By Jennifer Osborn

Congratulations to the Class of 2015

Helix proudly celebrated its 63rd commencement on June 5. Almost 500 Highlanders received their diplomas in front of a packed house at Benton Hart Stadium. The valedictorians were Kayla Cartaciano, Adrian Lam, Spencer McCall, and Naomi Orosz.

Helix’s mission is to provide all students with the educational foundation needed to attend an institute of further learning, if they so choose. This same educational program provides an outstanding foundation for those wishing to head straight into the workforce or join the military. Students are taking advantage of the opportunities Helix offers in droves. In a survey, 94 percent of the graduates stated plans to attend college in the fall; 50 percent will go to four-year universities, and 44 percent plan to attend community college.

Science Building dedication

At the most recent Helix Charter Board meeting, it was announced that the Science Building will be dedicated with a bronze plaque honoring two of the original science teachers at Helix. The plaque will read, “Dedicated to William L. Ramsey and Frank M. Watenpaugh, Jr. The Founding Fathers of Helix High School Science Department.” At the meeting, Watenpaugh’s son, Tim, read a biography about Ramsey and Watenpaugh and their dedication to Helix. A $20,000 donation will be made to the Science Department in their names.

Alumni picnic in August

Helix alumni are invited to attend the first All Class Picnic on Sunday, August 16 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This will be a great opportunity for alumni to reconnect with old friends, and celebrate their alma mater. Families are welcome. The picnic will feature:

• Food available for purchase from noon to 3 p.m. (or bring your own)
• Music and entertainment by the Highlander Band, and bands of alumni members
• Activities for kids
• “Excellence in Education” tour to highlight the campus as well as Helix academic programs and achievements
• Bagpipe tribute for fallen Highlanders 3:45 p.m.
• Student store open from noon to 2 p.m.
• Bring a chair, ice chest, shade, and a picnic basket. Learn how you can volunteer, support, and give back to Helix! As a reminder, no alcohol, glass, or pets are allowed on campus. Thank you for your cooperation.

Please RSVP to help with food estimates – [email protected]

Design and construction scholarships awarded

Students from Helix’s Architecture, Construction and Engineering Club (ACE) were recognized recently at ACE Mentor Program of America’s annual banquet. ACE is a national program that pairs mentors with schools to help students explore careers in design and construction. Eight Helix students were awarded with more than $50,000 in college scholarship money at the banquet, including the top award of $25,000 to attend the New School of Architecture. Helix alumnus Emilio Ingrasci was also granted a $20,000 scholarship to continue his education at the New School (he is currently studying in Milan, Italy).

Track team goes far

Four members of the Helix track team qualified for the CIF State Championships after winning the 4×100 relay. The relay team members are juniors Nate Stinson, Michael Austin, Mekhi Stevenson and Mason Vinyard. Freshman Cierra Steward also qualified in the long jump, but was not able to compete due to an injury.

Chromebooks coming to campus

Helix will pilot a new technology program for the 2015-2016 school year. At the 9th grade level, eight teachers and 258 students will work with Chromebooks in order to integrate technology into their schoolwork and learning workflow. The program is modeled after a program designed by Project Red, a national organization that conducted a study of educational technology that focuses on student achievement and its financial implications on schools.

Office closed in July

Helix administrative offices will be closed for the month of July. Staff will return at various times through the last week of July and the first week of August. The new school year will commence on Wednesday, August 5. Have a great summer!

—Jennifer Osborn writes on behalf of Helix Charter High School. Write to her at [email protected], call the school office at 619-644-1940 or visit helixcharter.net for more information.