Sammi Carr's The Jaguars’ Spot column for Wed., Apr. 25, 2007

What a difference a week makes

For this column my editor, David Ross, asked me to discuss last week’s shootings at Virginia Tech with VCHS students. I talked to a lot of kids and the general sense I got was that they (we) have all quite suddenly become much more accepting of the many security precautions that are taken at VCHS.

Sophomore Mica Coburn said, "I’m glad that our school has a strict lockdown policy (which prohibits anyone to enter or exit the school without approval).”

Sophomore Sasha Friwat agreed. "I feel quite safe. It was definitely a reality check, though."

Chamille Schuck, a junior who transferred from Fallbrook High, agrees. "VCHS definitely has stricter security than Fallbrook. I feel completely protected from outsiders. All the precautions are worth it, even though they may seem like a pain sometimes."

Nonetheless, many of the kids I talked to were realistic about the dangers and said that just because we’re keeping the bad guys out doesn’t guarantee there still couldn’t be one amongst us. Mica Coburn, for example, added, “Something was very wrong with the shooter at Virginia Tech. He hated the world and his life, but took it out on everyone else."

If you want to express your condolences to friends or family members of the students and teachers who died at Virginia Tech, write a letter and give it to Mrs. Meyers (classroom 702) before May 3.

Gotta pay yer dues!:

This is the last week to pay your semester dues for clubs such as CSF and NHS. They need that money so they can to place orders for graduation cords and other accessories. So stop by the cashier’s office and pay up!

Mystery party:

The “Mystery High” cast party will take place from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday in Mr. Ward’s Drama room. They'll be showing lots of hilarious outtakes and there will also be some really fun surprises. The party is for cast, crew and members of their families only, so, if you fall into one of those categories you’re invited!

In case you didn’t know, “Mystery High” is our school district’s first original full-length feature FILM (it’s not a play). It will premiere at 7 p.m., Friday, May 11 at the Maxine Theater on a real movie screen with a real theater-quality projector and incredible sound.

As the Drama Club’s gift to the community, admission will be totally FREE (although you’re welcome to donate a couple of bucks to the Club). There will also be a drawing for a free Apple iPod Video (30 GB). Note that admission will be limited to VCHS students and adults. Adults are VERY welcome. Don’t miss it!

Here's Something I Betcha Didn't Know:

At last weekend’s “Live. Love. Dance.” concert, Jordan Sanchez broke two of her toes on the day of the Saturday show. With just a couple hours notice, Naomi O’Connor was able to learn all of Jordan’s numbers and filled in flawlessly. Well done, Naomi -- and get well, Jordan.

Know something I don't know? Catch me on campus or send me an e-mail at sammi@carrfamily.com.

See ya. Sam.