Jon's Defense

1 May 2004 -- On 7 April 2004, Jon Hannah made a strong presentation and defense of his thesis, seeking a diploma this Spring.  Jon's presentation was suitably accompanied by a PowerPoint presentation -- in keeping with the computer networking theme of his paper.  Jon spoke for about 30 minutes, giving a outline of the basic structures of computers, local area networks, and their relation to the internet.  Jon also gave a brief overview of the history and development of these systems, and his predictions for some near-term future developments.

Jon has served as a Judicial Committee Clerk in the School.  Since his admission to the School Meeting, about four years ago, Jon has focused much of his efforts on learning programming and exploring the use and interconnectivity of computers.  He plans to continue his study of computer networking in a college environment, if he is granted a diploma.

After his presentation, Jon fielded questions from the members of the School Assembly who were present.  Jon responded intelligently and directly to the questions.  He demonstrated a strong grasp of computing and a growing interest and facility in ethics and communication.  When asked "what is more important, truth or beauty," Jon responded with a programmer's precision:  "If beauty were more important, then we could not know it, without truth coming first, so I guess it has to be truth."  Good answer.

Jon and his parents then retired.  

The members of the Assembly discussed Jon's career at the School and the indications that he will be able to continue to grow and develop outside of The New School.  After discussing both the marks of hope and points of concern, those present cast an advisory vote.

Those present resoundingly recommended that Jon receive a diploma (27-1).

Jon's committee has met since the night of the defense and has endorsed the recommendation that Jon receive a diploma.  Jon will be on the agenda of diploma candidates considered by the School Assembly at its special diploma meeting this June.