by Y. Soleno-’26/CCB Contributor
Editor’s Note: This interview by Y. Soleno-’26 with Principal Green was broadcast on the PAWS for a Cause show in late October. The segment features the new Conwell Pet of the Week series.
If you are a member of the Conwell Middle Magnet School community, and would like to have your pet featured here and on the PAWS for the Cause Show, please email gdungan@philasd.org.
Script Written by and Performed by J. Matute-’27 and J. White-Lopez-’27
Produced by J. Colon-Rodriguez
Editor’s Note: The J and J Podcast Episode 1: “Locker Madness” was debuted on the 11/17/23 At Conwell We Are On! morning show. The following script featured the new podcasters and interviewed by At Conwell We Are On! Anchors R. Rowan and A. Peralta, whose script was read during the show, which is edited here for CCB style:
R. Rowan-
Thanks Alissa and Alexis! There are Exciting things that are going on at Conwell, including the debut (DAY-bew) of Conwell Cougars Blog’s newest Podcast. Please tell us more, Aida!
A. Peralta
Of course Riley! Here with me today, we have Jade Matute and Julia White-Lopez of section 51, Who have their podcast on our lockers!
Welcome, Jade and Julia.
J and J
Hello A, Thanks for having us here on the Show!
A. Peralta
J and J what Is your production about and why did you decide to make a report ?
J and J
Our presentation is about 5th grade’s journey into opening lockers and we made this because we wanted to share how we felt about lockers.
A. Peralta
Thank you J. and J., now onto your presentation!
Play video
A. Peralta
Thank you J and J for your Pawsome Podcasts!
Produced by Y. Hiraldo-’26/CCB
Editor’s Note: The following interviews were conducted by CCB students Y. Hiraldo-’26, J. Rivera-’26 and A. Dejesus-’26. The video was featured on the 11/20/23 episode of PAWS for the Cause show. Also on this show, Ms. Sanford introduced Conwell’s invitation to join World Affairs Council (Jr. U.N.).
L. Chestnut-’26/CCB Contributor
Editor’s Note: Student producers of the weekly Monday morning live Zoom Show, PAWS for the Cause, featured a segment that recognized World Kindness Day on Nov. 13. CCB contributor, L. Chestnut-’26, took a photo gallery of a Kindness-themed bulletin board that that was recently created by Conwell ELA teachers Ms. Leone and Ms. Levister.
By Y. Cabera-Cruz-’26 and J. Santiago-’26/CCB Contributors
Editors’s Note: The following is the script presented at the Nov. 11, 2023 At Conwell We Are On! student morning show. The show featured a student report on the history of Veterans Day, a video report with Y. Cabera-Cruz-’26 and J. Santiago-’26/CCB Contributors who interviewed Conwell’s Climate Manager, Mr. Washington, about his service. The program also featured guest commentators Conwell Math Teacher Ms. Golub and Conwell Assistant Principal Ms. Sanford, who spoke on the importance of Veterans Day. The following is the script for the Mr. Washington Interview segment, as led by ACWAO co-host A. Peralta-’25, and edited for this post.
A. Peralta
Up next, we have a video report made by section 61 CCB reporters J. Santiago and Y Cabera-Cruz.
J. Santiago and Y Cabera-Cruz
Good morning Jaylizabeth and Yumalay , What is your video about ?
Thank you for having us! Our video is about Veterans day.
We liked putting together this video report of Mr. Washington talking about his time in the United States military.
A. Peralta
And, we’re looking forward to watching your report!
Play Report
A. Peralta
That was an awesome video report, Yumalay and Jaylizabeth! I didn’t know Mr. Washington served in the Army and Navy for 22 years!
J. Santiago and Y Cabera-Cruz
It was a pleasure learning more about how to Thank a Veteran from Mr. Washington!
R. Rowan
And speaking of the importance of thanking a veteran, we have now special guests, Conwell Middle Magnet School’s math teacher Ms. Golub and Conwell’s Assistant Principal Ms. Sanford.
Click to Ms. Sanford and Ms. Golub slide.
Posted by CCB Stafff
by J. Gonzalez -’24/CCB Contributor
Editor’s Note: This video was created and produced by J. Gonzalez-’24/CCB Contributor, and broadcast on the 11/3/23 At Conwell We Are On! morning show, interviewed by ACWAO! student lead anchor R. Rowan-’24. The following is the script read during the show:
R. Rowan –
Next up, we have Jayden Gonzalez of section 83, who researched Native American tribes with his class. Welcome, Jayden.
J. Gonzalez –
Thank you for having me here, Riley.
R. Rowan –
Thanks for showing up! Why were you researching the Native American Tribes?
J. Gonzalez –
We were researching Native American Tribes for Indigenous people day, and also because we were previously learning about some Native American tribes in Mr. Verdi Social Studies class. In my opinion it was very entertaining and informative. Hopefully we have something similar upcoming.
R. Rowan –
What inspired you to present your classes Native American Projects?
J. Gonzalez –
What Inspired me was the fact that I found it truly interesting and I decided to record it for the CCB Productions. I also wanted to provide recognition toward the Native American and Indigenous people so we can see how they lived and how advanced we are now as a community.
R. Rowan –
Thanks for this information Jayden! Now, Let’s view the video.
Play view the video.
R. Rowan –
Thank you Jayden! Wonderful editing and production.
J. Gonzalez –
Thank you, Riley.
Posted by CCB Staff
by R. Cosme – ’26/CCB Contributor
Editor’s Note: R. Cosme – ’26/CCB Contributor, interviewed and produced a video report with Conwell Middle Magnet School Social Studies teacher, Mr. Verdi, about his perspective on the celebration of Italian Heritage Month, which takes place in October. The video report was featured on the PAWS for a Cause school morning show on Oct. 23, 2023.
By M. Hernandez-’25 and I. Speir-’25/CCB Reporters
Editor’s Note: Students wore Pink in support of Breast Cancer Awareness in mid-October. The following is the script written and presented by R. Rowan-’24/At Conwell We Are On! Lead anchor. She interviewed the reporters for this story M. Hernandez ’25 and I. Speir-’25, live on the At Conwell We Are On! show on 10/13/23.:
R. Rowan – Yesterday was Breast Cancer Awareness, where everyone had worn Pink! With me, we have Mia Hernandez and Isabella Spier of Section 71
Hello! I understand that you two Interviewed and took Photos of the people who wore Pink yesterday! How many people would you say wore pink?
M. Hernandez and I. Speir About 30 people wore pink.
R. RowanThat’s a lot of people helping celebrate breast cancer awareness. Kudos to all the people who had worn pink!
I’ve heard you went around the school all day interviewing people. What are some of the responses you two received from different students for why they decided to wear pink?
M. Hernandez and I. Speir A. Rodriguez from 72 said that she wore pink because some of her family members had breast cancer and she wanted to stand out and support it
G. Gomez from 71 Said that she had worn pink for breast cancer awareness, and wanted to support it.
S. Montanez from 72, said that she wore pink for breast cancer awareness, and she wanted to wear it to support breast cancer awareness.
And lastly, A. Peralta wore pink to honor those who had or have breast cancer.
R. Rowan -That’s great to hear. Let’s move on to the video which is more of a slideshow, created by Jaymar Colon of section 51!
(Play video)
Amazing production. Do you two have any comments about Breast Cancer Awareness you’d like to share with everyone?
M. Hernandez and I. Speir The reason we wanted to wear pink is that we wanted to support and honor people who suffered from Breast Cancer.
R. Rowan – Very inspiring! Thank you for being on the show with us!
M. Hernandez and I. Speir Thank you for having us on!
Posted by CCB Staff
by A. Schemes-’24/CCB Reporter
PB&J is a new youth program in Kensington. PB&J stands for Philly Bridge & Jawn. According to Bryan Belknap, the founder of PB&J, this is a continuation of his work as the former McPherson Youth Librarian of the Philadelphia Free Library.
“Bridges help connect people,” Belknap wrote in an email to the Conwell Cougars Blog. “That is what we want our program to do.”
The purpose of the program is to connect young people to each other and to a few youth organizations working in Kensington. It is also helping young people learn about opportunities in Kensington.
According to Mr. Belknap, the program is designed to help all teens from ages 12-19. The program introduces teens to people that Mr. Belknap thinks are positive influences. These organizations are run by those that Bryan Belknap respects and admires.
As Mr. Belknap said in his email, they are a good influence on him, therefore, Mr. Belknap thinks they would be a good influence on young people, as well.
According to the email Mr. Belknap sent, he states, “We want to connect young people to each other and to youth organizations working in Kensington.”
Some of the groups that PB&J are trying to connect to the teens are
PB&J is holding some pilot program events in the first days of November. Mr. Belknap would like to see 20 teens show up and meet the youth organizations. He said that PB&J is hoping that the young people like the program and will want to do more like it.
According to Mr. Belknap, their goal for 2024 is to help 150 teens. After that, they would like to help 250 teens each year.
As stated by Mr. Belknap in his email, “We would like to reach 150 teens in 2024, and 250 teens every year after. Because some of the teens will be the same from year to year, our 5-year goal is to reach 500 teens.”
Mr. Belknap originally worked in the McPherson Square Library. He worked there for eight years. Once the grant that paid his salary came to an end, he realized he wanted to continue working with young people.
“The grant that paid my salary came to an end,” Belknap wrote. “But, I wanted to keep working with young people in Kensington.”
That is when he decided to start the PB&J program. He knew he could not start a new project on his own, he would need some help. While working in the library, he partnered with Nourish a few times. So, he asked for their help with the program.
According to Mr. Belknap, “Starting a brand new project, I needed help. So, I asked Nourish for help with this program.“
Nourish is a nutrition and cooking program. This program is funded by Pennsylvania SNAP-Ed It educates people about healthy food, affordable recipes, healthy cooking techniques, nutrition information, and other health resources.
According to NKCDC.org, “the goal is to create good food habits with long-term health benefits.” Nourish has an eight week online cooking class for people in Kensington, Fairhill and Juniata. Nourish provides a weekly meal kit with ingredients that are used in the online classes.
For more information about PB&J and the upcoming program from Nov. 1 – 5, which will take place at 2001 E. Allegheny Ave., contact Mr. Belknap at 856-295-1713 or email him at phillybridgeandjawn@gmail.com.
Posted by CCB Staff
Interview by J. Boggs-Mendeloski-’25/CCB Reporter
Photo Gallery by M. Lanza-’25/CCB Contributor
Editor’s Note: Conwell students and staff donned the orange to stand strong for kindness and against bullying in mid-October. The recorded presentation by Principal Green was taken from the Oct. 10, 2023 At Conwell We Are On! live, student morning show.
By C. Zhang-’26 and A. Schemes-’26/CCB Contributors
Editor’s Note – The Anaya’s Fan Club podcast is a student-created and produced podcast about all things C. Zhang and A. Schemes are a fan of. This first podcast talks about A.Schemes’s admiration for the Philadelphia Phillies.
Editor’s Note 2 – The following partial script is from the 10/16/23 P.A.W.S. for a Cause morning Zoom show. the Anaya’s Fan Club podcast was premiered on this show, and interviewed by the show’s lead anchor R. Rowan. The following script is their interview on the show. It has been edited for CCB format.
R. Rowan – The news featured on this final segment represents Conwell’s core values of PAWS, being Peaceful, Accountable , Wholesome and Solutionary.
Camera Pan to Riley and Anaya and Cocomi – Click to transition to final slide
R. Rowan This week’s PAWS for a Cause News of the Week features Conwell’s very first student PODCAST with Cocomi Zhang and Anaya Schemes of section 83 – Welcome!
C. Zhang and/or A. Schemes – Hi Riley, thanks for having us on the show!
Yes, we are happy to be here!
R. Rowan What did it take for you two to come up with your podcast?
C. Zhang and/or A. Schemes – We thought it would be fun! I also love the Phillies!
R. Rowan – That is FAN-tastic, Cocomi and Anaya! Let’s take a listen to your first episode.
Click on video make big screen
R. Rowan The podcast was amazing! Great production you two, thank you for being on the show.
C. Zhang and/or A. Schemes – Thanks for having us!
Posted by CCB Staff
By R. Rowan-’24/CCB Staff
Editor’s Note: R. Rowan-’24 along with other members of the Conwell Cougars Blog were trained by the PSTV team. In the process, Rowan and other students were able to interview the PSTV team members as part of their practical training. The following is a portion of the script Rowan wrote to present her video report and interview fellow CCB member J. Haynes-‘25. that she presented live on Conwell’s At Conwell We Are On! morning student news show on Oct. 6.
ROWAN – Our Conwell community has grown the Journalism and Media Studies program for the past three years. Just earlier this week on Tuesday, October 2nd, 4 members of PSTV, had visited us!
HAYNES – And, yes, you, me, and four other ConwellCougars.Blog student reporters were invited to attend this special media equipment training session in room 307 with the PSTV staff.
ROWAN – According to the PSTV website, the mission of PSTV is to provide youth equal access to media tools and digital and media training.
HAYNES- That’s right, they work through the School District of Philadelphia, and schools have to apply to receive industry-standards level equipment, as well as training.
ROWAN – Yes, and according Mr. Jim, the PSTV Media Technician Production Facilitator, there are about 40 schools currently in the program, and Conwell Middle Magnet School is now among them now!
I had a lot of fun learning how to use the new microphones, recording equipment and even the tri-pods.
HAYNES – And I really liked how I got to learn more about those cameras. I’m really grateful about the PSTV helping me learn. I’m hoping to learn more about digital storytelling and putting together shows like this. And, I understand that you put together a report about our 90-minute training session with PSTV?
Yes, and I even got to use the new equipment. Let’s take a look. ?
Click to transition to next slide and video will automatically play
HAYNES – That was a good time! I even saw Principal Green join us on a Zoom meeting! Our thanks again to Mr. Jim, Ms. Anyae, Mr. Dylan and Mr. Naiser and all the media wizards at PSTV for helping grow the CCB. The full report and photo gallery will be on ConwellCougars.Blog soon.Yes, I agree, I can’t wait to show off what the CCB is is capable of with all this new technology!
ROWAN – Speaking of future award-winners – let’s now turn back to Jayda and Alissa who will spin that PAWSome wheel!
Photo gallery of PSTV training session on 10/3/23. Photo credits: Ms. Green, Ms. Branch, Ms. Sanford, R. Rowan-’24/CCB
Posted by CCB Staff
By Z. Leach-Douglas-’26/CCB Reporter
Editor’s Note: This video report was prepared by Z. Leach-Douglas-’26/CCB Reporter and presented on the 10/6/23 At Conwell We Are On! Morning Zoom student news show. The following script was read by ACWAO anchor A. Peralta-’25 with Z. Leach- Douglas-’27.
PERALTA- We’re all pretty hungry to show our Hispanic Heritage Month Projects! Speaking of what makes us hungry, [Z. Douglas-Leach] of Section 61 and CCB reporter is here with us to tell us more about the new lunch menu!
DOUGLAS-LEACH- Thanks [A. Peralta], yes, Conwell Middle Magnet School has brought back the in-school prepared hot lunches.
PERALTA – I understand that many of our students are liking the new lunch menu?
DOUGLAS-LEACH – Some have, yes. I got a chance to talk with a few students, as well as Ms. Patti Boyer, the school’s cafeteria manager herself. Let’s take a listen.
Video report is played here
DOUGLAS-LEACH – As you can see, many of the students like the new Menu, and we have Ms. Patty to thank! The full video and L. Rodriguez’s lunchtime photo gallery will be posted on Conwell Cougars.Blog shortly, so be sure to visit!
PERALTA- Nice work, [Z. Douglas-Leach]! Thanks for being on with us!
Posted by CCB Staff
by T. Velez – ’26 /CCB Staff
Why I liked joining Safety Patrol at Conwell Middle Magnet School is because last year I was Inspired by the old safety patrol and I wanted to become one.
So, everyday I would ask Mr Washington, who is our school’s Climate manager. And, he would say, next year.
So, I waited and on the last day of school, last year, and I said next year may I be a part of Safety Patrol. I think that the students that are not following the rules will be the hardest to work with and the responsibilities because if someone is being rude it’s going to be hard not to be rude back, but, Mr.Washington is really inspiring expecting to make everyone work harder to be role models and demonstrate PAWS (Peaceful Accountable Wholesome Solutionary).
Mr Washington told us that we get to help other students all around the school, and if you like helping you should sign up, too. And others should join safety patrol because It makes you better as a person.
By R. Rowan-’24 – CCB Staff/Lead Anchor
Editor’s note: the Acre of Diamonds Series features unique stories or talents of the students, teachers, staff of Conwell Middle Magnet School community.
The Conwell Cougars Blog debut Acre of Diamond Series features T. Nugyen-’24, who demonstrates his piano skills in our school’s auditorium. According to Nugyen, he has only been playing for six months! For Nugyen’s full story, please play my video.
Editor’s Note: If you you’d like to nominate or feature someone at Conwell for the Acre of Diamonds Series, please reply below or send a message to gdungan@philasd.org.
Posted by CCB Staff
Gallery by J. Hayes-’26 and J. Spencer – ’26 – CCB Contributors and CCB Staff
Conwell Middle Magnet School welcomed its school families, friends and alumni during its Back-To-School Night on Sept. 14. The evening featured family workshops, community partners and a chance for families and students to meet with their teachers.
Among the community partners present at the event:
–Asociación Puertorriqueños en Marcha, Inc. (APM)
Philadelphia Police Department 24th District
Please view the photo gallery or video for more on the event.
Posted by CCB Staff
By CCB Staff
Conwell Middle Magnet School rang in the new 2022-2023 academic year in the school yard, where families, faculty, staff and students heard Principal Green deliver an impactful message about the power of yet.
Posted by CCB Staff
By V. Escorza – 62 – CCB Reporter with contributions by I. Spier – 61 and E. Santiago – 61.
All this year, Conwell Middle Magnet School students learned about the Six Pillars of Character Counts with Conwell’s Climate Manager, Mr. Washington:
Check out the video above to hear from how Conwell Students describe each pillar in action.
Posted by CCB Staff
By M. Lanza – 62 – CCB Contributor
Photos by M. Lanza-62-CCB Contributor and courtesy of Ms. Branch, Conwell Middle Magnet School teacher.
On the evening of Tuesday, June 6, Conwell Middle Magnet School student leaders from Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) Sorority after school program met with the AKA Sorority leaders. The ceremony took place in Conwell’s newly refurbished auditorium. The sorority sisters were there to honor the Conwell Student leaders who joined the program since its start in the fall of this school year. The students were able to talk about their experience.
Two students were particularly recognized by the AKA sorority sisters present. R. Coaxam from section 72 was given a special award for being accountable. N. Fanfan from 83 was also given a special award for working hard no matter what happen or how bad the day was, as described by the AKA leaders. Also some of the student leaders got to give flowers to some of the sorority sisters.
J. Leach from 62, who was one of the AKA program student leaders, was one of the students selected to speak before those in attendance.
“My experience at the Alpha Kappa Alpha after school program was very fun and my favorite project from the A.K.A Institute is when we gave pajamas for the unfortunate people who can not afford it and it was fun it help others in need,” said J. Leach, during her speech. “I feel like when people had to move from their home and couldn’t grab all of their clothes, we all as a team decided to give clothes to others in need.
Posted by CCB Staff
Related story: “STUDENT COLUMN: A 5th Grader’s Plea to STOP GUN VIOLENCE“
by M. Lanza – 62 – CCB Contributor
Images and media courtesy of Ms. Ms. Levister, Girls on the Run coach and Conwell Middle Magnet School teacher, as well as Ms. Turner, School Aid.
For the second time in my life I walked, ran, skipped and jogged a 5k at the Philadelphia Navy Yard!. We ran on Saturday, June 3.
For me, Girls on the Run was a fun experience and my running partner was great. She really helped and motivated me. It was great because Mrs. Levister, who is not only a great teacher at Conwell, but also a great coach for the school’s after school program called, Girls on the Run. Mrs. Levister was waiting and pushing me to run and not stop.
It felt good to get to the finish line!
I was mainly scared to start because I thought I was going to get trampled. I was really excited because I had a partner. Overall it was fun and we got new gray shirts and a ten year anniversary medal. I can’t wait to join again next year!
Editor’s Note: The Girls on the Run program is lead by Ms. Levister, and takes place throughout the year during After School All Stars. To join the program, please see Ms. Maria.
Posted by CCB Staff
By T. Velez – 51, with contributions from CCB Staff
Photo gallery by T. Velez-51 – CCB Contributor
Conwell Middle Magnet School celebrated another successful year of After School All Stars (ASAS) Ms. Maria, who leads the ASAS program, held the festive event on May 23, which took place in the school building and in the school yard.
The event was held to celebrate all the people who were associated with the After School All Stars Program that have been there since day one, and for those who didn’t hesitate to follow all the ASAS program rules.
During the event, people went outside and played games like football and dodgeball, while Mr. Washington, the school’s Climate Manager, grilled for those in attendance some good food like sandwiches, chips, burgers and hotdogs.
See above photo gallery for snapshots of the ASAS event.
Published by CCB Staff
By B. Smith – 83 – CCB Reporter with contributions from A. Mejias-83 and E. Perez-83
It’s been such a great experience and a great year for everyone at Conwell Middle Magnet School. Every student here at Conwell has created great memories and has met great peers, as well. Unfortunately, the Eighth-Grade Class of 2023 has to say goodbye and start a new chapter of their lives.
Please check out the above video to hear what some students of the Class of 2023 want to share with you, along with advice they have for the younger and incoming students of Conwell.
We hope you find this advice to be valuable and take this advice seriously.
Posted by CCB Staff
by Y. Hiraldo – 61 – CCB Staff
Video production by Y. Hiraldo 61 – CCB Staff with video engineering contributions from J. Rivera – 62 – CCB Contributor.
Conwell Cougars Blog student Columnist Y. Hiraldo spoke with students and staff about how they enjoy the warmer months!
Editor’s note: If you are interested in creating a student column, email gdungan@philasd.org.
Posted by CCB Staff
Video report by A. Vega – 82 CCB Photographer
Article by L. Colon – 62 CCB Contributor
Conwell Cougars.Blog Photographer, A. Vega, has put together a photo gallery of the championship game of flag foot ball that took place on May 18 ,
Blue team the Cougar Selects triumphed over the Green team Hawks, 34 – 38
They played a true championship game, and while the Hawks fought and tried super hard, the Cougar Selects fought just a little stronger and only won by four points with just 10 seconds left in the game .
Editor’s Note: 6ABC reporter Matteo did a fantastic story that featured Mr. Washington and how his Police Athletic League experience helped pave the way for the Conwell Flag Football League.
Posted by L. Colon – 62 CCB Contributor
by A. Peralta – 83 – CCB Lead Reporter
The PA Ballet program ran through September to May, ultimately ending with a final performance on May 5, 2023. Conwell Middle School students were taught three dances to practice, Jazz Dance, Bachata and The Finale Dance. The final dance, There were nine different other schools, all dressed in different colors while Conwell was dressed in green.
“Just the thought of them performing in front of lots of people, makes it all worth it,” Ms. Maria, Conwell School Secretary and After School All Stars coordinator for the school, said.
Ms. Maria has stated that the students learn discipline, cooperation and also learn how to be precise. One of the performers had also received a scholarship to a dance school, however they are going to receive this recognition later during the 8th grade award ceremony.
Ms. Maria also looks forward to more participation in the next school year and she encourages everyone to join, male and female, dancer or not, she still encourages everyone to join.
Check out the above video to see the 2022-2023 Conwell PA Ballet dancers in action, during their performance at the Cherry St. Pier on May 5.
Editor’s Note – Footage from the recital courtesy of Ms. Maria and Conwell Parent Ms. Palmer.
Posted by A. Peralta – CCB Staff
by A. Vega – CCB Videographer
The Conwell Middle Magnet School Flag Football games were an amazing experience to film. It’s because the students look like they are having a blast and the spectators were enjoying themselves. My video can be the second best way to watch the game. So come on down to watch our student athletes play on Thursdays. It’ll be happening after school and we look forward to it continuing year after year.
Editor’s note: reporting contributions by V. Escorza and E. Vega.
Posted by A. Vega-CCB Staff
By A. Snowden – 62 – CCB Reporter
Photo Gallery of Shelice’s Angels Field Trip by A. Peralta-62 and R. Rowan -71 CCB Staff
Recently, a group of young women from Conwell Middle Magnet School got the privilege to go out of state to see the Meta Facebook Company in action.
On Friday, May 5, Zaire Franklin, one of the linebackers for the Indianapolis Colts, gave them the opportunity to meet with important workers at the colorful, technology full, Meta Facebook Company, through his nonprofit organization Shelice’s Angels.
According to the Shelice’s Angels website, the aim of the nonprofit is to educate young people about the greater world around them.
The girls on this trip got on a luxury bus and drove 2 hours to New York City. Franklin talked a little about how he named the trip.
“I named you all the ‘Shelice Angels’ because my mother’s name was Shelice, “ Mr. Franklin stated. “She was very dear to me because I grew up with her, and learned a lot.”
Franklin went to Conwell Middle Magnet School before becoming a professional football player. Since graduating Conwell, he has made several visits to our school for motivational talks. One of his recent visits to his alma mater even brough NFL Films.
“I learned to do more than my limits, “ Zaire explained of his time at Conwell. He added that his mother saw his potential in himself that helped lead to his successes.
In the beginning of the Meta Facebook field trip, the girls were allowed to do a Question and Answer to learn more about how the Meta Company operated.
“People make mistakes, believe me I did a lot,” Ms. Lauren, one of the Meta Facebook employees told the students during the Q and A part of the tour. “You can’t take those back, so don’t think about what you could have done, and start thinking about what you can do in the future to make it better.”
All the workers that were in this Q and A, had no idea that they would be working at the Meta company. They all had ideas in being an athlete, or a technologist. In fact, some said that they didn’t even know this company existed!
There were nearly 30 people that went on the Shelice’s Angels trip. There were 7 chaperones, including Principal Green and Ms. Branch. According to Ms. Green, Meta Facebook provided the other chaperones.
The chaperones split everyone into groups, and took them for ice cream and to see the breath-taking New York City skyline on the company’s roof.
“The view was beautiful! “ J. Rivera of section 62 stated. “I would definitely go there again!”
Everyone who participated got Indianapolis Colts hats, and Shelice’s Angels shirts.
Posted by CCB staff
By A. Peralta-83 – CCB Lead Reporter with contributions by CCB Staff
Image courtesy of Conwell MMS.
On Tuesday, May 9, from 5:30 through 8:30 PM, Conwell Middle Magnet School will be hosting Philadelphia City Council’s next Public Safety Committee Hearing. At the public event, Council member Curtis Jones Jr. (4th district), chairperson of the Public Safety Committee and Council member Quetzy Lozada (7th district), will be speaking about Kensington’s crises of Crime, Narcotics and overall harmful environment for students and civilians alike.
According to Conwell’s principal, Ms. Erica Green, Conwell Middle School has support from the 24th Police District along with Town Watch, IDAAY, The City Of Philadelphia and School Police.
As explained in an article published in the Philadelphia City Council Weekly Report, the purpose of the hearing is for the public to weigh in on Councilmember Lozada’s proposed Marshall Plan for Kensington. The plan is described as a way for leaders from across the city to develop solutions in collaboration with community residents.
In her resolution, Council member Lozada stated that the plan was so named after, “The Marshall Plan, also known as the European Recovery Program, grew out of the horror and destruction caused by World War II.” Her plan connected the horrors of World II with the current Opioid and gun violence crisis in the neighborhood.
“They chose Conwell because it is in the heart of Kensington and the Opiod Crisis,” Principal. Green said.
“They chose Conwell because it is in the heart of Kensington and the Opioid Crisis,” Ms. Erica Green, principal of Conwell Middle Magnet school, said. “Voices of the parents, students and teachers should be heard because they are all stakeholders.”
Principal Green encourages the public, residents, and especially students and their families to attend the meeting to have their voices heard.
“Voices of the parents, students and teachers should be heard because they are all stakeholders,” Principal Green said, “and the only way we can make change is if we work together for our community.”
According to Principal Green, students are expected to speak and express their concerns, opinions and worries. Some students were also asked what they would say to the City Council members during the meeting.
“Our community needs more police officers around making addicts and the homeless get proper help,” said A. Irizarry-82, Conwell eigth-grade student and president of the school’s Student Council. She added, “and ensuring no more addicts are in our community.”
Many of Conwell’s students walk home, take public transit, and travel from outside the neighborhood, which makes this a major issue and hazard for the safety of the students.
“There should be police officers to at least get people off the street,” said E. Jasper-83, an eighth-grade student. “I once ran into someone high.¨
Furthermore, the crime rate in Kensington makes this dangerous situation even worse.
“I don’t want to see needles on the ground,” A. Capetillo-61, a sixth grade student, said.
By CCB Staff
Conwell Middle Magnet School student athletes triumphantly brought home the bronze cookies at the 2023 Penn Relays on April 27. According to Conwell Track Coach, Mr. Adams, this year marks the sixth time Conwell racers brought home medals and trophies from the 4×100 meter races, as well as the Shuttle Race. Mr. Adams noted in previous years, both the boys and girls relay and shuttle teams won first place, and the coveted gold medals.
This year, racers: L. Waites and D. Hargrove (team anchors), E. Jasper, C. Sudyam, and N. Lewis.brought home the third place medals from among nine other teams from across the School District of Philadelphia. The event was the 4×100 meter Small Girls Race. Watch the video to see the students run on to a winning position.
Posted by CCB Staff
Photo Gallery by K. Miller – 72
This photo art gallery, by Conwell Middle Magnet School student art photographer K. Miller – 72, was a beautiful look into the budding spring-time feeling one gets when walking through nature. K. Miller, along with her family, took a trip to Silver Lake Nature Center, in Bristol, where they spent the day exploring and capturing the beauty that is growing right in front of our eyes.
To check out her photo gallery, play the video above.
Editor’s Note: If you’d like to submit your artwork to the CCB, please email gdungan@philasd.org.
Posted by CCB Editorial Staff
By A. Snowden-62 – CCB Editorial Staff
Editor’s Note: This poem was written by A. Snowden in honor of Women’s History Month. The poem was read in its entirety on the live Friday, “At Conwell We Are On!” Zoom show on 3/31/23.
Better Late Than Never
We celebrate women today
Because back then, they weren’t celebrated in any way
They were treated unfairly, different from men
They did so much, but then …
They still were treated unequally, it wasn’t fair!
So, they marched and marched, as they dare
People saw the issue and sought help
They kept marching … and, welp …
The women were free to do whatever
But til this day, women are still under the weather
They are still paid little, more about
Someone has to do something, this isn’t allowed!
But as I always say, you’ll see one day
BETTER LATE THAN NEVER
Posted by CCB Staff
By E. Vega-82 – CCB Editorial Staff
Conwelll students during rehearsal with Drum Teacher Mr. Robinson. Footage by A. Vega-81.
Students at Conwell Middle Magnet School show off their great talent by playing the drums with drum teacher Mr. Robinson. Students played three different practice pieces in the above video, and one song called “Boom Cat Samba.”
Students play every Wednesday, throughout the day. If you wish to join drums, please contact Mr. Robinson or Ms. Maria at the main office.
Video Editing by K. Velasquez 83 and Video Footage by A. Vega 81
By. Z Leach – 51 – CCB Contributor
——-
Editors’ Note:
This article is about the death of the author’s family member, which was reported on NBC 10 news on Jan. 27. These are the words of the deceased’s family member, a fifth grade student here at Conwell Middle Magnet School.
I was born in 2012. I grew up in a very bad neighborhood where there was a lot of gun violence and other violence that no one my age should know about.
At the beginning of this year, my older nephew passed away in a gun shooting. I found out by my mom calling me into her room. After hearing the horrible news, my brother and his girlfriend went to the hospital, and my nephew passed away.
Seeing him lying there deceased at the hospital really broke my heart and made my family devastated.
People think this world is a joke, but it’s not. It’s real to me, and people don’t understand what they’re doing to other people.
All I’m saying is stop.
There are several innocent people out here dying and getting hurt because people are making the wrong decisions. People really need to realize what they’re doing and how terrible they’re making this world.
I just want to live my life as a little kid and have peace. These days nobody can really have that because there are people out here making this world a bad place.
—–
Edited by E. Santiago – 61 – CCB Editorial Staff
By B. Smith 83-CCB Reporter with reporting by K. Velasquez -83-CCB Staff
On Thursday Nov. 3, at around 8:30 a.m the new Superintendent of Philadelphia Public Schools, Dr. Tony B. Watlington, visited Conwell Middle Magnet School, located in the Kensington area of Philadelphia.
Photo by A. Vega 8-1. Graphic Art by K. Velasquez 8-3
Dr. Watlington, along with the Chief of School Safety Kevin Bethel and the Chief of Schools Dr. Evelyn Nunez visited Conwell Middle Magnet School to get to know some students and some of the teachers and staff. Dr. Watlington says his reason for the visit is to see the environment and community within the school instead of just the outside.
“My priorities as superintendent are to try and help the schools of Philadelphia grow and thrive as much as I can,” said Dr. Watlington. When asked what this would mean for Conwell, Dr. Watlington replied, “This would mean more opportunities for growth physically and educationally. It would also mean a brighter future for teachers, students and staff alike.”
Principal Green showed Dr. Watlington, Chief. Bethel and Dr. Nunez around the entire school, she highlighted the new STEAM Lab and some renovations that have been done in the building.
Principal Green said, “We want our students to have innovative classrooms that tap into their abilities for what they need to succeed and thrive here at Conwell, high school, college and beyond.”
Photo by A. Vega 8-1. Graphic Art by K. Velasquez 8-3.
There weren’t any special ceremonies or presentations throughout the visit. The reason for this was most likely because Dr. Watlington said he wanted to see what a normal school day at Conwell looked like.
When going into each of the classes, Principal Green asked students to share what they were doing in class and even some of the new students what they liked about Conwell.
One student in a class we visited said, “I was nervous when I transferred but everyone has been so nice and made me feel welcomed.”
At the end of the visit, reporters Conwell Cougars Blog B. Smith and K. Velasquez asked Dr. Watlington what he thought of Conwell.
“I think Conwell has a very nice environment and strong community within the school,” Dr. Watlington said. “I also think Conwell has amazing students and teachers.”
“I think Conwell has a very nice environment and strong community within the school,”
Dr. Watlington, Philadelphia Public Schools Superintendent
Dr. Watlington was also asked what he thinks the importance of the United Fall Festival Torch run is to the School District. He replied, “ I think participating in the United Fall Festival torch run will encourage students to participate in activities and things like this more.” This was a very important event because this could mean a lot for our school in the future and for our school district.
Posted by K. Velasquez-83 – CCB Staff
By L. Chestnut – ’26 and O. Chavajay-Rojas/CCB Contributors
Reflections by J. Spencer – ’26 and Y. Cruz-’27/CCB Contributors
Photos courtesy of Principal Green, Ms. Branch, A. Peralta-’25 and A. Cruz-’27/CCB – Video Edit by O. Chavajay-Rojas-’26/CCB
Editor’s Note: The following script was read as part of the the 10/13/23 At Conwell We Are On! Live Zoom show, broadcast throughout the school. It has been edited for CCB format.
R. Rowan – On Wednesday, Eleven Navy Sailors came to our school to participate in Navy Week to celebrate the Navy’s Birthday. They had handed out Applications for a STEM program, which will be starting January.
R. Rowan – For more, Here is A. Peralta, Interviewing L. Chestnut and O. Chavajay-Rojas.
A. Peralta – Good morning Conwell I’m A.Peralta here with L.Chestnut asking a few questions about the Navy who joined us earlier this week
A. Peralta -L. how did you feel seeing the navy at our school ?
L. Chestnut – The reason I want to talk about Navy Week is because I wanna appreciate the navy for coming to our school
We learned lot of thing about the Navy like Mr Washington was in the Navy for a long time
Mr. Washington was nice enough to invite some of his Navy friends to talk about what they do in the Navy.
They told us they have 60 different types of jobs and they said there are different ranks, such as an admiral or full admiral, or four-star admiral.
They have stripes on their arms, and according to our Navy visitors, each stripe is 4 years in service from the start of their career.
I bet you Mr Washington had a lot of stripes!
I really like the Navy because the sailors told me I can get a good scholarship and help earn a lot of money and you get to go to places you never went to.
Turn to Obed H.
A. Peralta – That was a amazing response thank you , Leroy
L. Chestnut – Yes, A. My producer, O.Chavajay-Rojas from Section 62, edited a photo gallery video, thanks to photos from Principal Green, Ms. Branch, and CCB photographers yourself and A. Cruz from section 51.
A. Peralta – Now let’s get into the video editing project that Obed from section 62 created .
Play video full screen
R. Rowan – Inspiring video and great production, Obed!
Editor’s Note – The following is a report submitted by J. Spencer-’26/CCB Contributor of her observations of the the Navy visit:
On Tuesday, Oct.10, 2023, the people that in the Navy came into Conwell and spoke with us.
They went to all the classes.
The 8th graders were reading a book on the navy. They were really nice and we asked them questions.
The questions were: “What is the highest rank level?”, “How much do you make?”, “How long have you been in the Navy?” and more.
They answered the questions.
Ms. [Principal] Green was recording us and the Navy people. We had a good time.
Poem by Y. Cruz-’27 in reflection of his experience with the U.S. Navy visit to Conwell
Published by CCB Staff
Conwell Cougars Blog 