The Eagle's Eye; Issue 4, Vol. 14; Akins High School by The Eagle's Eye (Akins Early College High School student newspaper)

ae a li lG nd o

Principal Daniel Girard leaves. Turn to pages 8-9 to see impact he has left on students, teachers and the status quo.

ic h M

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Soccer season kicks off. Turn to page 12 to see how the boys and girls teams are doing this season.

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Eagle's Eye

W. Charles Akins High School

Hosack new interim leader Stephanie Valle Staff Reporter Brandi Hosack is taking charge at Akins High School since the resignation of former principal Daniel Girard in early January. Students and parents were notified over the winter break of Girard’s resignation through a letter that was sent to the homes of many. Hosack, who was the New Tech Academy director, is now the interim principal while the school district conducts a search to find a permanent principal for the campus. Hosack has served in various roles at Akins before being named interim principal, including as a science teacher and assistant principal of the Social Services Academy. “This is my 11th year here,” Hosack said. “I actually did my student teaching here, then I became a teacher here, afterwards I was an AP, then a director, and now I’m the interim principal. It’s been quite a long journey, but it’s been awesome.” Hosack was selected as interim out of many potential candidates, some of whom were from Akins. The timing couldn’t have been at a more challenging point in the school year. Hosack started her new job right at the beginning of the spring semester which is usually known as a time for rowdy behavior, including an outbreak of fights mostly among freshman students. “The spring semester is usually a little bit different from the fall and the way I perceive it is because our freshman come into the fall semester a little bit scared so they don’t tend to act out,” Hosack said. “However when the spring semester comes back, they still really haven’t matured enough yet but they have this sense of entitlement and they’re not as hesitant.” See “LEAVING” page 5

New veNue

Austin, Texas

“Everything That Concerns You”

Vol. 13 No. 4

February 9, 2015

Principal search continues Staff, parents and students come

Illustration by: Hannah Kerns

Community members offer input on qualities for leader Katrina Stewart Staff Reporter The search is on for a new Akins High School principal as teachers, parents and students provide input on what they want the next leader to be like. Kathy Ryan, Interim Associate Superintendent of High Schools, is leading the search process, which she hopes to complete by March. Ryan led two meetings after school in January to collect information to build a desired from faculty and staff as well as community members, parents and students. “Everyone should have an input on how they want their new principal to be,” Ryan said. On Jan. 15, Ryan and Akins

staff met in the library to develop principal to serve here at Akins. “I’m not the one creating the and staff will do that,” Ryan said. On Jan. 21, Akins students, community, and Ryan met to give their input on the qualities that they would like to see in the next principal. Student Council president Justin Hang said he wants a principal who will take innovative approaches to solving “Great principals are also creative in their problem-solving and approach challenges with an entrepreneurial attitude,” Hang said. One quality that was repeated frequently at the meetings was that the new principal must have

some kind of administrative experience. “Even though there was a lot of great qualities said, one that I found very important was that the new principal must understand all populations, and should also have some kind of experience already,” junior Kyrsten Woolf said. Social studies teacher Cullen Haskins has helped coordinate the search process along with Ryan. That responsibility fell to Haskins because he serves as the faculty co-chair of the school’s Campus Advisory Council. Haskins and special education teacher Raul Rivera, who was chosen via a lottery, will represent faculty on the committee that will interview selected candidates on Feb. 18. Two Akins parents,Deborah

Hoover and Tricia Gore, along with Ryan make up the remainder of the initial selection committee, which will interview the candidates and identify at “I feel a responsibility to represent all of the other teachers, because we won’t all have a say,” Haskins said. On March 2, the superintendent, chief schools The superintendent will recommend one candidate to the school district’s board of trustees Ryan said she hopes the selection process will be done by March; however, the new principal might decide to keep their current position until the end of school year.

District wiDe

New Performing Arts Center opens up downtown Gabe Robles Web Editor After seven years of planning and construction and $40 million of construction, Austin ISD has built a new Performing Arts Center downtown for the entire district to enjoy. The PAC contains a 1,200 seat main auditorium, a 250 seat black box theatre, dance studio, multi-purpose room, kiln room, and an individual recording studio that can be used by any Austin ISD school program. Part of the bond issue voters approved in 2008 included a project to build a performing arts center for the whole district to use. The original plans for the PAC date back to 2004, when district leaders began focusing on an effort to balance the district’s capacity to equally support and provide for performing arts from across the city. “When the bond was passed in 2008, we began forming committees and organizations, task forces, and a decisionbond committee,” said Greg Goodman, district director of Fine Arts. “And this is what we had been developing and designing for the last seven years.” Goodman said the center will allow for Austin ISD to host competitions, concerts, and other organized events in a generally central location. “What we want to do is give the kids at this district and state the opportunity to experience the best – acoustically – and also

inside

go and we perform on stage. But this is a different experience entirely. It adds another element of class and professionalism. It’s a next step.” Catherine Bennett, Director of Orchestra at Akins, said the new center will help accommodate the large growth in the

Amanda Livingston

Now open The sun sets over the Performing Arts Center on the night of its grand opening. The Akins band tested acoustics before the grand opening on Jan 22.

so that teachers can bring their entire classes here and learn and operate the building,” Goodman said. The center offers performance opportunities for a wide range of arts, including band, dance and theater. It is also a place to showcase painted, sculpted and other still art. Akins students already had a chance to perform at the center when the Akins Eagle’s Wind Symphony performed there on Jan. 8 to test the acoustics of the building. They PAC.

“The clarity in that facility is amazing,” Akins band director Tate Fincher said. “The sound in there is state of the art, and was pretty cool.” Fincher said he believes that the Akins theatre will always be the school’s primary performance space. However, the PAC offers a new experience to students that Akins couldn’t offer before. “This is our home,” Fincher said, “We’re here everyday. Yes, we get dressed up in tuxes, and make it a formal evening, and we

has happened in recent years. “The programs are getting so big that our theatre stage can’t hold us all,” Bennett said. “We’ve got so many different performing groups – outside groups, inside groups in the school – the theatre is booked almost all the time. The PAC facility is big enough to house everybody.” The center also presents the opportunity to provide for Akins theatre and technical theatre programs as well. The center is already scheduled to host all of the upcoming UIL competitions. Theater teacher Maureen Siegel said she hopes that theatrical opportunities don’t end there. “It is my understanding that this was a center for us,” Siegel said. “I would hope that at some point, besides the UIL shows, that our musicals will be able to perform there.” Goodman said that they hope that the PAC will help raise the prestige, quality and while simultaniously pullng all of Austin ISD under one roof. “I would hope that because there is a push within the district, there is an opportunity to be able to go there for performance,” Siegel said. “It would be really thrilling.”

Opinions...pg 2, 3 News...pg 4-5 Student Life...pg 6-7 In-Depth...pg 8, 9, 15 Entertainment...pg 10,11 Sports...pg 12, 13 Photo Essay...pg 14, 16

OPINIONS

page 2

Monday

The Eagle’s Eye

February 9, 2015

Hopes for Akins’ future comes to light EDITORIAL

OppOrtunities

Education

Obama’s free tuition proposal meets hard opposition -

Susy Rocha Graphics Editor

The Eagle’s Eye Editor-in-Chief Hannah Kerns

RUTH BE old

Editorial Policy

News Editor Lala Villegas In-Depth Editor Maria Moreno

Truth be Told is a soap box for eagle eye reporters to express themselves, show their personal opinion and inside view of the topic of their wish.

Opinions Editor Amanda Livingston

Amanda Livingston Opinions Editor

Student Life Editor Sarah Luna

Entertainment Editor Mark Vallejo

Sports Editor Isiah Strange

Photo Editor Michael Galindo

Multimedia Editor Jason Loosle

Web Editor Gabriel Robles

Graphics Editor Susy Rocha

Social Media Manager Omar Guetfa Adviser David Doerr

Eagle’s Eye Staff Brenda Amaya-Rangel Maheen Anjum Johannah Dakay Gregory Eldred Cassie Obi Christopher Remington Jose Salazar Analisa Salinas Nick Sokolowski Katrina Stewart

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Monday, February 9, 2015

Opinions | page 3

The Eagleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eye GUEST COLUMN

Students need to take initiative to become informed Regina McGough Guest Contributor

Social Media

Bullying

TX Twitter account ignites tension between students -

Mark Vallejo Entertainment Editor

TXHS Screenshots

108

6.9K

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THE

EAGLE VIEW

What are you looking for in a new principal for Akins High School?

NEWS

page 4

Monday

Staff

The Eagle’s Eye

February 9, 2015

Departure

Hauser, Sherwood part after years of duty Teachers will be missed as they say good-bye to Akins staff and students Hannah Kerns Editor-in-Chief With a combined 26 years of experience at Akins between them, two longtime faculty members have said their goodbyes. Librarian Bonnie Hauser, who worked at Akins for 12 years, and social studies teacher Anne Sherwood, who served in various roles for 14 years, decided that January was the right time to switch gears and take on new adventures. For Sherwood, a new love in her life is what led her to make her decision. She plans to move to Columbus, Ohio to begin the next chapter in her life. “I have fallen in love,” Sherwood said. “I also get the opportunity to pursue creative goals that I have treasured for so long.” Sherwood said one of the things she is most proud of during her time at Akins, was her time as the academy

Competition

coordinator for the Social Services Academy. “I was glad to be apart of such an important role in the school,” she said. Sherwood was a role model that teachers and students admired. “Anne was one of the best writing teachers I have ever met,” English teacher Janet Larkin said. “She was quite amazing.” For Hauser, the possibility of having a wider impact on student learning and access to technology across the school district convinced her to make the jump to a new job. Her new position as a cataloging librarian will involve converting physical archives of printed materials to a digital format. “When I was offered this position I realized that this was something that I needed to do,” Hauser said. During Hauser’s teaching career, she taught English at Crockett High school and other school districts.

Michael Galindo

Teacher recognized Former teacher Anne Sherwod posing for a picture along with ex principal Daniel Girard.

“I love teaching but I don’t love doing the same thing six times in one day,” Hauser said. “As a Librarian I really get to see all the ‘paddling’ so to speak, that goes on underneath, in the mind of students.” Senior Kermeasha CarrMaxwell, who worked as a teacher aid for Hauser, said

Michael Galindo

Checking out Librarian Bonnie Hauser talks to a student as she checks out his books, one of her many tasks throughout the day.

she was more than just a librarian. “She was really great,” Carr-Maxwell said. “She was always there when I needed her no matter what it was.” Sherwood and Hauser both became emotional when asked what their

favorite memories were during their time here. “My memories are just moments of when id look at someone and sense a spark of feeling,” Sherwood said. “When I think of the faces of friends that I have aquired over the years, I just take a moment to cherish it.”

Hauser’s favorite memory of Akins was a bit more personal. “Wow, its hard to answer because I just have so many,” Hauser said. “Getting to see my son graduate while I was far my favorite memory.”

raCing

TALON Racing advances in Formula 1 competition Johanna Dakay Staff Reporter After months of late hours designing and working in the manufacturing shop, Akins TALON Racing team took their Formula 1-styled model racecar to the track in January to go head to head against schools from across Texas. At the regional meet held at the Circuit of The Americas racetrack, TALON Racing took home a third place prize at the regional competition in January, and – more importantly – the chance to compete at the national championship in Michigan. The team also picked up awards for having the Best Engineered and Fastest car at the meet. TALON Racing’s vehicle, made of a balsa wood chassis and powered by pressurized 24-meter elevated race track. Team members

ConteSt

said they believed their new suspension system is what made their car the fastest at the competition. “Last year we designed a full car, and we realized it was a fast car but needed more design on the suspension,” said senior Erwin Neira, who is the team’s project manager. “This year we designed a better suspension. The car (design) pretty much stayed the same.” The competition is part of Formula 1’s F1 in Schools educational outreach program. F1 in Schools functions on a global scale, giving students ages 9 to 19 the opportunity to learn STEM-related subjects with the intent of promoting Formula 1 racing and integrating more students into engineering-based careers.

With the use of computer-based technology, teams model a design of a racing car and use manufacturing tools to shape it onto a block of balsa wood, to be raced along the track. However, advisers for F1 in Schools programs like Juan Gonzalez, STEM Academy assistant principal, say that the program is about more than just building the fastest car. “These students are required to learn tooling and By:Hannah Kerns equipment, as well as other 21st Century skills, like presenting, and technical writing,” Gonzalez said. F1 in Schools challenges students to be practical and innovative in not only designing and manufacturing the design of their cars, but in handling sponsorships,

presentations as well. TALON Racing was founded by Neira, manufacturing engineer James Garcia, and design engineer Hannah Holder three years ago. Each member in TALON Racing has their own position on the team, and are assigned collaborative, group effort to create the car and present their work to judges. Gonzalez said the TALON students excel beyond their academic work at school. “These kids have demonstrated the ability to excel in all areas and show us what they’re learning here in Akins High School, and what they can take to the next level,” he said. If TALON Racing does well at the U.S.Canada national championships the team could earn a chance to compete in the world

experimentS

Science fair promotes inquiries in career tech class Nic Sokolowski Staff Reporter

briefs

New and exciting ideas have popped up in January leading up to the second annual science fair. While most students start creating and inventing, winners from previous years continue with improving and perfecting their experiments. “Last year me and Valentina Tovar had to stand and wait for judges to come. After a long while they asked tons of questions, and we had to have the information remembered without looking at our board,” senior Macy Whiting said. The competition at regionals was challenging, especially because it was the first time Akins students participated. “We actually met with teachers and wrote scripts that we had to memorize,” Whiting said. “There was a lot of hard work involved.” It took them about 3 hours to get all the data for the project collected, which was done by hooking up blindfolded test subjects to heart rate and blood pressure monitors while letting them smell different scents on a square of paper. “We let them smell the scent for a minute and saw how

each factor changed with each perfume,” Whiting said. “Our project was all about how smells affect people’s blood pressure and heart rate.” This year’s science fair, however, has a greater amount of diversity of projects than the one before, the most popular category for projects being behavioral sciences. “I’m very impressed with all the students creative effort, said David Lopez, Career and Technology Education department chair. “I’d also like to thank the teachers who guided and helped mentor them.” The CTE teachers sponsored the fair, requiring students to complete projects in their classes. “Some major differences from last year are that this year we had more judges and encouraged everyone to work earlier in order for them to have more time,” Lopez said. “We also had more participants this year.” Results haven’t been released because of technical problems, but they will soon announce the top three winners advancing to regionals. “The judges were looking mainly for consistency, creativity, and accuracy; the major goal for next year is to break 100 entries,” Lopez said.

Dr. Cruz hired as next superintendent for AISD

Dr. Paul Cruz was selected to be the next superintendent of the Austin Independent School District during the school board’s Jan. 26 meeting. Out of all three applicants Cruz was selected as the position in December after serving as the interim superintendent since April. Cruz will lead a

total of 85,000 students and 12,000 staff members as the top decision maker. Cruz has worked as an educator for 28 years in various roles, including teacher, campus administrator, superintendent of schools in Laredo ISD. He most recently served as the district’s chief of schools working interim.

Nic Sokolowski

Science Fair Seniors Makena Smith and Sergio Ortiz are presenting their science fair project to the judges.

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Education

News | page 5

The Eagles Eye

Monday, February 9, 2015 Financial aid

FAFSA completion new prom requirement

Administrators push financial aid applications to open latest opportunities Nic Sokolowski Staff Reporter A new push to have students complete and send in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible has caused tension between Akins students and staff. “We’re trying to help you why not accept it?” College and Career adviser Sarah Simmons said. Simmons and the Interim have lead the initiative to make submitting a completed FAFSA another requirement to attend prom. Some seniors are not happy about the new requirestudents other than just the chance to receive money to pay for college. “If students are on free the Pell Grant that offers bethat doesn’t have to be payed A Federal Pell Grant is

acadEmics

money that is given based on ed from the federal government as a way to give to students who need it to pay for college.

means that most of the Class the Pell Grant as well. Seniors who aren’t eligible for the Pell Grant for any reason will still have the opportunity to gain helpful incentives. Commerce is hosting a competition to the school who completes the most FAFSA’s

Simmons said. who complete their FAFSA will have the chance to win a each will be awarded to students who register and submit their FAFSA at a Financial Aid Saturday session. “We’ve been wanting

to get many students going to college and getting a dehave a greater chance if they aid is a big determining factor on whether or not they which is why everyone should apply for it.” niors who are going to prom with a senior do not have to A few students who startearly have already received scholarship offers. “Ms. Enyioha recom-

Isiah Strange

requirements weren’t too

College Senior Omar Bailey shows his school spirit after signing his letter of intent with West Texas A&M University. On the far left is Football Coach Humberto Garza and Bailey’s mom. On the far right is Interm Principal Brandi Hosack and Bailey’s brother.

said.

because I was juggling be-

arships to start by making a list and keeping track of deadlines. -

She rated it as an easy

probably taken less than a week for everything to be done.” Since the scholarship is

it also helped that she had good grades while applying. “It actually took a while

applying for it. She also recommends for any students who are looking for schol-

Another student also knows what it is like going through the scholarship application process. “Some school’s came offering to me and so it took a while to determine which -

my future plans for college and I had to send in two letwith those I got help from an english teacher and my

the overall total amount I get from my sports scholarship hasn’t been determined yet.” ing a FAFSA night that will help out families that need more info about the process. aid forms during the session

tEst prEp

Free online SAT classes to be provided for students Gabe Robles Staff Reporter

diagnosing

With a new partnership between Austin ISD and

allows them to prepare when and where it works best for them. “All of the test prep that having the ability to take test

school students are offered free online preparations for

considering I don’t have the

and

targeting

prescribing individual study paths that truly meet each student’s learning needs.” Edgenuity provides an opportunity for the

Edgenuity Account Set-up Directions • Step 1: Go to Edgenuity.com

to have an extra resource under their belt without having to deal with the extra

• Step 2: Username is the same username used for logging into the Austin ISD cloud (for grade checks)

As of the second week of providing online test prep for high school students in hopes of better preparing students to successfully

some classes costing more percent of seniors statewide

“Pricing for test prep is

• Step 3: Obtain password from advisory teacher

difference between $299 plus and free is a big. One that free online test prep is awesome. prep over the summer. I hadn’t put too much effort into it. I didn’t do as well as I would have liked on the said. Edgenuity’s online courses include video based

prep

program

will

help

and further increase passing rates in Austin ISD. prepare its students for their Edgenuity CEO Sari Factor. curriculum and practice tests personalize the learning

expensive than the last.” For students planning to take courses at community colleges or public provides students with the

students to graduate ready for college is among our top priorities at AISD. Working with our school

success by ensuring all students have access to the tools they need.” With Edgenuity also

are digitally savvy and are looking for educational opportunities that are

meeting our goals by helping to meet students where they

able to access the courses whenever they feel they

new

Paul Cruz said in a press release. “We must continue to invest in our students’

to work whenever they get the chance. “Most of today’s students

gauge if students are collegewriting and mathematics. “Preparing Austin

Web-based

services

to prepare for college entrance exams when and where it works best for them.”

Cont. “LEAVING” pg. 1

Staff takes on new roles the school and so they kinda get this strange confidence that they should not have yet. So that mixed together makes for a little bit of a problem.” administrator with a new job who was assistant principal -

She worked as a teacher summer school principals. She retired a few years

for the permanent principal position and will be considered with the other candidates who have appied. “It’s a challenge to be a nitely a job that I take head on. I have a commitment to

AUSTIN t.

ROSA’S CAFE

. Ln

together to get the job done and that’s the thing that I really like about being here.” -

performing arts and technology magnet school in California.

come. It’s been a really good erybody works together and works as a team. So even though you probably have different people coming in

worked for three years as an administrator for a charter

when she was asked to be an interim principal at Garcia Middle school. “I was called and asked if I could come out and help here at Akins. And even though I live out in George-

Levy worked at the district’s Alternative Learning Center as the middle school assis-

said. “I know a lot more about the arts than I do about technology but I feel like this would be a good opportunity to learn more about it.” Mena has been an assistant principal at Akins for two and a half years and has a background in teaching high school debate. She has also taught interpersonal communications at the college level. -

emy. Aron has worked in the

assigned to another school and was replaced by Dr. sistant principal.

Sla

“I am learning things emy as I go even though I’m

ministration found a substi-

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I also have a commitment to be the best school leader just as seriously.”

STUDENT LIFE

page 6 Contest

Monday

The Eagle’s Eye

February 9, 2015

publishing

Akins sophomore wins poetry contest School district hosts young writers work online, accepting writing until March 15 Stephanie Valle Staff Reporter When sophomore Adam had written in English class last year splashed on posters across campus, his jaw dropped as he stared in awe. Loosle was one of many who wrote poems last year for the Vision+Voice poetry contest that was introduced to some students originally as an English class assignment. Campus administrators encouraged English teachers to participate in this school district wide poetry contest. “I made one of the six weeks projects focus on poetry and made it as an assignment,” said English teacher Mary Singer. “I sent home the permission slip (to be entered in the contest) and I encouraged my kids to enter but if they didn’t want to they really didn’t have to.”

Last years poetry conits kind for the district. Vision+Voice is actually a branch off voiceprint, which according to its website, is “an online hub to showcase and celebrate Austin ISD students’ and teachers’ writing.” Voiceprint accepts all autobiographies, biographies and poems. “(The Vision+Voice contest) started with the literacy group last year, which was made up of principals, parents, librarians, and community members who came up with some strategies to engage students in literacy,” said Claire Hagen Alvarado, founding member and administrative supervisor of language arts. “We also partnered with ACC on the Vision+Vice competition.” Once the winners and runner ups are announced

events soon followed, including an awards ceremony and publicity. “They took a video of me singing my poem because it’s a song and then they put it on the news and they showed that at the award ceremony,” Loosle said. “I got one of the posters but the person who drew it is an Austin Community College student. Some students put the posters around the school and I was never told that this was going to happen.” Sophomore Buddima Wanniarachchi was one of the many runner ups from Akins last year. He was another of Singer’s students who did poetry as a project. Although Wanniarachchi didn’t necessarily write his poem “Forbidden Words” for the contest itself he turned it in and did not regret it. “I never expected to be runner up. I just wrote the

poem because I needed to get my feelings out,” Wanniaracchi said. “I would totally encourage other students to enter in the contest because it helped get my feelings out so I mean that’s probably one way to get rid of the feelings or things that are on your mind.” Many students are planning to submit their work well as returners from the past years competition such as Loosle. “(The contestants) will have some competition though because I am putting another poem in but, go for it.” For this years competition poems are being accepted from now until March 15. Students can submit their own work to the contest without it being part of classwork. Information on how to submit are available at www.ahblogs.com/visionandvoice.

Cheering takes Musician expresses herself through song student to London MusiC

Maheen Anjum Staff Reporter Cheerleader Aaliyah Leonard, was offered the opportunity of a lifetime. Being a member of the Universal Cheerleading Association, also known as UCA, Leonard was given the privilege to travel to London and perform in the New Year’s Day Parade. “The parade started at Piccadilly and ment Square,” Leonard said. “Throughout the parade there was about 8 different designated spots that we performed at.” out for Universal Cheerleading Associations in June of 2014 and was awarded a medal for becoming part of the team. Six cheerleaders from Akins are part of UCA but for the trip Leonard was the only one who paid $4,000. “I love London and traveling is one of my favorite things to do,” Leonard said. “I always knew

Military

I wanted to go to London one day, I just didn’t think it would be so soon and being able to go through something I love, cheering. It was a dream come true.” Leonard went to London during winter break and departed the day after Christmas and spent her New Year’s Day holiday there. Leonard traveled a total of 18 hours round trip. Despite the long travel and expense Leonard said she had a wonderful time exploring and being around a new culture. Jason Leonard, Aaliyah’s dad said he was very proud of her being able to take responsibility traveling alone and representing her school, family and country. me about the trip to London, I thought it was an impossible dream,” Melissa Barrientes, Aaliyah’s mom said. “But when I saw the parade, and my beautiful daughter there amongst all the other cheerleaders, the pride I felt was beyond measure.”

live performances

Student makes connections with community artists Sarah Luna Student-Life Editor Taylor Fish doesn’t spend her weekends like most of her peers. While most students Fish’s age spend their weekends going out to eat with friends, or hanging out at home, she patiently waits for the open mic night host at Strange Brew Lounge to call her name. Strange Brew Lounge, located on Manchaca Road is very popular among Austinites, college students, and musical artists eager to perform and have their talents heard in front of a small, but supportive group. Open mic night started there in December last year but its audience is growing quickly. “Taylor has been singing since she was three or four years old,” said Jeffrey Fish, Taylor’s father said. “She started out singing Disney songs, and I also remember her and her sister singing along to every song on High School Musical.” Fish, who has been performing at Strange Brew for about a month, says she

feels at home on the stage performing her solo acts. “Every week that I’m there there’s always a bunch of people that come up to me and they tell me that they like my voice and it’s such a great feeling,” Taylor Fish said. “I think our open mic is pretty special because there is such a wide range of people and genres of music, and the performers stick around and support each other,” booking manager Kacy Crowley said. ”Our open mic is only about a month old and already I am seeing friendships and collaborations beginning. To me it is community.” Fish’s father said he didn’t know what her future holds. “I just want her to enjoy her music and never lose the love of creating a beautiful song that others can appreciate,” he said. Performing at Strange Brew has brought her talents to the attention of other more experienced musicians who have expressed interest in performing with her.

Sarah Luna

Tunes for the soul Taylor Fish plays Youth by Daughter at Strange Brew Cafe. Fish taught herself to play the piano, guitar and ukelele.

“We found out about open mic night by chance when we went out for a coffee one night, and Taylor immediately decided to participate,” Avery Fish, Taylor’s older sister said. “It’s been great watching her build relationships with other wonderful musicians while she grows as an artist, branching out Strange Brew to other venues around Austin.” Taylor’s family is very

supportive in her interest as being a live performer and what could possibly be her future. “Watching her perform is a great feeling for a dad and I know so many people are proud of her.” Jeffery Fish said. Taylor is booked to play at Harley Davidson on Saturday February 14th, along with other artists from Strange Brew.

Taking flighT

JROTC student takes a sky view over campus with drone Quadcopter flies as high as 500 feet, captures high definition video in mid air Isiah Strange Sports Editor manned drone more than 200 feet in the air, junior Zachary Trevino is able to of highways, houses and everything in between. Trevino, a Major in the Akins Air Force Junior ReCorps unit, has been learnlate September. The unit received the drone as part of a drawing, which incorporated schools all around the country that have Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) programs, who were interested in the technology. A number of other programs around the country

were offered the chance to receive the drone, but Akins JROTC members jumped at the opportunity and successfully won the DJI Phantom Aerial UAV Drone Quad-

develop lessons and plans to teach the cadets ways to learn the usages of the drone. “It’s going to be something the students will actually want to be involved with,” Oliverio said. The drone is a quadcoping up to 500 feet in the air, while moving at 15 meters a second. The drone also connects to a smartphone phone, allowing operators

camera.“We were just asked to send in an email, and the would receive a drone for free,” Trevino said. The United States Air Force, who supports the Akins JROTC program, is allowing students to explore further into aerospace by providing a way for memtunities, including drones. “It’s a way to help students know that there’s more to going into the military,” ROTC Col. Ronald Oliverio said. It helps teach basic

Ulises Chavez

Up up and away bilities in the gym for aerospace students.

students understand how to aerospace, he said. “I’m excited to get the Nicholas Ortiz. “It’s a great

utility for education and entertainment use, especially with aerospace being part of the curriculum.” Akins STEM program is helping the JROTC program

helps pilots to better control it even when the drone is out of sight to the naked eye on the ground. “It’s actually really neat,” Trevino said. “You can record everything you see and it comes out in a nice video, and it’s got a lot of features Trevino said he was sur-

prised at how easy it was to “It wasn’t as hard as I thought it could have been,” Trevino said. “I just took it out, and taught myself. Didn’t really look at the manual. It was easier to just do it.” The JROTC program plans to introduce the drone in next year’s curriculum. That will give next year’s students the chance to learn the machine’s uses and take time to explore it. It also allows students time to train how to use the copter before With the help of the drone the program hopes to be able to show students an exciting side of JROTC and get students more involved with what the military is able to do.

Monday, February 9, 2015 travel

Student Life | page 7

The Eagle’s Eye

VacaTion

Student connects to family in Nigeria Cassie Obi Staff Reporter About 4 months before December 2014, I was told I would be going to Nigeria years. Of course, I was unnaturally excited to go back, again. My parents thought we were long overdue to see all of their sisters and brothers and the many cousins my brothers and I had. Both my parents were born and raised in Nigeria. My father moved here 30 years ago unlike my mother who move about 17 years ago. We prepared in ways I thought was completely unnecessary. We bought food to last us for months as if Nigeria didn’t hold any food for us, clothes, bedsheets, cleaning supplies, and lastly crates full of bottled water. At the time I had no idea why we had to do all this and felt kind of insulted. All my life I’ve had to explain to people the Nigeria was just as civilized as America and that they didn’t need any help from any other country, and now I felt like my parents were doing it. Prior to the trip we had to take Malaria medication. I also felt like Malaria would be the least of our problems in Nigeria, but I still didn’t hesitate to take them. With that we packed up our summer clothes and took a 12

The second we landed, I had to change my clothes. African heat is really nothing to play with. We entered into the Lagos airport and everything hit me. The thick smell and atmosphere was overwhelmingly familiar. Everything was very disorganized. I’ve noticed that, though we have the technology, we don’t know how to use it properly. I noticed how impatient everyone is in the airport and the characteristic continued into the city. During arrival I’ve learned a few rules for a Nigerian-American like myself. Don’t take pictures out in public with a big camera. Don’t talk too much if you don’t have an accent or don’t know how to speak “Pidgin English,” and don’t take you’re time ever. We stayed at a few hotels before actually going to our house in the village. When I say village I mean neighborhood. But they call them villages because everyone in each village is related. When I was out in public, during hotel stays and such, I realized I couldn’t do anything around me. I went market shopping with my mother and my aunt a few times and they warned me not to come each time. Both times I learned that people, particularly men, have no censor when it comes to their behavior. I also learned to never go into Nigeria with an Ameri-

can mentality, because I was greatly disappointed with things I’ve never thought about before. Electricity, plumbing, is very low grade compared to American and British standards but that’s highly the fault of the corrupt Nigerian government. Although quality of life may not have been exactly like my life in the United States, everything else was rich and beautiful. Nigerians are very family oriented and love very colorful clothing and accessories. When I visited my very extensive family everyone was very welcoming. They made me feel like family is really all I needed, which it is. The land, is very rich with trees that always grown something, whether fruits, vegetables or sometimes wine. I even saw a difference in culture between my cousins who lived in the city of Lagos compared to the ones who live in a small city of Owerri. The big city dwellers were more Americanized than the others. Our extended relatives in Nigeria were great to us. They didn’t hesitate to teach me more about my culture. I felt like the cultural and environmental good outweighed the economic and political bad I experienced while I was there. Visiting made me long for another visit, only because I loved the closeness of a big family and wouldn’t replace that for anything else.

Cassie Obi

A view of home The state of Imo is one of 36 states in Nigeria. This is where Obi’s family lives.

Cassie Obi

Out and about The streets of Owerri in Nigeria are full of activity. Markets always have multiple types of produce, meats, and any other necessities.

Nigeria, Africa Capital: Ajuba Country Population: 173.6 million President: Goodluck Jonathan

Source: whatthefact.com

HealtH

Artwork: Susy Rocha

Technology

Fitbit records health data Watch monitors activity, sleep pattern Jose Salazar Staff Reporter Smartphones keep people connected. Tablets provide computing on the go. And now wearable technology like the Fitbit watch provides instant feedback and data. Fitbit watches were heavily advertised during the winter holiday and now several teachers are using them to help them improve their Social studies teacher Marcy Emerick has worn her Fitbit since Christmas. She said that the best place to use it is in the gym and that can be worn all day to give people an idea of their better about myself, and its made me more conscious of my physical activity,” Emerick said. The watch is a wireless-

enabled wearable device that measures data such as the number of steps walked, calories burned and other personal activities. “The best part is that I can track my workout separate from the calories I burn daily,” Emerick said. “The only thing that would make it better is if it injected caffeine into my body.” quality by tracking periods of restlessness as well as how long it takes for the wearer to fall asleep and how long the wearer is asleep. This is something that attracted social studies teacher Melinda Horowitz to buy one this year. “I bought the watch because I wanted to know how much I walked at school, and if I walked enough at school I wouldn’t need to go to the gym,” she said. “I was also interested in the sleep tracker, I thought it would let me know when to go to bed

and when to get up.” A feature that the Fitbit Charge has is that it has a display on the watch so people can see their information on their wrist. “I used to make students walk around for me and now I like doing it myself.” Horowitz said. The watch makes people more aware of their exercise or if they work too much or not enough. The watch also lets people compete with friends to motivate people to walk and move more. ommend this to other people,” Horowitz said. “I’ve gotten a little healthier and if I want to get more healthier I need go to the gym more and eat better to keep up the good work.” Fitbit watches can be found at locations such as Best Buy, Target, or Brookstone. Prices range from $99.99 to $249.99.

of SouthPark Meadows Invites you to get a FREE Original or Spicy Chicken Sandwich, or 8 Count Nuggets with the purchase of a Large Waffle Fry and Large Drink. Offer good only at Chick-fil-A I-35 & Slaughter in SouthPark Meadows. Expires 06/08/15.

IN-DEPTH

page 8

Monday

The Eagle’s Eye

February 9, 2015

DEPARTING PRINCIPAL LEAVES A LEGACY Maria Moreno In-Depth Editor It’s not fair to blame or credit one person for change in an institution as big and complex as Akins High School. But in the almost eight years that Daniel Girard served as principal of Akins, the campus’ reputation has gone from

jobs. On Dec. 19, Girard announced his departure and that he would be accepting a position to work for the Southern Regional Educational Board based out of Atlanta. He will serve overseeing work in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida. “It was exciting getting the job offer. Over time since I’ve been at Akins I’ve been offered several jobs along the way,” joined. It wasn’t a surprise offer necessarily; It was just the right time.”

around. Now we’re a strong outgoing culture where kids can and will be successful.”

tion that would bring new opportunities to the school,” Akins said. “Someone who will continue to care for the teachers and

Akins since the school opened in 2000, said she understands why professionals like Girard who want a change and a new challenge.

Inspiration and success are not only concerns for Dr. Akins but also the administration.

said. Under Girard’s tenure, Akins has improved in TAKS and STAAR scores, and the number of dual credit classes students have taken has skyrocketed. In 2007 the graduation rate was 72 percent and in 2013 it was up to 86.6 percent. “One major achievement in Akins High School was that riculum in teaching while Girard was principal,” said Dr. William Charles Akins, who is the educator the school is named after. “It was a big step for Akins.” Academy assistant principal Brandi Hosack would serve as

said. “He had to have sincere heart-to-heart talks with some students because he wanted to reach them and motivate them to push themselves to improve.” The percentage of students meeting TAKS English standards rose from 79 percent in 2005, to 94 percent in 2010, a 15 percent increase in 5 years. Teachers hope to see improvements at Akins in the future. positive course even with Girard’s departure. “I know that we can maintain the level of rigor and high exand the students will continue to do good work that has been taking place at Akins.” Students at Akins rise to the challenges presented to them

position permanently. it felt like it was the right time to leave and be successful in his job elsewhere. Girard said he is proud of what he accomplished while he served as principal at Akins. “Ultimately, I’m proud of how the school turned around negative impressions from kids from the community from the teachers it had a sense where kids didn’t necessarily do well. In the last two years the reputation of this school really turned

A c a d e m i e s A B L

rard said. “I promoted her from teacher to assistant principal the skills that she can continue the work and take Akins to the next level.”

“This you can count on, I see this in the classroom, during testing, and in extracurricular activities,” she said. In 2007 the school began requiring all students to complete a rigorous program of study, including an academic core based on college and career-readiness standards, plus a major.

“I want the new principal to be someone who’s an inspira-

is wonderful,” Akins said. “I just hope our electives, sports, band, and the rest of the school continue to be great.”

f o r m e d S O C I A L

academy of business, leadership, and legal enterprise A H A

academy of arts and humanities

Daniel Girard gives a speech at the T-STEM building grand opening on January 29, 2011. Source: Eagle’s Eye Archives

u n d e r

S E R V I C E S

academy of health and teaching

N E W

T E C H

academy of technology

g i r a r d G R E E N

T E C H

academy of agriculture and environmental sciences T - S T E M

texas science, technology, engineering and mathematics

Daniel Girard kisses a pig during Blue and Gold night 2011 because of popular vote. Photo Credit: Marissa Sosa

In-Depth | page 9

The Eagle’s Eye

Monday, February 9, 2015

Photo Illustration Credit: Maria Moreno

t i m e l i n e

o f

t h e

g i r a r d

2000

2009

Akins high Timeline

Akins Opens

(TAKS) scores were lower than district and state averages in all four areas

Akins gets better

Received a Gold Performance Acknowledgment (GPA) in Comparable Improvement: Mathematics.

AHS had low student attendance, behavior, low achievement and low completion rates.

2004

an SREB Technical Assistance Visit (TAV) 1 team met with administrators, teachers and students and submitted a written report describing promising practices, challenges and recommendations for improvement at AHS

SAT takers at AHS grew from 179 in 2005 to 266 students in 2010.

2010

Akins gets recognized

Akins gets support

2005

e r a

The Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) — chosen as the technical services provider for the grant — supported AHS with 40 days of school improvement coaching per year for four years.

The Texas High School Project chose AHS to receive a Smaller Learning Communities (SLC) grant through the Communities Foundation of Texas

Twice as many AHS students reported that they had received intensive guidance. from 31 percent in in 2008 to 59 percent in 2010.

2010

AHS received a Recognized accountability rating ( based on student achievement) from TEA in 2010. akins gets more majors

The school offered almost 20 majors in six academies AHS is one of only four high schools in the district to receive the Recognized designation in 2010

AHS opens the 2006-2007 school year with SLCs called academies.

stem building opens

2011

Daniel Girard became the fourth principal of AHS at the beginning of 2007-2008.

Certifications offered to reflect a wide spectrum of careers.

AHS converted to an A-B block schedule consisting of eight 90-minute classes. (made it possible for AHS to offer 20 AP courses and to involve more students in completing the courses and taking AP tests.

new tech high school opens

2006

2015 Girard leaves

G r a p h i c s a n d Pa g e d e s i g n

by maria morneo

Daniel Girard receives a standard ovation as he announces his departure. Photo Credit: David Doerr

D a n i e l G i r a r d

p i c t u r e s

Daniel Girard recongnizes art teacher Vivian Holland Medina for student getting an award. Photo Credit: Michael Galindo

ENTERTAINMENT

page 10

Monday

Phones

The Eagleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eye

February 9, 2015

Technology

becomes the next addicting app on campus -

Mark Vallejo

Entertainment Editor

T.V.

Review

Fans crave suspenseful fifth season of Walking Dead -

Maheen Anjum

Staff Reporter

Battle of the Bands to hold auditions on February 13 Jose Salazar

Staff Reporter -

Monday, February 9, 2015

Entertainment | page11

The Eagle’s Eye

TradiTion

Music

SXSW 2015 bringing popular, new artists Austin festival still accepting volunteers to help out Sarah Luna

Student Life Editor As the spring season approaches lots of students and Austinites are buzzing about Spring Break and the event music lovers from around the world are waiting for — SXSW. The music industry conference features performances from more than 2,000 regional, national and international acts. Badges to attend the music portion of the conference, which also portions, can run up to $800 to $900, but there are lots of free shows to check out. Because of the high cost

of attending, many students volunteer to earn access badges to attend shows. Senior Andrea Hernandez, a former SXSW volforward to participating again. SXSW volunteers act as information guides throughout the week for festival goers. “Last year the people were super friendly, and we went straight to work,” Hernandez said. “It was really fun because while we were volunteering, we could also watch the concert that we were standing outside of. should try to volunteer just for the experience.”

Because of the car accident on Red River Street last year, there is a heightened awareness of the need to keep people safe while they walk around downtown. Two people were killed and 21 others were injured when a car crashed through a barricade and slammed into pedestrians. that happened in the 27 year history of the music and entertainment conference. Organizers and police are working to make sure that attendees are even safer this year, said Austin Police Department Even Commander in Chief Timothy Pruett. “APD and Department of

Transportation are in constant discussion on making every event safer including SXSW,” Pruett said. “We are placing marked patrol cars in front of the barricades so they are more visible with the overhead lights activated.” Math teacher Derek Hamm recommended picking up wristbands for free shows, which can be found at downtown Austin stores. “You’ll have just as much fun without a wristband and you won’t have to worry about putting all the money you would spend on a wristband to use. You can just enjoy yourself and the music,” Hamm said.

Photo Courtesy from The Zombies

Blast from the past Rod Argent plays the piano, organ, and does the lead vocals for the Zombies. Argent led the band from 1961 until now.

Photo Courtesy from Dizzy Wright

As young as they come Rising to popularity in 2012, Dizzy Wright, the young hiphop aritist, is returning to SXSW.

Movies

Hollywood

Annual award ceremony snubbing films Racism, sexism allegations blemish reputation of Oscars Christopher Remington

Staff Reporter While the Academy Awards ceremony is a great night to see top filmmakers and actors win recognition for their work, it’s also an opportunity for film buffs to point out who is not getting the recognition they deserve. Winning an Oscar award is commonly seen as a prestigious achievement for a filmmaker. But sometimes seeing who doesn’t win the award can be just as interesting and controversial. Much of the attention will be placed on which film will receive the Oscar award for Best Picture. The rules for the Academy Awards allow for up to 10 films to be nominated for Best Picture, but the voting results of the academy members only produced eight nominees. For example, one film that received critical acclaim, but was left off the nomination list was Foxcatcher, which had two actors nominated for Oscars as well as the director and screenwriters. With a year full of beautiful films with spectacular visuals and mesmerizing performances from high budget and indie films, it is

definitely a promising year for the filmmaking industry. With films ranging from Boyhood, the 12 year-in-the-making indie epic, to Selma, which focuses on the struggles of the individuals who lead the civil rights movement. There are many films deserving of taking the top honor at the Oscars this year. Perhaps the most controversial category is the Best Actor category. Nominations were given to big name actors such as Bradley Cooper for American Sniper, Michael Keaton for Birdman, and even Steve Carell for Foxcatcher. However, the controversy surrounds the absence of David Oyelowo, the actor who portrayed Martin Luther King, Jr. in Selma. With accusations sparking all over the media pointing to racism as the cause of the star’s snub, it’s created a chain reaction within the entire film industry as well as the common observer’s opinions on the matter. Media outlets and Twitter posts have jumped back and forth about who’s to really blame for the snub. A headline from a post on The Vox reads, “Selma was snubbed because the average Oscar voter is a 63-year-old white man.” Although the racism controversy is draw-

EAGLE VOGUE

ing attention, accusations of sexism have emerged alongside the Selma film. The nominees for Best Director are all male: Richard Linklater, Wes Anderson, and Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu. Again, the absence of Selma director Ava DuVernay from the list of nominees has drawn criticism. News headlines, Twitter posts, personal response videos by women’s rights activists claim the Academy focuses more on male filmmakers. A recent poll about the Academy board revealed around 94 percent are caucasian, 77 percent are male, and only 2 percent are African American. A headline from CNN stated, “Selma director snubbed because she’s not a safe black woman.” Some argue that a foundation like the Academy Awards, whose founders were all white, are unable to accept change. With the first female win in 1976, only 4 women have been nominated for Best Director. Putting all the controversy over racism and sexism aside, the awards this year are looking just as exciting as ever. There could still be lots of surprises on Oscar night and maybe even a few changes to the Academy’s voting system regarding the mass complaints.

What to Wear on a Valentines Date

Mark Vallejo Entertainment Editor A romantic dinner or just a simple night out with that special someone is a simple. yet lovely thing to do for him or her on Valentines day. For the boys, a nice formal collared shirt with a tie thrown in there would go swell with the girl’s dress..

DATE NIGHT Check out these looks at: www.pinterest.com/akinseagleseye

Artwork by: Susy Rocha

date night For clickable links to purchase these items, visit our website www.akinseaglespublications.com

SPORTS

page 12

soccer

Monday

The Eagle’s Eye

February 9, 2015

Competition

Team starts season with major victories

In a competitive district, team proves a strong contender Isiah Strange Sports Editor With an overall record of 3-3-2, the Akins boy’s soccer team has started the season in full force. With expectations to constantly improve and strive for success, the team has competitively competed with any team who has stepped in their path. “The season is already better than last season, even though we’ve only played a few games,” senior Mac Cantu said. The team has beaten schools such as Austin and Lehman, where they came out victorious. However, they have also experienced losses such as the 5 to 0 defeat to Westlake. Although, they still maintain a strong record, the season is still early, so it can go any way for the team. “We still have flaws here and there,” Cantu said. “But we get better every game.” The team has beat Aus-

BasketBall

tin High School, along with Lehman high school. They’ve also tied with Anderson High School. “Even though we had a big loss, I think it’s made us realize what we’ve been missing,” senior Fidel Zaragoza said. The team suffered a heavy loss to Westlake, ending their winning streak. It became an eye opener to the team, letting them know that it won’t always be easy to win.. This allowed them to notice what they truly need to work on, Zaragoza said. “We need to work on connecting better as a team,” he said. “We connect, like we have chemistry, but it can be stronger.” The team looks to making it to playoffs, which requires 6 wins, a goal the team is halfway to meeting and will have plenty of opportunities to make it. “I’m very optimistic about the rest of the season,” Cantu said. “Hopefully we will make playoffs.”

The season is still young for the team, which gives them time to meet their goal, and to better themselves as a whole, which many of the players have said they hope to do. “I think we just need to work on playing as a team, not as individuals,” senior Sergio Ruvulcaba said. Some feel the team’s chemistry really needs to be picked up, as it lacks a bit. Which can hurt the team out on the field if they aren’t working as one. “Finding chemistry between each other because our team as a whole hasn’t connected constantly,” Zaragoza said. With this in mind, the team will have to play as one in order to make it to where they want to be. With goals set, the team can reach this in no time. The team’s next game is today, February 9. The game is a home game and will be played at Burger Center.

Michael Galindo

Players go for it all Senior Sergio Ruvalcaba defends the ball in a game against a player from Westlake High School. Akins lost the game 5-0.

Close year

Boy’s season nears an end, strengthens bonds for players Christopher Remington Staff Reporter With the basketball season nearing its end, the boys Varsity Basketball team has experienced a roller coaster of highs and lows this year. With three more games remaining in district play, the team is looking to close out a difficult season on a positive note. Following the close win on Jan. 9 against Lake Travis, the team’s spirit soared. “We felt like we were on top of the world, it was a good win,” senior Isaiah Ramdeen said. Giving it all they got, they’ve made it a key point to focus on specific tactics during most of their practice. While the team has an overall good shooting percentage with some players excelling, the practices have been hitting on everything they need to improve on or perfect. One of the most worked on strategies is “defense, defense, defense,” said senior Malik Smith “If we can hold them to so many points then we have a much better chance at winning then just letting them score,” Smith said. The players have experienced some especially close games, including a double overtime game against the Hays Rebels in which

soccer

the Eagles lost 60-59. With them currently 3-9 in district play, they’ve been solid competitors in preseason and conference games, but have had trouble earning wins. With a whole season to get in sync and attached as a whole, starting from game one, the team dynamic has definitely improved, making it feel more unified. “In practice we’re together so we’re the same on the court, it feels like just practicing against other people. It’s all just really smooth, no bumps or problems,” Ramdeen said. Along with it nearing the end for some senior players who have been with the team since year one, its also nearing the end for head coach Jesse Hayes’ first year as head coach. Along with his new position, he’s made his own mark on the team making sure to focus on unifying the team and improving on skill work to give the best performance as possible for every player. Coach Hayes has been with the team as well since day one with most seniors already having a close bond and strong respect for the him from when he was an assistant coach. “As a whole, the team has always been a true team, I think we made some changes and they really bought into what we’re doing,” Hayes said. The pressure and responsibility of head coach is tremendous, but Hayes said he enjoys the job.

Cassie Obi

Driving to the hoop Sophomore Cameron Ivey makes a run as he’s being defended by a Lake Travis High School player. Akins won 67-66, in a very close game.

“I think the thing I’m most proud of is how we keep fighting every game,” Hayes said. “We take it game by game and just how much of warriors the kids are and how they compete.” With three more games left in their sea-

son, including the rematch against Lake Travis. Team members said they want to make ita point to go out big. “I want the team to be satisfied, not have any regrets no matter what by the end of the season,” senior Shafiq Figueroa said.

progression

Girls get competitive during preseason

Focus and determination drives the soccer team’s season Brenda Amaya Staff Reporter As district play begins for the Girls Varsity Soccer team players are looking forward to moving past some of their preseason losses and stumbles to regain their course toward completing a successful season. In preseason play, the girls varsity team won three tournaments and lost to two and tied with one. “We’re doing really good as a team and I think that we can get more wins this year than last year,” junior Gabriela Garcia said. A win at the Iron Horse Invitation Tournament in Giddings in mid January, buoyed the team’s spirits before district play began in late January. At the tournament the varsity squad won

Michael Galindo

Practice makes perfect Sophomore Valerie Marquez takes a long run against Hays High School. The team fell 6 to 1 against Hays.

three out of four games, tying the last one. Akins came out on top based on the goal differential and took home the tour-

nament trophy. “We ended up winning first place in the Giddings Tournament and we’re looking really good and we’re

ready to start our district season,” varsity coach Eric Cannon said. The JV girls have just begun their own district games.

So far the junior varsity team has had two losses and a tie. “We’ve definitely got better at every game and then we played Westlake last Friday,” JV coach Kristen Aaltonen said. ”We definitely held them. It was really good. The girls have been playing really hard I’m very proud of them.” JV players said they hope the JV team is able to bond and play together to the point where they can work very well as a unit. “Our positioning is our biggest thing so each person is working on what they’re good at and pursuing that and improving on that, its really helped the team,” junior Julia Jackola said. Last year, girls soccer only had two teams: junior varsity and Varsity. This year girls soccer created a new junior varsity B Team,

which is coached by Hannes Brueckner. “I was not here last season as the coach, but I think we have a good group of girls that are really willing to work hard to improve and eventually move up to junior varsity or varsity,” Brueckner said. So far the junior varsity B Team girls have won one game and lost two. “I think we’re getting better at every game, the practice sessions we have almost every morning has really helped us with our skills and ball handling,” freshmen Aricia Amaro said. The next two upcoming games for the girls are against the Anderson Trojans on Friday at House Park. at 5:30 p.m. for JV and 7:15 p.m. for varsity, and February 10 against Woods High at 7:30 p.m.

Monday, February 9, 2015 Track

Sports | page 13

The Eagle’s Eye

PreParation

Even without the track, teams prepare for season ahead Cassie Obi Staff Reporter With it being early in the season, track athletes are seeing this season as a much more beneficial, with help of more labor-intensive practices without the track and a much more forced mind-set from the teammates. “It makes me mad that the track is being redone,” said three-year track runner Erica Martinez. “We’re in track and we need a track; practices are hard.” Though some players might find having trackless practices to be a burden, others find the practices to be more beneficial for themselves. “The practices without the track doesn’t really bother us,” Patrick Dixon, third year Shot Putter said. “If anything we’re getting better because we’re running on a more difficult surface.” Besides challenges with recent changes, track athletes have started their pre season strong with a meet at Texas A&M University, setting high goals for the team. “Coaches picked 10 of us

BaskeTBall

to the meet to compete,” said senior hurdler Miranda LeBlanc. “It was a small track but a lot of people making placing really hard for us.” This invitational meet was extended to high schools from all over the nation, making it a very large meet at the university for only a selected few from each high school team. The meet consisted of people from all over the nation competing at the university. Each competition was broken down into groups of 500 people. “We competed in the preliminary races and did well,” said senior Omar Bailey, a fourth year track athlete. “We didn’t get to place in finals, because of weather conditions.” Before Akins students could compete in the finals, the Austin school district canceled participation in all extracurricular events because of icy weather conditions in Central Texas. Akins student who made it to finals weren’t able to perform in the finals. Although no members from the team placed at the meet, they said it was a fun

Isiah Strange

Learning the throw Members of the track team practice at the Akins track which is currently being resurfaced. Many of the team is bussed to Paredes Middle School, where they events practice that require an actual track in order to practice.

experience for the athletes that inspired them to aspire to higher for their future meets. “The meet was a really good experience for us,”

LeBlanc said. “Although we didn’t place, I feel like it was really fun and set our goals for track season higher.” Competition season for track will begin in late Feb-

ruary with the first meet scheduled for February 21st. Despite the challenges during preseason, track athletes say they are confident and ready to make it a successful

season. “I feel like we’re more committed this year,” Bailey said. “It might not be everybody but a lot more this year than the last years.”

a chance

Team slowly meets goals for the season Lady Eagles still have a small chance at making playoffs Isiah Strange Sports Editor The Lady Eagles Varsity Basketball team has struggled through a difficult season while not chalking up the wins they had hoped for before district play started back in December. The varsity girls basketball team was 5-9 in district with an overall of 14-17 record as of last week. The team played Hays on Friday and faces Lake Travis tomorrow during the last game of district play. Despite the mixed record of wins and losses, the coaches and players are focusing on the positive as they finish up district play on Tuesday. However, the team has learned some tough lessons this season including motivating each other and improving their communication on the court.

Michael Galindo

A defended run Junior Brooklyn Childers goes in to shoot while being defended by Bowie High School players. Akins lost 68 to 38 that night.

“With the new players on the team I just pushed them all the time,” senior Chynna Rivera said. “Encouraging

them and telling them that they can do it.” As a senior Rivera was assigned freshman Denae

Lofton as her little sister on the team. With a positive head on their shoulders Lofton feels

that her ultimate goal is to build a bond with the rest of the team and become part of the family. “Having Rivera as my big sister is a pleasure,” Lofton said. “I learned a lot from her this season she helped me become positive and contributing to the team as much as possible. The team has improved this year, and really brought themselves up as they set out to do at the beginning of the year. “I think we really improved,” senior Macy Whiting said. “Our goal was the be the best we can be and I think we’ve sort of done that,” said senior Macy Whiting. The team still has a slim chance to make it to playoffs. They still have two more games that will determine if they’re going to make it or not. “The season has been up

and down,” said coach Jane Martin. “So that’s really disappointing, but I hope we bounce back before the end of the season.” It’s not set in stone, but it would require a team in the next two games to lose, which would allow the Lady Eagles into the playoffs. “It’s a slim possibility, and it’s going to be a difficult way to get in,” Martin said. Although, the team still has high hopes that they’ll make it to the playoffs. “I think we’ll definitely do it,” senior McKenzie Lunkin said. “We play two more games this week and next, we can definitely beat both teams.” They’ll have to play their hardest in order to eliminate a team and slip into the playoffs. The team’s last game is against Lake Travis, on Feb. 10 at Akins.

Get to know our player of the issue Senior Chynna Rivera, a player with determination that deserved to be recognized for her hard work and dedication. Jason Loosle

Multimedia Editor With stress from senior year, injuries and

Coaches also can help by sending stu-

playing on the varsity basketball team at

dent names out to colleges and provid-

a 6A high school, there are many reasons

ing advice for what to do with colleges.

why senior Chynna Rivera is worthy of mention. Along with this stressful task, she has also sent in video of her playing basket-

“I got most offers from playing Amateur Athletic Union basketball with my coach” Rivera said. Rivera said she hopes to attend Tyler

ball, attracting nine colleges to recruit her

Junior College, one of many colleges of-

to their schools.

fering her scholarships, and play basket-

Of the colleges that want her for basketball, three have offered her scholarships in basketball. To get colleges to look at you playing basketball, players need to take video of themselves playing so recruiters can check out their skills. “I’ve been sending out film of myself and

ball throughout college. She wants to play basketball after college if it’s a possibility, but really wants to focus on getting through college and graduating with her degree. “Basketball has made me a better person,” Rivera said. “It’s made me want to work harder to get where I want. It’s

been getting replies that they like what

taught me to strive for what you want and

they see,” Rivera said.

never back down.”

page 14

PHOTO ESSAY Monday

February 9, 2015

The Eagle’s Eye

Akins soccer teams kick it into gear Michael Galindo Photo Editor With the soccer season nearing the halfway point, the boys varsity team started with a successful 3-2-2 start while the girls varsity team began with a 4-5-2 record. Spirits have stayed high for both teams and they’re looking to make improvements and end the season strong. “Learning to work as a team would help in the second half of the season,” senior center back Sergio Ruvalcaba said. With a strong finish in district play, the boys could solidify a spot for themselves in the playoffs. They hope to return after a two year absence. The girls have also managed to pinpoint areas where they can improve. “I think we need to improve on our passing and our communication on the field,” junior defender Gabriela Garcia said. Highlights of the girls season have included an 8-0 thrashing of Beeville High School and a 5-0 win over Smithville High School. The guys have seen similar success with a 2-0 victory over McCallum and a close 2-1 win over district opponents Lehman High School. Free kick Senior Richard Martinez prepares for a free kick. Martinez is satisfied with the season so far, but he still thinks there’s room for improvement. “The season’s gone pretty good, we just need to play as more of a team,” Martinez said. Racing down field by a Westlake player. The Eagles eventually suffered a 5-0 loss.

Battle for the ball Junior Flor Lopez jockeys for position on the ball with a Hays player. Lopez says getting first place at the Iron Horse Invitation Tournament in Giddings has been the highlight of the season. Toss in Junior Gabriela Garcia tosses the ball in to her awaiting teammates. “Our season has gone alright, we’ve gotten some of our really good players hurt and I don’t know if they’ll return during the season,” Garcia said. Despite these setbacks, the girls continue to put up a good contest in each and every game.

Dancing past Sophomore Valeria Marquez dribbles around a Hays player. The girls played hard all game, but in the end, they suffered a 5-1 loss. The girls said they learn from each loss and make the adjustments they need to make to be successful in future games. Fast feet Senior Emanuel Maya jukes past a Westlake player. The boys continue to work hard to ensure that they don’t let any more wins slip from their hands. “The games that we’ve tied were because of dumb mistakes that are easily Mac Cantu said. Photos by Michael Galindo

IN-DEPTH

page 15

Monday

Valentines Day guide I love the chocolate.

— senior Matthew Little

I love the love but hate the romance

It’s kind of senseless since you can spend any day with your significant other — senior Javier De Leon

— senior Alek Peschansky

What do you think about the holiday?

I only like candy

— senior Arina Rodriguez

The Eagle’s Eye

February 9, 2015

I don’t like that everyone wears pink, or red. — senior Maria Rico

Discount chocolate covered cherries Its overall just a friendly day. The world is at balance, when single people feel bad about themselves and the taken people are happy — senior Daniel Adame

It’s the best time to spread the love — junior Armando Garcia

Page design by Maria Moreno

Graphics | Anastasia Barr

Last minute gifts

Do’s and don’ts DO be considerate to DON’T be a jerk your significant other DON’T show up late DO show up a little DON’T spend the whole earlier than planned time on the phone DO pay attention to your date DON’T be a cliche DO be creative DON’T pick your outfit DO plan your outfits on the day of before DON’T waste a lot of DO buy an affordable money present DON’T plan your date DO actually plan in late advance

Custom Valent made ine’s ca rd

me with a a r f e r u t ic P th of you o b f o e r pictu

CHOCOLATE!

Hannah Kerns

Homemade brownies

list

lay p c i us

Graphics | Johanna Dakay and Hannah Kerns

Things to do on Valentine’s Day If you have a date

If you’re single Hang out with your friends Hang out with your cats Watch Netflix Hang out with your dogs

Wait till February 15th and

Chaparral Ice (ICE RINK)

P.F Chang Asian Cuisine

buy all the candy and teddy

Roller rink

Arcade

bears that you didn’t get

Alamo Drafthouse (Movie Theater)

Blazer Tag

Do all the things on the list

Coffee shop

Valentine’s Helicopter Tour

on left.

Zilker park

Dinner at Blackfinn Ameripub

If nice out- Canoeing

Go see a concert

Couple advice from Erika Najera and Luis Bosquez What is a good gift to get your significant other?

What are you going to do on Valentine’s day?

Luis Bosquez and Erika Najera

“Something meaningful, and something you know she’ll love.” — senior Luis Bosquez “I like to give him gifts that are meaningful and I always think gifts based on insiders between us are the best.” — senior Erika Najera

“It’s a surprise that I can’t reveal right now, I don’t want to tell Erika but It’s going to make her extremely happy.” — Luis

What do you like about each other? “I love that he can always make me laugh and smile, i’m never afraid of being myself and acting dumb around him because he’ll just be dumb with me.” — Erika “Well first of all I don’t like anything about her, I LOVE everything about her!” — Luis

What’s your idea of the perfect date? A movie night with cuddling and eating popcorn. — Both

What’s the best relationship advice you can give somebody? “Love will find you when you least expect it don’t try to rush it.” — Erika “Keep it light and spontaneous and don’t forget your friends.” — Luis

PHOTO ESSAY

page 16

Monday

The Eagle’s Eye

February 9, 2015

DRONE TAKES FLIGHT

Set Up

In Flight

Landing

Set Up Junior Zachary Trevino sets up the drone prior to its

In Flight -

Michael Galindo Photo Editor Drones are showing up in all kinds of places: war zones, the White House lawn and now Akins High School. Junior Zachary Trevino spent the fall learning about the drone the school recently received as part of a drawing for schools with Science, Technology, Engineering and Math programs. Trevino is currently the only pilot of the drone and appreciates the opportunity he’s been given. “I feel very privileged to be able to currently be the primary pilot of the drone. It’s a tremendous honor,” Trevino said.

Landing

Photos by Michael Galindo