Thanks to the kind people at the Parks and People Foundation, we have begun a sidewalk beautification project around the school. The foundation gave TCS a grant to buy a variety of planters to go around the school building. Through the hard work and leadership of Horticulture Seminar teacher Molly McCullagh and the active assistance of Trustee David Bayer, the students started planting a variety of plants started in the school’s greenhouse as well as hostas donated for this project. Keep posted for the full view of the project when it is done.
Today the students had the honor to hear from Dr. Rodney Taylor, Director of General Otorhinolaryngology at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. Dr. Taylor shared stories about his life journey and about the many lessons learned along the way. He spoke about how to overcome doubt and the need to recognize and search out mentors in our lives. Dr. Taylor also talked about his medical specialty and research in the field particularly in genetic research to combat cancer. Board of Trustee Secretary Fleesie Hubbard, who is a colleague of Dr. Taylor, introduced and accompanied him to the school. We hope that this will be the first of many opportunities to learn from Dr. Taylor.
Today was the last in a series of Financial Literacy seminars that have taken place throughout the year. These seminars have been led by Mr. Ben Lyons, Managing Director of Lynk Capital who is in his second year teaching at The Community School. Mr. Ben has taught separate classes to Year 1 and Year 2 students focusing on issues related to money management and has included such topics as banking, investment, and credit. We have been fortunate to have Mr. Ben at the school and wish him well in the publishing of his new book.
Major Richard Gibson, commander of Baltimore City Police – Northern District, has become a regular fixture at The Community School. He visits the school regularly and this past week shared a brief U.S. history lesson for Year 1 students. Major Gibson serves as a sponsor for a student at the school, providing encouragement and material aid to support his education.
As part of a series of seminars on the major world religions, Sarah Krasnik presented a special seminar on Judaism. Sarah covered the history of the religion and the Jewish people as well as the scriptures and traditions basic to Judaism. She also explained the differences between the different sects within the religion. Sarah is a graduating senior from johns Hopkins University who has been working at the school for the last 3 years.
As part of their year long health course, Year 2 students had a special seminar on contraception today. Lindsay Roemer, Peer Education Coordinator and trainer for Planned Parenthood presented on all of the available methods of sexually transmitted disease and pregnancy prevention. Lindsay was assisted by CJ, a peer educator who is a senior at Friends School. Their presentation was informative and interesting and prompted students Kelsey Larrimore and Janiah Tillery to apply to become peer educators next year.