1. Home
  3. María José Caminero

Posts by María José Caminero

Students attended the 47TH Annual Harvard National Forensics Tournament

Ashton represented at the 47TH Annual Harvard National Forensics Tournament

This past weekend, starting on Friday 12th, our Debate students took on a big challenge by participating in the 47th Harvard Debate. It took them a lot of preparation, investigation and team collaboration, but it definitely paid off since they did a tremendous job, and represented the Ashton School with honor. They made us all proud of them. 

The debaters’ teams were:

Team 1: Alexia Pimentel and Maria Jose Brea

Team 2: Ana Isabella Peña and Marco Arosemena

Team 3: Christine Reynoso and Eduardo Sanz

Below, their responses after we interviewed a member from each team, narrating their experience and the process to the Debate:

What was it like preparing for a debate online, was it any different than the other ones?

Christine: It was like preparing for a normal one, we worked hard to get our speeches right in regards to timing and its impact. The only difference was that this time we had to do every meeting through zoom or just talk through chat with our partners, teammates and coaches.

What was the most challenging aspect of it and why?

Christine: The most challenging aspect of the Harvard debate would have to have been the time difference. It definitely took a while for us to adjust to the hours they provided but eventually we got the hang of it. Another thing that made it more of a challenge, in comparison to debates before COVID, was the stress of needing the internet in order for the Judd Fe and opposing teams to hear us. We were constantly asking “Can you hear me clearly?”. It was different from the Thai debate where the internet was vital. Before COVID we couldn’t even have our computers connected to the internet, if we did we could even lose a match.

Christine Reynoso and Eduardo Sanz

Based on this experience and previous comments would you like to have the full experience in Harvard when the time is possible? Yes or why not?

Alexia: Absolutely, I found that this online debate is a way to prepare for the full experience once deemed possible. I love how we got to represent the school in this prestigious tournament, and the way it was prepared gave me a sense of security and confidence. I have not gone to Harvard before, but from previous comments I have heard that it’s very fun and completely worth it. 

What things did you have to prepare in order to have a successful debate?

Alexia: First and most foremost, the speeches, with both pros and cons, our prepared responses to the arguments also known as blocks, the evidence and credentials of our information and lastly, the total mastery of mastery of the topic. 

How did it feel to represent your school in another country and above all at the 47th Annual Harvard Debate Competition? 

Marco: Although the competition was online, representing the school gave me a sense of pride and it pushed me to give it my all during the competition.

How would you describe the Harvard Debate competition with one word and why?

Marco: Exhilarating. There was never a dull moment. There was always the expectancy of getting to the next competition, and the expectancy that comes from waiting for the results from the last one. Each time we heard feedback, we rushed to improve on what more we could say or how we could say it better.

All three teams as mentioned before did an astounding performance, they debated their resolution with a solid evidence base, hard work, dedication and passion. They got amazing feedback, high punctuations and overall had a great experience. I think I can speak  for Ms. Leyti, the coaches, the parents of the students, the Ashton School community and myself, that we are all extremely proud of all the enthusiasm they displayed, and mostly because of the fact that all in all we are still in the midst of a pandemic and that that didn’t stop them.

Keep up the hard work, because it definitely is worth it!
-Maria Jose Caminero 10th A

Students attended the 47TH Annual Harvard National Forensics Tournament

Ashton represented at the 47TH Annual Harvard National Forensics Tournament

This past weekend, starting on Friday 12th, our Debate students took on a big challenge by participating in the 47th Harvard Debate. It took them a lot of preparation, investigation and team collaboration, but it definitely paid off since they did a tremendous job, and represented the Ashton School with honor. They made us all proud of them. 

The debaters’ teams were:

Team 1: Alexia Pimentel and Maria Jose Brea

Team 2: Ana Isabella Peña and Marco Arosemena

Team 3: Christine Reynoso and Eduardo Sanz

Below, their responses after we interviewed a member from each team, narrating their experience and the process to the Debate:

What was it like preparing for a debate online, was it any different than the other ones?

Christine: It was like preparing for a normal one, we worked hard to get our speeches right in regards to timing and its impact. The only difference was that this time we had to do every meeting through zoom or just talk through chat with our partners, teammates and coaches.

What was the most challenging aspect of it and why?

Christine: The most challenging aspect of the Harvard debate would have to have been the time difference. It definitely took a while for us to adjust to the hours they provided but eventually we got the hang of it. Another thing that made it more of a challenge, in comparison to debates before COVID, was the stress of needing the internet in order for the Judd Fe and opposing teams to hear us. We were constantly asking “Can you hear me clearly?”. It was different from the Thai debate where the internet was vital. Before COVID we couldn’t even have our computers connected to the internet, if we did we could even lose a match.

Christine Reynoso and Eduardo Sanz

Based on this experience and previous comments would you like to have the full experience in Harvard when the time is possible? Yes or why not?

Alexia: Absolutely, I found that this online debate is a way to prepare for the full experience once deemed possible. I love how we got to represent the school in this prestigious tournament, and the way it was prepared gave me a sense of security and confidence. I have not gone to Harvard before, but from previous comments I have heard that it’s very fun and completely worth it. 

What things did you have to prepare in order to have a successful debate?

Alexia: First and most foremost, the speeches, with both pros and cons, our prepared responses to the arguments also known as blocks, the evidence and credentials of our information and lastly, the total mastery of mastery of the topic. 

How did it feel to represent your school in another country and above all at the 47th Annual Harvard Debate Competition? 

Marco: Although the competition was online, representing the school gave me a sense of pride and it pushed me to give it my all during the competition.

How would you describe the Harvard Debate competition with one word and why?

Marco: Exhilarating. There was never a dull moment. There was always the expectancy of getting to the next competition, and the expectancy that comes from waiting for the results from the last one. Each time we heard feedback, we rushed to improve on what more we could say or how we could say it better.

All three teams as mentioned before did an astounding performance, they debated their resolution with a solid evidence base, hard work, dedication and passion. They got amazing feedback, high punctuations and overall had a great experience. I think I can speak  for Ms. Leyti, the coaches, the parents of the students, the Ashton School community and myself, that we are all extremely proud of all the enthusiasm they displayed, and mostly because of the fact that all in all we are still in the midst of a pandemic and that that didn’t stop them.

Keep up the hard work, because it definitely is worth it!
-Maria Jose Caminero 10th A

A student reflection on 2020

An Unexpected series of events 

2020… a pretty tough and difficult year for all us. Murders, elections, protests, natural disasters, explosions and on top of everything a pandemic. Because of all that was mentioned before, we had to get used to new ideas, for many of us our life did had a 360 degree spin. Online school started, it was a challenge but, at the end of the day it was just another rock we got to move all together that was blocking our road, sad times because we couldn’t see our friends and families, the 6 feet apart deal, masks, the death toll, no gatherings, economy failing. My idea today is not to mention what everyone is used to mentioning… the dark side of the story, instead, the brighter one.

2020 has been a teacher, an eye opener for many of us, new opportunities, lifestyles, beliefs. Thanks to this year, I’ve become a more thankful girl. I appreciate everyday things that we took for granted, since we thought they were here for us forever… for example; that rush of excitement of the first day of school, being in a class physically with our friends and teachers, that big smile in our faces when our directors waved us in the morning, getting ready to go out, lunches with my relatives, apart from all those cases, we should mostly be thankful for the TIME we have. Add to that, I thank God for giving me the blessing to have a roof, water, food on the table, education, AC, and a bed. Finally and most importantly, my health, this is all that really matters, and I’m so grateful that my family, friends, loved ones, teachers and myself are all alive and healthy. I can’t even get myself to think how devastated some may feel since so many have lost relatives and people they loved. I take this opportunity to say how sad I am for anyone who already went through this.

During the Christmas holiday I reflected on the importance we give to many material things, I think 2020 proved ourselves that at the end much of it is not necessary. As my teacher, Mr. Edwin (Character ED.) asked us: “if this was your last Christmas what would you give to the 3 most important people in your life?” Please reflect on that, I’m pretty sure you are not going to mention the last PS5, or the new Louis Vuitton Bag, but instead maybe a trip around the world, more gatherings, good health, and behind those wishes, there is a common theme: time. I really mean it, enjoy those little times you have, be thankful, go and tell that person you love that you are extremely glad they are here with you. The gift of time, give time, make time. 

This new year will be brighter as we walk holding God’s hand, things will get better, but, you also need to be part of it… set yourself new goals, and ideas. Stop accusing 2020 of being the worst year of your life and instead say; “yes, 2020 was pretty tough and was filled with an unexpected series of events, but it taught me one of the most important lessons of my life, don’t take those things for granted, be grateful, make the best out of your life, and each day you wake up, thank God for your health and for allowing you to live a new day in this world”. 

My dear Ashton Community, my hope is that we are going to be reunited soon, in the meantime keep reflecting on what we learned from 2020, take care of yourself, and be with your loved ones, as long as you can!!!

2020, an unexpected series of events but with a powerful message!

-Maria Jose Caminero 10thA

 

A student reflection on 2020

An Unexpected series of events 

2020… a pretty tough and difficult year for all us. Murders, elections, protests, natural disasters, explosions and on top of everything a pandemic. Because of all that was mentioned before, we had to get used to new ideas, for many of us our life did had a 360 degree spin. Online school started, it was a challenge but, at the end of the day it was just another rock we got to move all together that was blocking our road, sad times because we couldn’t see our friends and families, the 6 feet apart deal, masks, the death toll, no gatherings, economy failing. My idea today is not to mention what everyone is used to mentioning… the dark side of the story, instead, the brighter one.

2020 has been a teacher, an eye opener for many of us, new opportunities, lifestyles, beliefs. Thanks to this year, I’ve become a more thankful girl. I appreciate everyday things that we took for granted, since we thought they were here for us forever… for example; that rush of excitement of the first day of school, being in a class physically with our friends and teachers, that big smile in our faces when our directors waved us in the morning, getting ready to go out, lunches with my relatives, apart from all those cases, we should mostly be thankful for the TIME we have. Add to that, I thank God for giving me the blessing to have a roof, water, food on the table, education, AC, and a bed. Finally and most importantly, my health, this is all that really matters, and I’m so grateful that my family, friends, loved ones, teachers and myself are all alive and healthy. I can’t even get myself to think how devastated some may feel since so many have lost relatives and people they loved. I take this opportunity to say how sad I am for anyone who already went through this.

During the Christmas holiday I reflected on the importance we give to many material things, I think 2020 proved ourselves that at the end much of it is not necessary. As my teacher, Mr. Edwin (Character ED.) asked us: “if this was your last Christmas what would you give to the 3 most important people in your life?” Please reflect on that, I’m pretty sure you are not going to mention the last PS5, or the new Louis Vuitton Bag, but instead maybe a trip around the world, more gatherings, good health, and behind those wishes, there is a common theme: time. I really mean it, enjoy those little times you have, be thankful, go and tell that person you love that you are extremely glad they are here with you. The gift of time, give time, make time. 

This new year will be brighter as we walk holding God’s hand, things will get better, but, you also need to be part of it… set yourself new goals, and ideas. Stop accusing 2020 of being the worst year of your life and instead say; “yes, 2020 was pretty tough and was filled with an unexpected series of events, but it taught me one of the most important lessons of my life, don’t take those things for granted, be grateful, make the best out of your life, and each day you wake up, thank God for your health and for allowing you to live a new day in this world”. 

My dear Ashton Community, my hope is that we are going to be reunited soon, in the meantime keep reflecting on what we learned from 2020, take care of yourself, and be with your loved ones, as long as you can!!!

2020, an unexpected series of events but with a powerful message!

-Maria Jose Caminero 10thA

 

A Respect Campaign Reflection

This week one of the most exciting events at Ashton School takes place, the Respect Campaign. It’s not only a fun event but one that teaches us values and life lessons.

After an interview to Ms. Rodriguez about the campaign and some juicy information, read to find some students’ perspectives about, what respect means to them?

I invite all readers after taking a look at this piece of work, to think and try to find a personal definition of this powerful and meaningful word.

A chat with Ms. Rodriguez:

As one of the school counselors, what do you think is the importance of the Respect Campaign.

Ms. Rodriguez: The Respect Campaign is a special time where every year our school embraces its mission and vision. We take this opportunity to reflect and reinforce the importance of values and virtues in our daily lives. At Ashton we strive to develop all areas. It is a blessing to support families in the wonderful journey of shaping their children’s minds and hearts. 

What motivated the Ashton School to start hosting this activity?

Ms. Rodriguez: Values are one of the many beautiful things I love about our school. The Respect Campaign has been an essential part of every school year plan for many years. This is my 9nth year at Ashton and since my first day this Campaign has aimed to teach students to be ¨respectful and loving to one another¨. To me it is like dedicating a special time to experience our virtue of the year. October is known  as the Anti Bullying awareness month and Ashton joins the cause and brings content related to the community. 

What is the exact message the school wants to convey?

Ms. Rodriguez: We continue to strengthen its purpose by bringing new activities and ideas to develop skills students need to deal with everyday challenges in their social emotional interactions. We gather feedback from community members and plan accordingly to really impact students with valuable knowledge based on true and meaningful experiences. Counselors and character education teachers  press to leave an everlasting impact, teach students to build strong relationships and develop a sense of responsibility for their actions. We want our students to experience the beauty of being kind to one another and perceive themselves as caring, compassionate and truthful. 

Why did the school choose Respect for the Campaign? Is there any particular  reason. What stands out from this virtue compared to others.

Ms. Rodriguez: In the United States October is National Bullying Prevention Month. The Campaigns purpose is to raise awareness of bullying prevention. At Ashton we strongly believe that values are the best way to raise awareness and prevent bullying. So each year we eagerly get prepared to join the cause and promote what we would like our students to become. Just a few years ago the school chose ¨Respect¨ as the Virtue for that school year and while we were planning for that year’s campaign we decided to call it ¨Respect Campaign¨.We wanted to try a positive title and promote what we want to see in our school. Since then we decided to keep ¨Respect¨ and as soon as the students learn more about respect and understand its true meaning, the other values come as an addition to it.  

What is the main difference between last year’s campaign and this upcoming one? Are there any juicy details you may share? Maybe some fun details, to get the community even more excited. 

Ms. Rodriguez: What an opportunity to learn and experience what resilience means. Your counselors have been working hard along with the character education teachers and art teachers as special collaborators for this year. There is a ¨Drive in¨ on Friday October 16th where students will have the opportunity to see face to face all staff members. Many surprises are waiting for all of you. What is most important is how we will all remember this day as unique and special by leaving your handprints on a frame to keep in our school as a way to remember these times and how we all together were able to go through it. Seniors have a special message on that day. Lets also make this day memorable for their last year by supporting what they have for us. You will also be able to bring home a kit to work on a bracelet with an important message too. 

This day will be part of the Ashton history and memories forever!

Making it personal…

What does Respect mean to you?

The word respect means so many things to me. It is that feeling of morality, politeness, consideration and love towards someone or something. How you treat others and yourself. Respect is who you are, what you say, how you love, act and decide to do. Is what you show and how you relate to others. 

– Ms. Rodriguez Elementary Counselor

To me respect is when another person values my individual opinion on a matter and does not discard it for no valid reason just because they have a different opinion or because they are older and “wiser than me”. Unless that opinion is harming you in any way I say that you have to respect what the other is saying and then even though you don’t agree you still accept it.

-Eduardo Sanz 11th grade student

For me respect means to care about others and feel what others feel.This means to be in others shoes,for example you see someone bullying doesn’t matter how,you need to tell them to stop if you see them bullying again tell a teacher or a grown up. But let’s say you are the one getting bullying and you say stop and they continue ,you need to tell your parents or your teacher. In conclusion something I always tell myself is to always treat others the way you want to be treated. 

-Reynaldo Caminero 6th grade student

For me respect means that you accept somebody for who they are, even when they’re different from you or you don’t agree with them. It is a concept that refers to the ability to value and honor another person, both his or her words and actions, even if we do not approve or share everything he or she does. It is accepting the other person and not trying to change them. Respecting another person is not judging them by their attitudes, behaviors or thoughts. 

        -Alexia Pimentel 10th grade student

While writing this article I had many thoughts through my mind. But, the one that stood out the most was, what does respect really mean for me? I agree that everyone might have a different definition or idea of what the word really means but at the end they all come together. Respect for me comes along with listening to others opinions, helping others, being kind towards others, being polite, and showing that you are a caring person. As well as treating everyone the same no matter their skin tone, their nationality, any cultures or traditions they might celebrate, their age, the way they physically look, gender, at the end we are equal. It comes with the ideal of treating everyone the same. Be kind, patient, loving, all those words for me sums up what RESPECT represents. Something I think everyone should understand and carry with them along their lives is that respecting something doesn’t mean you support that idea or agree with it. You just respect their opinion and different point of view. Once again I will like to thank Ms. Rodriguez for her time and those wonderful words she told us. I will love to see my whole school on Friday on the Respect Campaign, first supporting one another, and of course the seniors. This event looks really fun, magical, I’m really excited to see what other things from that day experience I can add to my definition of what respect means to me. On the other hand, I will also like to thank those students who shared with me what respect means to them. Stay safe, always remember how powerful the word respect is!!!

 

Maria Jose Caminero

10 A

A Respect Campaign Reflection

This week one of the most exciting events at Ashton School takes place, the Respect Campaign. It’s not only a fun event but one that teaches us values and life lessons.

After an interview to Ms. Rodriguez about the campaign and some juicy information, read to find some students’ perspectives about, what respect means to them?

I invite all readers after taking a look at this piece of work, to think and try to find a personal definition of this powerful and meaningful word.

A chat with Ms. Rodriguez:

As one of the school counselors, what do you think is the importance of the Respect Campaign.

Ms. Rodriguez: The Respect Campaign is a special time where every year our school embraces its mission and vision. We take this opportunity to reflect and reinforce the importance of values and virtues in our daily lives. At Ashton we strive to develop all areas. It is a blessing to support families in the wonderful journey of shaping their children’s minds and hearts. 

What motivated the Ashton School to start hosting this activity?

Ms. Rodriguez: Values are one of the many beautiful things I love about our school. The Respect Campaign has been an essential part of every school year plan for many years. This is my 9nth year at Ashton and since my first day this Campaign has aimed to teach students to be ¨respectful and loving to one another¨. To me it is like dedicating a special time to experience our virtue of the year. October is known  as the Anti Bullying awareness month and Ashton joins the cause and brings content related to the community. 

What is the exact message the school wants to convey?

Ms. Rodriguez: We continue to strengthen its purpose by bringing new activities and ideas to develop skills students need to deal with everyday challenges in their social emotional interactions. We gather feedback from community members and plan accordingly to really impact students with valuable knowledge based on true and meaningful experiences. Counselors and character education teachers  press to leave an everlasting impact, teach students to build strong relationships and develop a sense of responsibility for their actions. We want our students to experience the beauty of being kind to one another and perceive themselves as caring, compassionate and truthful. 

Why did the school choose Respect for the Campaign? Is there any particular  reason. What stands out from this virtue compared to others.

Ms. Rodriguez: In the United States October is National Bullying Prevention Month. The Campaigns purpose is to raise awareness of bullying prevention. At Ashton we strongly believe that values are the best way to raise awareness and prevent bullying. So each year we eagerly get prepared to join the cause and promote what we would like our students to become. Just a few years ago the school chose ¨Respect¨ as the Virtue for that school year and while we were planning for that year’s campaign we decided to call it ¨Respect Campaign¨.We wanted to try a positive title and promote what we want to see in our school. Since then we decided to keep ¨Respect¨ and as soon as the students learn more about respect and understand its true meaning, the other values come as an addition to it.  

What is the main difference between last year’s campaign and this upcoming one? Are there any juicy details you may share? Maybe some fun details, to get the community even more excited. 

Ms. Rodriguez: What an opportunity to learn and experience what resilience means. Your counselors have been working hard along with the character education teachers and art teachers as special collaborators for this year. There is a ¨Drive in¨ on Friday October 16th where students will have the opportunity to see face to face all staff members. Many surprises are waiting for all of you. What is most important is how we will all remember this day as unique and special by leaving your handprints on a frame to keep in our school as a way to remember these times and how we all together were able to go through it. Seniors have a special message on that day. Lets also make this day memorable for their last year by supporting what they have for us. You will also be able to bring home a kit to work on a bracelet with an important message too. 

This day will be part of the Ashton history and memories forever!

Making it personal…

What does Respect mean to you?

The word respect means so many things to me. It is that feeling of morality, politeness, consideration and love towards someone or something. How you treat others and yourself. Respect is who you are, what you say, how you love, act and decide to do. Is what you show and how you relate to others. 

– Ms. Rodriguez Elementary Counselor

To me respect is when another person values my individual opinion on a matter and does not discard it for no valid reason just because they have a different opinion or because they are older and “wiser than me”. Unless that opinion is harming you in any way I say that you have to respect what the other is saying and then even though you don’t agree you still accept it.

-Eduardo Sanz 11th grade student

For me respect means to care about others and feel what others feel.This means to be in others shoes,for example you see someone bullying doesn’t matter how,you need to tell them to stop if you see them bullying again tell a teacher or a grown up. But let’s say you are the one getting bullying and you say stop and they continue ,you need to tell your parents or your teacher. In conclusion something I always tell myself is to always treat others the way you want to be treated. 

-Reynaldo Caminero 6th grade student

For me respect means that you accept somebody for who they are, even when they’re different from you or you don’t agree with them. It is a concept that refers to the ability to value and honor another person, both his or her words and actions, even if we do not approve or share everything he or she does. It is accepting the other person and not trying to change them. Respecting another person is not judging them by their attitudes, behaviors or thoughts. 

        -Alexia Pimentel 10th grade student

While writing this article I had many thoughts through my mind. But, the one that stood out the most was, what does respect really mean for me? I agree that everyone might have a different definition or idea of what the word really means but at the end they all come together. Respect for me comes along with listening to others opinions, helping others, being kind towards others, being polite, and showing that you are a caring person. As well as treating everyone the same no matter their skin tone, their nationality, any cultures or traditions they might celebrate, their age, the way they physically look, gender, at the end we are equal. It comes with the ideal of treating everyone the same. Be kind, patient, loving, all those words for me sums up what RESPECT represents. Something I think everyone should understand and carry with them along their lives is that respecting something doesn’t mean you support that idea or agree with it. You just respect their opinion and different point of view. Once again I will like to thank Ms. Rodriguez for her time and those wonderful words she told us. I will love to see my whole school on Friday on the Respect Campaign, first supporting one another, and of course the seniors. This event looks really fun, magical, I’m really excited to see what other things from that day experience I can add to my definition of what respect means to me. On the other hand, I will also like to thank those students who shared with me what respect means to them. Stay safe, always remember how powerful the word respect is!!!

 

Maria Jose Caminero

10 A

7 Tips to make the road a little less bumpy

Enjoy this interesting article from a student perspective:

Being in Online School can have its perks, yet, at the same time can be a bit of a challenge. These are some tips that can make your journey a little bit less difficult. I promise it will be better if you keep all of these things in mind when you start school.

1. Study Place:

For you to be able to take your classes in a comfortable way you need to have a specific space, YOUR space. Create an area where you feel pleasant, where no distractions take place. In order to feel this way, there is one thing that is essential: good lighting. Good lighting benefits your eyesight and can affect your energy levels as well. Try to set up your study place to be kind of appealing, this would help with your motivation towards learning. Just stick to a school themed space, where you can comply with your work. Always check that you are maintaining your posture, this something that is really important, since we are spending several hours per day seated on chairs. This will help you avoid back pains and other factors. 

2. Organize Yourself:

Organization is the key for Online school. Be prepared, have your notebook and books handy, have your ipad and computer fully charged. Have all your supplies ready including pencils, pens or whatever you may need. Something that can help you is to have an agenda, where you can take notes of upcoming tests, presentations, your daily homework, reminders, etc. Having this will prevent you from getting lost or handing in work late. Have your calendar printed out or know your classes. One trick I personally do is have the link to my google sites in my favorites, so when I click it, it just takes me there directly. You can add it to any apple device on the  Safari browser, this will save you so much time. It’s a life changer. Being organized is without a doubt going to make a difference.

3. Time Management: 

Take online school as seriously as you would  normal onsite classes. Do all  of your homework the day before, don’t leave anything for the last minute. Take care of your time, take into consideration any extra minutes that you get from an early dismissal to work on  assignments. 

4. Set a Routine

This is extremely important and so easy to achieve. Have a routine, wake up maybe 1 hour or 30 minutes before class whatever works for you. Take a bath, get out of your pajamas, have breakfast, do a workout or do yoga to boost your energy before class. This would help you to get into an extraordinary mindset. These seem like such minor details but believe me they make a real difference. Having this time for yourself before class is going to be the best. Avoid rushing and waking up at the exact time your first class starts. 

5. Eliminate Distractions 

Personally I feel this is the most challenging tip, no distractions. Being home increases our “need” to use our cellphones and social media. But try to avoid it as much as possible, maybe turn off the ringtone or notifications to help yourself. Take note that it is also important to have a place where nobody bothers you. 

6. Be active/attentive during class

It’s  not just having your camera on, having your microphone off and being present in class. You need to be really present, ask questions, talk, share thoughts, ideas, express yourself. This will help to keep you engaged during class, and not get as easily distracted.

 7. Be POSITIVE:

I must be honest this one at times may be the most challenging. It’s not at all easy to always be  positive but try your best to be so. We are all tired of this situation, but, for right now this is our only alternative. Let’s get the most out of it. Have a big smile in each class, greet your teachers and classmates. Remember at the end of the day every subject will help you grow as a human being.

In my experience, I have been following all of these tips since day 1 of my online school trajectory. I  specifically highlight tip #4  because it seems kind of unnecessary but since I started setting my routine and doing yoga, I’ve seen and felt the change, I love it. I hope that you liked these tips and take them into consideration at all times! This will definitely make the road less bumpy.

-Maria Jose Caminero –  10 A 

7 Tips to make the road a little less bumpy

Enjoy this interesting article from a student perspective:

Being in Online School can have its perks, yet, at the same time can be a bit of a challenge. These are some tips that can make your journey a little bit less difficult. I promise it will be better if you keep all of these things in mind when you start school.

1. Study Place:

For you to be able to take your classes in a comfortable way you need to have a specific space, YOUR space. Create an area where you feel pleasant, where no distractions take place. In order to feel this way, there is one thing that is essential: good lighting. Good lighting benefits your eyesight and can affect your energy levels as well. Try to set up your study place to be kind of appealing, this would help with your motivation towards learning. Just stick to a school themed space, where you can comply with your work. Always check that you are maintaining your posture, this something that is really important, since we are spending several hours per day seated on chairs. This will help you avoid back pains and other factors. 

2. Organize Yourself:

Organization is the key for Online school. Be prepared, have your notebook and books handy, have your ipad and computer fully charged. Have all your supplies ready including pencils, pens or whatever you may need. Something that can help you is to have an agenda, where you can take notes of upcoming tests, presentations, your daily homework, reminders, etc. Having this will prevent you from getting lost or handing in work late. Have your calendar printed out or know your classes. One trick I personally do is have the link to my google sites in my favorites, so when I click it, it just takes me there directly. You can add it to any apple device on the  Safari browser, this will save you so much time. It’s a life changer. Being organized is without a doubt going to make a difference.

3. Time Management: 

Take online school as seriously as you would  normal onsite classes. Do all  of your homework the day before, don’t leave anything for the last minute. Take care of your time, take into consideration any extra minutes that you get from an early dismissal to work on  assignments. 

4. Set a Routine

This is extremely important and so easy to achieve. Have a routine, wake up maybe 1 hour or 30 minutes before class whatever works for you. Take a bath, get out of your pajamas, have breakfast, do a workout or do yoga to boost your energy before class. This would help you to get into an extraordinary mindset. These seem like such minor details but believe me they make a real difference. Having this time for yourself before class is going to be the best. Avoid rushing and waking up at the exact time your first class starts. 

5. Eliminate Distractions 

Personally I feel this is the most challenging tip, no distractions. Being home increases our “need” to use our cellphones and social media. But try to avoid it as much as possible, maybe turn off the ringtone or notifications to help yourself. Take note that it is also important to have a place where nobody bothers you. 

6. Be active/attentive during class

It’s  not just having your camera on, having your microphone off and being present in class. You need to be really present, ask questions, talk, share thoughts, ideas, express yourself. This will help to keep you engaged during class, and not get as easily distracted.

 7. Be POSITIVE:

I must be honest this one at times may be the most challenging. It’s not at all easy to always be  positive but try your best to be so. We are all tired of this situation, but, for right now this is our only alternative. Let’s get the most out of it. Have a big smile in each class, greet your teachers and classmates. Remember at the end of the day every subject will help you grow as a human being.

In my experience, I have been following all of these tips since day 1 of my online school trajectory. I  specifically highlight tip #4  because it seems kind of unnecessary but since I started setting my routine and doing yoga, I’ve seen and felt the change, I love it. I hope that you liked these tips and take them into consideration at all times! This will definitely make the road less bumpy.

-Maria Jose Caminero –  10 A 

Alumni talks about the pandemic and gives advice to our Seniors

These times have been really rough and challenging but we need to stick to it and as we go through the process make adjustments to be able to continue with our lives. Jean Marco Pou, a past student from The Ashton School, currently studying in Unibe, shares his experience on the pandemic during his last year of college, which we hope may help our seniors in some way. It has been hard, but not impossible to deal with. (more…)

Alumni talks about the pandemic and gives advice to our Seniors

These times have been really rough and challenging but we need to stick to it and as we go through the process make adjustments to be able to continue with our lives. Jean Marco Pou, a past student from The Ashton School, currently studying in Unibe, shares his experience on the pandemic during his last year of college, which we hope may help our seniors in some way. It has been hard, but not impossible to deal with. (more…)

The anxiety of giving birth during a pandemic

In the course of this rough and anxious time, life must go on. Two of our dear teachers have delivered two beautiful children to our world. Johanna Marlet & Alejandro José. Along this great news, also came a challenge which was really difficult for both of them.

Below is an interview with the answers from our teachers who gave birth.

1.) How did you feel before delivering your baby?

Ms. Rudeke: Before delivering our baby, Alejandro José, I was so scared. Alejandro was to be born right during the first peak of the pandemic. I remember praying to God, ¨He had blessed us this far, please keep our baby safe!¨

Ms. Paulino: At first I thought that it would be over soon, but when I saw the news that there were more and more (Covid-19) cases every day I felt anxious and worried. I prayed and began looking for God’s peace and guidance during my process.

2.) What were your thoughts regarding the safety of your child when you heard about the pandemic?

Ms. Rudeke: I think our fears escalated within weeks of his arrival.  Doctors’ appointments were canceled. Everything we had ordered for the baby was paused; our brothers, sisters and even parents were forbidden to come visit us… and I think that is when I really started panicking and turned on ‘mommy survival mode’. Basically, fear becomes so overwhelming, there is nothing to be done but trust in God and know that He has control of everything that happens, and so I found comfort in Him.

Ms. Paulino: First I started to look for clinics that had patients with covid-19 and what procedures they had to treat them. Then I asked my doctor about the protocol for pregnant women delivering babies in these scenarios. Then I read medical articles about delivering babies in the middle of a pandemic. I got more and more informed about everything. 

3.) How was the process in the hospital, any struggles or fears?

Ms. Rudeke: So, our delivery was ‘planned’ except that it was nothing as we had expected. My most overwhelming experience was not knowing what to do with Victoria. We were blessed my brother and his wife had recently tested negative for the virus. So naturally, she stayed with them during our stay at the hospital. The hospital felt so lonely, no visits, even the nurses and doctors only came in when necessary. But then again, it was so peaceful and I was just so grateful I had Alejandro in my arms. God truly gave us our miracle.

Ms. Paulino: I was nervous at the hospital. I prayed but my doctor and the crew did a great job with me.

4.) What has been the hardest part of it for you?

Ms. Rudeke: I think the hardest part has been not to share our blessing with family and friends, at least not physically. Not to mention all the roles we have to keep up with. I cannot thank my sisters, and my friends who have become sisters, enough. They have been so supportive, even from afar. Without their love and encouragement (and yummy meals) it would not have been as easy.

Ms. Paulino: The hardest part was not being able to see my baby as soon as possible because of the security protocol. They gave her to me the next day before I got home.

5.) What is a message you would like to transmit to all pregnant moms that are going through this?

Ms. Rudeke: For the moms to be, my most comforting phrase, so simple but true, is this… ¨Be still, and know that He is God.¨ -Psalm 46:10. Every single detail in our lives has been designed by Him… so let us set our fears aside and allow our faith in Him to prevail.

Ms. Paulino: Pray. Get well informed. Talk to your doctor and ask anything you have in mind to him/her. Last but not least: Rest in the Lord with all your strength.

My takeaway as I was able to write this fascinating story was that it doesn’t matter how impossible and hard things may look, you need to have trust not only in that everything is going to be all right but also that God has control of the situation, pray to Him and everything will be fine. This is one of the many examples that life is a blessing and as some may say, a miracle. Once again I thank my two teachers for letting me write their story and for touching my heart as well.

Maria Jose Caminero Guerra

Article by

María José Caminero
High School

The anxiety of giving birth during a pandemic

In the course of this rough and anxious time, life must go on. Two of our dear teachers have delivered two beautiful children to our world. Johanna Marlet & Alejandro José. Along this great news, also came a challenge which was really difficult for both of them.

Below is an interview with the answers from our teachers who gave birth.

1.) How did you feel before delivering your baby?

Ms. Rudeke: Before delivering our baby, Alejandro José, I was so scared. Alejandro was to be born right during the first peak of the pandemic. I remember praying to God, ¨He had blessed us this far, please keep our baby safe!¨

Ms. Paulino: At first I thought that it would be over soon, but when I saw the news that there were more and more (Covid-19) cases every day I felt anxious and worried. I prayed and began looking for God’s peace and guidance during my process.

2.) What were your thoughts regarding the safety of your child when you heard about the pandemic?

Ms. Rudeke: I think our fears escalated within weeks of his arrival.  Doctors’ appointments were canceled. Everything we had ordered for the baby was paused; our brothers, sisters and even parents were forbidden to come visit us… and I think that is when I really started panicking and turned on ‘mommy survival mode’. Basically, fear becomes so overwhelming, there is nothing to be done but trust in God and know that He has control of everything that happens, and so I found comfort in Him.

Ms. Paulino: First I started to look for clinics that had patients with covid-19 and what procedures they had to treat them. Then I asked my doctor about the protocol for pregnant women delivering babies in these scenarios. Then I read medical articles about delivering babies in the middle of a pandemic. I got more and more informed about everything. 

3.) How was the process in the hospital, any struggles or fears?

Ms. Rudeke: So, our delivery was ‘planned’ except that it was nothing as we had expected. My most overwhelming experience was not knowing what to do with Victoria. We were blessed my brother and his wife had recently tested negative for the virus. So naturally, she stayed with them during our stay at the hospital. The hospital felt so lonely, no visits, even the nurses and doctors only came in when necessary. But then again, it was so peaceful and I was just so grateful I had Alejandro in my arms. God truly gave us our miracle.

Ms. Paulino: I was nervous at the hospital. I prayed but my doctor and the crew did a great job with me.

4.) What has been the hardest part of it for you?

Ms. Rudeke: I think the hardest part has been not to share our blessing with family and friends, at least not physically. Not to mention all the roles we have to keep up with. I cannot thank my sisters, and my friends who have become sisters, enough. They have been so supportive, even from afar. Without their love and encouragement (and yummy meals) it would not have been as easy.

Ms. Paulino: The hardest part was not being able to see my baby as soon as possible because of the security protocol. They gave her to me the next day before I got home.

5.) What is a message you would like to transmit to all pregnant moms that are going through this?

Ms. Rudeke: For the moms to be, my most comforting phrase, so simple but true, is this… ¨Be still, and know that He is God.¨ -Psalm 46:10. Every single detail in our lives has been designed by Him… so let us set our fears aside and allow our faith in Him to prevail.

Ms. Paulino: Pray. Get well informed. Talk to your doctor and ask anything you have in mind to him/her. Last but not least: Rest in the Lord with all your strength.

My takeaway as I was able to write this fascinating story was that it doesn’t matter how impossible and hard things may look, you need to have trust not only in that everything is going to be all right but also that God has control of the situation, pray to Him and everything will be fine. This is one of the many examples that life is a blessing and as some may say, a miracle. Once again I thank my two teachers for letting me write their story and for touching my heart as well.

Maria Jose Caminero Guerra

Article by

María José Caminero
High School
Menu
en_USEnglish
es_ESEspañol en_USEnglish