Blog Archives

Enjoy the food & fun times with MHS Culinary HEROes

2/26/2024

By ASHA BALU
Club Treasurer

Culinary HEROes sprang to life around 2018 when a bunch of MHS alumni decided to bond over their mutual love for cooking. It all started casually, with just a group of friends coming together to share recipes and tips, but it quickly snowballed into something much bigger—a community fueled by our collective passion for the culinary arts.

Our latest adventure was a Thanksgiving workshop that was nothing short of fun and delicious food! Starting off with the appetizer, we made garlic bread with tons of garlic! For our entrees, we had two types of pasta, making sure to accommodate each other's dietary preferences! For dessert, we made some delicious apple crisp along with some store-bought ice cream–shhh don’t tell anyone!

This Thanksgiving workshop was much more than just a cooking session; it was a get-together of friends and students who normally would not have met to share a wonderful meal that we all collaborated on.

As our club continues to grow, we plan on extending our reach not only into cooking but into our community, too! We recently participated in Pomeroy’s Trunk-or-Treat, where we passed out candy to the elementary students with a little cooking skit! In the future, we plan on hosting bake sales, cooking competitions, and hopefully some food drives to give back to the wonderful community around us!

It is not only our club that continues to grow, so do our dreams. We are not content with just sticking around in the kitchen; we wish to connect with fellow students who share our passion for food, explore new cuisines and cultures, and leave a lasting impression on new members! If you wish to join, don’t be shy! If you are not sure whether to fully commit to Culinary HEROes, stop by one of our meetings and/or workshops, we promise to not leave you hungry–or disappointed.

Speech and Debate shines in multiple competitions

2/19/2024

Milpitas High School’s Speech and Debate Competition Season is in full swing, with middle school and high school students competing against some of the top school individuals and teams throughout the western United States.

Under the guidance of advisor Charles Schletzbaum, individual debaters have been racking up the hardware at an array of competitions this season.

In December 2023, Thomas Russell MS 8th graders Swara Mishra and Ege Tuncer finished as Octofinalists (among 16 best competitors after preliminary rounds), while Milpitas HS freshman Kavish Shah took second in Novice Impromptu Speaking 2nd place in finals, 9th grader Sanjana Krishnan was a semifinalist, while freshmen Ranvir Sakhalkar and Vikram Partha were finalist runner-up in Novice Public Forum.

At Arizona State in January MHS 9th grader Vikram Partha reached the Quarterfinals (1st speaker) in Novice Lincoln Douglas debate and fellow freshman Sanjana Krishnan was 3rd speaker.

Later in the month at James Logan HS, junior Rohan Krishna was an Octofinalist in Varsity Lincoln Douglas debate, while senior Isabelle Cho and junior Reba Prabhakhar cleared to round of 64.

In an online competition hosted by Columbia University, MHS juniors Ashton Chen and Atharv Vyas, as well as MHS senior Isabelle Cho and junior Reba Prabhakhar, were all Octofinalists and earned a bid to the Tournament of Champions.

In February at University of Las Vegas-Nevada, MHS competitors earned even more accolades: freshman Sanjana Krishnan reached the Quarterfinals of Novice Lincoln Douglas Debate; junior
Ashton Chen was the second place speaker in Varsity Public Forum; and juniors Atharv Vyas and Ashton Chen were Octofinalists, earning a second bid to the Tournament of Champions together.

At an online Stanford University debate, freshman Clemence Wong finished as a semifinalist in Junior Varsity Original Oratory; junior Rohan Krishna was an Octofinalist in Varsity Lincoln s Douglas Debate; freshmen Aadya Rai and Sanjana Krishnanwas were Octofinalists again.

Amazing African Ancestry Women of MUSD, Portrait #9: Jillian Valdez, Special Education Program Manager

2/19/2024

Name: Jillian Valdez

Occupation: Program Manager for Special Education

Years with MUSD: 2

How/Why is Black History Month important to celebrate throughout our district?
Celebrating Black History Month throughout our district is not just important; it is imperative. Black history is important to the fabric of the United States, a part of our shared narrative. By acknowledging and honoring this history, we affirm the significance of Black contributions that have played a pivotal role in shaping our nation. It is crucial to recognize that Black history is not confined to a limited timeframe. It permeates every aspect of our society and should be celebrated continuously. Beyond highlighting the prominent figures and milestones of Black excellence, we must also spotlight the everyday contributions of the Black community that enrich the story of our collective experience. BHM provides an invaluable opportunity for our students to see themselves reflected in the narratives of resilience, achievement, and empowerment. This representation is essential for fostering a sense of belonging and pride among our diverse school community. By embracing the full spectrum of Black history, we not only educate but empower our students to see their own potential.

Who is a famous female leader of African Ancestry that inspires you and why?
With so many amazingly accomplished women to choose from, it’s hard to select just one. I will go with someone who inspires my work everyday as an educator. While her name may not be known as widely as some of the more universally recognized pillars of excellence, her contributions are equally profound and deserving of recognition. Dr. Bettina L. Love is an incredibly inspiring figure for me as a Black educator. Her unwavering commitment to transforming education through a lens of cultural responsiveness and abolitionist teaching resonates deeply with my own experiences and aspirations. Love's work serves as a beacon, guiding me in the pursuit of creating inclusive and empowering learning environments that reflect the diverse backgrounds of our students. Her advocacy for dismantling systemic barriers aligns with my personal mission to challenge and address inequities within the educational system. Love's courage to speak out on issues of race, education, and social justice empowers me to use my voice as a catalyst for change. As a Black educator, her efforts inspire me to continue the vital work of fostering critical consciousness and promoting equity within the classroom and beyond.

What are some of your keys to success for younger black females?
Embrace the power within you. Reject the notion that anyone else can define your identity. Be unapologetically bold, take up space, and be courageous in pursuing your dreams. Refuse to diminish your worth for the comfort of others, and never hide your light under a bushel. Shine brightly. Your light is uniquely yours and deserving of every spotlight. You are Black excellence just by being who you are.

Amazing African Ancestry Women of MUSD, Portrait #8: Tana Rainer, Principal Secretary at Spangler

2/18/2024

Name: Tana Rainer

Occupation: Principal Secretary Spangler Elementary

Years with MUSD: 5 years

How/Why is Black History Month important to celebrate throughout our district?
It's important to celebrate it not only throughout the district, but also throughout the world. It's an opportunity to learn about African-American culture and leaders that made significant contributions to the world we live in today. Celebrating Black History Month educates people about the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of the black community throughout history.

Who is a famous female leader of African Ancestry that inspires you and why?
Michelle Obama. My reason for choosing Michelle LaVaughn Robinson Obama is a personal one. She is an American attorney and author who served as the first lady of the United States from 2009 to 2017. Throughout her time in the public eye, Michelle Obama has been an outspoken advocate for numerous social issues affecting African American communities, including education, healthcare, and economic empowerment. Her initiatives, such as Let's Move! and Let Girls Learn, have focused on improving the lives of marginalized groups, including many African Americans. Let's Move is one of the first programs targeted at childhood obesity by encouraging kids to participate in physical activity and revamped US school lunches to include more nutritious food options. Overall, Michelle Obama's representation of African Americans transcends her individual achievements and positions of power. She embodies the aspirations, struggles, and resilience of many within the African American community, making her a significant figure in their collective identity and history

What are some of your keys to success for younger black females?
Know your value and Prioritize education as a foundation for success. Surround yourself with people that you can evolve with. Foster a supportive community where you can find a mentor, peers, and resources to navigate challenges and celebrate successes. The company you keep can make or break you. Ask questions, there is never a bad one. Advocate for yourself and others, both personally and professionally, in order to overcome systemic barriers and promote equality.

Amazing African Ancestry Women of MUSD, Portrait #7: Deanna Elzey, Principal at Weller Elementary

2/17/2024

Name: Deanna Elzey

Occupation: Principal at Joseph Weller Elementary School

Years with MUSD: 17

How/Why is Black History Month important to celebrate throughout our district?
Our current curriculum does not include the voices, stories, and histories of all people. It is crucial that we recognize, honor, and celebrate the contributions, accomplishments, and the cultural impact that those of African Ancestry have had, making our country and world a better place. The inclusion of Black history should not be isolated to one month, but I appreciate the opportunity to shed extra light on the beauty of African ancestry heritage and history during February.

Who is a famous female leader of African Ancestry that inspires you and why?
There are far too many to name!! Currently, I am very inspired by Stacey Abrams. I am inspired by her drive to make the world a more equitable place, especially for the Black community, combating voter suppression. She puts her words into action and understands the importance of making your voice count through voting and beyond. She is also an advocate for literacy!

What are some of your keys to success for younger black females?
Never be afraid to let your light shine brightly! Be proud to share your gifts, because the world needs them. Be confident in all the amazing talents that you bring to the table.

Amazing African Ancestry Women of MUSD, Portrait #6: Shanae Morley, Secretary at Milpitas Adult Ed

2/16/2024

Name: Shanae Morley

Occupation: Secretary

Years with MUSD: <1 year

Why is Black History Month important to celebrate throughout our district?
Black History Month is important to recognize and celebrate because it provides a platform to educate everyone on African Americans' history, cultures, and achievements. African American history is crucial to the foundations of America, allowing us to see the bigger picture of how this wonderful country came to be. The celebration of Black History Month should foster a sense of pride for every member of our community. It stands as an active, inspirational, and dedicated time where achievements, resilience, and contributions are at the forefront of our minds.

As we actively reference the stories of African Americans, we find themes of hope, resilience, innovation, excellence, and triumph. These themes have served as motivation for me and can do the same for all generations, instilling a sense of hope and potential, and encouraging all to dream big and aim for excellence. As we move through this month, let us not only collectively commit to dedicating time and effort to expanding our understanding of the history, achievements, and culture of African Americans but also aim to move forward with a renewed sense of pride, inspiration, and a commitment to shaping a future marked by continued excellence, inclusion, and positivity.

Who is a famous female leader of African Ancestry that inspires you and why?
I consider Michelle Obama an inspiring woman because of her many admirable characteristics. Even though she held one of the most prestigious titles in America, First Lady, Michelle continuously comes off as down-to-earth and authentic. She often openly shares the experiences and challenges she has faced in her life and encourages women and people of color to keep going no matter the circumstance. Utilizing her leadership and poise, Michelle has dedicated her life to the betterment of others through her commitment to public service. This is especially inspiring as we often tend to focus on ‘me’ instead of ‘we’ – she encourages us to think about ‘we’. It is nearly redundant to mention Michelle Obama's intelligence, a trait that is acknowledged by many. However, it is important to mention this quality alongside her advocacy for higher education. Learning about her dedication to this cause is inspiring and can serve as motivation to realize your full potential. Michelle Obama's advocacy for higher education reinforces the idea that education is a direct pathway to empowerment and positive change.

What are some of your keys to success for younger black females?
Education is one of life's most valuable offerings; approach each day as an opportunity to learn and grow. Regardless of your journey or path, having an education will help pave the way to success. Defining success on your own terms is crucial; don't let others or situations change what it means to you. Work towards your unique vision of success. Always remember, history teaches us how determination, strength, and hope guide us to our intended destinations.

Amazing African Ancestry Women of MUSD, Portrait #5: Gina Sainten, Asst. Principal at Sinnott

2/15/2024

Name: Gina Sainten

Occupation: Elementary Assistant Principal at Sinnott

Years with MUSD:12 years

How/Why is Black History Month important to celebrate throughout our district? Black History month is important to celebrate throughout the district to bring awareness of all the greatness that our African American community has accomplished and is still doing. It is a month that gives special time to highlight and dig deeper in learning more about all that has been accomplished. It is also a time for our community to spend more time seeing themselves in the curriculum and content that is shared in the classrooms and school community. Spending time highlighting stories of African American leaders, and people who have worked hard to make change.

Who is a famous female leader of African Ancestry that inspires you and why?
A Famous Female Leader of African Ancestry who inspires me if Michelle Obama. Her focus on making sure we address issue for children and the food they eat was inspiring and how she has partnered and created a TV show “Waffle and Mochi” to teach children about where food comes from to help them explore and try new things has been something I have seen first-hand with my own children looking up to her and learning from her. Mrs. Obama has also been an inspiration to me through the speeches she has made and the books she has written. I know she still has so much to offer to the world and I cannot wait to see what else she does.

What are some of your keys to success for younger black females? Speak up, do not give up your last word, bring your own perspective and don’t be afraid to push for change, Stay true to who you are and advocate for yourself, Encourage each other and empower each other.

Amazing African Ancestry Women of MUSD, Portrait #4: Dr. Hanna Asrat, Principal at Burnett Elementary

2/14/2024

Name: Dr. Hanna Asrat

Occupation: Principal

Years with MUSD: 7 years

How/Why is Black History Month important to celebrate throughout our district? Black History Month provides an opening - a place to start working on ensuring our history tells the whole story. It gives us an opportunity to tell stories we don't often tell in public schools, to reflect on the leaders/inventors/artists/activists we know, and the ones we don't. What it is not is a finish line. It should never be the only time we talk about Black leaders or an excuse to only study Black people and Black stories in February.

Who is a famous female leader of African Ancestry that inspires you and why? Oh there are so many! Michelle Obama is an obvious but amazing choice. I think I'll go with Dr. Beverly Daniel Tatum. Hearing her speak for the first time was so inspiring. It was amazing to see a woman who looks like me speaking at a great university about the educational and equity topics I'm passionate about. I think it might have been one of the first times I considered working towards my own doctorate!

What are some of your keys to success for younger black women? You don't owe anyone anything. You have value and worth just as you are and your ideas and thoughts are worth sharing. Your impostor syndrome is lying to you. You don't have to be exceptional to be awesome. Find your people and lean on them hard.

Amazing African Ancestry Women of MUSD, Portrait #3: Cyd Mathias, 2nd/3rd Grades Teacher at Weller

2/13/2024

Name: Cyd Mathias

Occupation: 2nd/3rd Grades Teacher at Weller Elementary

Years with MUSD: 25

How/Why is Black History Month important to celebrate throughout our district?
Since racism and racial prejudice have been engrained in societies worldwide, children must learn that many black people have made valuable contributions in the fields of science, medicine, technology, aviation, architecture, agriculture, education, politics, exploration, athletics, literature, theatre arts, fine art, music, and etcetera.

Who is a famous female leader of African Ancestry that inspires you and why?
I was always impressed with educator Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, for all her accomplishments and tireless commitment to educating and advocating for black people. Born on July 10, 1875, Mary McLeod Bethune was the first in her family to be born outside of the slavery institution, and in 1904, she started the Daytona Literary and Industrial Institute for Negro Girls, which grew to 250 students in less than two years. After merging with the Cookman Institute of Jacksonville, Florida in 1923, the school was renamed Bethune-Cookman College, and is now called Bethune-Cookman University.  Bethune also founded the Mary McLeod Hospital and Training School for Nurses, which was the only school of its kind that served African American women on the East Coast.

"Dr. Bethune held leadership positions in several prominent organizations while leading her school. In 1935, she founded the National Council of Negro Women, which would become a highly influential organization with a clear civil rights agenda. She was appointed by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt to the National Youth Administration in 1936. By 1939 she was the organization’s Director of Negro Affairs, which oversaw the training of tens of thousands of black youth. She was the only female member of President Roosevelt’s influential “Black Cabinet.” She leveraged her close friendship with First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt to lobby for integrating the Civilian Pilot Training Program and to bring the Program to the campuses of historically Black colleges and universities, which led to graduating some of the first black pilots in the country." (Source: https://www.cookman.edu/history/our-founder.html)

What are some of your keys to success for younger black females?
Go the extra mile to make sure your work product is impactful; create a pleasant classroom; learn from your own mistakes and successes and learn from others. Keep refining and expanding your methods and skills. Engage in face-to-face dialogue whenever possible, and treat everyone with respect. Be careful with your words.

Amazing African Ancestry Women of MUSD, Portrait #2: Dr. Latisha Roberts, Middle School Counselor

2/12/2024

Name: Dr. Latisha Roberts

Occupation: Middle School Counselor at Thomas Russell MS

Years with MUSD: 17 years

How/Why is Black History Month important to celebrate throughout our district?
Black History is very much a part of US History. It's important to celebrate it not only throughout the district, but also throughout the world. It's an opportunity to learn about African-American culture and leaders that made significant contributions to the world we live in today.

Who is a famous female leader of African Ancestry that inspires you and why?
Sojourner Truth is a famous female leader of African Ancestry that inspires me. I admire her bravery and courage to be an outspoken advocate for abolition and civil rights in an era filled with many racial inequalities.

What are some of your keys to success for younger black females?
Keys to success for younger African-American females would be to find role models and/or mentors that can help guide and give you support as well as share their wisdom with you.

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