Emma Sassouni
Writer '20
It is already that time of the year when Community School seniors prepare for graduation, and ninth graders are considered for the program. Community School, also known as CS, is a more unique way for students to learn. Located on the bottom floor of Great Neck North High School, the CS atmosphere is different from any ordinary school’s atmosphere as classes are discussion based.
In CS, the classes offered are english and social studies. In regards to math and science, CSers do attend the mainstream classes. There are teachers in CS, but students are eligible to lead discussions too. According to Ms. Ostrover, a social studies teacher, “The idea that students in CS are also teachers is something that makes the program special… CSers come to class each day excited to engage in discussion.” Sitting in desks organized in a circle, everyone participates. These students are motivated by their peers to be active participants, more insightful, and reflective. Ms. Ostrover’s social studies class is able to allocate most of the class time to have a dynamic and beneficial discussion about history, rather than worry about an upcoming assessment.
Along with efficient thinking and a deeper understanding of english and social studies, CSers benefit socially. CSers interact with sophomores, juniors, and seniors in their classes and on trips. This program specializes in the creation of new friendships that can last a lifetime. CS has improved sophomore Jonathan Kirshner’s, high school experience since he is able to interact with older students. Kirshner believes, “that since we are such a small group in the entire school, we all get along so much better and that helps out during class when we are learning.” CS becomes a great way to learn, and makes close-knit relationships with peers.
Unfortunately, there are stereotypes attached to CS. A common stereotype is that CS is less academically challenging, or less enriching as ordinary school. This is inaccurate. In reality, CSers read novels more analytically, and learn information the same way all other students in the school do. Additionally, students who are in the ordinary school usually associate CS with weirder students who do not fit into mainstream school. This is a totally false accusation as CS welcomes all students. This acceptance to all is part of what makes CS so unique.
To ninth graders, apply for CS! According to Kirshner, “what’s the hurt in applying?” CS looks for students willing to be more comfortable in the atmosphere, and participate. As Ms. Ostrover says, CSers want to “learn for the sake of learning instead of being preoccupied with the grades they earn."
Writer '20
It is already that time of the year when Community School seniors prepare for graduation, and ninth graders are considered for the program. Community School, also known as CS, is a more unique way for students to learn. Located on the bottom floor of Great Neck North High School, the CS atmosphere is different from any ordinary school’s atmosphere as classes are discussion based.
In CS, the classes offered are english and social studies. In regards to math and science, CSers do attend the mainstream classes. There are teachers in CS, but students are eligible to lead discussions too. According to Ms. Ostrover, a social studies teacher, “The idea that students in CS are also teachers is something that makes the program special… CSers come to class each day excited to engage in discussion.” Sitting in desks organized in a circle, everyone participates. These students are motivated by their peers to be active participants, more insightful, and reflective. Ms. Ostrover’s social studies class is able to allocate most of the class time to have a dynamic and beneficial discussion about history, rather than worry about an upcoming assessment.
Along with efficient thinking and a deeper understanding of english and social studies, CSers benefit socially. CSers interact with sophomores, juniors, and seniors in their classes and on trips. This program specializes in the creation of new friendships that can last a lifetime. CS has improved sophomore Jonathan Kirshner’s, high school experience since he is able to interact with older students. Kirshner believes, “that since we are such a small group in the entire school, we all get along so much better and that helps out during class when we are learning.” CS becomes a great way to learn, and makes close-knit relationships with peers.
Unfortunately, there are stereotypes attached to CS. A common stereotype is that CS is less academically challenging, or less enriching as ordinary school. This is inaccurate. In reality, CSers read novels more analytically, and learn information the same way all other students in the school do. Additionally, students who are in the ordinary school usually associate CS with weirder students who do not fit into mainstream school. This is a totally false accusation as CS welcomes all students. This acceptance to all is part of what makes CS so unique.
To ninth graders, apply for CS! According to Kirshner, “what’s the hurt in applying?” CS looks for students willing to be more comfortable in the atmosphere, and participate. As Ms. Ostrover says, CSers want to “learn for the sake of learning instead of being preoccupied with the grades they earn."