New Shop Opening in SS?? Didn't they learn their lesson? - June 2025 Issue

Chief Editor: Heather Hills

Editors: Brownia Tan | Heather Hills | Nicola Lang | Nicolas Lang | Jasmine Tong | Lily Chen | Diana Junior Lang

Teacher IC: Mdm Olivia Hong

Note: Photos cannot be uploaded in this post

Contents:

1- New Shop Opening in SS?? Didn't they learn their lesson? - Brownia Tan

2- Teacher Sio's new job - Heather Hills

3- Gossip Column - Nicola Lang

4- Sammy School x Middleton Football tournament results - Nicolas Ashvin Lang

5- Advice Column - Jasmine Tong

6- What to expect from the new shop - Brownia Tan

7- Turkiye School Trip - Lily Chen

8- Class Photo Taking - Mdm Hong

9- Masterclasses Available (Electives) - Sammy School Board (Heather Hills)

10- More Study Spots! - Diana Junior Lang

New Shop Opening in SS??

by Brownia Tan

Link to poster: https://ibb.co/GQyQVYxK

After the departure of Design Dress (due to all the controversy surrounding it - you can check it out in the previous post), we were all told that a study spot would be built in place of it. However, after a lot of vetting amongst the school board, that idea was revoked (but it will come up again later!) and a NEW shop will be opened there. Let me introduce you to SORELLA.

Sorella is a clothing and jewellery store targetted at youths and young adults. They sell a wide variety of clothing and jewellery - especially necklaces. They are especially known for their beautiful and unique pieces which got them multiple awards such as the Best Affordable Jewellery 2024 and Best Quality Teen Clothing 2024 Award even though they only opened last year in January 2024.

Do you want to know what's more to love about the brand? The brand was created by an ex-student of Sammy School herself! Sorella Po, who named the brand herself, stated that she started the brand three years after graduating Sammy School University, after resigning her job at Sammy Fashion Corps.

Sorella was a full Sammy student! She was from Sammy Primary, went on to Sammy Secondary and Sammy JC, then got accepted into Sammy University where she majored in business and took a minor in fashion. When she graduated, she worked at Sammy Fashion Corps to understand more about the fashion business. After three years, she took a leap of faith and started the company - her lifelong dream.

When asked why she started the company, Sorella responded, "Well, ever since I was young, I always wanted to own a fashion company. Or be a fashion designer of some sort. I remember when I was younger, I would constantly be cutting up my clothes into different pieces. I was attached at the hip to my sewing machine, and it really riled my parents up. I named the company Sorella not after me, but after my grandmother. My parents named me after her. She was the one that introduced me to clothing and taught me how to sew. I'm super grateful for her."

The Sammy School Outlet is Sorella's first outlet. Before, she operated through her website (which is currently down :() and her instagram. Don't forget to support her once the shop is open!

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Teacher Sio's New Job

by Heather Hills

In a bittersweet turn of events, Sammy School bids a heartfelt farewell to one of its most beloved educators. Teacher Sio, known for her passion, warmth, and dedication to students, has accepted a new position as Vice Principal at Middleton Middle School.

The announcement came last Friday during the school assembly, where Principal Emma praised Teacher Sio’s commitment and called her “a shining example of leadership in education.”

“Middleton is gaining more than just a vice principal,” said Principal Emma. “They’re gaining a role model, a mentor, and someone who will make a real difference.”

We at the Sammy School Newspaper sat down with Teacher Sio just before she packed up her famously colorful office.

Interview with Teacher Sio:

Heather Hills: How are you feeling about this big move?

Teacher Sio: Honestly, it’s a mix of excitement and sadness. Sammy School has been my home for so long. I’ve grown so much here, alongside my students. But I’m also looking forward to the new challenge—helping shape the culture and direction of a whole school is something I’m really passionate about.

Heather: What will you miss the most?

Teacher Sio: The students, without a doubt. And my incredible fellow teachers.

Heather: What would you say to your students who might be sad about your departure?

Teacher Sio: I’d say: change is hard, but it’s also how we grow. I’ll never forget any of you. I hope you keep working hard, being kind, and asking big questions. And who knows? Maybe I’ll see you again—at Middleton!

Students React

The halls were buzzing with emotions after the news broke. Here’s what a few students had to say:

“She’s the reason I started loving science class. I’m really going to miss her energy,” said student Fluffy.

“She's just going away because of the Design Dress controversy. She doesn't care about Sammy School. I mean, she's been here for like a decade then goes to our school's rival? Traitor,” added student Kcookie Ung.

“Middleton is lucky,” said student Nicolas Lang. “We’re losing one of the best.”

Though it’s hard to say goodbye, we know Teacher Sio is destined for greatness in her new role. From everyone at Sammy School: thank you, Teacher Sio. You’ve left your mark on our hearts and our hallways.

📌 Editor's Note: If you’d like to leave a note or drawing for Teacher Sio, stop by the front office bulletin board. It’ll be sent along with a special Sammy School memory box! Do note that all notes and gifts will be vetted by Mdm Olivia Hong (disciple mistress)!

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Gossip Column

by Nicola Lang

Soooo... Teacher Sio's leaving. To Middleton. Our freaking ENEMY. What's up with that, Teacher Sio? Her principal talks used to include dissing Middleton, trying to lift up our spirits. Did your loyalty mean nothing? She really did use Sammy School as a stepping stone. Or maybe she's just going to Middleton because her job as Pinky Dee Dee (minister of education)'s assistant and predecessor got cancelled due to the Design Dress controversy. So funny how she immediately tried to escape Sammy School once the Design Dress controversy came to light. It hasn't even been a month! But whatever, just my thoughts.

Anyways, the column might be cancelled. They wanna bring in some sort of educational column because they think my column is too negative but these are just my thoughts?? I'm going to start a group called 'ur local gossip' to write my thoughts. Please join it! Thankyouu!

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Sammy School vs. Middleton: Clash of the Titans Ends in a Thrilling Finish

by Nicolas Ashvin Lang

In a showdown that lived up to the hype, Sammy School and Middleton Middle faced off last Saturday in the annual Sammy x Middleton Inter-School Football Tournament—and it was a game for the history books.

Final Score:🏆 Sammy School 28 – 26 Middleton Middle

That’s right—Sammy took the win in a nail-biter of a finish that had the crowd on its feet until the very last second.

Game Highlights

• 1st Quarter: Sammy started strong with a 60-yard touchdown by running back Matthew Nate, putting us on the board early. Middleton responded quickly, tying the score just before the whistle.

• 2nd Quarter: Middleton’s defense tightened, intercepting a crucial pass and scoring again. Sammy struggled but managed a late field goal from kicker Alicia Romero, closing the gap to 14–10 at halftime.

• 3rd Quarter: The third quarter saw Sammy’s comeback, thanks to a brilliant reverse play executed by wide receiver Red Bear, who ran 45 yards to the end zone.

• 4th Quarter: With two minutes left and the score at 26–21 in Middleton’s favor, Sammy pulled off a risky 4th-down pass—quarterback Nicolas Ashvin Lang connected with tight end Frosty Chills in the end zone. The successful two-point conversion sealed the win at 28–26.

  
  

Player of the Game: Matthew Nate

With two touchdowns, 100+ rushing yards, and a key block late in the 4th, Jordan Kim’s performance electrified the team and earned him MVP honors.

“We gave it everything,” Matthew said after the match. “Middleton’s tough, but we came together as a team. That’s what made the difference.”

Post-Game Reactions

Coach Tommy (Sammy):“Proud isn’t even the word. They showed heart, hustle, and real sportsmanship.”

Coach Lin (Middleton):“We’ll be back. That was football at its finest—clean, fast, and fought to the end.”

A Bittersweet Twist

In an ironic twist, newly appointed Middleton Vice Principal Teacher Sio, formerly of Sammy School, watched the game from the Middleton side.

“I was cheering quietly for both,” she said, laughing. “No matter the score, both schools showed leadership and grit. That’s a win in my book.”

Looking Ahead

Rumors are swirling about a possible rematch this fall during Homecoming Week. Until then, Sammy School can celebrate a hard-earned victory—and Middleton, no doubt, will be training hard for redemption.

One thing’s for sure: the Sammy x Middleton rivalry is alive and well.

🗣 Got photos or videos from the game? Send them to photos@sammytimes.school for a chance to be featured in our next issue!

Editor's note: I'm thinking of going by something shorter, as Nicolas Ashvin Lang is kind of long. Should I go by Nick or Nico?

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Advice Column

by Jasmine Tong

Dear Jasmine: How Do You Deal With Big Changes?

Q:“Jasmine, I'm sad about Teacher Sio leaving and nervous about moving to middle school next year. I don't like change. How do I deal with it without freaking out?”— Feeling Wobbly

Dear Wobbly,

First of all—thank you for being brave enough to say what a lot of people are feeling. Change is hard. Whether it's your favorite teacher moving schools, a new grade, or even a different seat in class, it's okay to feel a little wobbly when things shift.

Here’s what I’ve learned (the hard way!):

🌱 1. Let Yourself Feel Weird About It

You don’t have to pretend everything’s okay. Feeling sad, confused, or nervous means you care—and that’s actually a good thing. Write about it, draw it, or talk to someone you trust.

🧠 2. Think About What You’re Gaining

Yes, we’re saying goodbye to Teacher Sio, but she’s moving on to help even more students—how cool is that? And middle school? It means lockers, new friends, new clubs, and growing independence. Try to list three things you're curious or excited about.

💬 3. Talk It Out

If you’re nervous about something specific, like getting lost in a new school, talk to a teacher or older student. Chances are, they were nervous once too and can share what helped them.

💪 4. Remember Your Track Record

You’ve made it through lots of “firsts” before—first days, first presentations, even first friendship hiccups. You’ve got the tools. You’re stronger than you think.

My Pep Talk to You:Change doesn’t mean losing something—it means making space for something new. You’re not alone in this. In fact, most people around you are also trying to figure it out (even the grown-ups!).

Try this mantra:

“I might not know what’s coming next, but I know I’ll grow through it.”

You’ve got this.

Warm wishes,

Jasmine 🌼

Got a question for Jasmine?

Email her at dearjasmine@sammytimes.school or drop an anonymous letter in the “Ask Jasmine” box outside the library.

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What to expect from the Sorella outlet at Sammy School

by Brownia Tan

Learn more about Sorella at https://shorturl.at/KAwnz

Expect beautiful, unique tops and skirts, and intricate necklaces and bracelets made by Sorella herself.

The discounts are very attractive! I urge you all to visit Sorella once it opens!

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From Istanbul to Cappadocia: Our Unforgettable School Trip to Türkiye

by Lily Chen

This past month, 20 lucky students from Sammy School, accompanied by four teachers and one very energetic principal, embarked on a week-long cultural exchange trip to Türkiye—and it was nothing short of magical.

Organized as part of Sammy School’s Global Explorers Program, the trip combined history, adventure, and deep-dish baklava into one unforgettable experience.

🕌 First Stop: Istanbul – Where East Meets West

Our journey began in Istanbul, a city that sits between Europe and Asia—and somehow manages to be both ancient and modern all at once.

We visited the Hagia Sophia, a former church, mosque, and now a museum with towering domes and glittering mosaics. Right across from it stood the Blue Mosque, where we learned how respect, quiet, and sock-wearing are part of cultural etiquette.

“It felt like time travel,” said student Winnie Da Poo. “One minute we were learning about the Ottomans, the next we were sipping Turkish coffee on a rooftop.”

Other highlights included:

• The Grand Bazaar, where students learned the art of bargaining (and some probably overpaid for lamps—but hey, it’s about the experience).

• A Bosphorus boat tour, which gave us stunning views of the city skyline at sunset.

  
  

🎈 Second Stop: Cappadocia – Land of Fairy Chimneys and Hot Air Balloons

After a short flight to Cappadocia, the landscape changed completely. Suddenly we were walking among otherworldly rock formations and ancient cave dwellings.

But the true highlight?

🌅 The Hot Air Balloon Ride

Waking up at 3 AM never felt so worth it. As we rose into the sky, the valleys below lit up in gold and pink. For many of us, it was a first—and a forever memory.

“It was the quietest I’ve ever heard our group,” joked Teacher Belinda, our science teacher. “Just awe. And maybe a little fear of heights.”

Students also explored:

• The Underground City of Derinkuyu, carved by early civilizations to hide from invaders.

• A ceramics workshop where everyone got to try the potter’s wheel (and splash a little clay).

• A jewellery store where we got to buy Turkish jewels!

💧 Third Stop: Pamukkale – Cotton Castle & Ancient Ruins

One of the most unexpected highlights of the trip was our visit to Pamukkale, the “Cotton Castle” of Türkiye. Famous for its dazzling white terraces made from mineral-rich thermal waters, Pamukkale looked like a snow-covered mountain—but felt like a natural spa.

Students took off their shoes and carefully walked barefoot over the warm, smooth limestone while marveling at the view.

“It was surreal,” said student Sharlene Ho. “Like nature built its own palace.”

But Pamukkale wasn’t just about the pools. Just above the terraces, the group explored the ruins of the ancient city of Hierapolis, complete with a Roman theater, ancient tombs, and hot springs that have bubbled for thousands of years.

Fun fact: Some students even dipped their feet in the same thermal waters Roman emperors once bathed in.

🧠 What We Learned

This wasn’t just a vacation—it was a chance to connect with a culture rich in history, kindness, and incredible landscapes.

“Now I understand why people say Türkiye is where history and beauty meet,” said student Brownia Tan. “Every day felt like a new world.”

❤️ Special Thanks

Huge thanks to our local guide Ms. Kalem, the teachers who made this possible, and all the curious dogs of Türkiye who followed us on every street (literally).

📸 Coming Soon: Türkiye Trip Exhibit & Family Night!

Don’t miss the Türkiye Photo & Culture Night next Friday in the library. Enjoy a student-led photo gallery, samples of Turkish treats, and a short film called “Snow That’s Not Snow: Pamukkale in Our Words.” Photographs are not up in this article because there are too many to consolidate! See you there!

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Lily Chen is an student, aspiring travel writer, and now officially obsessed with Turkish delight.

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Class Photo Taking

📸 Important Announcement

From the Desk of Mdm Olivia Hong, Discipline Mistress

Re: Annual Class Photo-Taking – Don’t Forget to Smile!

Dear Students and Teachers,

Our Annual Class Photo-Taking will take place on:

🗓 Wednesday, June 26, 2025📍 School Hall (Please check the schedule outside the General Office for your class’s time slot.)

This is a cherished tradition at Sammy School—one that captures memories for years to come. In order to ensure a smooth and successful photo session, please take note of the following:

✅ What to Wear:

• Full school uniform (clean and neatly ironed)

• Name tags and ties (if part of your uniform set)

• No PE attire or hoodies, unless you have PE immediately before/after and are excused by your teacher

✨ Tips for Photo Day:

• Be punctual. Your class will not be re-slotted if you miss your timing.

• Comb your hair and look presentable—these photos will live in the yearbook forever!

• Keep accessories minimal and school-appropriate.

• Show your best Sammy spirit—sit tall, smile bright, and let your class pride shine!

Should you be unwell on photo day, please inform your form teacher in advance. Students who are late or not in proper attire may not be included in the official class photo.

Let’s make this year’s class photos the memorable!

Warm regards,

Mdm Olivia Hong

Discipline Mistress

Sammy School

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Masterclasses (Electives) Available

by Heather Hills

🧠 Explore. Create. Discover.🎨 Sammy School Masterclasses 2025

Compiled by the Enrichment Committee

At Sammy School, learning doesn’t stop at textbooks—and our Masterclass Electives prove it. Whether you're a coder, a dancer, or a budding chef, there's something here for you.

Electives are open to students in Grades 5–8 and will run every Friday from 2:00–4:00 PM, beginning July 5.

📝 Sign-ups open June 24 at 8:00 AM on the Student Portal. First come, first served!

🎭 Creative Arts

🎨 Art Explorations (Teacher Sharon)

From watercolors to street art techniques—learn how to express yourself through different mediums.

🎬 Intro to Filmmaking (Teacher Lane)

Script, shoot, and edit your own short film using real equipment and editing software.

🎭 Musical Theatre (Teacher Adilah)

Sing, dance, and act your heart out—culminates in a stage performance in Term 4.

🔬 STEM & Innovation

💻 Coding & Game Design (Teacher Fex)

Learn Python basics and create your own simple video game. No experience required!

🔬 Science in the Kitchen (Teacher Belinda)

Is it chemistry or cooking? Both! Explore edible experiments you can taste.

🔭 Astronomy & Space Lab (Teacher Faizal)

Use real telescopic data and build your own star map.

Bonus: Night-sky viewing session in August!

🍳 Life Skills & Culture

🍱 Global Cooking (Chef Nur & Teacher Fce)

Make dishes from five different countries—plus a Turkish dessert workshop inspired by the Türkiye trip!

🧘 Mindfulness & Movement (Ms. Nice)

Yoga, breathing, and balance—perfect for de-stressing and staying centered.

📚 Young Entrepreneurs (Teacher Cho)

Have a business idea? Learn how to pitch it, brand it, and (maybe) even launch it.

⚽ Sports & Movement

🥋 Taekwondo Basics (Coach Tommy)

Discipline, defense, and confidence—suitable for beginners.

⚽ Street Soccer Techniques (Coach Imran)

Fast footwork and creative plays. Show your flair on the field.

💡 Student Picks:

We asked a few students what they’re most excited about:

"Definitely Global Cooking—especially if we get to make baklava again!"— Brown Bear Lang

"Coding. I want to make a game where my cat is the hero."— Seraphina

"Musical Theatre! I’m ready for the spotlight."— Karissa Ung

Spots fill quickly, so don’t wait to register. Try something new—you might just discover your next passion.

For more, visit https://mandcsg.wixsite.com/sammyschool/activities

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More Study Spots

by Diana Junior Lang

Since examinations are coming up, more study spots are being set up. Just to note, there will not be a study spot opening in Design Dress' old section.

YUMS and Dining Delights have expressed that they do not like students crowding around studying there. Therefore, more study spots are being built.

1st spot- outside the staffroom

2nd spot- on the second level of the library

3rd spot- in the garden

Please don't crowd the canteen, YUMS or Dining Delights! Please go to these places or the library or classrooms to study! Also, note that you have to check in with Mdm Hong to switch on the air-conditioning in classrooms! Thank you!

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