This school year, the Science Department is excited to continue fostering student success and confidence through various programs offered on campus.
Building on the success of last year’s inaugural Chemistry and Biology Tutoring Program, the department is expanding this initiative with a new emphasis on supporting freshmen taking chemistry through different opportunities for students. Underclassmen now have the opportunity to meet with subject-specific tutors every Monday after school. These sessions aim to provide new perspectives, foster collaborative work among peers, and enhance confidence in scientific abilities.
The department is also committed to creating an inclusive environment by training tutors to effectively best support their students.
“What I love about being a chemistry and biology tutor is when girls come up to me in the hallway and tell me how their grades have improved—from a ‘D’ to a ‘B,’” senior Isabella Gonzalez said. “It makes me so happy to see people feeling less intimidated by science and more confident in themselves.”
In addition, OLLA continues to nurture its HOSA academic team into its second year. HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) is an international student organization that provides opportunities for students to explore careers in health professions. One of its chapter’s founders, senior Justina Montaldo, is excited to build on the success of the team.
“This year I am so excited to host more informational workshops about the different competition events and bring more members into HOSA,” Montaldo said. “In our very first year, we had over 100 members join, so I am looking forward to an even better turnout this school year.”
Last year, the HOSA team was awarded the largest new chapter award in the state, and they are determined to bring home more awards this year.
“Last year everyone on the team formed such a close bond, and I’m hopeful we will be going to nationals this year,” sophomore Madison Moreno said. “I truly appreciate the amazing support and the preparation the science teachers dedicated to us.”
On campus, the Chemistry Club is also gearing up for an exciting year ahead. President Nicole Hoover plans to expand the club’s activities to include more interactive and enjoyable events.
“This year, the executive board is planning our first-ever service event with a local elementary school, where we’ll be making slime with students to get them excited about science,” Hoover said. “Last year, our lip balm-making meeting was really popular, so we’re planning more beauty-related science activities, like making blush.”
Overall, the school’s Science Department continues to prioritize student growth and provide opportunities for diverse interests.
“We want our students to become independent thinkers, solve problems, and use data to support their answers,” department head Ms. Fleming said. “That’s our goal, no matter what science we’re teaching—to have students feel confident in their abilities.”
Through dedicated tutoring programs, HOSA initiatives, and engaging extracurricular activities, the Science Department empowers students to excel in all fascts of life.
