Tennis Legend Among US

By Omar Zahran

Name: Rafik Abbas Zaher
Born: April 11, 1991
Hometown: Alexandria, Egypt
Plays: Right-Handed (Double-Handed Backhand)
Height: 172 cm
Weight: 75 kg
Hair Color: Brownish-Yellow
Eye Color: Blue
Hobbies: Soccer, Tennis, PS2

Rafik is a self-motivated player and is always trying to reach the best of his abilities as a tennis player. He attended a tennis school in California last year and tried to make the best use of his time and to enhance his skills and techniques. He stated, "It was a good experience, but it was a bit hard." He also noted that there was not that much difference between Schutz and the other school, but as far as tennis is concerned he confirmed, "It is TOTALLY different”.

Rafik has won two titles for his school in the U.S. He benefited also from the fact that he was living in the school's dorm to become more independent.

Rafik is playing for the Alexandria Sporting Club after his return from the U.S. He goes everyday to the club to practice for hours and hours. He is currently a junior in Schutz American School, eager to receive a scholarship from a reputable university in the U.S. where he will later be discovered by a scout and achieve his dream of playing professional tennis and participating in all the four Grand Slams.

Go eat at the yummiest places in town:

1. Four Seasons
2. Friday's
3. Chilli's
4. Ole
5. KOI

Is she what she says she is?

By Seif Zahran

Gelan Badr is a girl whom everyone says is shy. Is she? Interviewing Gelan was not as hard as I expected. She might truly be shy, but when talking to her you realize that she is not. Gelan has been at Schutz for five years. She left Schutz for a period of time and went to CAC (Cairo American College), but she found that there was nothing like Schutz. Therefore, when her father’s work required another move, she was happy to go back to where she belonged.
Has she seen any changes since she was gone? No, was her answer. Things were pretty much the same, may be just a few paint jobs around the corner but things have not changed a bit. Gelan who gives the impression that she does not like school much, states, “Oh it’s just insane just to tell you all the things I will miss! It will take forever!” That itself tells us a lot. Not only does Gelan love Schutz, she loves the students, the teachers, and the workers, for everyone treats each other as siblings here.
Gelan is always referred to as a shy girl. She is always quiet and very peaceful. When I asked her why that is she simply said, “It’s just because I don’t get a chance to show my personality. I’m not quiet; it’s only in school, but outside I’m something else!” Well people, next time you talk to her, give her the chance to show who she really is!
Gelan has very good friends, including Tatiana whose way of laughing is the thing Gelan will miss most when she leaves Schutz.
After school there is college, the next big step in life, what will she do? She is taking her best friend, Karine Aziz, with her. Both of them have agreed to take the next step in life helping and supporting each other. They believe they have lots of potential, and that they will succeed in college. They plan to attend the Arab Academy for Science and Technology in Alexandria, hoping to be accepted in Engineering. We will all miss Gelan, and we all wish her great luck to fulfill all the plans she has for life!

Roba's Diaries

Is it Worth Being in Love?

By Roba Mahfouz
Special to The 83rd


Is falling in love and having boyfriends really the same? If it is the same, does every couple really experience true love? How can you know that it is worth being with this guy? Nowadays, all I hear from couples about relationships are problems. From the repetition of these instances, it became very normal for guys and girls to break up and some see it as “being cool”. Some sensitive people can be affected by a relationship, and their academic performance decreases. They sometimes even get depressed.
One of the interesting problems I heard about was a girl that loved a guy from the first sight. He too had feelings for her, but he never showed it. They talked as friends, but he was treating her as if she was special. This made the girl understand that he loved her, and she became more attached to him. Day after day, the relationship began to grow, and she was completely attached to him. Then came a week when she traveled, and they did not talk at all. When she came back, he showed her how much he had missed her. After a few weeks, he completely turned 180 degrees and became another person. When she asked if he had loved her before, his answer was, “I have always treated you as my sister”.
It was a huge shock for her, and she became depressed. She realized that after all that she still loved him and still had some faith and hope that one day he would come to her and ask her out. So is it worth waiting for that guy? Can he really be trusted? Does love really make a person that blind?

Arts + Sciences = Suraj

By Shereen Hassan

A creative and critical thinker with a true artistic talent, Suraj Baadkar stands out. He may give the impression that he is an average guy, but he is one with many talents. He is the President of the senior class, and he is one of the nicest people one would see on campus.
Suraj has been at Schutz since the 11th grade. Schutz is the platform that allowed him to excel. Being a senior makes him feel very responsible, “As we are the seniors it tends to be everywhere in any fields that seniors are looked upon as role models” said Suraj. He wishes to study either Computer Engineering or Electrical Engineering. His dad is his inspiration. His dream college is MIT, but his current option is India. About ten years from now, he wishes to see himself working with a software company.
Suraj is a unique person who is good at both arts and sciences. He likes to draw, and he is very good at it, but it is just last year that he discovered that he could draw portraits. He even received a special pin that was given to him last year by Mr. Al for Arts. On the Fine Arts Night, four of his art works were sold. Not only is he good at drawing, but he is also a good writer. “When I feel something, I like to write about it”, said Suraj. His poems are one of a kind. He is a very talented person, and he likes to do other things. He loves music. He has played two percussion instruments since 6th grade, the Congo and Tumba.
Suraj will miss many things in Schutz. “My close friends, they know who they are, and some teachers who have motivated me and guided me through my time in Schutz,” said Suraj. He will also miss the many moments he spent in front of the library on the White Tables.
Suraj wishes to achieve many things in life, but most of all he said “ I wish to bring happiness to others in life.” Not many people really think of the others, everything is usually centered on themselves. Suraj adds “The world is my country, its citizens are my brethren, and to do good is my religion.”
For the juniors, Suraj says “If you want something you never had, do something you’ve never done”. Suraj will be leaving Schutz this year and trust me he will be missed by all. His warm personality and creativity are two traits that will be most missed.

Confident Woman

By Aya Kordy

“If it were my ideal world, I would own an empire of hotels.” What a unique dream for an eighteen year old! She has her pros and cons, ups and downs, she is like every other person yet one of a kind.
She likes to be responsible and tell people what to do. She has been her class president for two years, secretary for one year, and treasurer for one year. Her history in Schutz for the past twelve years stands out.
Laila Afifi is a senior Schutz student. She began her school year in Schutz twelve years ago, and now she is ending it in the same place. As I interviewed Laila I realized how much Schutz influenced her whole life. Laila wishes to attend college in the United Kingdom, specifically the University of Warwick. She wishes to major in International Relations, International Business, or Business Law. Laila has not yet pictured her future as a whole; she likes to take it “one day at a time.” Nevertheless, there is one thing she knows, she said confidently “I don’t know what exactly I want to be, but what ever it is, I‘d like to be good at it.” As we all know, Laila has a very firm personality. She rarely ever shows her weak side, as a matter of fact she never does. Out of curiosity, I decided to know what her weakness could be. Smiling at my question, she sighed, “When I have an idea of my own and I strongly believe in it and somebody plays it down”.
Laila will miss “everything in Schutz” and added “I’ll miss that everybody knows everybody and everything.” Laila had her own thoughts that she wishes to share with the school. “I have been at Schutz for twelve years. I remember practicing with Greg for the winter program, standing in the
front row because I was one of the youngest students. Now I stand in the back of the room, with twelve years behind me. I know that the next step is out of the door, outside of Schutz. The thought that it is finally coming to an end is both scary and exhilarating. Schutz has been more than a family to me. I hope that everyone may have this wonderful opportunity as I did!”
Laila Afifi’s name will no longer be in Schutz’s enrollment list after this year; nevertheless, it will always be part of its history.

Welcome Back!

By Suraj Baadkar

One of the traditional kick start events of Schutz American school's academic year is its welcome back party hosted by the members of staff for the students. This year it was held on the 30th of August. The new staff members were excited to see the happenings of this event and the returning staff members were excited to meet their students after a great summer break.
But year after year the event is losing its importance. Every year the student count for this event is decreasing. This year figures of high school students attending the event were countable on fingers. More than 75% of the students that attended were in grades 5th through 8th though the event was successful and well organized. The pool was open for the whole evening, the table-tennis tables were set up, the volleyball nets were set up and there was also music in the second half of the event. The canteen provided refreshments and snacks. Overall I think the event has achieved its main motto of casual interaction between the staff and the students.
The 83rd staff interviewed some teachers and students who attended the event. The most common answer to the question "What do you think of hosting such an event?" was "The event is very creative as in terms of interaction between students and staff outside the class instruction area, but more students were expected to attend this event. Some of the best quotes of the evening were by by Mr. McCright who stated, "Finally, myself and Mr. Spencer realized today, due to this event, that we are getting old. We have the skills and techniques to play basketball but our body does not co-ordinate. Therefore we are mentally going strong but physically getting older."
Altogether it was a wonderful evening spent on campus amidst laughter, smiles on the faces and a cool breeze. This event has made the bond between students and teachers stronger. With an ending note on the event, the members of staff quoted, "Hope there will be more students next year and in the years to come, we are glad to host such events."

Fresh Meat on the Grill

By Marina Guirguis

Every year, the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) hosts the annual new parent BBQ, directed to the new staff, parents and students, as well as PTA members. “I like the school so far!” says Nehal Hussein, a new seventh grader. Schutz has a very positive and welcoming feeling towards those new to the campus and to the lifestyle of Alexandria. Mrs. Huggins, who is the new art teacher on campus, exclaims “I like it!” while Mr. Huggins sitting next to her by the pool nods in agreement. Because of the size of the school, the couple claims they feel a loving “sense of community” upon their presence here.
The BBQ was held in the auditorium, the pool and gym where parents and PTA mingled while the new students engaged in amusement. The children played, the parents and staff chatted, and the meat was being grilled. Soon the food was served, and while standing in line for the food, Azza El Rabbat, a new parent, mother of two children in grades 5 and PK3, said that the festivity was well organized. “There’s a good strong communication system,” she declared. As the food was being served, Mindi, the new Athletic Director, was getting popcorn. She said that she would like to see “more people involved in the school’s athletics”. When asked about the students, she jokingly replied, “so far, they are good kids.”
Standing at the BBQ, all that could be heard was the mumbling of different conversations between different people. Eiman EL Naggar, the Vice-President of the PTA exclaimed that this year had an impressive turnout. She discussed in detail that the PTA was trying to send out flyers to the parents, talking about raising money for the workers here for the month of Ramadan. All the staff that I approached agreed that this year’s PTA BBQ went very well.
The children enjoyed it, thus you could hear their laughter exploding, and they ran though the crowds in excitement. It was a memorable experience for those new at Schutz American School and another great start to a hopefully one more great year.

Fourth Grade Brings Charity to a New Record

By Aly Ragab

Giving during the month of Ramadan is considered to be one of the best things a person can do. Every year the Schutz family holds a Ramadan Food Drive. The Food Drive is made as an effort to help the communities around us that are less fortunate than we are. This year the seniors took charge of this drive, and they did a great job.
Entering the school in the morning, one would see many students carrying bags and bags of non-perishable goods and items into Sadat Hall. Everyday at 8:00 a.m., the number of items brought in were counted by the Senior Class and tallied up. This year, Schutz is proud to announce that it has collected 9,465 food items in the 2007 Ramadan Food Drive. The class with the leading number of products is the Fourth Grade having brought in 3,032 food products. The Fourth Grade will be receiving a pool party provided by this year’s Senior Class.

The World of NEU

By Shereen Hassan

Thinking of going to college but just trying to figure out which one will suit you best? It is a hard choice especially for seniors because time is moving fast, and seniors you want to start writing your applications.
People like Wesley D. Roy, assistant director for undergraduate admissions at Northeastern University (NEU), will help you make the right choice for your college. On the 12th of September, Wesley D. Roy came to visit Schutz and talked to students about NEU.
NEU is located in Boston, the capital of higher education. Northeastern University is ranked among the top 100 national universities. Northeastern’s 67-acre campus is surrounded by many areas for entertainment that are only a ten-minute walk away such as the Museum of Fine Arts, Red Sox baseball games at the Fenway Park, Landsdowne Street, and many more.
Northeastern University‘s academic programs are divided among 6 colleges: College of Arts and Science, Bouve College of Health Sciences, College of Business Administration, College of Computer and Information Science, College of Criminal Justice, and College of Engineering. NEU offers 70 majors in different subject areas. There is also a Gateway Faculty that is specialized for freshmen.
Northeastern University offers a Co-op Program in which you can experience your major by actually working for a company. The Co-op Program help you see if you are satisfied with your majors and like what you are doing or will be doing in the future. For one semester, students have school and then in the second semester they go for the Co-op Program. This program also allows you to work for more than 2000 Co-op locations nationally and internationally. There will also be a Co-op advisor who will work with you throughout your studies and will help find the best experience for you.
NEU has 230 clubs and organizations, which make students not only involved in their studies but also in their social lives. New England sports community is an important part of Northeastern. They field 19 varsity teams in NCAA Division 1 sports for men and women. There are also 27 intramural and club sports that students can participate in such as soccer, basketball, and rugby.
Admission to Northeastern University is very competitive, 3400 apply but only 2800 are accepted. NEU take students with a GPA average from 3.5-4.0. SATs are required from an average of 1160-1320. ACT is not required but should be taken. Applications for NEU look for improvement over years, or if you do well and fail one year students need to explain why these changes occurred, for example tragedy, moved to a new school, etc. If you apply before the Early Action that is from November 15- December 15 you might receive an academic and athletic scholarship ranging from US$5,000 to US$43,000.
The process of selecting a college is very tedious, so students should be very careful in what they choose. There are many colleges out there for different types of people and Northeastern University is definitely one that should be taken into consideration.

Rock Star Footballer and the Photographer of the Century

By Marina Guirguis

In his college years, Clay Huggins played base guitar in a band called “Threshold.” The band toured, and even made a few CDs. Until this day, his rocker side is exposed when he plays guitar hero, a popular game for those interested into the genera of music. Don’t forget his obvious football appeal! Clay Huggins has been teaching for six years. He taught AP chemistry, chemistry and physical science. His favorite age group to teach is the high school age. “They are more able to deal with abstract things,” claims Mr. Huggins.
Susannah Huggins went to Texas Tech University. She was enlisted in a student exchange program, which sent her to Italy for half a year. “The artwork was amazing,” she said, her eyes dazed as if she was re-living the memory of the magical country. Susannah loves traveling. She has been teaching for about three years and has taught art, drawing, photography and AP art history. Susannah has taught every age group imaginable and even bilingual students. She expects more of the Schutz students. She thinks that since this is a private school, students pay to go here. They need to do their best otherwise it would be a loss of money and education opportunity. Stop being so lazy!
In Mrs. Huggins’ art career, she has won countless contests and awards, and she also won a scholarship to go to school in Florence. She has had many art shows, displaying both her photography and artwork.
The Huggins are one of the new fun-loving couples teaching at Schutz this year. Susannah teaches the art classes while Clay is in charge of a number of high school science classes. In the couple’s short time in Egypt, they have tried the legendary camel riding, which seems to be highly recommended to new comers. They enjoyed attempting such a daring activity. Together, they enjoy photography and claim to be addicted to Starbucks. Mrs. Huggins shared the story of when they taught in the U.S. There was a Starbucks a short distance from the school they taught at. When students would need to turn in late assignments, Susannah would direct them to come to Starbucks and find them there at anytime after school. The couple enjoys backpacking. They are from Texas, but they would backpack through California and Wyoming and even Washington DC at times.
Susannah and Clay Huggins love the school by far. They favor the size and the comfortable home-y feeling. If you ever want to find them after school, check out the gym, for at the moment the couple coach both girls and boys varsity volleyball.

One Man's Wonder

By Ibrahim Fathelbab

This prose poem, written by Mr. Rab, describes the lack of organization and the confusion prevalent in Cairo as the citizens go about their work each day. This poem has a metaphorical take on the aspects of human nature that one might observe in Cairo.
Mr. Rab uses loaded imagery when he describes his feelings. An unusual catch, some may say, towards the daily excitement in the big city. Mr. Rab also uses much symbolism, for instance “…Cairenes mentally rehearse the choreography of the cosmopolitan, dance-like shuffle.” This beautifully explains the locals’ daily routes through the streets of the prosperous city. Through this poem, Mr. Rab shows his poetic and imaginative side not often seen in the classroom. He gives his explanation of the city’s hustle and bustle on a daily basis within just a few lines, a real talent that calls for much preparation and understanding when writing.

Cairene Rehearsal

By Ricardo A. Belgrave


A haze of pollution creates atmospheric pressure in a city of endless,

labyrinthine streets simultaneously gorged with people seemingly lost

in the comfort of urban anonymity. No relief can be found in man-

made tunnels that provide passageways for metallic cylinders

intermittently expelling humans who push and plow their way through

with no intent of rudeness---just urgency, lest they find themselves

wedged between merciless mandibles of steel.


Above ground, voices murmur steadily and are interrupted by the

chorus of taxi horns frequently seeking to transport beings from trade

place to trade place, while whirlwind activity recycles itself until the city

steals a few hours of rest---much needed and much earned.


Friday morning allows for a delayed awakening and a welcomed

reprieve for this the respected holy day. Midday approaches and a

caffeine-addicted urbanism prepares itself for fever-pitched comings

and goings in which, one by one, Cairenes mentally rehearse the

choreography of the cosmopolitan, dance-like shuffle---each keeping

eyes on the lead dancer caught somewhere in the maelstrom.


In a metallic flying machine an audience waits for the curtain of haze to

part and to begin the first section of a three-act drama: “al-Qahirah.”

Pilots conduct with electronic batons signaling the need for seatbelts to

be fastened. Now all seats are occupied and engines produce the

background melody as the descent begins and the curtain of smog

separates.


Cairenes, your places please!

All Change!

By Suraj Baadkar

One of the major constitutions of an institution is its administration. At the end of last year in the midst of a contract of 2 years, the Head of School resigned. Many of the students were enthusiastic to meet Mr. Matt Farwell after having a wonderful summer, but they soon acknowledged the fact that our previous Head of School Dr. Tony Spencer has taken the position.
Dr. Spencer retired from his post as Head of School in 2006. He was recalled back last June as the Interim Head for the year 2007-2008 due to the sudden resignation of Mr. Farwell. It is not only the position of the Head of School that has experienced a change, but also that of the President of the Board of Trustees. After successfully serving two years as Board President, Mr. Frank Newell has been succeeded by Mr. John Luke. Mr. Luke has been re-appointed to this position for the third time. He held this position for two terms prior to the presidency of Mr. Newell.
On the very first day of the academic year, more changes were evident. Not only were there changes in the administration but also in the physical plant, including the renovation of the kitchen, the canteen and the high school office. There have always been changes in the Schutz facilities since it was established in 1924. However, on the timeline of approximately nine decades, this is an instance when Schutz seems to be undergoing very profound changes.
Changes do bring certain new things to the community and they are clearly evident, but it depends whether the change favors the community or favors an individual. We have to be careful about who benefits from the changes. The Schutz tradition has always valued and well-received the changes. It also anticipates more changes in the future.
Tradition is the thing that keeps Schutz rich and distinguishes it from other institutions. The fact that changes can be good but can also come with a great risk should not be forgotten. Dr. Spencer, having had the experience of holding the same post in the previous years, might bring some stability to the situation. However, after the academic year is over, we will have to be ready to welcome another major change in the administration when the contract for the new head of the school will be signed.

A State of Mind

By Laila Afifi
Special to The 83rd

As I sit in the TV room with my family, friends, and our friends’ families, I await the prayer. ‘Ahh… my stomach is growling and my head is throbbing.’ This is not just any other prayer; it is the signal to break my fast. The room is filled with loud noises, everyone talking to someone else in the loudest noise possible. My mother is running around the house trying to get everything ready for the iftar. ‘Please let the prayer start.’ Finally, I hear the prayer. We all get up to eat, finally.
It is Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, the month the Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet. The holiest and most venerated month of the year; prayers, fasting, and charity are especially stressed during this month. Of course, ask any Muslim about Ramadan and the first thing that pops to mind is fasting.
But why do we fast? Why do we deny ourselves food and water, even if we are thirsty? I thought everyone knew the answer to that. The fasting is intended to be an act of deep worship in which Muslims raise their level of closeness to God.
When properly observed, the fast allows the mind to completely get rid of everything worldly, induce a feeling of peace and serenity, and allow one to practice self-discipline, sacrifice, as well as sympathy for the less fortunate.
For many, Ramadan is a chance to redeem themselves and to focus on their religious beliefs. For others, it’s a time to gather around with family and friends, and to some it has evolved into a social tradition; a social tradition that revolves around the opinion of their parents, family, and society.
People have lost sight of the true meaning of Ramadan. Ramadan is more than just the huge iftars, more than the Ramadan tournament, and more than the fasting from food.
It is a spiritual month, for prayer and worship; it is the fasting of the mind, the renewing of faith. Ramadan has been taken out of its context and turned into a social event of gatherings, festivals, and hypocrisy.
Where are the humbleness, the moderation, the tolerance, and the spirituality that should exist? Where is the peace and serenity that we should feel? Has our society gone so far away from the true purpose of Ramadan, we cannot enjoy the simple things like our family, our privileges, and our blessings? Can no one feel thankful that they have an iftar awaiting them at home when others cannot afford a loaf of bread? When we are aggravated because of traffic, can we not think of those who stand for hours trying to get the microbus home?
Ramadan has not just evolved into a scheme of events, but has actually changed from the peace and transparency it was into hypocrisy. Why are people fasting? Is it because they are afraid people will judge them? Or is it because they have grown accustomed to fasting during Ramadan?
I ask you, as I ask myself, do you know why you are fasting?
Ramadan Kareem!

Your School NeedsYou!

By Tarek Talaat

The 83rd is this year’s Schutz American School’s monthly newspaper. We chose this name because it symbolizes the tradition that has been carried on for eighty-three years at Schutz. The goals for the newspaper are included in our Editorial Policy. Issues of interest and concern to The 83rd staff will be reflected in our editorials. However, editorials signed by the co-editors will express their personal opinions. We will adopt a multi-perspective approach for controversial issues.
As for the newspaper sections, we have different sections, mainly, Schutz happenings both in and outside of Schutz, feature stories, sports and entertainment, profiles, and teens’ stuff.
Our teens’ stuff section is specifically designed to interest you. We would like to extend an invitation to all students, parents, and staff to contribute to this section. All contributions will be thoroughly reviewed for publication.
You can also write letters to the editors. Letters sent to the co-editors will be given much consideration. We are planning on doing the best we can to make the newspaper an open forum to be the voice of the Schutz community.
The 83rd staff is looking forward to the online version of The 83rd so it can be reached at all times and so that viewers could interact with the staff.
The 83rd staff is looking forward to a great year in the journey of the ninth decade heading towards the first century of Schutz American School.
Editorial Policy

The newspaper staff will:
-follow the interests of the readers
-be committed to tell the truth
-seek to raise the awareness of students to news and issues around them
-keep the confidentiality of their sources
-promote the right to the freedom of speech
-abide by the Society of Professional Journalists’ (SPJ) Code of Ethics
-work as a forum to express the students’ point of view and voice
-be loyal to the students.

"Rumor has it"

By Aya Kordy and Tarek Talaat

“A rumor is an unverified account or explanation of events circulating from person to person and pertaining to an object, event, or issue of public concern”. Rumors can be about something that affects the whole world like “a World War III” or something that affects one person such as “Aya’s dog died”.
Rumors are a major aspect in Egypt. In fact, rumors are a paramount issue in the world. Rumors may sometimes control our life, instead of us controlling it. There are about six billion, four hundred and seventy million, eight hundred and eighteen thousand, six hundred and seventy one people in the world. If everyone starts repeating what the other said till the time it reaches the last person, the sentence would have changed at least a thousand times.
In the beginning of September, rumors fled across the death of Egypt’s President Mohamed Hosny Mubarak. The rumors went as far as suggesting that his son took over after his death.
That leads us to a question, “Why is it that people believe in rumors?” We strongly believe that people’s dreams are normally all they talk about, and changing that dream into reality is all they want. As a result, believing what is being said around them regardless of it being wrong or right is not the issue, it is whether it is what they want to happen or not.
It has been a whole decade since Princess Diana was killed in a car accident. Every year people make up a minimum of 10 possibilities as to how she died. Nevertheless, the truth is still unrevealed. The truth still lies inside Buckingham Palace, and knowing it, is nowhere near impossible. But then why just make up rumors? Once again she was The Princess of Hearts therefore reiterating a rumor is what satisfies people’s needs and fantasies.

The Schutz Connection!

By Ingy Fahmy and Moustafa Barakat


The Fundraising Committee is one of the many committees that we have here in Schutz run by the Board of Trustees. Justin Siberell, who is a parent of a first grader, is the head of the Fundraising Committee. Justin is really involved with all the school happenings and events. He attends the meetings of the Policy Committee and comes to school plays and other events. The Fundraising Committee cannot be run by anyone who is more interested and concerned about Schutz’s affairs. The goal of Fundraising Committee is to build a non-tuition established income, which means that the school shouldn’t gain its revenue only from the income of tuition paid by the families.

The 83rd staff met with Justin last week. He seemed to be very excited about school projects and eager to make a difference in this school. Justin is full of enthusiasm and passion to make Schutz a better place. We discussed his plans to establish this non-tuition income. One event held last year to accomplish this goal was the Gala Night. This event raised more than 127,357 Egyptian pounds and proved to be a great success and an immense step in achieving the goal.

Another achievement of the Committee is publishing “Connections” in the Spring of 2007. The name of the newsletter is pretty self-explanatory. The basic concept of this newsletter is to connect the new with the old.

“Connections” is a newsletter published for the Schutz alumni. The idea is to facilitate their continuous contact with the place where they spent a lot of their time and became very fond of.

Justin Siberell, the editor of “Connections”, explains, “We often say “Schutz is Family” and we want to see those family bonds strengthened across generations as well as time zones!”.

Lizzy Roland, a student from last year’s senior class, wrote about her experience in Schutz and what it feels like to be parting from the place where she grew up and considered as her place in the world.

“Connections” is published twice a year, once in the Fall and once in the Spring. Nine hundred copies of the first issue were sent out to alumni in the USA, Canada, Europe, and other countries around the world.

The Fundraising Committee also got in contact last year with the Schutz Alumni Association. The Committee asked the Association to send them their database in order to merge and share information. This effort aims at keeping accurate records about the Schutz alumni throughout the history of the school.

The Fundraising Committee meets once every month and welcomes anyone interested in attending. The Committee’s door is always open for any recommendations, suggestions, or ideas from any member of the Schutz family.

Schutz Honors Recognized

By Seif Zahran

Receiving awards, being placed on the Honor Roll, or becoming a member of the Honor Society are many ways to recognize students for their academic achievements. This year, two seniors received awards for being outstanding academic students. The two students are Suraj Baadkar and Tarek Ibrahim.
Tarek Ibrahim joined Schutz in 5th grade and has maintained a great academic record since then. He was inducted into the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS), and in the eleventh grade he was inducted into the National Honor Society (NHS). Tarek was recently awarded The Rensselaer Medalist Scholarship by the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York. The scholarship covers four years or a total amount of $60,000.
Suraj Baadkar joined Schutz last year, and he has proved himself to be a good academic student. He won the ECIS Award for International Understanding last year, and he was elected as President of the Senior Class. Suraj is very proud of this recognition, and he is looking forward to winning more awards in his future educational career. Not only has he won an award but he was also offered a 50 percent scholarship for Clarkson University, which amounts to $11,000 annually.
On September 17th, an assembly was held to recognize the Honor Roll students (grades seven through twelve). A total of twenty-seven students made it to the Honor Roll last quarter. Congratulation to all! Academic success is also an eligibility criterion for membership in both the NJHS and the NHS.
What is the Honor Society? Many students at Schutz think that it is simply a group of students who get good grades. This statement is completely wrong because there are five qualities all NHS and NJHS members must posses. The five qualities are scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship.
Scholarship is a value that shows that a member is a capable academic achiever. Students who have a cumulative grade point average of 85 percent qualify to join the NHS or NJHS if they also exhibit the other qualities.
Service must be shown by the students if they want to join the Honor Society. The students should offer service to their community in terms of help, time, and effort. This quality is shown in students who do community work for free and out of their heart.
Another value is leadership. Student leaders set examples for others. A value that all Honor Society members must have is character. Character is shown by being responsible, respectful, and by being mature. The final value all members must have is citizenship. Citizenship is shown by being aware and concerned to improve the community. The activities a member joins must show that he or she is a responsible contributor to the activity he is involved in.