By: Ali Q. Senior Staff Writer

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JUNE 11, 2015 Vol. 2 Issue 2

On May 28, people from all sorts of backgrounds came to the school to celebrate the many different cultures among our Del Sur families, community members, and staff at Del Sur Elementary. It started at 6:00pm and ended at 8:30pm. More than twenty countries participated: India, England, Burma, Korea, Poland, Germany, France, Brazil, Armenia, Sweden, Norway, Italy, Denmark, Mexico, Ireland, Taiwan, Netherlands, China, Philippines, and the United States. When the students and families came to Heritage Night, they received a Heritage Night Passport. Students and families visited the various “country booths” in the MPR where they learned about different countries and the country’s traditions. If students

answered a trivia question from each booth, they received a stamp on their passport. When a student filled their passport with all the country stamps, they took the passport to the check-out table to receive a prize! There were also “literature and language stations” where families read different stories from around the world and learned a few different languages. Among them was an “art station” where students made arts and crafts from different countries. Plus, Brazilian, Mexican, Korean BBQ, and American food was available for purchase. In addition, we were entertained with performances and music from different countries including India, Mexico, and the Philippines. Heritage Night was so much fun and a great learning experience for the entire family!

First Annual Heritage

Night Comes to DSES

Survey by: Erin D., Sam K., Trinity K., and Alex Z.

CONGRATULATIONS

AND BEST OF LUCK

TO OUR 5TH GRADERS

School Library Turns into Science Lab

Mrs. O, our school li-brarian, decided to do simple science experi-ments in the library about laws of motion. She did science experiments based on Sir Isaac New-ton. Mrs. O says that she liked how the students were engaged, how they tried to think about mo-tions like scientists, and how they were able to come to the same conclu-sions. One of the experiments she did included a ping-pong ball, bowling ball, medicine ball, and a ten-nis ball to try to hit the object and tip it over so it would fall. She let some of the students in the class have a chance to roll the ball. The point of that ex-periment was to see that the object with less mass can’t make it fall and the object with more mass

and force can make it fall. Another science experi-ment was about how an object in motion tends to stay in motion, and that you can’t change its physi-cal shape without force. Mrs. O recommends stu-dents who are interested in learning more about Sir Isaac Newton should read more about his life and the forces around us. She also says to browse the internet for more information about the “Newton’s laws of mo-tion.” Mrs. O says that she would love to do other STEAM related things next year with the Del Sur stu-dents. When asked how she thought the program went, Mrs. O says that she thinks the science experi-ments were fine but only because she got help from others and changed things to improve and fit well in the class.

By: Jennifer L. Staff Writer

Crohn’s and Colitis Walk

News

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Meet DSES Teacher of the Year - Mrs. Balanon

Mrs. Balanon, a fourth grade teacher in Room 210 was selected as Teacher of the Year for 2014-2015. Her class rep-resents the Oregon Ducks. “I had no idea I was going to become teacher of the year for DSES. I was very sur-prised,” Mrs. Balanon states. “I think Mrs. Balanon deserved being teacher of the year for 2014 because Mrs. Balanon is always there when you need her and not only just thinks about herself, her class, or her family, but also thinks about the commu-nity,” Caroline says from Mrs. Balanon’s class. “She is a wonderful teach-er.” Mrs. Balanon affirmed

By: Michelle R. Staff Writer

made learning for the new agents fun, interesting, and interactive. He later told her how important ed-ucation was to him and that education was the key to a successful future. “Later, I worked very hard to complete my edu-cation. I worked all day for a bank, took night classes, and earned academic scholarships to finish my degree in Education so that I could be a teacher. If it weren’t for my father, I would not have become a teacher. He inspired me to teach,” Mrs. Balanon cheerfully shares this. Mrs. Balanon recalled how she felt when she re-ceived the news. “I was so happy that I began to cry. I felt so very honored be-cause all of the teachers at Del Sur are so fantastic and I was overwhelmed with happiness to be cho-

sen as Teacher of the Year. As I began to think about this special honor, I thought about all of my past students and how I had the great opportunity to be part of their lives. It was such a mix of emo-tions, but they were all very good feelings and when I went home my fam-ily was very proud of me.”

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what she likes about being a teacher. “I love being with young people and seeing them grow in their knowledge. I love teach-ing them new things about the world and I enjoy help-ing them become good citizens of the world,” With that Mrs. Balanon has taught 2nd—6th grade at 6 different schools in Arizona and California. She has also taught a Gift-ed Program Class (grades 3rd to 5th grade). Mrs. Balanon tells us that her father worked as a police officer for many years. He went to college and when he graduated, he became a special agent for the U.S. Government. He later became a trainer for new agents and once Mrs. Balanon saw him teach. He was a natural! Mrs. Balanon loved watch-ing him teach others. He

By: Alex Z. Senior Staff Writer

Steps San Diego. This year 600 people walked in the 2015 Take Steps for Crohn’s and Colitis walk. Over 150 people walked from Del Sur Elementary on Graham’s Crohnies team. Graham’s team raised $14,000 for Crohn’s and Colitis research and the whole walk raised $100,000. Graham says, ”The walk means a lot to me, because I really want to find a cure. The more money raised helps the chances to find a cure faster. It felt awesome to be the honored hero. There were so many people there supporting me and my team. It was

Del Sur Explorers came together to support one of our own Explorers, Graham Wilson, by donating, walking, and running in The 2015 Take Steps for Crohn’s and Colitis walk/run. This three mile event took place at NTC Park at Liberty Station on May 16, 2015 at 4:00 PM. The goal was to raise awareness and donations for Crohn’s and Colitis research. This event honored Graham Wilson, a second grade student at DSES who has Crohn’s disease. Graham was the 2015 Honored Hero for Take

one of the best days ever.” Crohn’s and Colitis are inflammatory bowel diseases that can cause severe stomach pains, weight loss, fatigue, etc. The cause of both diseases are unknown at this time. Researchers believe they may have a hereditary link or be the result of a malfunction in

Photo Credit: Mrs. Connery-Bahmani

L-R: Keelan R., Graham W., Elijah R., Keaton C.

the immune system. More research is needed to determine the causes and develop a cure for these debilitating diseases. Students and teachers were supporting Graham, encouraging kids to walk, and the Student Council wore shirts around school to support the walk.

Mrs. Balanon

NEWS

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So How Was the SBAC? By: Ryan C.

Senior Staff Writer

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“SBAC? What is SBAC?” That is how most students responded when teachers introduced the new SBAC testing. SBAC stands for "Smarter Balanced Assess-ment Consortium" and is being implemented in connec-tion with California's adoption of the Common Core Standards. The SBAC testing will replace the STAR (Standardized Testing and Reporting) testing which is what most of the Del Sur students are used to tak-ing. One of the biggest differences between the STAR test and the SBAC test is that the SBAC test will be a computerized test, unlike the STAR test that was taken with a pencil and paper. SBAC tests will be given to all students in grades 3 through 8 and 11. This is the first year Del Sur students took the SBAC test. SBAC is be-ing taken by Del Sur's 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders.

Twenty-five of Mrs. McGarry's third grade students answered some questions about their experience taking the SBAC tests for the first time. The reviews were mixed. Some students liked the SBAC, and some did not. Adi from Mrs. McGarry’s class said “The SBAC test was fun and challenging, so I hope that we take it again next year!” While another third grader said that after taking the exam “... I had a big headache. …” Thirteen of the twenty-five third-graders who responded liked the fact that the test was done on a computer. Nine of the twenty-five said the test took too long and they did not like taking it. While three of the twenty-five were neutral as to whether or not they liked the new testing. Many students who liked the SBAC also commented that they felt "prepared" for the test and that it was "easy". Overall the students who liked the SBAC test-ing felt confident that they performed well on the tests. Since the SBAC was new to Del Sur, it was a learn-ing experience for both students and teachers. I'm sure that Del Sur students will rise to the challenge under the guidance of our wonderful teachers.

5th grade memories—Epperson

Ahlias Q. - My favorite part of Del Sur is when I was new and Alex, Thomas, and Adam ask me if they want-ed to play tag with them, and I said yes. Since then we’ve been best friends ever since. We started to eat together at lunch and go to each other’s houses. I even met new friends along the way like Roop, Andrew, Eli, Sam, Jake, Nathan, Akhil, and Ryan. So that’s my fa-vorite part about Del Sur. Noah A. - I will remember all the great teachers, all my friends, and the school itself. Del Sur made me a better student and a better person. Ryan C. - I have really enjoyed my experience at Del Sur Elementary. It has given me a great learning experi-ence and tons of new friends. I love how there are many events throughout the year, such as “The Candyland Dance” and the fundraisers at many restaurants. I really loved my experience here. Akhil G. - One thing I will remember about Del Sur is my last science project. The reason I will remember it, is because I won first place. I guess mine was pretty ad-vanced that the judges got their socks blown off! That is the memory that will remind me of Del Sur. Zaynab A. - My favorite memory I had at Del Sur is when I first came here all these girls were surrounding me. They are my best friends to this day. Andrew D. - I remember walking into my first class-room. I was so happy to start kindergarten.

Alex Z. - My favorite memory at Del Sur was when I was elected to be the Del Sur Student Council Activities Director. I was so nervous when I was giving my speech and awaiting the results. I will always remember the fun experiences I had with the other kids on student council and how we had so many great times together. Ben S. - My favorite moment of the year was when we did all of the fantastic writing and art projects. I just liked how we would work together and cooperate with each other. Daniel M. - In 2nd grade, we went to the zoo. In the zoo, we walked and rode a bus. They told us where some of the animals came from. We saw some animals that were fun to watch. We saw some people give the animals food. We saw some birds fly over of us. That is my Del Sur Memory. Sophia F. - I have had many fun memories at Del Sur Elementary, but my favorite one was meeting Mrs. Whitehouse. I had never met a more fun, hilarious, and kind teacher. Thanks for making my fourth grade spar-kle, Mrs. Whitehouse! Emma G.- I will never forget the teachers that have helped me over the years; the explorer leaders are Ms. Healy, Mrs. Nowak, Mrs. Ottaviano, Mrs. Schofield, Mrs. Whitehouse, and Mrs. Epperson. I am thankful for all the teachers that have helped me set goals and accom-plish them. Kenny C. - I will remember my teachers and the friends I made at Del Sur and my project.

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Lauren L. - The thing I enjoyed the most at Del Sur was Orchestra. It was exciting to learn how to play the violin. It took a while to figure it out, but that work paid off. The concerts were the best because I could show my new talent, but this time in front of a crowd.

Michael I. - My favorite memory was when our class did a dance party. All the Huskies joined in and the mu-sic was playing loud! It was just really fun and I will re-member it for a long time. Nathan Z. - I liked the friends that I made at school. They support me and have fun with me. I’m glad I went to Del Sur.

Romeo G. - My Del Sur memory was great. I was only here for one year, but it was a great year. The teachers are amazing! I had fun making new friends since the kids were nice to me when I got here. I LOVE DEL SUR!!!!!! Eli N. - In my many years at Del Sur Elementary (7 to be exact) I think my favorite memory was when I went to Julian for the Gold mine field trip. We learned how to find gold and eventually found some ourselves! That was extremely fun.

Saisha R. - One of my favorite memories was the mission report. First, we wrote the report, and then we made a model of our mission. I personally love it when we get into character and act like Native Americans or Padres. It was really fun to tell people about my mis-sion. I really enjoyed this experience. Madi K. - I loved making movies and plays in kinder-garten. I remember when we made a Clifford movie. Clifford was missing and Mr. Johnson inspected crumbs with a magnifying glass. This clue helped us find Clifford. I will miss this school very much. I wish the next fifth graders luck and fun. Sophie M. - My experience at Del Sur has been a great one, one I shan’t forget. All in all, I have a multi-tude of favorite memories at this wonderful school. My friend Maya seems to be the best memory at this school. She was so nice and caring, I don’t think I’ll ever get a friend as good as her! Allison P. - My best memory at Del Sur is when I met my best friend Madi. When I was new in second grade I was paired up with her to show me around the school. Then we became best friends. Jocelyn J. - My favorite memory at Del Sur was my first day, when I didn’t know anybody. I saw a girl and remembered that she was at my soccer practice a few days ago, so I walked over there and said Hi. Her name was Jimena. We became friends and we still are!

Gavin G.- My memory was in kindergarten, when I did my first talent show. I was so nervous! When I went out on stage, it was so scary! I did my best Michael Jackson moves; it wasn’t so bad after all! Thank you Mom, Dad, and DSES for supporting me! Jack T. - Probably one of my favorite memories at Del Sur was when DJ Danny came to celebrate us win-ning the Blue Ribbon Award. It was so fun to get up and dance. I will never forget that moment in my entire life. Nick H. - My favorite Del Sur Memory is the 2014 Hal-loween celebration/parade. I dressed up as Guy Fieri. We had a dance party, a craft project, and a buffet table of sweets. It was fun because we usually don’t do that in school, so it was extra fun. Jackson C. - My best memory was when the Chinese Acrobats came for an assembly. They did amazing stunts and made the “wows” and the “aahs” come out of our mouths. The Del Sur audience was amazed like me. Nikki P. - I will remember my first art lesson at Del Sur in 3rd grade. I drew a lion with oil pastels. I will also remember my field trip to the gold mine in 4th grade. There was a river and I collected gold, but I think it was fake. Del Sur is the best elementary school ever! Donovan S. - My favorite memory is when it was red ribbon week. Police officers were there and we could pet the police dog. Jimena V. - My favorite years at Del Sur have been my first and last year. I think I would have to say my last year was my favorite because I have met lots of friends like Jocelyn, Ruby, and Lauren. I also love Mrs. Epper-son because she is so nice. Ruby L. - My favorite memory was my first day of 2nd grade (my first day of Del Sur). I was lonely and there was one other new girl. Her name was Allison and we became best friends, and still are. (I call her Ally-cat!!!) It was a fun day. Jordan B. - My favorite memory was when our class went on the gold rush field trip with Mrs. Whitehouse. That trip was my favorite field trip. Thank you to all my teachers: Mrs. Giamie, Mrs. Whitehouse, and Mrs. Ep-person!

Taneesha P. - I remember coming to Del Sur for 4th grade clearly. From the outside, it resembled a library, the roof, like an opened book. When I went inside, it was like a museum. On the first day of school, it was hard to make friends, but soon, I made friends who I knew would stick with me forever.

5th grade memories—Epperson

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Isaac - “The most memorable thing I had was Riley’s Farm. I always loved running the mile and trying to beat my time also. “ Alex B. - “Some great memories I had were meeting one of my best friends ever, Nathan Z. and that one Christmas light judging event. Last but not least, the book fairs. Even though this is my first year here, I will miss it, but I had a whole lot of fun.” Colin P. - “I will remember all the great friends and the teachers at this school. Also, all the cool events and games to do with my friends. And the cool colonial pro-jects and stuff.” Kyle - “My favorite memories are when I met all new and some same friends, got to make my hand tiles, go to teacher time, and when I met my teacher Mrs. Lori-mer.” Elle R. - “This year was my first year at Del Sur Ele-mentary School. My personal experience has been very positive. From the teachers, to the kids, and Del Sur Elementary School’s principal, I think I will remem-ber all the kind people I have met.” Marc H. - “I’ll remember all my friends, Mrs. Lorimer, and Mr. Johnson.” Yasamene N. - “Coming here (in third grade) was a great opportunity to make good friends who will support you all the way. 4th and 5th were the best years for me.” Mason - “Something I’m going to miss about Del Sur are Friday Flag, how amazing our school is, and all of the assemblies.” Armin - “Thanks, I will miss my friends I made here and thank you Mr. Johnson.” Chloe F. - “Tne memory I think I will never forget was when we did the poetry unit in Mrs. Lorimer’s class.” Makaihla - “What I will remember about Del Sur is the people, teachers, principal, and the friends I made there. I had two very cheerful, kind, and sweet teachers named Mrs. Whitehouse and Mrs. Lorimer. They were the best teachers I had in this school.” Leilani - “Dear reader, I want to thank Mrs. Lorimer, and Mrs. Munroe for all their help to get me up to the grade level I need to be at. And Mrs. Johnson for en-couraging me. I’ve made a lot of friends like Elaya, Ja-elle, Yasamene, Chloe, and Jazzy. Thanks friends.”

Grace K. - “What I will remember most about Del Sur is the two amazing teachers, Mrs. Lorimer and Mrs. Whitehouse, and the amazing friends I have made here at Del Sur.” Aiden C. - “What I will remember about this school are the teachers the projects and my friends.” Jonah - “I will remember how Miss Darcy could change into different colonial women in 1 hour.” Justin S. - “I’ll always remember the colonial project.” Liam - “At Del Sur I made a few friends, but all the ones I have made have been amazing to me. I want to thank Mrs. Whitehouse and Mrs. Lorimer. I thank Mrs. Whitehouse for being the nicest and my favorite teacher ever. I thank Mrs. Lorimer for being strict.” Yolanda - “It was a great experience, a lot of fun and really there is not a lot of work in the beginning of the year, but quite a lot in the end.” Elliott - “The best memories I had throughout my 3 years at Del Sur was when I met my friends in January 2012. I also loved all of the field trips throughout the years. I loved my 2nd and 5th grade teacher, Mrs. Lori-mer.” Jazmyn - “I really enjoyed Mrs. Lorimer, Mrs. Gillies, Mrs. Giaime, and Mrs. Ottaviano. They taught me so much in the last couple of years. What I am going to miss most about fantastic Del Sur is my caring friends and an amazing staff and principal.” Casey K. - “I will remember my homework and how I thought it was a lot at the same time but now I know it was not a lot.” Trinity K. - “The best memory I will have is that Del Sur won the Blue Ribbon Award this year. I hope to keep contact with my friends, and have a great rest of the year.” Roop - “I will remember the Friday flags. I will never for-get the chants. They were always very fun. I love the library. It always has the perfect book for me. I have nev-er been bored.” Diana - “My most memorable moments were meeting Mrs. Lorimer and meeting new friends and becoming closer with them. I think something that will be memora-ble is Riley’s Farm and colonial day.” Elaya - “I had wonderful teachers, Mrs. Nowak, Mrs. Giaime, and Mrs. McGarry. Del Sur is such an amazing school, if anyone attends Del Sur they will have great memories. I do.”

5th grade memories—Lorimer

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Nick H. - “I’m going to miss Mrs. Lorimer, my brother, and Max. I like Del Sur because the white boards are fun to play with.” Jaelle - “ What I will remember most about Del Sur is all the new friends I made and all the fun teachers. I’ll also remember all the fun pages and activities we did in 5th grade.” Erin D. - “ Del Sur has been my second home for al-most four years, but I think that all the amazing teach-ers and everything they’ve done for us will be the thing I remember most.”

Tallulah P. - “ Dear 5th grade, I think that what I will re-member most about Del Sur and 5th grade is how fasci-nating it is to see how people react to different state-ments and actions.” Sophia G. - “ What I will remember most is my friends, teacher, and projects. My best friends are Chloe, Yolan-da, Grace, Diana, Erin, and Saisha.” Katie H. - “The 3 years that I was here at Del Sur Ele-mentary flew by. Del Sur Elementary has great teachers. Mr. Schofield, Mrs. Lorimer, and Mrs. Whitehouse have helped me be who I am today. I owe a big thank you to Mr. Johnson, he helped me balance my ice skating.”

5th grade memories—Lorimer

The Compass Staff

Advisors Mr. Johnson Mrs. Zakoor

Mrs. Churchill

Masthead Design Sam K.

Senior Staff Writers

Alex Z. Ali Q.

Erin D. Ryan C. Sam K.

Staff Writers

Jennifer L. Michelle R. Trinity K.