Como launches 3DE program

Como Park High

Robert Wasiluk

Como’s new 3DE (three-dimensional education) program for all freshmen has successfully launched. A culminating event took place in November with a field trip downtown to St. Paul City Hall and Ramsey County Courthouse.
The students presented the findings of their case study in partnership with Ramsey County. Several weeks were spent on the case which asked students to develop a solution to the question: Which non-profit should Ramsey County collaborate with to build their talent pipeline?
Como’s 3DE coordinator Le’Shon Archie explained that all students presented a solution in class during the first academic quarter. Then the top four groups presented to Ramsey County employees and officials at city hall. From those finalists who spoke in front of over 200 people, a winning group was selected. They were Molly Zbacnik, Nijia Wheeler and Lilly Werner.
The 3DE classes have embarked upon their next case study, which is with the APi Group, a construction and building safety company headquartered in New Brighton. APi employees are coming to Como to coach teams in early December. On Dec. 17, the CEO and Chief Operating Officer of the APi Group will come to Como for student presentations in the school auditorium.
The 3DE program is sponsored by Junior Achievement. Next year 3DE will be in place for both ninth and 10th graders, meaning this year’s freshmen will continue their 3DE courses. They are the pioneers of a program that will eventually be embedded on a school-wide scale as Como adds another grade level one year at a time.

Musical guests and lessons
Como Park band students had the opportunity to hear a performance from a professional brass quintet representing the Saint Paul Conservatory of Music (SPCM). The quintet came to Como and played quality brass repertoire, followed by a question-and-answer session which allowed students a chance to discuss musicianship and think critically about their developing craft.
Como band and orchestra students are eligible for free private lessons on their instrument from a professional through SPCM. Band, orchestra, and choir students are also receiving weekly lessons during the school day from their directors Katie Miller and Huy Tran.

Lueck medals twice at state swim meet
Cougar junior Aleia Lueck qualified for her third consecutive Minnesota state swim meet. She finished with a fourth-place state medal in the 50-yard freestyle and a sixth-place state medal in the 100-yard backstroke.
At the section meet (where state qualification occurs), Lueck defended her title in the 50 free from last year and set a new section meet record in that event. The relay team of junior Hattie Miller, freshman Adeline Hanson, eighth-grader Alice Van Keerbergen, and Lueck set a new school record in the 400-yard free relay.
Como highlights from the St. Paul City Conference Meet included championships for Hanson in the 100-yard breaststroke and Lueck in both the 50 free and 100 back.