What's going on around Samo?

Brooke Mekshow/Contributor

The image show Perlman beginning her testimony in front of a crowd of attentive freshman.

Holocaust survivor hosted at Samo’s Barnum Hall

As an initiative to promote Holocaust education, Samo hosted Holocaust survivor Eva Pearlmen in Barnum Hall on Jan 22, 2025 just before International Holocaust Remembrance Day. Eva Pearlman was born in 1932 to German Jewish parents. As Hitlers’ power rose and Jewish professionals faced more challenges, her fathers colleague offered him a job in Paris, while Eva and her mom remained in Germany. Later she escaped from Germany and hid in France. She titled her book “Guided by Miracles”, referencing the miraculous occurrences that led to hr survival. 

The Holocaust was a period during World War II when Nazi Germany systematically persecuted and murdered six million jews, along with millions of others, including Roma, disabled individuals and political dissidents. The genocide took place from 1941-1945, which was driven by extreme racist and anti-semitic beliefs and remains one of the most horrific events in human history. 

Sadie Gryczman (’26) Samo ASB Treasurer, a descendant of multiple Holocaust survivors spearheaded the event. She explained why Holocaust education is so valuable. 

“The whole point about learning history is to not repeat the mistake we previously made. Therefore, learning about the Holocaust, which obviously was a tragic and terrible series of events, is important; especially with the rise of antisemitism and people who act oblivious to the fact the Holocaust actually happened,” Gryczman said. “People who are ignorant and not informed need to be educated about history because being educated is a powerful way to combat ignorance.”

Eva Pearlman’s visit left an impactful influence on students and staff, by offering a firsthand account of the horrors she and many others endured during the Holocaust. For those who missed the event, her aforementioned book “Eva’s Uncommon Life: Guided by Miracles” provides an even deeper look into her experience and is a valuable resource for understanding the lasting effects this event had on not only the past but the present as well. Copies of the book are available in the Samo library. 

California Science Center offering internships to students

The California Science Center in Los Angeles is now accepting applications for its prestigious highschool internship program. The program was created to inspire the next generation of scientists and innovators. This hands-on opportunity allows students to explore various scientific fields and engage in exciting projects while also working alongside experienced professionals. Interns will gain valuable skills and insights into careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), but still be interactive in exhibits and educational programs. 

The internship program is open to high school students aged 16 years and older and applications are due by March 15. Selected interns will benefit from mentorship, networking opportunities and the chance of making a real impact on their community at such a young age. 

Samo student Elliot Decker (’25) who’s applying as a physic major for multiple prestigious colleges and has interned at —- , referenced his fond memories of the California Science Center and why he believes the opportunity being offered to students is so important.

“Ever since I was a kid, I always had an interest in space and aerospace,” Decker said. “I would definitely apply! Internship opportunities are rare for highschool students and they are fundamental for future job opportunities and college applications. I think highschoolers should definitely look into this opportunity.” 

Francisco Bejarano/ Contributor

This picture displays the Endeavor Space Shuttle which successfully made 25 missions into space, located at the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Exhibition at the California Science Center.

If you are interested, do not hesitate to apply today. Just visit the California Science Center website to fill out the application. 

Samo to introduce new state-wide alcohol curriculum

Kamerin Shakir/ The Samohi

The Samo’s Nurse office offers informational posters about Drop In Mental Health Counseling Services in the Admin building.

Samo to introduce new state-wide alcohol curriculum

In 2025, a new law inspired by a former lawmaker who’s DUI derailed her political career, is adding additional coursework dedicated to the harms of alcohol at Samo. Currently, California schools are required to teach about general information about alcohol, narcotics and other dangerous drugs. The law would require schools to include instruction over the short and long term effect of alcohol, especially with its links to chronic diseases, mental health problems and deaths. 

As of this moment, Samo has a few resources already. On the website, Samo has already compiled a list dedicated to substance abuse such as Rehab Spot and Didi Hersh: Substance Use. In 2024, Samo also updated the board policy on students caught using substances- switching from automatic three-day suspension to meetings and counseling sessions. This switch was to stop t.he abuse directly, instead of simply keeping the kid stuck at home. 

The new law aims to equip students with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about alcohol consumption. Shuli Lotan, Mental Health Counselor Coordinator at Samohi, highlighted the motivation behind the policy, by expressing the benefits about the implementation of the policy. 

“More knowledge about alcohol's effects can help students make better decisions. Instead of just getting the ‘don’t do drugs and drink motto’, which we’ve found has only tempted kids,” Lotan said. “We're actually trying to make sure they fully understand the consequences that come with any substance.” 

The new curriculum will focus on the long term health effects of alcohol, safe practices, and practical knowledge, such as what to do if someone is inebriated at a party. Schools will enhance substance counselors, providing a safety net for students. With these changes, the hope is to reduce the prevalence of alcohol-related issues in schools, ultimately promoting a healthier student community.

Richard Bucha / Contributor

Freshmen PLTW students posing in front of the Best Friends Pet Adoption Center in West LA after completing their work assisting the shelter.

PLTW volunteers at local animal shelter

Last semester, Project Lead The Way (PLTW) took the freshman class to Best Friends Pet Adoption Center in West LA where they got the opportunity to learn about the adoption process of pets and even interact with the animals.

Richard Bucha (28’) recently participated in an animal shelter where he volunteered and assisted staff with various tasks. 

“The Project allowed me to meet new staff members and students as an incoming freshman and also gave me the opportunity to help many kinds of animals,” Bucha said. “I was able to feed the animals, sit with them and learn more about the different species. Overall it was a great experience and it’s something I’ll continue throughout highschool.” 

PLTW emphasizes the importance of strong math skills, critical thinking and collaborative work. Students enrolled in PLTW will get hands-on projects that challenge them to apply their knowledge in practical settings. The curriculum not only prepares for future studies and engineering but also helps students to learn central problem-solving skills that are valuable in all areas of life. With PLTW, Samo aims to inspire the next generation of engineers and innovators, equipping them with the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.

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