February K-Flash

We are entering the last part of the winter season, but the momentum has not slowed. Check out some of the highlights from KMS over this past month.

Math Jump!

Middle School Applied Math instructor Richard Morse reports that his class "did three amazing things." He writes, "First, they looked at the math behind hitting a jump at 15mph. After our analysis we found that the optimal angle is 35 to 45 degrees. Second, we built a jump with a 40

degree angle and collected lots of data. Due to terrain and slope, our speed was 11.6 mph. Third, we took all the data we collected and made a new graph of our jump trajectory. This project allowed us to make predictions, compare real world results to functions and graphs, add knowledge to activities we do a lot, and have fun." See some videos from the project below:

Academic Standout- Ella Andrews

The KMS teaching faculty are proud to present Eleanor “Ella” Andrews with an Academic Standout recognition! Ella is a Freeski athlete, who comes to KMS from Northampton, Massachusetts. Ella was nominated by several of her teachers, who recognize Ella’s resilience, drive, and dedication towards excellence within the classroom. All agree that Ella is most deserving of the title of Academic Standout!

Winter-Term Language teacher Elizabeth Cardiasmenos was the first to put for a nomination for Ella. Liz states, “Since the first day of winter term, during advising, I was immediately impressed by Ella and the way she interacted with everyone around her. She is outgoing, optimistic and conscientious. She pushes herself, asks great questions and supports her classmates in a positive and reassuring way. She is always ready to lend a helping hand, clarify information and problem-solve with her peers. Ella makes the most of her learning time and is always on task. She has seamlessly managed PT appointments, communicating them in a timely manner and has kept up with all of her assignments. Ella exemplifies respect, integrity, leadership, excellence and responsibility and is very deserving of Academic Standout.”

Student Life Coordinator and Studio Art/Graphic Design/Photography teacher Eric Kuntz seconded this nomination. Eric reflects, “have the distinct pleasure of teaching not one, but two classes to one Ella Andrews. This young lady is an outstanding academic student. Taking Graphic Design I & Sculpture, she is learning multiple Visual Art classes. While also nursing an injury, Ella has yet to miss a beat with her classes. From learning how to edit digital photos to removing blemishes within the photo to hand sculpting coil, pinch and clay minions. Ella has done nothing but keep turning in outstanding work. Her creative side keeps growing everyday, with a passion to take on new challenges and ask the important questions. While also helping her fellow classmates with struggles that might happen with assignments. Ella is a pleasure to have in the classroom.”

Social Studies Department Co-Chair and Middle School Humanities teacher Ian Groezinger agreed with Ella’s nomination and gave one of his own for her work in his classes. Ian writes, “Ella has been nothing short of sensational since she arrived at KMS for the start of Winter Term. Time and again, Ella demonstrates a thorough understanding of the subject matter at hand through both written response and discussion. Even with her recent injury setbacks, Ella continues to strive for success.”

Innovative and Math/Science/Engineering teacher Richard Morse also put in his own nomination for Ella. Richard states, “Ella starts each Math class by asking "Do you have a challenge assignment ready for me" she then focuses intently and diligently does the class work then hopes right into her challenge assignment. Injuries have not slowed her down, for every hands on lesson she finds ways of doing things with one arm, sometimes it takes longer but she does not care she seems to like the extra challenge and is happy to work through any milestone. Each and every day she stays busy; exploring, learning, helping others, projecting positivity, seeking challenges and raising the bar."

Academic Standout- Jake Labanowski

The KMS teaching faculty is excited to recognize Jake Labanowski as an Academic Standout! Jake is a U16 Men’s Alpine athlete, who comes to KMS from Ramsey, New Jersey.

Winter-Term Humanities teacher Jessica Sardelli was the first to put forth a nomination for Jake, and enthusiastically volunteered to present for him this past Monday. Jessica reflects, “Since starting winter term, Jake has demonstrated excellent communication with me regarding assignments and travel, as well as asking questions, planning for any assistance far ahead of any due dates, and always closing communication loops. His writing has been improving tremendously! I am very impressed with his ability to implement every piece of feedback I have offered to improve his skill. It is this ability to improve upon our weaker areas & become strong that is the most impressive! He is quite a joy to have in class and very respectful to peers and faculty.”

World Languages and Culture Department Co-Chair and Social Studies teacher Robert Cavanna seconded Jake’s nomination for his work in Robert’s Latin course. Robert writes, “Jake has been exceptional since joining my Latin I class. He has worked diligently and has gone above and beyond. He supplements our three weekly class meetings with an optional National Latin Exam preparatory course, which he attends remotely once a week on Tuesdays. Jake is highly deserving of this recognition. Congratulations!”

Winter-Term Boost Math and Science Teacher Hurley Cavacas also supported Jake’s nomination. Hurley states, “Jake is a dedicated student whose focus, drive and tenacity in Geometry is a breath of fresh air. He works hard to grasp difficult concepts, especially regarding proofs. He is never afraid to ask questions and look for clarification of topics he knows will be built upon. On a personal note his quiet pleasant demeanor is very enjoyable in class.”