It is early February, and a homework-free vacation is but six school days away. February brings us a slice of Americana, known as the Super Bowl. The game features a familiar face at quarterback playing on an unfamiliar team. Feelings across New England regarding Tom Brady's departure from the Patriots are met with mixed emotions. Some fans view his departure as a betrayal, while others feel the Patriots let him go.
Whether you are indifferent to the game and its outcome, or if you find yourself firmly entrenched in one of the New England fan camps outlined above, it is hard not to marvel at his success, passion, commitment, work ethic, and determination.
Two decades ago Tom Brady was the 199th pick in the NFL draft. That is worth mentioning because the vast majority of players selected that late in the draft do not last three years, let alone have 20 years of dominance. He is playing in his 10th Super Bowl, which is more than all other franchises save the Patriots, and if he wins the game, he will have more Super Bowl rings than any other team, not person, team in the NFL. His humility is laudable and the hallmark of his remarkable career is a great lesson for students. Hard work, dedication, and commitment are the main ingredients of success.
He will square off against the Kansas City Chiefs, a team that features Patrick Mahomes who is much younger and arguably the most talented QB in the NFL at the moment. It is worth noting that Patrick Mahomes was in kindergarten when Tom Brady played in his first Super Bowl. I look forward to watching the game with my two girls. I will enjoy watching Patrick Mahomes, but I am definitely rooting for Tom Brady.
More importantly, February features the annual observance of Black History Month. Celebrating Black History month requires we reflect as a country and recognize the lasting impact of slavery, systemic racism, and oppression.
Black History Month is more than reckoning with the worst elements of our nation's past. It is a time to celebrate the achievements and significant contributions of black scientists, educators, politicians, musicians, writers, entrepreneurs, athletes, and all the other areas that have influenced our country and humanity. The reality is too many of these contributions were not celebrated, recognized, or even acknowledged for years or decades.
I am proud of members of our student body who continue to work hard at creating a school where everyone feels part of our community. Members of the Activism Club, Intersections Club, and Black Student Union are working on a project to celebrate Black History Month through a multi-media visual display to "showcase black artists and notable figures." I look forward to sharing pictures soon.
Another student-led project is assembling nearly 60 flags representing the demographics of the student body. The project aims to ensure that everyone feels represented and respected in our school community. Although the project is not done, I want to thank everyone who contributed to this project we are all proud of.
https://concordps.zoom.us/j/
NAMI Affiliate's Upcoming College Panel Webinar
Girls Who Code Summer Immersion Program
Here at Girls Who Code, we care deeply about serving students who are underrepresented in the technology field and equipping them with technical skills and an enriching experience in STEM. We are especially committed to serving marginalized communities that lack access to technology and coding programs.
What is SIP?
SIP is an experience of a lifetime hosted by our corporate partners like AT&T, Goldman Sachs, Disney, and more.
- SIP is a 2-week virtual program with staggered rounds throughout the summer.
- Participation is 100% free. We also provide need-based tech access support and need-based stipends of up to $300 for those who qualify.
- Applications are now open! Our early acceptance deadline is coming up soon in mid-February.
Eligibility:
Students must:
- Identify as female, non-binary, or gender non-conforming
- Be a rising sophomore, junior or senior (current 9th-11th grader)
- Be able to commit to the entire 2-week program
- Students can participate whether they are complete beginners or already have some computer science experience
How can you receive additional resources for your students?
Sign up here for an informational call with me, Nakisa Glover, to learn more about the program and ask any questions you may have.
If none of the options work for you, please let me know and I’d be happy to coordinate a different time that does.
How can you get started?
Share this blurb with your students:
Apply to Girls Who Code’s Virtual Summer Immersion Program (SIP) for an unforgettable summer experience! During this FREE 2-week virtual program, you'll learn the computer science skills you need to make an impact, get an inside look into the tech field, and join a supportive lifelong sisterhood — all while being virtually hosted by influential companies, like Twitter, AT&T, Bank of America, Walmart, and more.
Current 9th -11th grade girls and non-binary students are eligible to apply. SIP is 100% free and need-based stipends of up to $300 are available for those who qualify. Low tech? No tech? No problem! Girls Who Code is there to support you!
Applications open in mid-January! Fill out the application today at girlswhocode.com/sipapply or learn more in a webinar.
Nakisa Glover
Summer Immersion Program Recruiter
No comments:
Post a Comment