Mar 21, 2024
Woodlawn High School’s Magnet Robotics Team attended the Louisiana High School VRC State Championship at the Randolph Riverfront Center in Pineville, Louisiana on March 1st. This is the first time in Woodlawn High’s history that a team has qualified to receive an invitation to the state championship competition. Despite encountering technical issues and overheating problems early on, the team refused to be discouraged. Instead, they embraced each setback as an opportunity to learn and grow, demonstrating remarkable perseverance.
Their ability to overcome challenges speaks volumes about their teamwork and unwavering motivation. This season, the team worked long hours after school to improve Robot 55755B and traveled to multiple competitions throughout the state in order to amass enough points to qualify for the state tournament. Even when faced with adversity, the team remained focused and worked together seamlessly to find solutions. Winning matches, despite their robot overheating, showcases the team’s grit and determination to succeed against all odds.
WHS Magnet Robotics Team members (L to R) Aarav Kansal, Hasan Abbas, and Aisha Abbasovaare are ready for the Louisiana High School VRC State Championship.
The team’s robot was the fastest in the entire competition. The win is a clear reflection of the students’ innovation, adaptability, and commitment to excellence. Their journey from setbacks to triumph is a source of inspiration, highlighting their dedication to pushing boundaries and achieving greatness in the field of robotics.
“From setbacks to success, our journey in the VEX V5 competition has been a testament to our resilience, teamwork, and unwavering motivation. We may have faced challenges, but we emerged stronger and faster, showcasing our dedication to innovation and excellence,” said the WHS Magnet Robotics Team.
Mr. Gerardo Sepulveda has been making a significant impact for the past three years as the Magnet Robotics teacher and sponsor of the Magnet Robotics Team at Woodlawn High School. The team’s appreciation for his support reflects the strong bond and collaboration within the robotics community at WHS.
Mar 15, 2024
The ICare Club’s initiative during lunch shifts demonstrates a commitment to promoting positivity and uplifting the spirits of students. By projecting positive affirmations, encouraging students to write their own affirmations, and distributing ICare pencils while engaging in uplifting conversations, the club members are creating a supportive and caring environment within the school community.
ICare Club member Amy Kirk was asked what she believed the purpose of the activity was.
Junior Dwayne Beverly shows his positive affirmation during ICare’s lunch initiative.
“The purpose of it is to campaign and spread the word that no matter what you may be going through in life right now, you matter and you are loved and cared about,” said Kirk. “It’s about spreading positivity and reminding those around you that they matter.”
Kirk’s statement underscores the central message of the activity: to remind individuals that they are valued and supported regardless of the challenges they may be facing. The emphasis on spreading positivity and reinforcing the idea that everyone matters contributes to fostering a sense of belonging and well-being among students.
Overall, the ICare Club’s efforts align with their mission of promoting kindness, empathy, and support within the school community. By consistently reminding students that they are loved and heard, the club is making a meaningful impact on the emotional well-being of their peers.
Mar 14, 2024
Steeped in tradition and excellence, the Woodlawn High Jazz Ensemble, led by Paul Lauve (director of bands), showcased their musical prowess at the annual Loyola University Jazz Festival last Friday. With a legacy spanning decades, the ensemble continues to elevate its scores and captivate audiences with each performance.
Amidst the festival’s electric atmosphere, the ensemble had the privilege of participating in enlightening clinics led by jazz professionals and masterclasses conducted by Loyola University professors. This invaluable experience not only enhanced their musical skills but also ignited their passion for jazz.
Congratulations to the Panthers for their stellar performance, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who witnessed their musical mastery!
The students of the 2024 WHS Jazz Ensemble are as follows:
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- Zack Lemoine, Alto Saxophone 1
- Aaron Joseph, Alto Saxophone 2
- Tameka Ellison, Tenor Saxophone 1
- Jemarcus Milton, Tenor Saxophone 2
- Danten Guillory, Baritone Saxophone
- Kholbie Nethery, Trombone 1
- Lillie Allen, Trombone 2
- Hunter Hollins, Bass Trombone
- Ethan James, Trumpet 1
- Bradyn Hulsey, Trumpet 2
- Michael Lyons, Trumpet 3
- Demarciya Edmond, Trumpet 4
- Brady LeBleau, Guitar
- Christian Gruse, Bass
- Xzavier Bell, Piano
- Kian Washington, Drum Set
- Tyler Lee, Drum Set
Mar 11, 2024
Every few years, JROTC units nationwide undergo a rigorous evaluation known as the JROTC Program of Accreditation (JPA). This evaluation, mandated by the U.S. Army Cadet Command, serves as a benchmark for assessing the program’s adherence to standards and its overall effectiveness.
Recently, on March 7th, the Panther Battalion embarked on this pivotal journey. Students were tasked with showcasing their Continuous Improvement Program, highlighting their Service Learning Project, presenting their achievements through Cadet Portfolios, and demonstrating precision and unity through marching as a cohesive unit and Color Guard team.
In the face of this challenge, the Panther team rose to the occasion, exceeding expectations and reinforcing their status as an Honor Unit with Distinction. This prestigious designation, symbolized by the coveted Gold Star on their JROTC Uniforms, speaks volumes about their commitment to excellence.
Reflecting on their remarkable achievement, Col. Eric Keys expressed profound pride in the cadets’ unwavering dedication and collaborative spirit:
“I am very proud of our Cadets. Their hard-work, dedication and teamwork paid off with a highly successful showing. They set high standards for themselves and excelled at accomplishing their goals. ‘Hats Off to the Panther Battalion!’ Way to make us proud.”
While awaiting the official results, Mr. Burton, the 6th JROTC representative during the JPA, conveyed his heartfelt congratulations to the Panther Battalion, affirming their continued possession of the Gold star and their esteemed status as an Honor Unit with Distinction.
The Panther Battalion’s triumph serves as a testament to their indomitable spirit, unwavering dedication, and unwavering pursuit of excellence. Their success in the JROTC Program of Accreditation exemplifies their commitment to embodying the highest standards of leadership, discipline, and teamwork.
Mar 3, 2024
The Woodlawn High Youth and Government Club attended the Louisiana Model United Nations Conference as four separate countries on February 29 and March 1, 2024.
Helena Liljeberg, Paul Pittman, Kit Russell, and Eddie Hasson represented Sweden, Taylor Albert and Trenen Prater represented Micronesia, Tyriq Cooper and Jalen Olinde represented Jamaica, and Wesley Porter and Kholbie Nethery represented New Zealand.
Woodlawn High’s YAG Club brought home two joint resolutions combating global issues from global waste management to a possible global technology crisis.
Woodlawn MUN enjoys dinner at their 2024 Model UN Conference.
New Zealand, represented by Kholbie Nethery and Wesley Porter in General Assembly Blue Council, passed a joint resolution concerning a global technology crisis. This was an even more impressive feat considering both students had additional extracurriculars they were participating in during the conference, which forced them to miss portions of the conference.
Tyriq Cooper and Jalen Olinde, representing Jamaica, fell just short with a tie of “yay’s” and “nay’s” for their General Assembly Gold Council resolution on the global homelessness crisis.
Sweden’s Eddie Hasson and Helena Liljeberg authored a joint resolution on how to deal with the Earth’s growing waste issues by burning and storing the emissions to make bio fuel. This resolution won the Best Resolution Award from the Economic and Social Council of the UN.
The club would once again like to say “thank you” to all the teachers and students that helped them fund raise during Mardi Gras!
