherine
Los Angeles, CA 90007 School of Music appear at starting next September, held 11,070 people, two Goldwyn, Sound Art is a
(213) 765-9084 the University Park Campus 2012. Take advantage of the thirds of which were nonprofit musical education
New Designs Charter Schools-Watts on a semester basis. This chance to hone your speak- American citizens. Mr. Sata program designed to reach
12714 South Avalon Blvd. spring, we are anticipating ing and thinking skills. Join and students on New the often underserved, inner-
Los Angeles, CA 90061 another appearance by a today! Designs' Annual Pilgrimage city youth who are at risk.
(323) 418-0600 quintet coached by were featured in an article in Twenty students will receive
Professor Henri Gronnier. * Cancer Penny Drive - the local Japanese newspa- instrumental training and
Publisher: New Designs Charter Schools We thank the Thornton Middle School students at per. learn to write lyrics and
Editor:Victoria Brown
School at USC and look for- New Designs-University songs.
Editorial & Design Advisor: Edward Frimpong
ward to the beautiful sounds Park campus initiated New * SAT Prep Classes - The
Publishing Consultant-Isaac Amo-Kyereme
of music on campus again Designs' first ever Cancer Fulfillment Fund continues to by Mr. Warren Sata
this spring. Penny Drive during their offer SAT PREP classes to
DISCLAIMER
Spring Break. Carrying little New Designs' Fulfillment
Comments and articles published and products advertised in
* Youth Leadership green boxes, the students Fund students, every
the New Designs Times are obtained from sources we
believe are reliable. We accept no liability for their
Conference - New Designs joined the fight again cancer Saturday from 9am - 1pm.
completedness or accuracy Charter School is pleased to by collecting pennies from The classes are taught by
ITT Technical Institute Introduces Career and
Educational Options
On February 13, 2012, eleventh grade she also highlighted the top 10 careers the campus, enjoyed presentations by while concurrently in high school,” said
students in New Designs- University in Technology, with the number one campus faculty, had hands-on class lec- Technology Academy Coordinator, Mr.
Park’s Information Technology Academy technology career being teaching. tures, and also emerged victorious in a Dibinga. “The students gained so much
were visited by ITT Technical Institute’s As a follow-up to Ms. Jacobson’s visit, 2D game competition which pitted New information during those two days.”
Community Relations Specialist Ms. Technology Academy students in ninth, Designs technology students against
Tamara Jacobson. During her visit, Ms. tenth and eleventh grades visited ITT ITT Technical Institute faculty. by Mr. Said Dibinga
Jacobson spoke with the students about Technical Institutes Culver City on “My hope is that in the future, we can
their career and educational goals. March 24, 2012. During the visit, the stu- arrange for New Designs’ Technology
Along with taking numerous questions, dents were given an extensive tour of Academy students to take classes at ITT
www.newdesignscharter.com New Designs TIMES 3
TEDx INVITES NEW DESIGNS CEO TO SPEAK
was a significant Costa High School in Johnson. “It was also a
increase in our gradua- introducing Dr. Adutwum great way to interact with
tion rates. However, with a presentation of the other teachers, students,
preparing the data classic song “Stand by and faculty from different
showed the true great- Me.” The students’ prac- school districts.”
ness of our students’ ticed and rehearsed Dr Adutwum’s presenta-
achievements. We are together in the weeks tion can be viewed
graduating students who preceding the event, online at
are receiving an educa- under the supervision of http://youtu.be/g1r_hnTw
tion broad enough to New Designs’ middle PB8. The New Designs
succeed in college and school English teacher, Choir can be viewed
beyond.” Ms. Sonja Johnson. online at
Students from New “It was an amazing http://youtu.be/QFFS1gv
Designs- University Park opportunity and the stu- bzpk.
joined students from dents got the opportunity
Manhattan Beach’s Mira to learn a lot,” said Ms. by Ms. Andrea Smith.
On October 22, 2011, leading this community- maybe even revolution-
TEDx Manhattan Beach wide, all-day discussion. ize, the educational
presented a one-day “Today’s speakers and experience. “
conference called breakout leaders repre- Dr. Adutwum ‘s presenta-
“Transforming Learning.” sent an extraordinary tion was titled,
The event’s planners, cross-section of educa- Accountabilty and
John Marston, Curator of tion thought leaders who Expectations: How They
the TEDxManhattan have been deservedly Change Students’
Beach and Marla recognized by their Performance. “The
Zaslansky, Co-President peers, industry, and their TedX Conference gave
of Manhattan Beach community,” wrote the me the opportunity to
Education Foundation event organizers. “At reflect on what we have
invited New Designs’ TEDx ManhattanBeach, accomplished in a unique
CEO and Founder, Dr. our goal is to start the way,” said Dr. Adutwum.
Yaw Adutwum to join the conversation about ways “In preparing for the con-
23 other presenters in to enhance, evolve, or ference, I knew that there
New Designs Students “Play, Learn, Build and Share” at
TEDx Youth Conference
tries around the globe during the same weekend. Students from around the world made presentations and
Jasmine Obienu, a New Designs’ High School Senior, gave performances that reflected their own personal expe-
shared the spotlight with a student from Manhattan riences. As Mr. Dibinga said, “A challenged mind is an
Beach’s Mira High School, and co-hosted the event. Earth-changing mind.” The minds of all of the participants
in TEDx Youth Conference were changed forever.
“Tedx is a life changing experience, “ said Jasmine, who
also organized the New Designs choral group that per- by Ms. Andrea Smith.
formed at the October Manhattan Beach TEDx
Conference. “It’s an eye opener for what we do in our
daily lives. It shows us what we can do with the things that
we live around every day.”
Forty students from New Designs University Park and
Watts campuses attended the conference with teachers
and administrators from both sites. Sophomore Gabby
Obienu assisted at the conference from behind the
scenes.
On November 20 ,2012 (Universal Children’s Day) Tedx “The TEDx youth conference was very inspiring,” said Mr.
Manhattan Beach hosted a Youth Conference for students Dibinga, Law and Technology High School teacher at the
from South Bay high schools and New Designs Charter University Park campus. “It provided our students with
School–University Park campus. The theme of TEDx exposure to an experience and perspectives outside of
Youth Day 2011 was “Play, Learn, Build and Share.” More their own. “
than 60 Tedx Youth Conferences took place in 24 coun-
4 New Designs TIMES www.newdesignscharter.com
Sixth Graders at New New Designs Parents Host African American
Designs- Watts, Take History Month Celebration at New Designs –
Home Computers University Park
seeks to improve chil- New Designs-
dren’s learning environ- University Park cele-
ment at home and brated African
strengthen the school- American History
home connection by Month with an assem-
providing families with bly planned and
computers and training hosted by parents
workshops for parents and grandparents of
to use the educational New Designs stu-
software on the com- dents. Mrs. Brenda
Families of sixth grade puters. Administrators Green, grandmother
students celebrated from New Designs- of a current student
Christmas in February Watts applied to CFY’s and a recent graduate
when Computers for Take it Home program of New Designs, initi-
Youth distributed desk- last year and were ated the plans for the
top computers and awarded the grant last celebration, securing
accessories to sixth April. CFY has been the involvement of
grade students and working with New students, faculty and
their parents. Designs-Watts’ admin- administrators along
“Our families were very istrators and parents the way. Students 1600s to the present. Seniors Mark A. McVay from Meno
excited to receive this since August 2011, created posters commemorating wore placards displaying por- Worship and Outreach Center
gift,” said Ms. Rojas, offering workshops and the contributions of African traits of selected African Church offered words of encour-
principal at New technical support to Americans which were hung Americans, while their class- agement to the middle school
Designs Charter prepare for distribution around the school. mates read bios of each person students.
School-Watts. day. “It’s important that the students to the group. Eighth grade stu- Mr. Farrell Chiles, Vice President
Since 1999, Computers “We look forward to a know their history,” said Mrs. dents from Ms. Sonja Johnson’s of the Board of Directors of the
for Youth has been dis- long partnership with Green. “African American history middle school English class read Tuskegee Airmen Scholarship
tributing computers to Computers for Youth,” is part of everyone’s history.” Martin Luther King’s “I Have A Foundation noted the contribu-
sixth graders who said Ms. Rojas. The Mr. J.J. Howard, who is a father Dream” speech. tions of African American women
attend schools in low- grant can be renewed to four students at New Designs The middle school assembly in his presentation at the high
income areas in New for up to three years. emceed the middle and senior culminated with remarks from school assembly. He shared his
York City, Philadelphia, “And we look forward high school assemblies. Both Ms. Jacqueline Wagner, Esq., presentation with New Designs-
Atlanta, San Francisco, to seeing the impact of assemblies opened with the the Assistant General Counsel Watts high school students dur-
and most recently, Los computers at home on Negro National Anthem and a for Los Angeles Unified School ing a Women’s History Month
Angeles. CFY’s Take our students’ overall video showing faces of key District, who was visiting as assembly in March.
IT home program achievement.” African Americans from the Principal for the Day. Reverend
New Designs Welcomes and Appreciates Parents
5
NEW DESIGNS LAW ACADEMY
New Designs-Watts’ Law Academy
STUDENTS VISIT LOS ANGELES COURT
OF APPEALS
Goes to Washington, D.C.
Rahman and 13 of her tenth
grade Law students
embarked on their
Washington, D.C. venture,
through a program organ-
ized by the Smithsonian
Institute. “We visited every
Smithsonian Museum as
well as the Holocaust
Museum,” Ms. Rahman
recalled. “ In addition, we
visited many federal build-
ings including the White
House, Capitol Building, the
Congress Building, and the
Supreme Court. Some of
During the 2010-2011 aca- “Although problems arose our most powerful experi-
demic year, the students of among my students, we ences were seeing for the
the New Designs Charter solved them as a family first time, for many of my
School-Watts’ Law and using strategies like a com- students, the presidential
Diplomacy Academy munity circle to share our monuments and memorials.
embarked on a journey to concerns. Through this We were able to see history
set precedence for the experience, my students come alive as we visited
school. Law teacher Ms. learned teamwork, responsi- Mount Vernon and Ford
Nazia Rahman and her stu- bility, and were able to build Theatre’s National Historic
New Designs’ Law and Diplomacy took the time to answer all of the stu- dents decided to begin a sense of community within site where Lincoln was
Academy students had the opportunity dents’questions.” fundraising for a field trip to the class.” assassinated. This experi-
to witness an appellate hearing when Washington, D.C, as a way In addition to fundraising, ence is one that will live
to put the New Designs- students “earned “ their with me and my students
attorney John Marcin (eighth from the Justice Johnson challenged students to
Watts Law and Diplomacy ticket to Washington, DC. forever. “
left) arranged for them to visit the Los read two books during a six- week peri- Currently, Ms. Rahman and
Angeles Court of Appeals on March 17, od. He asked that students then write Academy on the map. by demonstrating good
Lessons learned in this pur- character as well as aca- her students are raising
2012. During the visit, students also and send him book reports for his funds to visit significant
suit proved as fruitful as the demic achievement. “In
met with Associate Justice Jeffrey W. review. Justice Johnson promised legal institutions in New
trip itself. order to qualify for the trip,
Johnson in his chambers. movie passes for those students who “We tirelessly ran a student students had to demon- York City this summer. For
complete the assignments. store out of my classroom strate what it means to be a more information about how
“The words of wisdom and wealth of as well as hosted school good student,” said Ms. to support this venture,
information that Justice Johnson shared “It was a great visit,” added Mr. Dibinga. events like “Movie Night” Rahman. please contact Ms. Rahman
with the law students was moving to say and “A Watts Thanksgiving” After raising almost, at nazia.rahman@newde-
the least,” said Mr. Dibinga, Law and by Mr. Said Dibinga. event,” said Ms. Rahman. $20,000, in June 2011, Ms. signscharter.net.
Diplomacy Academy coordinator. “He
LAUSD Assistant General Law Academy Students Meet
Counsel and UCLA Law Superior Court Judge Teresa
Students visit New Designs Law Sanchez-Gordon
and Diplomacy Academy
On February 24, 2012, Ms. Jacqueline School of Law were conducting with
Wagner, Los Angeles Unified School eleventh grade Law Academy students.
District’s Assistant General Counsel, UCLA School of Law's graduating stu-
addressed the eleventh grade Law and dent, Jaliesa Bolds was presenting to
Diplomacy Academy students at New New Designs’ students that day. The
Designs- University Park campus. Ms. weekly Street Law class emphasized
Wagner, who was serving as New both criminal and civil law. Students role-
Designs’ Principal for the Day, addressed played in mock appellate hearings and
the students about the importance of participated in the composition of legal
education. briefs.
Ms. Wagner’s visit coincided with a week-
ly law clinic that students of UCLA's by Mr. Said Dibinga.
New Designs- “When Judge Sanchez of Loyola University
University Park Law Gordon shared with Law School. Law and
Academy students vis- the students that she Diplomacy students
ited the Los Angeles was the first Mexican- were also given a tour
Superior Court on April American to sit on the of the LA Sheriff’s
30, 2012. Students had bench in East-Los Court Holding Cells in
a chance to observe a Angeles, she received the basement of the
civil trial presided over a lengthy applause,” building.
by the Honorable said Mr. Dibinga, Law
Teresa Sanchez- and Diplomacy Judge Sanchez-
Gordon. During a Academy coordinator. Gordon’s parting words
recess between morn- “She received further to students were,
ing and afternoon applause when she ‘Work a little bit hard-
cases, Judge shared that she was er,’” noted Mr. Dibinga.
Sanchez-Gordon met invited by President “It was a very inspira-
with New Designs’ stu- Obama to celebrate tional visit.”
dents in her chambers, Cinco de Mayo in
where she offered Washington D.C.”
advice on life, educa- by Said Dibinga
tion, and community. This trip was arranged
by Ms. Lindsey Santos
6 New Designs TIMES www.newdesignscharter.com
New Designs Students Show Appreciation To The Board Of Directors
(l-r) Mr. Halilu Haruna, Financial Consultant, Dr. Stephen Gyesaw, New Designs-UP Principal, and Board Members: Mr. Lloyd McKinney, Vice President, Ms. Andrea Cockrum, President,
Mr. Sheldon Zaslansky, Treasurer, Dr. Yaw O. Adutwum, CEO and Founder, Ms. Whitney Walters, Secretary, Mr. Kojoe Essien, member
Renowned Photographer Alan J. Berliner Teaches Photography Class
“Hollywood’s photographer,” Alan J. Berliner lighting, contrast, and shadow are used to College Counselor who sponsored the are sample photographs created by stu-
shared some of the magic behind his signa- create the perfect photo. class. dents in Mr. Berliner’s class
ture photographs during a Photography X- “Mr. Berliner also discussed different types New Designs is grateful to Board President
Block class at New Designs Charters of photography careers, like medical, land- Ms. Andrea Cockrum for introducing Mr. Photo credits: Ahlyjanay
School-University Park. Using their cell scape, and commercial photography,” aid Berliner to New Designs Schools and facili- Mayer, Kamille Garbutt
phones, Mr. Berliner taught students how Ms. Duran, New Designs-University Park tating this opportunity for students. Above
New Designs –Watts Partners With A Thousand Joys
The New Designs constructive, rather mative program, tell our stories. It’s a gram include improved which the parents get
Charter School has than destructive, way.” selected cohorts at our lot better when we’re in academic perform- to be a part of what
had the privilege of “The activities that the New Designs-Watts a small group .” ance, decreased disci- their students are
partnering with the A Thousand Joys campus are learning “Since kids learn in plinary issues, learning.
organization “A counselors introduced deep breathing tech- their own way, we improved self-manage- A Thousand Joys has
Thousand Joys” for the to the students help niques, practicing incorporate visual, ment, and to foster offered two parent
last six months at our them control their yoga, and are being auditory and kinesthet- positive social relation- workshops and four
Watts campus. A actions and emotions given the opportunity ic learning techniques ships amongst stu- teacher workshops at
Thousand Joys is non- so that they can inter- to express themselves developed specifically dents. New Designs-Watts,”
profit organization that act with their peers on in new ways. An 8th for them,” stated a rep- Another great aspect said Ms. Rojas. “All of
works towards empow- a positive level,” said grade New Designs- resentative from the A of the program is that it their programs have
ering students by build- New Designs-Watts Watts participant in the Thousand Joys pro- seeks to engage par- been very helpful.”
ing resiliency “so that Principal, Ms. Rojas. programs says “We gram. The goal and ents by hosting Parent
they can cope with learn a lot of cool stuff anticipated outcomes Training Workshops. by Ms. Teby Wammack
stress and trauma in a Through this transfor- like yoga and we get to of this ten-month pro- These are sessions in
www.newdesignscharter.com New Designs TIMES 7
New Designs-University Park Students Visit
Los AngelesWorld Affairs Council
The Los Angeles World when it kicked off its 2012 Future of the Eurozone: Consul General of Italy in Germany in Los Angeles; New Designs, seventh
Affairs Council invited season with a lecture and Can the Continent Avoid Los Angeles; New New Designs’ seventh grader, Priscilla Okaiteye;
New Designs Charter dinner on January 18th at Economic Catastrophe?” Designs’ sophomore, grader, Gideon Boakye; The Honorable Elisabeth
School student to an the InterContinental Hotel Pictured from left to right Mercy Boakye; The The Honorable David Fotiadou, Consul General
evening with “A Quartet in Beverly Hills. The topic are: The Honorable Honorable Wolfgang Martinon, Consul General of Greece in Los Angeles.
of European Diplomats” of discussion was “The Giuseppe Perrone, Drautz, Consul General of of France in Los Angeles;
New Designs Board Celebrates CST
Star Club Members 2011
New Designs Board of Directors celebrated students who had achieved two or more advanced scores on their CST in a ceremony following the September 2011 Board meeting.
8 New Designs TIMES www.newdesignscharter.com
New Designs-WATTS Holds Honor Roll Ceremony
MIDDLE SCHOOL Munive, Priscilla
HIGH SCHOOL Principal’s Honor Roll Nava, Marlene
Alvarez, Jose Ochoa, Geraldine
Principal’s Honor Roll Coffee, Amari Ochoa, Kevin
Cabrera, Karen Conde, Irma Pastrana, Jazmin
Cabrera, Obed Draughan, Mark Pineda, Ashley
Honor Roll Galaviz, Daisy Plascencia, David
Benitez, Guadalupe Gatewood, Brianea Preciado, America
Blackmon, Shakala Govea, Alisson Quintero, Brenda
Broom, Karly Jimenez, Lynda Ramirez, Evelyn
Buenrostro, Luis Meza, Sandra Ramirez, Leonardo
Clavillo, Alejandra Owens, Dajon Reyes, Lourdes
Claros, Joey Perez, Lesly Rios, Joanna
Davidson, Jaahmir Silva, Rachel Rocha, Cesar
Favela, Mayra Honor Roll Rodriguez, Sebastian
Guerra, Pedro Alarcon, Moserath Romero, Jennifer
Gutierrez, Diana Ambriz, Lunce Smith, Demetrius
Lopez, Leonardo Bellinger, Jacaron Smith, Jordan
Lopez, Samantha Calvillo, Juan Sparks, Ronnica
Magana, Marcos Cardona, Paola Staton, Shyrah
Mason, Zarria Cisneros, Cesar Thomas, Ashley
Orea, Jennifer Davis, Tiara Walker, Mya
Peters, Steven Desergant, Annabell Watkins, Christiana
Serrano, Berclin Favela, Joaquin Williams Wilbur
Foster, Jaysen Winkfield, Emoni
On the Road to Honors Fuentes, Leslie On the Road to Honors
Garcia, Rafael Alvarez, Pedro
Burton, Charles Gutierrez, Vivian Camacho, Uriel
Cortez, Andres Howard, Mia Fernandez, Jonathan
Franklin, Lauren Howland, Andreah Gonzalez, Bryan
Moreno, Ricardo Johnson, Constance Johnson, Kyla
Oliva, Estefany Lopez, Ivette Martinez, Jorge
Perez, Bianca Martinez, Santiago McCoy, Tykeese
Woodward, Kashmmonae Means, Ajanae Muhammad, Ishmael
Miller, Amunique Perez, Jacqueline
Montalvo, Saira Sanchez, Wilbur
Montano, Nohelia Thomas, Marquez
Muhammad, Khalilah Trujillo, Jesus
www.newdesignscharter.com New Designs TIMES 9
New Designs Honor Roll Ceremonies Celebrate
Student Achievement
Rowe, Vanessa Cifuentes, Jenry Robles, Andy
Salazar, Andy Cobian, Abraham Rodríguez, Victor
Smith, Demari Cobian, Erick Salazar, Natalia
Smith, Yannik Colon, Dorvonna Sánchez, Iris
Webb, Breneshia Cristerna- Gallardo, Edith Sánchez, Giselle
Cruz, Jose Shipp, Tyrin
UNIVERSITY PARK- Cruz, Luisa Smith, Kennedy
MIDDLE SCHOOL Dyer, Bryan Sosa-Garduno,
Flores, Ismael Marjanelly
Principal’s Honor Roll Flores, Andrea Téllez, Vanessa
Argueta, Leylani Flores, Edmon Toscano, Gabriel
Chan, Ashley Flores, Griselda Vanegas, Brenda
Chan, Natalie Fuh, James Varela, Stephanie
Dumas, Xitlali Garcia, Leslie Vivar, Josselyn
Hernandez, Neftali Gayden-Videau, Zúñiga, Diana
Hernandez, Ruth TaShay
Herrera, Leslie Gonzalez, Marcos On the Road to Honors
Julian, Ashley Kubeyinje, Gonzalez, Andrea Calloway, Jaeda
Melissa Guevara, Jason Campos, Jose
Luna, Jennifer Hernandez, Justin Castellanos,
Luquin, Juan Hidalgo, Vania Bertha
Marcos, Sharon Hilton, Jessica Castro Varela,
On Tuesday, February 21st, the learning community. Setting Gallardo, David Matta Velazquez, Yuliana Hird, Kalilah Vanessa
New Designs Charter School- a high bar for excellence, Gentry, Jaylin Okaiteye, Priscilla Jackson, Nigel De Leon-Giron,
University Park held its annual Constance Johnson, Nathaniel Gil, Llurivianna Reyes, Jasmine Leon, Elizabeth Yazmin
Honor Roll Ceremony at USC’s Martinez, Joey Claros, Brandon González, Lily Romero, Fernanda Lim, Maleena Garcia, Kevin
Galen Center Founders Room. Ochoa, Alejandra Narvaez, González, Mark López, Matthew Gomez, Xitlally
Approximately 600 parents, Claudia Angel, Stephanie De Granados, Vanessa Honor Roll López, Katherine Gonzalez Villeda,
family members, and students Leon, Kash'Monae Woodard, Guerrero, Beatriz Adkins, Keara López, Eric Tatiana
celebrated the academic suc- Dajanai Watkins, and Brezae Gutiérrez, Bianca Aguirre, Robert Luna, Enzo Hernandez, Paul
cesses of the community's high- Weeks sang, danced, and Isaac, Donnie Alvarado, Kate Madero, Joselyne Lozano, Kimberly
est performing middle and high played the saxophone, lifting Isidoro, America Araujo, Samantha Mancia, Haycie Maximo, Karina
school students. the spirits of all in attendance. Jackson, Kymberly Augustine, Kayla Martínez, Mayra Milner, Akira
Principal Rojas stressed the Jenkins, Upenda Avalos-Alvarado, Matthews, Cierra Murrell, Darrell
The middle school ceremony value of community and hope in Juárez, Elizabeth Andie Medina, Yvonne Nieto, Camila
was hosted by Mr. Robert her address. Students, parents Juárez, Lisa Bonilla, Emely Miller, Michael Ortiz, Evelyn
Assibey (Science Teacher) and and guests remained riveted to Kibodeaux, Breshe Braganza, Tatyana Miller, Mary Phistry, Cora
featured guest speaker their seats until Dr. Yaw Lara, Stefany Brown-Ridge, Makaia Miranda, Sonia Poz, Julissa
Carolina Castillo, Executive Adutwum’s final message of Lee Sagado, Tanya Callejas, Andrea Muhammad, Salihah Requeno, Kalvin
Director of USC’s Civic and encouragement for students’ López, Glodavina Castillo, Axel Núñez, Gabriella Salguero, Oscar
Government Relations. Bringing continual growth and achieve- López, José Castillo, Manuel Palafox, Luis Smith Coutee,
a personal and powerful mes- ment. Martin, Earlecia Cendejas, Victoria Paz, Kenneth Quincy
sage of hope and inspiration, Martínez, José Chacon, Wendy Quiquivix,
Ms. Castillo reinforced the The list of students recognized Martínez, Pablo Chay, Eddy Kimberly
importance of education as a at both honor roll ceremonies is Mayers, Ahlyjanay
transformative agent for those below. McNeil, Lance
in the inner city. McMillan, Erian
UNIVERSITY PARK Miralda, Byron
The high school ceremony was HIGH SCHOOL Morgan, Lutricia
hosted by Mr. Sean Martin Morón, Maria
(History Teacher) and featured Principal’s Honor Roll Navarro, Maria
Dr. Yaw Adutwum as keynote Bravo, Crystal Obienu, Jasmine
speaker. Dr. Yaw delivered a Campbell, Ivannya Pablow, Ismael
stirring message reminding us Crow, Maiya Payne, Kadijah
to have audacious dreams and Garbutt, Kimberly Pedraza, Andres
high expectations for ourselves Guevara, Daisy Penn, Malonie
as a learning community. Hamilton, Sherena Penn, Jamaiya
Jiménez, Katherine Ramírez, Eduardo
Mrs. Kim Smith (Assistant Luquin, Juan Reyes, Josué
Principal) organized and coordi- Munnings, Brenna Reyes, Misael
nated the celebratory event Romero Arlette Rodríguez, John
which lasted for two hours and Sosa, Lily Romero, Francisco
was co-sponsored by USC. Téllez, Nicole
Honor Roll Trochez, Eric
On Thursday, February 23rd, Acosta, Maricruz Villacinda, Mario
New Designs Charter Schools- Aguilar, Natalie
Watts held its annual Honor Allen, Anastasia On the Road to Honors
Roll Ceremony at the New Argueta, Kaiis Bautista, Desiree
Mount Calvary Baptist Church. Argueta, Cesar Bautista, Mario
The rousing standing room only Arroyo, Brenda Cabrera, Elida
event was attended by approxi- Bell, Alechia Cabrera, Miguel
mately 300 New Designs-Watts Blunt, Michelle Díaz, Ángel
learning community members. Branche, Mercedes Domínguez, Iliana
Principal Rojas and Assistant Cabrera, Mariana López, Jessica
Principal Gloria designated Castillo, Mirella López, Kevin
Obed Cabrera and Steven Ciru, Nestor López, Nimsi
Peters as co-hosts who served Cisneros, Wendy Mendez, Emma
to guide those in attendance Clemente, Yeimi Monroe, William
through a seamless program. Díaz, Jessica Murrell, Idris
Domínguez, LeAnn Navarro, Marilu
Both middle and high school Eubanks, Alexanderia Obienu, Gabrielle
high performing students were Flowers, Ivana Porras, Ericka
celebrated and recognized by Galindo, Alex Rendón, Christopher
10 New Designs TIMES www.newdesignscharter.com
New Designs-University Park Honor Roll
Ceremony In Pictures
www.newdesignscharter.com New Designs TIMES 11
NEW PRINCIPAL FOR NEW NEW DESIGNS WELCOMES NEW
DESIGNS CHARTER TEACHERS, ADMINISTRATORS AND STAFF
SCHOOL On the University Park Campus
Mr. Justin Adams (Spanish
Teacher) attended Chapman
University in Orange County
where he earned a B.A. in
Political Science and Spanish
and minored in Sociology. He
mastered Spanish during three
semesters abroad to San
Jose, Costa Rica, Granada,
Spain, and Guadalajara,
Mexico. In his spare time Mr.
Adams enoys collecting used
books, organic gardening and
landscaping, and playing the
guitar and ukulele. He is cur-
rently pursuing a Master’s
degree in Education from
Claremont University.
Mr. Robert Assibey (Middle
School Science Teacher)
earned his Bachelor’s degree in
New Designs Charter ment gaps. Sociology from the University of
School-University Park is Dr. Gyesaw holds various Virginia, where he took pre-
pleased to introduce Dr. degrees. His academic stud- med courses. He has been a
Stephen Gyesaw as our new ies have included planning part of New Designs for many
principal. Dr. Gyesaw comes with an emphasis on mathe- years, first as a tutor, and most
to New Designs Charter matical models, public policy recently as a middle school sci-
ence teacher at New Designs-
School with extensive experi- with an emphasis on policy
Watts. He appreciates the
ence and knowledge in edu- analysis and evaluation, and
opportunity to share his knowl-
cation. He has worked with education with emphasis on edge with students at New
students, teachers, school curriculum and instruction. Designs- University Park cam-
administrators and various He holds a Doctoral degree pus.
communities in his roles as in organizational leadership Mr. Chris Byrne (High School
teacher, student data ana- and education. Dr. Gyesaw Science Teacher) grew up in
lyst, teacher-mentor, school- has done and continues to Dublin, Ireland. Mr Byrne
based management member, do research in the areas of earned his Bachelor’s degree in
and school site council mem- teaching and student learn- Biology from Montclair State
ber. Dr. Gyesaw was also ing. University in New Jersey and
the chair of the mathematics His immense experience in his Master’s in Education from
National University of Los
department at Manual Arts education in the U.S. and
Angeles. He taught at John
High School. Further, he was abroad, his wealth of knowl- Muir Middle School for 11 years
a curriculum and instruction edge, and his history of aca- music and good people in her school’s counseling program in Dominguez Hills and she is
before joining the faculty at leisure time. time to offer college admittance now in the process of getting
consultant to New Designs demic scholarship will be New Designs. He likes to read services to the school’s first her Master’s Degree in Public
Charter School. He has also great assets to New Design and play soccer in his free time. Ms. Maria Macias (Office senior graduating class. In May Administration. Due to her love
provided statistical analysis Charter School in its efforts Manager) was born and raised of 2010 she will complete the of travel, she has been to
for school principals to assist to provide quality education Mr. Glen Campbell (for most of her life) in South Educational Administration pro- Ghana, Nigeria, England,
them in analyzing the root to inner-city children Mr. Glen Campbell (Technology Los Angeles. She has an gram at California State Germany, and Amsterdam.
causes of students' achieve- Coordinator) grew up in New Associate’s degree in Liberal University at Dominguez Hills. Because of matrilineal roots to
York City. He received Studies, and is currently work- She is very excited to be a new Ghana, West Africa, Ms.
his education at UEI College ing towards a degree in ultra- member of the New Designs’ Andrea is bilingual and is fluent
New Staff on the and studied Information
Technology. Before coming to
New Designs, Mr. Campbell
sound technology. She
worked as an Office Manager
for two years at another charter
family, where she can continue
to work and inspire students to
excel academically.
in the traditional Ashanti lan-
guage, also known as Twi. She
is very excited to be working in
worked at Phoenix
Watts Campus Pictures/Sony, as executive
coordinator in production. He
enjoys reading, writing, family
school. Her desire to help inner
city children get a higher edu-
cation led her to join New
Designs.
Mr. Antonio Perez (Middle
School Technology Teacher)
grew up in East Los Angeles
the new Literacy Development
Center, in order to expose stu-
dents to the culture of books
and education.
Ms. D. Bourgeois ( Resource Continuing. Ms. Simbo enjoys outings and playing piano in his and he attended Cathedral
Specialist) earned a Bachelor singing, which she has been leisure time. Mr. David Marcillo (Middle High School in downtown Los Ms. Crystal White (Resource
of Arts in Social Science from doing since she was a child, School English Teacher) earned Angeles. After service in the Specialist) was born and raised
Chapman University and holds and is currently in the choir his undergraduate degree in military, Mr. Perez attended in Inglewood, CA. She
two credentials in Special and Praise & Worship at her English from the University of California State University at received her Bachelor’s degree
Education. Both her maternal church. She also enjoys Ms. Bridgett Lawrence Miami and a Master's Degree in Los Angeles while working sev- in Social Science from The
and paternal grandmothers are spending time with her hus- (Drama Teacher) is originally Creative Writing from Antioch eral jobs. He finished his bach- University of Southern
educators and hold Lifetime band Mr. Haji Kamara. from New York where she stud- University. He moved to Los elor’s degree at the University California. She also has a
teaching credentials. (One of ied Dramatic Writing and Film Angeles in the summer hoping of Phoenix, majoring in Master’s Degree in Forensic
her grandmothers taught and Television at New York for better opportunities and Business. Mr. Perez also Psychology from Argosy
Lamar Odom of the Los Ms. Teby Wammack (School University. She earned her feels lucky to have found New attended classes to earn certifi- University and is currently work-
Angeles Lakers as a pre- Counselor and Spanish Master’s degree in Education Designs and even luckier to be cation as an I.T. technician. He ing on her Master’s in
schooler.) Her parents have Teacher) has an affinity for from Brooklyn College taught welcomed as a new member of enjoys working with computers. Education at Claremont
worked for and as administra- middle and high school stu- middle school drama in the New Designs family. Mr. Graduate University. Before
tors in local school districts dents, which led her to New Brooklyn for two years before Marcillo worked for several Mr. Percy Porter (Dean) coming to New Designs she
until their recent retirement. Designs. Ms. Wammack stud- moving to Los Angeles, Prior to years as a proofreader. This is worked in corporate legal worked as a 5th grade teacher
She has two awesome, intelli- ied abroad in Mexico and joining New Designs , she his fifth year as a teacher. departments for about 16 years and an education consultant.
taught English, History, and in various capacities from file Ms. White enjoys hiking, pho-
gent children. Her son is com- Spain during her undergradu-
Creative Arts to sixth grade stu- Anel Nevarez (Response to clerk to technical assistant to tography, and cooking.
pleting his Junior year of col- ate college years. She knew
dents at View Park Charter Intervention (RtI) Coordinator) paralegal to manager. He
lege, and her daughter is com- that she wanted to incorporate
School. began her education career at decided it was time for a Mr. Keith Stamper (Athletic
pleting Pre-Kindergarten. Ms. her love for Spanish language
Bourgeois has fond memories and culture into her work. Cerritos Community College, change, time to do something Director) attended high school
Ms. Marisol Lazaro (High and then transferred to the worthwhile and fulfilling, and at George School in
of working for New Designs With a passion for helping stu-
School Math Teacher) grew up University of Southern became a teacher. Mr. Porter Pennsylvania. He earned a
Charter School as a substitute dents succeed academically, in Fontana, CA. She received
teacher, when the school was personally and socially, she California (USC) where she has worked in education since B.S. in Psychology from The
her Bachelor’s degree in earned her Bachelor’s degree 2008, with progressive respon- College of Wooster before mov-
located in Baldwin Hills, noting seeks to provide holistic sup- Phiosophy and Art from Pitzer
that the students were always port to students in her role as in Education along with her sibilities each year: classroom ing to Los Angeles. Highlights
College and her Master’s teaching credential. While teacher at Mid-Valley Learning from his coaching career includ-
well behaved. Ms. Bourgeois Counselor. She feels privi- degree in Education from attending college, she was a Center; technology teacher, ing winning two league champi-
is currently completing her leges to work with the Watts Claremont Graduate Univeristy. teacher’s assistant and tutor at Summer School Administrator, onships in basketball, four
Master of Science degree in community. Before coming to New Designs, Russell Elementary School for and Dean of Students at Animo- league championships in soft-
Special Education. she taught for San Bernardino four years, which is where her Locke #3 College Preparatory ball, and one CIF championship
Mr. Deshon Weaver (Dean) is City Unified School District. passion for education began. high School. His immediate in softball. Mr. Stamper is cur-
Mrs. Janet Kamara, nee a native of Compton, Ms. Lazaro enjoys movies, hik- She taught grades K, 2 and 5 family includes his wife Nicole rently completing a M.A. in
Simbo, Office Manager. Ms. California. Mr. Weaver gradu- ing and painting in her spare at Magnolia Elementary School, and three sons, Percy III, Education from National
Simbo grew up in Germantown ated from Dominguez High time. where she worked for five Jacori, and Deric. Additionally, University. He is happy to be
Maryland, but was born in School in 1998. In 1999, Mr. years. Immediately after gradu- Mr. Porter serves as the pastor the new Athletic Director at
Sierra Leone, where she lived Weaver earned his Associate Ms. Sheil Crystal Macaraeg ation, she began working on of The House of Prayer, Church New Designs.
the first 10 years of her life, of Art degree of Compton (High School History and Law her Master’s in Counseling of the Living God in Los
before relocating to the United Community College and, in Teacher) grew up in San Psychology at USC, where she Angeles, CA. Ms. Ronnie Cann-Duah
States. She received her 2003, he received his Fernando Valley. She recieved received a PPS credential in (Special Education Assistant)
Bachelor’s degree in Social Bachelor’s degree from her Bachelor’s degree in Asian School Counseling and School Ms. Andrea Smith (Library grew up in Chicago. She is a
Work, Cum Laude, from Bowie Southern Illinois University. American Studies from UCLA Psychology. Upon completing Coordinator)was born and recent graduate of Norfolk State
State University. Ms. Simbo Since 2005, Mr. Weaver has and her Master’s degree in her M.S. degree, she began raised in Los Angeles, University in Norfalk, Virginia.
Joins New Designs after a dedicated his life to educating Education from UCLA. Before working at The Accelerated California. She was the first Ms. Cann-Duah
year of working with the Prince youth and being an advocate coming to New Designs, she School, where she worked for person in her family to earn a enjoys traveling and just
Georges Department of Social of the charter school move- student taught at Compton five and a half years as a Bachelor’s Degree in returned from a trip to Jamaica.
Services, in Maryland, with ment. Unified School District. Ms. School Counselor, and helped Psychology with a minor in
Adult Protective Services Macareg enjoys laughing, good start and implement the Sociology from Cal State
12 New Designs TIMES www.newdesignscharter.com
Young Lawyer Program Culminates in Mock Trials at Loyola Law
School
For the second year in a were immersed in learn- the trials as lawyers and
row, New Designs- ing about the legal sys- witnesses, with no guid-
University Park tem, law of evidence, ance from the program’s
Academy of Law and techniques used in tri- instructors. In the four
Diplomacy students par- als, and careers in the culminating trials held
ticipated in the Young legal system. The pro- this year, two of the ver-
Lawyers Program's gram culminated in April dicts were “hung jury”,
Judge Stephen E. with a mock trial that and two were “not
O'Neil's Trial Advocacy was presided over by guilty”.
Program, hosted by judges from the Los
Loyola Law School. Angeles County by Mr. Said Dibinga
There, for two hours Superior Court system.
each week, students Students participated in
Ambassador Pierce Visits New
Designs Charter Schools
Student Art On May 18, 2012, Former British Ambassador Robert Pierce shared highlights from his career as a
diplomat with eleventh grade students in the Law Academy at New Designs- University Park.
(l-r) New Designs' Board President Ms. Andrea Cockrum, Mr. Kenny Rogers, CEO of the Fulfillment
Fund, Ambassador Robert Pierce, Mrs.Sharon Pierce, Ms. Maria Espinosa, Vice President of
Programs at the Fulfillment Fund, Dr. Yaw Adutwum, CEO and Founder of New Designs Charter
Schools.
I Will Become a
Success
by Upenda Jenkins have passed.
How bad do you want to
“I will become a Success!” succeed or start on your “I wish, I wish, I wish,” that
That is a phrase I will con- quest? what I say.
fess. Should I be comfortable I know I can’t get anywhere
Whenever I’m put to the where I am, relax and rest? unless I pray.
test, A rapper or a lawyer, that’s
I will always try to do my No! I will work extremely what I want to be,
best. hard! I won’t settle for less! But that’s just the real me.
That’s how I know I will As of today, I will become a
become a success. success! My Mom and Dad have high
expectations.
Life is full of ups and Becoming someone is my
downs. destination.
Hard work and a positive
attitude can turn situations
The Real Following my dreams is
what I can do,
around. And many people are doing
It’s easy to give up and say,
“Oh, well….”
But with that perspective,
Me it, too.
That’s the real me.
you’re destined to fail. I know I can do it if I set my
by Upenda Jenkins mind to it.
Any great work was started If not me, then who will do
one step at a time. Many people say, “I have a it?
Why should this be differ- dream…” and think And yes, I have a creative
ent, just because it’s mine? Life is just “peaches and side,
Every day I will practice to cream.” And I know I can reach it if I
go the right way. They live their life in their try.
It’s about what you do, not past, That’s the real me.
what you say. Not knowing many hours
www.newdesignscharter.com New Designs TIMES 13
MTA Sponsors Bike To School Day At New Designs
Safe Moves, as part of
LADOT's School Bicycle
Safety and Transit
Education Program and in
celebration of Metro's Bike
Week LA, held a Bike to
School Day event at New
Designs Charter Schools -
University Park. The event
included a meet and greet for
students arriving to school on
bicycles accompanied by for-
mer Olympian cyclist Tony
Cruz . The day began with
an assembly with guest
speakers from Metro, Safe
Moves, and New Designs'
Principal, Dr. Gyesaw,
Assistant Principal, alternative modes of trans- safety courses were held for
Ms. Smith and Dean, Mr. portation. They were also middle school students during
Porter. Students were instruct- encouraged to ride their bikes their physical education class-
ed on traffic safety and for health and environmental es.
benefits. Six sessions of bike
New Designs-University Park Opens Its Library GATE STUDENTS
PARTICIPATE IN
COLLEGE MATH
WORKSHOP
GATE/Early College Learning to compare and
Program Coordinator Mr. contrast these functions
Azuka Ojini has collabo- allows students to devel-
rated with professors op an understanding of
from both Los Angeles concepts such as
Trade Technological domain, range, symme-
College and Los Angeles try, continuity, end
Community College to behavior,
offer college level cours- asymptotes, extreme,
es to New Designs’ mid- and even periodicity.
dle and high school stu- “This course is providing
dents identified as Gifted a perfect opportunity for
and Talented. This year- students to become
long course meets at the active learners and to
New Designs-University discover mathematics on
Park campus twice a their own,” said Mr. Ojini.
cuss the feature profit organizations and commercial week after school. “Students work
book and to com- retailers. This will ensure that students “To the extent of on problems individually
plete activities have a wide array of books to choose addressing the vision or as group projects,
associated with from, thus promoting a reading environ- and mission of the which allows for collabo-
the text in order ment filled with diversification. In the
school, the emphasis of rative learning.”
Hello there! My name is Ms. Andrea to gage current words of Oprah Winfrey, “when you
reading levels and current reading know better, you do better”; “doing bet- the program is on mathe- New Designs’ GATE
Smith and I am the new Literacy
comprehension. I feel that by estab- ter” for the New Designs library would matical concepts, and (Gifted and Talented
Development Coordinator for the library
located on the third floor in the White lishing a reading club for students, we include an increase in the reading lev- the skill of reflecting in Education) program serv-
House at New Designs Charter School are providing a safe haven for students els and reading comprehension of our writing to demonstrate ices high-achieving
– University Park campus. to interact with their peers. This is a students. mastery of the concepts,” students who have
One of the goals that I am working very way for students to positively articulate You can help New Designs Library said Mr. Ojini. “The prob- demonstrated high per-
hard to see come to fruition is the their thoughts and ideas, thus increas- achieve this goal by donating or spon- lems tackled enable stu- formance measured by
increase in student reading levels and ing their knowledge of new vocabulary, soring the purchase of books for our dents to explore realistic CST, grades and the
reading comprehension. This is an inte- and overall, their self-esteem as it per- students. Please contact me at (213)
situations using graphi- Raven intelligence test.
gral component in not only children’s tains to reading and writing, and to 765-9084, ext 270 if you are interested
reading comprehension. in supporting this effort. cal, numerical, and alge- Most of the GATE stu-
education, but also in their futures. One
This also brings me to another goal for With a little persistence and a lot of braic methods.” dents at New Designs
of the ways in which I would like to ful-
fill this goal is by establishing middle the New Designs Library. In order to hard work, New Designs –University The goal of the course is participate in the Early
and high school reading clubs that will have a book club, we need books! My Park Library will accomplish all of these to expose the students to College Program.
meet in the library. Both clubs will goal is to have a good number of books goals and a whole lot more. Thank you the twelve basic func-
meet once a week after school to dis- donated to our school through non- so much for supporting this endeavor! tions.
14 New Designs TIMES Alumni News www.newdesignscharter.com
A Day in the Life of Grinnell College Student:
Lisa Eshun-Wilson (Class of 2010)
ing Hall. Grinnell need. It also allots for many of my peers consid- President, the Director of
College is one of the great opportunities to build er my workload quite Donor Relations, the head
smallest private, liberal life-long relationships with daunting. However, of the Chamber of
arts schools there is, your professors, making it attending a school where Commerce of Grinnell,
which means your easy for them to write you’re comfortable asking and the list goes on.
classes are literally two glowing and sincere letters for help and seeking out Twenty-five Grinnell stu-
minutes away from your of recommendations for resources really makes all dents are taking medical
dorm room – one of my you. the difference. and dental supplies and
favorite intricacies of Biochemistry, Physics, medications to over 900
Grinnell. Making it 10:00 am. I hurry to get and Math are known as residents of a rural
promptly to the Eggs to ready for my visit to the three of the hardest, most Honduran village and its
Order station of the d- hospital. I shadow an OB- time-consuming majors at resident orphanage this
hall, I find one of my GYN (Obstetrician and Grinnell, and Grinnell is May.
closest friends in the Gynecologists) at the notorious for being one of Many of my friends per-
Design-Your-Own Women’s Clinic of the the top and most rigorous form at so many of
Belgium Waffle station. Grinnell Regional Medical colleges in the country. Grinnell’s concerts and
“Lily!” I yell happily. Center. Through the guid- Fortunately, each student events. Others are art
Another great part of ance and support of the as a freshman is assigned majors and hold galleries
Grinnell is that all 1,500 Career Development a faculty advisor who for all Grinnellians and
students share one Office of Grinnell, I was helps students shape their members of the local com-
large dining common, so able to get matched with a academic aspirations and munity. Others are eco-
you always meet up doctor who works directly guides students on which nomic majors and lead
with a friend. “Bye, in the field of medicine courses to take and what microfinance groups on
Lily!” I haphazardly say, that I wish to pursue. I’ve time to help them reach campus that also allow
as I sprint to Physics, watched her perform a their final goals. them to make a communal
chewing an apple. multitude of surgeries and and global impact.
learned so much about Outside of Physics,
For the next two hours, I successful patient com- Genetics, and Organic College is where you can
work in lab to test the prehension and under- Chemistry, I am involved grow as a person, learn
mechanics of motion, standing. “Good-bye, Dr. with the Grinnell Global things about yourself, your
gravity, and force, while Thompson,” I reply as I Medical and Dental interests, your goals, and
my professor eagerly make my way back to the Brigade this semester. As so many other cultures
for the amazing, mouth- awaits my questions. college and have lunch one of the group’s lead- around the world. Finding
Monday – 7:15 am watering omelets that the Another great benefit of a before my Genetics class ers, I am responsible for the college that is the best
I quickly shut off my alarm dining hall prepares so tiny school is the tiny class in the afternoon. fundraising and spreading fit for you is very reward-
and run to the shower, well. Thankfully, Yonkers, size that allows for laud- awareness about the ing.
motivated only by the my dorm building is only a able class discussions and As a Biochemistry and brigade. That means
hope of making it on time minute away from the din- all the assistance you Policy Studies major, meetings with the College by Lisa Eshun-Wilson
A Chat with Jessica Ogola (Class of 2011) Update On
Jessica Ogola (Class of Berkeley determined to
2011) visited New Designs-
University Park during her
recent visit, to thank her
become a lawyer, she had
not decided on a major.
“During a philosophy class,
Our
former teachers and admin- I decided that I would major
istrators for preparing her
for what has been a great
start at University of
in Rhetoric, the study of
argumentation through the
classics and philosophical
Valedictorians
California-Berkeley. thinkers.”
“It’s been wonderful,” said When asked to share New Designs- University Last summer, she com-
Jessica. “The advanced words of wisdom with Park’s first Valedictorian pleted a campus intern-
placement and college underclassmen at New Vincent Agoe, a student ship at UCLA Medical
courses I took while I was Designs, Jessica offered, at UC Berkeley, is School, and is now a self
at New Designs allowed “Try your best to be well- seven classes from grad- proclaimed “lab junkie.”
me to approach classes rounded students. Do uating with a degree in Our third Valedictorian
with an open-mind. I’m everything you can in and Civil Planning from Jessica Ogola is attend-
able to grasp more and out of school to demon- University of California at ing UC Berkeley and lov-
stay on top of my game.” strate leadership. Seniors, Berkeley. Vincent will ing it. Melissa Donaldson
New Designs’ small learn- don’t be intimidated by participate in an intern- reported a very success-
ing community also gave what schools say about ship in Sussex, England ful first semester of col-
Jessica more self-assur- averages, Just apply to the this summer. lege life at Occidental
ance. “Because I had a school of your choice and New Designs-University College in Eagle
close community at New see what happens. In the
Park’s second Rock,Los Angeles. All
Designs, I feel more confi- end, they might like what
Valedictorian Lisa Eshun- of the students men-
dent making friends with you have to offer.
Wilson is attending tioned are attending
classmates and speaking “Overall, students should
Grinnell College where college on full scholar-
my mind at Berkeley,” said try their hardest and not
she has officially ships.
Jessica. “I am creating a give up.”
close-knit family of friends.”
declared her major in
Although Jessica entered Biochemistry. by Mr. Sean Martin
New Designs Seniors Are College Bound
Seniors at New Designs Charter Schools– University • Bennett College Los Angeles • Dillard University • Stony Brook University
Charter School- University Park and our fourth graduat- • Bryn Mawr University • California State University at • Fisk University • Texas Southern University
Park are proudly sharing their ing senior class ,” said Dr. • California State University at Monterey Bay • Franklin Pierce University • Truman State University
college acceptance letters Yaw Adutwum, New Designs’ Bakersfield • California State University at • Grand Canyon University • University of California at
with their peers and under- Founder and CEO. “Their • California State University at Northridge • Los Angeles Trade Tech San Diego
classmen. Members of the admittance to college is part Dominguez Hills • California State University at College • University of California at
class of 2012 have received of what has become a tradi- • California State University at Sacramento, • Lycoming College Santa Cruz
notices of admittance from tion for New Designs’ sen- East Bay • California State University at • Miles College • Tuskegee University
more than 30 public and pri- iors.” • California State University at San Jose • Morris College • Xavier University
vate colleges and universities Below is the list of colleges Fullerton • California State University at • Northern Arizona University
from around the country. and universities that have • California State University at Stanislaus • Oral Roberts University
“This was the second class of accepted New Designs’ sen- Humboldt • Clark Atlanta University • Paine College
sixth graders at New Designs iors in 2012. • California State University at • Colorado Mesa University • Rockhurst University
www.newdesignscharter.com New Designs TIMES 15
Noticias
•La Fundación Taunton en “Stand by Me.” El Sr. J.J. Howard, El Director Atléticode Srta. Rahman al
Windsong ha otorga- Inglaterra. •El 20 de noviembre quien es padre de New nazia.rahman@newd
do $200,000 a New Seleccionado entre de 2012 (Dia cuatro de nuestros DesignsUniversity esignscharter.net.
DesignsCharterScho un grupo de alumnos Universal del Nino) alumnos condujo las Par, el Sr. Stamper
ol para apoyar el altamente calificados TedxManhat Beach asambleas de es el entrenador de • Las escuelas
desarroyo de los en el programa fue el anfitrión de la secundaria y Softball. New
laboratorios de cien- Fulfillment Fund, Conferencia para la preparatoria. DesignsCharterScho
cia para la secun- Juan pasara el 11vo Juventud • Familias de ols han tenido el
dariaasi como el pro- y 12vo grado en este (YouthConference) los alumnos del privilegio por los últi-
grama de interven- internado el cual se para alumnos de •Esta temporada las sexto grado cele- mos seis meses en
ción en New Desigs- encuentra en South victorias del equipo braron la navidad en el plantel de Watts
Watts y New Somerset, en el BayhighSchools y de baloncesto mas- febrero cuando de asociarse con la
Designs-University sudoeste de New culino les gano un ComputersforYouthdi organización “A
Park. La Inglaterra. DesignsCharterScho lugar en los partidos stribuyo computado- ThousandJoys”. A
FundacionWidsong- ol-University Park. de fin de temporada ras y accesorios a ThousandJoys es
Los Angeles es El tema del Día de la en la CIF. En su alumnos y padres una organización no
patrocinada por •El 22 de octubre del Juventud de TEDx primer partido, los del sexto grado en lucrativa que trabaja
Windsong Trust, es 2001, TEDx 2011 fue “Juega, alumnos obtuvieron New Designs-Watts. ayudando a los
un fondo caritativo el Manhattan Beach Aprende, Construye su primera victoria “Esperamos tener alumnosa desarrollar
cual se estableció en presento una confer- y Comparte.” derrotando a Valley una larga sociedad resistencia/capaci-
el 2009 por el falleci- encia de un dia lla- Cuarenta alumnos AlternativeMagnet con dad “para que ellos
do filántropo Martin mada de New Designs- con el marcador final ComputerforYouth.” puedan sobrellevar
Crowley. La mitad (TransformingLearnin University Park y de 76-68. Los Dijo la Sra. Rojas. el estrés y trauma en
de los fondos recien- g.” El Dr. Yaw Watts asistieron la Cardenales Este fondo se puede una forma constructi-
temente generados Adutwum fue invita- conferencia con perdieron su renovar hasta por va, en vez de
fueron usados por do junto con otros 23 maestros y admin- Segundo partido tres años. “Y esper- destructiva. “A
New Designs para presentadores a for- istradores de ambos contra Laces High amos ver un impacto ThousandJoyha ofre-
renovar los laborato- mar parte de la dis- planteles. School, el cual se de computadoras en cido dos talleres
rios de ciencia en cusión a nivel comu- jugó en la cancha de casa y en el progre- para padres y cuatro
cada plantel. La otra nidad. La pre- •New Designs- los Laces. “Felicito so de nuestros alum- para talleres para los
mitad del donativo sentación del Dr. University Park cele- al equipo y entre- nos.” maestros del plantel
de la Adutwum titulada bro el mes de la nadores por esta Watts,” dijo la Sra.
FundacionWindsong Responsabilidad y Historia temporada tan exi- •Después de recau- Rojas. “Todos sus
se designó para con- Expectaciones: Afroamericana con tosa,” dijo el Rector dar casi $20,000 en programas han sido
tratar a un consejero Como pueden una asamblea orga- Porter. junio del 2011, la de mucha ayuda.”
para proveer servicio Cambiar el desem- nizada por los maestra de Leyes, la
de intervención y peño de los Alumnos padres y abuelos de •El equipo de Srta. Rahman y 13 •Los alumnos del
comportamiento a (Accountability&Expe los alumnos de New Softball de New de sus alumnos del doce grado de New
los alumnos de New ctations: Designs. La Sra. Designs comenzara décimo grado de DesignsCharterScho
Designs-University HowTheyChangeStu Brenda Green, su temporada el 19 New ol-University Park
Park y New Designs- dents’ Performance) abuela de uno de de marzo, marcando DesignsCharterScho orgullosamente com-
Watts., la Srta. Anel “la conferencia nuestros alumnos el comienzo de ol-Watts fueron a parten las cartas de
Nevarez es la nueva TEDX me brindó la actuales y reciente- deportes de primav- Washington DC por aceptación a la
Coordinadora de RtI, oportunidad para mente graduados ini- era en New Designs. medio del programa Universidad con sus
la posición creada refeccionar en lo que cio los preparativos El equipo femenil es organizado por el compañeros. Los
como parte del dona- hemos logrado de de la celebración, el primer equipo de Instituto miembros de la clase
tivo del Windsong una manera única,” asegurando la partic- softball en New Smithsonian. del 2012 han
Trust. dijo el Dr. Adutwum. ipación de alumnos, Designs. Han esta- Actualmente, la Srta. recibido la notifi-
Los alumnos de New maestros y admin- do recaudando fon- Rahman y sus alum- cación de aceptación
•New Designs- istradores. Los alum- dos ypracticando dili- nos están recaudan- de más de 30 univer-
DesignsCharterScho Universitypark junto nos crearon pancar- gentemente desde el do fondos para visi- sidades y colegios
ol-University Park- con alumnos de tas conmemorando principio del año tar este verano el públicos/as y priva-
Juan Luquin alumno Manhattan Beach’s las contribuciones de escolar para poder Nuevo York. Para dos/as de varios
del 10 grado ha Mira Costa High Afroamericanos las enfrentar los retos más información lugares del país.
recivido una beca School presentaron cuelas fueron col- que se les presenten acerca de cómo ayu- •
por dos años en la al Dr. Adutwum con gadas en varios durante su primer dar, por favor Translations by Ms.
prestigiosa escuela la canción clásica de lugares del plantel. año de competencia. comuníquese con la Maria Macias
NEW DESIGNS SCHOOLS IN PICTURES
16 New Designs TIMES www.newdesignscharter.com
Winning Seasons for New
Cardinals Teams Designs Soccer Teams
On December 8, 2011, in a primary school and all the Angeles District. His second
Announced game against Gertz
Ressler, New Designs
Cardinals Girls Soccer
way up into college.”
When asked what tactics he
used in order to seal the
goal is to play bigger and
more competitive schools.
Coach Mensah’s last goal is
Team won their first soccer school’s first victory, to ensure that students
2011-12 Lady Cardinals Soccer Team game (4-3) after three years Mensah describes his first don’t see loss in a negative
2011-12 Lady Cardinals Basketball Team
of back-to-back losses. objective, which was to light. “Even if they lose, they
Ninth grader, Jennifer build the morale of the should not blame them-
Jasmine Aguilar Alechia Bell Flores scored three goals in school’s team. “The best selves. They should be
Crystal Bravo Maiya Crow that winning game. Both part of the game was see- happy when they lose and
Maritza Castillo Adriana Danley teams went on to win two ing the kids being in one happy when they win.”
Stephanie Castro Chantel Johnson games this season. Much accord, which in turn helps These objectives, in addi-
Jessica Diaz Danae MCuien credit for the success of to build their team spirit. tion to Coach Mensah’s
Iliana Dominguez Jendayi Nelson both teams goes to their Seeing the kids equalize keen eye for the sport, his
Jennifer Flores Sireena Williams coaches, Mr. Carlos Lopez, goals during the first and overall enthusiasm for the
who is the parent of one the second half was, indeed, game, and his love for all
Katherine Flores Ieshia Lyday
members of the boys’ Team very exciting for me. I also things soccer have made
Beatriz Guerrero Shawntay Allen and New Designs’ Physical listen to the kids and I am him a great new addition to
Kenya Johnson Troi Thuesday Education teacher, Mr. able to compromise when the New Designs’ Athletic
Elizabeth Juarez Head Coach – Coach Andrews Emmanuel Mensah, who decisions on the field need Department. His only
Lisa Juarez Assistant Coach – Coach Stamper coached soccer for New to be made, which is impor- request is that his name be
Maria Moron Designs-University Park this tant to the overall health of placed in the Guinness
Maria Navarro 2011-12 Cardinals Basketball Team year for the first time. any team.” Book of World Records,
Giselle Perez Emmanuel Mensah grew up Although neither team made which is by no means a
Whyte Barney in Ghana, West Africa, a it to this year’s playoffs, small feat --but neither is
country located on the west- Coach Mensah plans to helping a team to reach
Spencer Maneafaiga
ern coast of the vast conti- extend his goals to next their goal of self-actualiza-
2011-12 Boys Cardinals Soccer Team Jacori Porter nent. Mensah states, year’s soccer teams. His tion. Bravo, Mr. Mensah.
Job Rene “Soccer is a part of my life. first goal is to be number
Henry Carias Devyn Rochelle I’ve always played soccer, one among all of the charter by Ms. Andrea Smith
Adonis Chichilla Bais Semebenel from the time that I was in schools in the South Los
Osly Esteban Amir Carr
William Fimbres
Osvaldo Flores
Jeffrey Guardado
Chad Gipson
Adolfo Hylton
Donnie Isaac
Faculty and Students
Jalil Howard
Juan Luquin
Pablo Martinez
Brendan Matthews
Erik McGee
Demari Smith
Basketball Game
March Madness was defi- and the swarthy veterans, Porter held the ball until
Francisco Moron Mario Vanegas nitely in the air when the Mr. Martin, Mr. Sadaat, Mr. nine seconds for a two man
Alejandro Najarro Cody Gipson faculty/alumni Mensa, and Mr. Sata. The game with Coach Assibey.
Eliseo Ramirez Shomari Walton squad squared off on the Faculty/Alumni squad built After receiving the pass
Julio Rojas Head Coach – Coach Assibey night of Monday, March an impressive 33-18 half- from Mr. Porter, Mr. Assibey
Roberto Soto Assistant Coach – Coach Adutwum 19th at the USC time lead. Sparking the was fouled. With 6.8 sec-
Jorge Uribe Galen Center. Coming off a comeback for the onds remaining, Mr. Porter
stinging defeat last year the Students’ team were Devyn received the inbound pass,
faculty/alumni squad was Rochelle and Demari took three dribbles, and
buoyed by the addition of Smith. The inspired back- launched a 32 foot shot
NEW DESIGNS FIRST Class of 2011 alumni court duo led a frantic that banked off the back-
William Singleton and paced transition that culmi- board and went in, giving
SOFTBALL TEAM PREPARES Elmer Vanegas. Other new
additions to the squad
nated in their first lead of
the game at 62-61 with
the Faculty/Alumni squad
the 69-66 victory, and
included Coach Robert 3:30 seconds left to play. earning his new nickname,
FOR A WINNING SEASON Assibey and Dean of
Students Percy Porter.
With the steady hand of Mr.
Porter and the athletic
to be forever etched in New
Designs lore: Percy “No
Rounding out the roster attack of Mr. Assibey , the Mercy” Porter!
were Lance Pruit (Class of faculty held the ball.Game
2009), Chuma Okonkwo tied at 66-66 with under by Mr. Sean Martin
(Class of 2009), Brandon one minute to play. With
Bryson (Class of 2009), overtime looming, Mr.
BOYS BASKETBALL
TEAM GOES TO CIF
PLAYOFFS
This season’s basketball
teams showed steady
improvement over previ-
ous seasons. The
girls’ teams won more
games this year than last
New Designs working diligently and hopefully lay Ingrid Chinchilla year. The boys’ victories
High School on the field since a foundation that Jennifer Diaz landedth em a spot in the
Varsity Softball the beginning of will allow us to Katherine CIF playoffs. In their first
Team began the school year to build this program Gonzales playoff game, the boys
league play on be able to meet for future years.” Lily Gonzales scored a victory over
March 19th, mark- the challenges of Members of the Leslie Gonzalez Valley Alternative Magnet and the coaches, Mr. Park. “To the seniors,
ing the beginning their first year of team include the Hasana Johnson game with an ending Robert Assibey and Mr. well wishes in your future
of spring sports at competition. following students: Breshe Kibodeaux score of 76-68. Saddat Adutwum endeavors. And to the
New Designs. According to TyShai Martin The Cardinals lost their on a very successful sea- returning players, I look
The all-girls team Coach and Natalie Aguilar Hazel Melendez second game against son,” said Dean of forward to an
is New Designs’ Athletic Director Jennifer Alvarado Elyssa Rodriguez Laces High School, Students, Mr. Porter, the even better season next
first softball team. Keith Stamper, Michelle Blunt which was played at administrative year. “
They have been “We will play a 12 Stephanie Laces’ home court. supervisor of Athletics at
fundraising and game schedule Cendejas “I congratulate the team New Designs- University
