League of Women Voters

Three Como Advanced Placement Government seniors are serving as student leaders this fall with the League of Women Voters St. Paul.

PaNra Lee, Chikamso Chijioke and Lucy Hebble have developed a voter advocacy project with the goal of increasing political awareness and participation among youth.

The student leaders made presentations to every senior social studies class in advance of St. Paul’s municipal elections, demonstrating what was on the ballot, how to register, where to vote and why it matters. They also developed a social media campaign.

“It helped me gain more political efficacy,” Lee said. “Developing our ideas to share voting information and how to participate is important, and it let us see how we can make a difference.”

The League of Women Voters St. Paul is nonpartisan, neither supporting nor opposing candidates or parties, but always working on providing information on vital public issues. Como’s league liaison is St. Anthony Park resident Dan Krivit.

Accelerated programs

Como hosted its Accelerated Programs Night on Nov. 16. The event allowed prospective students and families to learn about the many options for accelerated coursework at Como including Advanced Placement (AP) and College in the Schools (CIS) courses plus post-secondary enrollment options (PSEO).

Middle school students and families were able to hear from a panel of current AP/CIS/PSEO students and teachers. Any prospective students and families who missed the event but would like to learn more about Como’s academic opportunities may contact AP Coordinator Amelia Feest (amelia.feest@spps.org).

JROTC competition

Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets hosted the Devil Dog Drill Competition at Como on Oct. 29 and 30. Seven schools, including one from North Dakota and one from South Dakota participated in the annual event that promotes positive energy through physical and mental challenges.

Como took second place overall. Cadet Corporal Ve Ah Ree Shar was selected as the Ironman.

The Knowledge Bowl Team took first place led by Cadet Corporal Alex Le. Cadet First Lieutenant Nayblut Kasuh was the Knockout Drill Champion. Cadet Major Aliser Paw, Como’s commanding officer, won first place for the Uniform Inspection Team.

“The teamwork and morale of all the cadets was critical in our success,” said Sgt. Major James Kirkland. “Their example of good sportsmanship to more than 300 visitors to Como during the weekend was a high point and will leave a lasting impression.”

Eric Erickson is a social studies teacher at Como Park Senior High School.