Salutations QPA readers, and welcome back to the Queens Preparatory Academy journalism site. As we embark on a fresh and new chapter of the school year, it has come time again to cover all that is to be expected in the spring. From the bliss of celebrations and sunny days, to the low spirits of testing and high anxiety, QPA is preparing to step into the later days of the school year.
As spring approaches, many students and staff alike have begun to pick up high spirits. The combination of the fresh warm air and the resurfacing of outdoor activities has brought back liveliness to the Springfield Gardens High School campus. Student athlete Matthew Saunders has mentioned that the spring time is the most favorable to him, being that there are many opportunities to not only extend their time at school, but to get tutoring help and strengthen their academic skills.
Performing exceptionally well academically has always been a priority here at QPA. As the time exams approaches, tensions in the classrooms have begun to rise. QPA’s “85 and up” test score standard has increased the pressure on the majority of students taking the regents this spring. However, the option for additional help has increased the confidence of many QPA students and therefore allowed them to be stress free this spring. It is important that students are not completely overtaken by stress, and QPA has helped with doing just that.
QPA has also been consistent with the acknowledgement of cultures and movements, not only being informative, but fun as well. Students acknowledged Holi, the Hindu festival when people dance and partake in the throwing of colored waters and powders. It is meant to spread joy and symbolize love and spring, which made for a perfect way to bring in this season. We have also acknowledged other important events like civics week, when students have taken time to learn their rights associated with important issues in this country; and Ramadan, when students acknowledge the Muslim practice of fasting, prayer and charity.
Although spring has not officially started, many are feeling the warmness of the future ahead of them. Despite the potential stresses, QPA has done exceptionally well in maintaining the academic-fun balance. It is safe to say that this spring will be one to look forward to.
How are you feeling about this upcoming spring? Be sure to let us know in the comments below.