Derek Price

Favorite subject at CRLS
Mathematics

Why is it your favorite subject?
Math is my favorite subject because I enjoy problem solving and thinking critically. I was influenced by my grandfather who is a mathematician. Growing up, we did math together at local coffee shops. He instilled in me an excitement for math which has motivated me to take challenging courses at CRLS. Math allows to me to challenge myself and feel rewarded afterwards. At the same time, I enjoy the process of collaborating with my peers to solve complex problems. 

Favorite CRLS Staff Person
Mr. Nicholson

What makes that staff person so special?
Mr. Nicholson is an important role model for me and someone I look up to. As my tennis coach and Multivariable Calculus teacher, I have gotten to learn a lot from him. Not only has he challenged me to be a leader on the court, but he has also made me a better student. He constantly motivates me to become a better version of myself in and outside of the classroom. It has been very special to have him as a teacher as we both enjoy tennis and math. Furthermore, as he attended Tufts university himself, I see myself following in his footsteps. 

Extracurricular activities, clubs, school-related activities
Soccer, cross country/track, tennis, Habitat for Humanity, Black Student Union, and MIAA Student Advisory Member.

What were some of the out-of-school time (O.S.T) programs that you participated in anytime between grades 6-12?
Frisoli and Area 4 youth centers, Mayors Program, and Boston Harbor Now.

How did being enrolled in any O.S.T. program(s) contribute to your success both in and out of high school? 
Attending youth centers in middle school allowed me to become involved in my community and expand my circle of friends. This meant that by the time I got to high school, I already knew a lot of people. Working at the Mayors program offered me an experience to be maintenance crew member and clean up my old school. Finally, I participated in Boston Harbor Now which gave me the opportunity to do something to better my environment. I removed invasive plants from Grape Island in Boston harbor. 

What did you like most about CRLS? Why?
What I like most about CRLS is the diverse student body. My friends have interesting backgrounds and upbringings. Being surrounded by people who hail from all around the world has been very special. In after school clubs, sports teams, or classrooms, you are always surrounded by people who look differently from you. I love this about CRLS.

What is something people unfamiliar with CRLS should know about the school? Why?
Something people unfamiliar with CRLS should know about is the STARs class. STARs is a leadership and community action class. It counts as a history credit or wellness credit. STARs is unique to CRLS and is very important. It is different from a traditional class. There are no desks and we sit in a circle with rolling chairs. We discuss topics like social justice, identity, wellness, community, and many more. It is a place for leaders to come together and better the school. We organize incredibly fun events like full school showcases in the auditorium. This classroom is where I have created lifelong friendships. It is the perfect example of what student life at CRLS is like.

What advice would you give incoming freshmen about CRLS?
When you enter CRLS as a freshman I would advise you to join tons of clubs and try out for any sports you are even slightly interested in. You are only in high school for 4 years, so it is important to put yourself out there and just go for it. You will have so much fun in high school, so make sure you do not take it for granted and always live in the moment. 

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