Since September, East Haven High School students in the Digital Arts and Sciences Academy Bio21 and Digital Media and Movie Making (DM3) courses have been studying the use of spider silk as a possible substitute for traditional medical sutures. As a result of the project, Ms. Knudsen’s Bio21 students studied the make-up of specific breeds of spiders, conducted experiments to collect silk from the spiders and tested its durability. Those same students, while taking Mr. Miles’ DM3 (Digital Media and Movie Making) course, took the information that they gathered in their Science class and made a documentary film entitled ‘From Silk to Sutures’.
In both classes, the work of both the students and teachers has been astounding. Students are exploring the content of the course in a non-traditional manner, with an emphasis on inquiry and exploratory experiences, while at the same time applying the skills and knowledge that they have acquired to create high-level work.
For their efforts, on Friday, April 26, 2013, East Haven High School students screened their film at the Connecticut Student Film Festival at The Palace Theater in Waterbury. In the category of Outstanding Documentary Short Film, EHHS students won 1st place for their entry of ‘From Silk to Sutures’!
Aside from earning the recognition when competing against schools from throughout the State of Connecticut, the most rewarding part of the evening was the pride that our students demonstrated upon hearing East Haven High School named as the winner.
A few weeks ago, East Haven High School Medical Careers teacher, Nancy Tipping, posted the following data on East Haven Patch regarding EHHS participation at the Connecticut Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) Leadership Conference.
“Twenty East Haven High School HOSA members attended the Connecticut HOSA Leadership Conference at Gateway Community College on April 5th, 2013. 17 EHHS students competed in events ranging from Medical Spelling Bee to CPR/First Aid and 14 won medals in their events: 3 gold, 6 silver and 5 bronze. They competed against other HOSA members from across the state, and won medals in the medical events listed below:
First Place Gold Medal in: Nursing Assisting- Ashley Porrazzo; Job Seeking Skills - Jurgena Hysolli; Prepared Speaking - Donita Canieso.
Second Place Silver Medal in: Medical Spelling Bee - Marissa Muolo; CPR/First Aid team- Emily Kuzma & Briana Fitzsimmons; Prepared Speaking - Nick Franco; Researched Persuasive Speaking - Brittany Rowe.
Third Place Bronze Medal in: Job Seeking Skills - Jessica Poirier; Medical Photography- Gina Colavolpe; Creative Problem Solving team- Briana Minichino, Alyssa Palmieri & Marianne Integlia.
East Haven High School won a trophy for being the Outstanding HOSA Chapter in Connecticut.
Two students ran for state office. They gave their campaign speech on a stage with a microphone in front of approximately 120 people. One of them, Jessica Poirier was elected State Parliamentarian. The state officers plan and run the conferences.
Lastly, Jenna Gaudioso, who has been the Connecticut HOSA President-Elect for the past year has advanced to being the State President. “
East Haven High School students continue to impress throughout Connecticut. These students and their teachers should be proud of the work that they have done and should know that their achievements make all of us in East Haven proud!
