THE DRAGON'S PEN
/by Milan Streit
BACK TO SCHOOL UPDATE
School is back online and in-person and so far, most of us at King George Secondary School have felt it has gone smoothly. While there are still some problems, the Vancouver School Board has done a pretty good job setting up the year. So far, mostly positive feedback is coming from students about the new semester schedule reducing the number of people in the building. One of the best parts is the fact that for some kids, school starts at 1 p.m.
But there are still some problems to cover.
While schedules are mainly fixed now, a bunch of us came back to school in September with only two classes on their schedule (myself included). When they tried to get the classes they wanted, most of them were full. So, if you didn’t get the course you wanted this year but need the credit to apply to a university, you're going to have to take it again, or online.
Another unfortunate thing was students not wearing masks in the hallways as required. Vice principal Paul Godfrey was not too pleased. Overall, I see most students are following the rules and around half leave their masks on even when it is optional (depending on the class).
A computer is essential for on-line learning.
NEED A COMPUTER?
With high school having a 50 percent online studies component during this pandemic, some students do not have access to their own computers. That is why King George and other schools in the VSB are letting students borrow a computer for the year if they don’t have one to complete studies and interact via Microsoft Teams with their teachers.
If you need a computer, head down to the school office and they will lend you one after entering your name on a log sheet.
STUDENT COUNCIL
Be sure to have your voice heard as Student Council is happening both online via MS Teams and in-person this school year. Mr. De Blasio and Ms. Mah are this year's teacher sponsors and are excited for a new slate of young leaders.
Sadly, no dances are expected in the gym during the pandemic, but there will be other important activities such as Spirit Week planning, bake sales and fundraising. A new president will also be chosen this year due to the graduation of the former president.
If you want to join, you’re asked to speak with Mr. De Blasio or Ms. Mah.
Richard and Kathy at The Sauce have lunch ready for you. (closed Tuesdays).
STUDENT LUNCH OPTIONS
If you’re a new student at KG, you’ll find numerous incredible eateries featuring food from around the world just minutes away from the school.
This as the school cafeteria remains closed due to COVID-19 protocols.
Here is a list of five popular restaurants factoring price, quality, proximity, and service to students. This is not a ranking, just a list.
A&W — A&W on Denman is a great place to eat with your friends while enjoying some classic burgers. I highly recommend the 50’s Buddy Burger as it is only $2.50. Good service in a clean restaurant.
The Sauce Pasta Café — This is a tiny bit more on the expensive side for the average student’s wallet, but it is really worth it. The Sauce on Denman St. has some of the best meat sauce I have ever tasted plus you get a lot of pasta for the price you pay. The service is great with employees taking special orders with no problem in a relaxing environment.
Peaked Pies — Similar to The Sauce, Peaked Pies on Denman is a bit pricey for the student budget but worth every bite. It serves meat pies with vegetarian options - all their options are delicious. But the best part of the restaurant is the newly upgraded patio. It is always great to eat outside on a nice day during the pandemic.
Nat’s Pizza — Ah yes, the classic West End pizza joint. Nats on Denman offers great pizzas at an affordable price. Its interior is cool with New York theming, such as a subway on the wall and the NYC skyline above the cashier. Be aware, due to its popularity Nat’s can get quite busy during the noon hour.
Subway — Whether it is a footlong or a 6-inch, Subway is arguably the West End’s most customizable fast-food joint. If you are looking for cheap options, Subway offers $5 dollar meals. The restaurant on Robson St. has some seating and a small patio.
Woodworking class at King George in the 70s.
INTO THE ARCHIVES
Into the Archives has finally returned from a summer hiatus.
This month, we’re looking at the King George woodwork shop in a photo from the Vancouver School Board Archives taken in the early 1970s. Many of the same machines such as the bandsaw and lathe have surprisingly not been replaced, but rather retrofitted over the years.
For some time during the pandemic, the VSB did not allow the machines to be turned, but that directive was reversed in late September. Students are very pleased with this, as woodwork is one of the most popular electives.
