2018-PVPHS-PROSPECT-BOOK

RESEARCHERS



Science-Mathematics-Engineering-Research-Technology - Hassan Twiet, Coordinator
Science-Mathematics-Engineering- research, intro to design engineering, learning. Classes immerse students
Research-Technology (SMERT) classes principal of engineering, aerospace in hands-on inquiry and open-ended
are designed to provide hands-on engineering, civil and architect exploration, which involve students
experience in real world applications. engineering, digital engineering, and in a productive teamwork model.
Individual and team projects inspire engineering design and development. SMERT focuses on real-world issues
students to pursue careers in engineering, and problems by participating in local,
All classes in SMERT use scientific
science, technology, and design. national, and international competitions:
principles and mathematical concepts in
Students are exposed to a variety of Science Fair, Math Teams, CyberPatriot,
conjunction with communication skills
engineering and technological fields: StellarXplorers in Space, FRC Robotics,
development. Classes are typically based
computer science, web design, digital VEX Teams, TSA Teams, Science Olympiad,
around finding a solution to a real-world
animation, photography, science Physics Olympiad, and much more.
problem and emphasize project-based

Solar Boat - Henry Chou, Advisor
Solar Boat is a seven-month program engineering, and develops problem- Powered only by solar panels, the
that begins in the fall in which high solving skills. Solar Boat’s goal is to help boat competes for both distance and
school teams build and race solar- the Metropolitan Water District of Southern endurance. All PVPHS students have
powered boats at Lake Skinner in California expand conservation of water the opportunity to build and design
Temecula Valley. The PVPHS Solar Boat and expand research for solar-powered the solar-powered boat. There is a
team learns about conservation of natural technology. The Solar Cup competition minimum hour requirement to be part
resources, electrical and mechanical in Temecula is held each spring. of the Solar Boat team.















































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VEX Teams
Hassan Twiet, Advisor
VEX inspires students to become the
problem solving heroes of tomorrow. It
harnesses the excitement of building robots
to immerse learners in STEM concepts. VEX
is versatile construction elements take the
frustration out of the engineering process.
VEX is the world’s largest and fastest-
growing educational robotics competition
and is the perfect opportunity to
apply classroom learning in a thrilling
environment. Teams of students design,
build, and code robots each year to
play a brand-new game. Thousands of
competitions are held annually in all 50
states and over 40 countries. VEX applies
basic STEM concepts to a competitive
atmosphere, which increases student
engagement and makes lessons feel “real.”

FIRST Robotics Competition - Hassan Twiet, Advisor
The FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) is the effectiveness of each robot, the power different countries to compete in events
an annual international event in which over of team strategy and collaboration, and drawing audiences that include prominent
2,000 teams design, create, and improve the determination of students. After the people supported by partner companies
a robot for a specific game in just six six-week build season, the robot is shipped such as Boeing, Raytheon, Northrop
weeks. With the help of volunteer mentors, to its first event. With over 30 regional Grumman, Google, Autodesk, and AT&T.
robotics students build a robot to compete competitions, FRC takes place throughout ABC and CNN have filmed documentaries
in the high intensity event that measures the entire world. Teams travel from on the FIRST program.


Math Team - Vararat Chaiyont-Kan, Advisor
All students are invited to participate in admissions. The MAA’s AMC program the analytical skills needed for future
the American Mathematics Competitions leads the nation in strengthening the careers in an innovative society.
(AMC) According to the Mathematical mathematical capabilities of the next The AMC are a series of examinations
Association of America (MAA), AMC generation of problem-solvers. Through and curriculum materials that build
10 and AMC 12 are America’s longest- classroom resources and friendly problem-solving skills and mathematical
running and most prestigious math competition, the MAA AMC program knowledge in middle and high school
contests. Many well-known colleges and helps America’s educators identify talent students. Additional information about
universities request scores from these and foster a love of mathematics. The these competitions are located at
contests and use them for recruiting and MAA AMC program positively impacts amc.maa.org

U-ROV Underwater Robotics Competitions - Hassan Twiet, Advisor
The remotely operated vehicle (ROV) that manufacture, market, and sell and engineering presentations that are
competition requires students to think “products.” In addition to engineering delivered to working professionals who
of themselves as “entrepreneurs” and their ROVs, the students are required to serve as competition judges.
transform their teams into companies prepare technical reports, poster displays,


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CyberPatriot-Air Force Association - Hassan Twiet, Advisor
CyberPatriot is the premiere national high Microsoft, AT&T, General Dynamics, and
school cyber defense competition created PEF. Teams are given operating systems
to inspire high school students toward that have security holes and viruses. In a
careers in cyber security or other science, finite, specific amount of time, each team
technology, engineering, and mathematics must clean the operating system as much
(STEM) disciplines critical to the nation’s as possible. The systems are scored along
future. CyberPatriot is a high school the way as vulnerabilities are discovered
cyber-defense competition sponsored and fixed. The PVPHS CyberPatriot teams Ocean Science Bowl
by the Air Force Association, Northrop have advanced to the National finals in Charles Lee, Advisor
Grumman, SAIC, CIAS, Raytheon, Washington, D.C. four times. Ocean Science Bowl is a nationwide
one-day high school ocean sciences
Physics Bowl - Mark Greenberg, Advisor competition. The academic competition
The Physics Bowl is a competition for high added together to give the team a score. introduces students to ocean-related
school students and schools. Every year All schools within the region/division are topics, which include cross-disciplines
in April, students and schools compete by compared and prizes are awarded to of biology, chemistry, policy, physics,
answering 40 multiple-choice questions the top two-team scores. A school may and geology to prepare them to enter
from topics taken in high school physics. compete with fewer than five students these and other STEM careers, all in an
As this is a contest, it is not expected that comprising the team (although this will interactive team setting.
any one student or school will cover all decrease the probability of winning) and
of the topics. The top five scores from a a school may compete with a team in Science Bowl
school in a particular region/division are both Division 01 and Division 02. Charles Lee, Advisor
Science Bowl is a nationwide academic
Technology Student Technology Student one-day competition that tests students’
Association Teams Association Events knowledge in all areas of science and
Charles Lee, Advisor Charles Lee, Advisor mathematics. These teams face-off in
Tests of Engineering Aptitude, The program provides leadership an exciting fast-paced question-and-
Mathematics, and Science (TEAMS) opportunities in technology, answer format, and are tested on a
is an annual competition for students innovation, design, and engineering. range of science disciplines including
designed to help them discover Members apply STEM concepts biology, chemistry, earth science, space
their potential for engineering and through co-curricular programs. The science, physics, energy, and math.
leadership. To be eligible for national Technology Student Association (TSA)
competition, students apply math and is a national organization of students Physics Olympiad
science knowledge in practical, creative engaged in STEM. Educators, parents, Mark Greenberg, Advisor
ways to solve real-world engineering and business leaders who believe in Each year, the American Association
challenges. TEAMS sparks excitement the need for a technologically literate of Physics Teachers and the American
by providing an integrated STEM society support TSA. Members learn Institute of Physics sponsor a competition
learning experience, allowing students through exciting competitive events, for high school students to represent the
a unique inside look at problem leadership opportunities, and much United States at the International Physics
solving from an engineer’s viewpoint, more. The diversity of activities makes Olympiad competition. The mission
increasing students’ self-confidence TSA a positive experience for every of the U.S. Physics Team program is to
in solving complex problems while student. From engineers to business promote and demonstrate academic
working on a team, and inspiring managers, alumni credit TSA with a excellence through preparation for and
students to consider engineering positive influence on their lives. participation in the International Physics
majors and careers. Olympiad. The competitors are asked
to solve challenging theoretical and
experimental physics problems.
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StellarXplorers in Space-
Air Force Association
Hassan Twiet, Advisor

Inspires and attracts high school
students to pursue studies and careers
in space industry, and space system
design. Competition involving all
aspects of system development and
operation with a spacecraft/payload
focus solutions using Systems Tool
Kit (STK). Teams are asked for their
solutions to a typical space design
problem, such as orbit determination,
satellite component selection, and
launch vehicle planning, as outlined
in a scenario describing the system’s
mission and constraints.


Science Olympiad - Robert Snodgrass and Maureen Kealey, Advisors
Science Olympiad is one of the year. The competitions follow the format of science facts, concepts, processes,
premier science competitions in the of popular board games, TV shows, and skills, and science applications. In addition,
nation, providing rigorous, standards- athletic games. during the day there are open house
based challenges to 7,800 teams in activities that consist of science and
These challenging and motivational events
all 50 states. The Science Olympiad mathematics demonstrations, activities,
are balanced between the various science
tournaments are rigorous academic and career counseling sessions
disciplines of biology, earth science,
interscholastic competitions that consist conducted by professors and scientists
chemistry, physics, computers, and
of a series of individual and team events, at the host institution.
technology. They require knowledge
which students prepare for during the
Science Research “I focused my time at PVPHS into Science Research. Science Research is
Melissa Klose, Advisor a program with a lot of freedom that students do not usually get within
normal day-to-day schooling. I was able to work on many skills like self-
Science Research is a project-based
management and really focus on my interest. Although it can be demanding, it
course open to high school students will and has paid off immensely with those wishing to go into the science field.”
at every grade and curricular level. — Maxwell La Forest, Class of 2017
Science Research students study
a research topic of their choice in research at the annual PVPUSD Science of the last eight years, PVPHS research
conjunction with professional mentors Fair. Winners advance to the State level. students have won the Sweepstakes
and educators who have knowledge Research students also compete in Award for best project at the
in that field of study. A student may other national science fairs. Each year, Los Angeles County Science Fair.
conduct research for one year, although two students from PVPHS compete In 2012, a PVPHS student was named
many take research all four years of in the INTEL International Science “Student of the Year” at the California
high school. Research students have and Engineering Fair. For the past ten State Science Fair. In 2008, a PVPHS
won awards at the state, national, years, PVPHS students have won more research student won first place in the
and international levels. All research awards than any other school at the world at the prestigious Stockholm
students present the results of their Los Angeles County Science Fair. In five Junior Water Prize.



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HUMANITARIANS



Annual Philanthropic Activities
Every year, PVPHS students organize
campus and community wide
events designed to support various
worthy causes. The spirit of giving
and serving is an important and
purposeful piece of the culture of
PVPHS. Students have organized
events to raise both money and
awareness to support victims of
natural disasters, those living in
homelessness, cancer care and
research, and The Special Olympic Teen Court - Logan Tootell, Advisor
World Games. Teen Court is a real court and PVPHS in its deliberations. Students learn about
determines the consequences to courtroom procedures and evidentiary
Blood Drive be imposed on other young people support, develop leadership skills, and
Heather Myrick, Advisor for low-level criminal conduct. practice public speaking. Students do
Each spring PVPHS hosts a blood drive Typical juvenile offenses include not have to be interested in a career in
where students 16 years and older and theft, vandalism, and assault. PVPHS law to participate. Students can enroll
faculty donate approximately 100 pints students question the minor and his/ in the Teen Court class, or be a member
of life-saving blood. Please contact her parent in an effort to learn more of the Teen Court club. The class is
Service Learning Leadership for about the minor and the crime that taken credit/no credit, and students
information about how you can was committed. PVPHS students then are asked to attend three Teen Court
participate, donate, and save a life! create and recommend probation sessions (two hours each) and complete
terms to the judge. A Los Angeles four writing assignments per semester.
Canned Food Drive Superior Court Judge hears the trial, Students who meet these requirements
Heather Myrick, Advisor and volunteer attorneys assist the jury earn 2.5 credits.
During the Canned Food Drive, each
holiday season, students and staff donate Walk for Life - Season Pollock, Activities Director
thousands of nonperishable food items.  In early spring, students organize miles. Over the past ten years, PVPHS has
The food is delivered to local charities Walk for Life, a campus-wide cancer raised over $550,000 for cancer research
combating food insecurity such as the LA fundraiser. Wearing student-designed and support, donating these funds to
Food Bank. PVPHS collects approximately t-shirts, students present a check for Susan G. Komen for the Cure, City of
8,000 food items each year. cancer research, then walk to Highridge Hope, UCLA Pediatric Sarcoma Program,
Park, and back to PVPHS, totaling three and The Cancer Support Community.






















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Willenberg School Exchange Program - Season Pollock, Activities Director
In December, students from PVPHS have interacting with the students who Ask any faculty member or student
the opportunity to participate in the have profoundly limited lives. PVPHS who has ever been a part of the
time honored tradition of providing a students dressed in holiday attire Willenberg program, and they will
holiday program for students attending perform several times during the day tell everyone that something magical
the Willenberg Career and Transition with dance presentations and various happens during these two special day
Center located in San Pedro. This event fun activities as they bring joy and visits. All participants express the joy
began almost 50 years ago when Jim excitement to the Willenberg students that comes from this special event.
Kinney, the activities director of Rolling and staff. On the second day, Willenberg The event is coordinated and organized
Hills High School, first reached out and students visit PVPHS. During the by the Associated Student Body (ASB)
connected with this school. Since then, visit, hundreds of Panthers greet the and Service Learning Leadership.
the tradition has continued every year Willenberg visitors and join them in However, this event involves the entire
and continues to provide a life-changing games, crafts, and tours of the school. school, which makes it a valued success
experience for all involved participants. The day cumulates with a holiday for all students and staff. What better
performance in the gym with one final way to celebrate the holidays than for
The relationship with Willenberg
celebration before the honored guests Panthers to show the world of giving
includes two days of festivities. On the
depart for their own school. This is a and support to others.
first day, several busloads of PVPHS
special opportunity for all students and
students travel to Willenberg, providing
staff members from both schools.
entertainment, delivering gifts, and



















































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ADMINISTRATION










Kuykendall, Brent
Principal








Clovis, Katie Toombs, Lea Wanmer, Michael
Associate Principal Associate Principal Associate Principal
DEPARTMENT CHAIRS










Adams-Smith, Judy Cohen, Seth Colin, Bruce
Science Visual & Performing Arts English








Colin, Pat Hendrick, Kimi Kurt, Linda
Counseling Physical Education Mathematics








Quick, Jim Tootell, Logan Twiet, Hassan
Social Science Social Science S-M-E-R-T








Valerio, Jacqueline Williams, Kisha
World Language Special Education
DIRECTORS











Pollock, Season Yoshida, Wendell
Activities Director Athletic Director

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