highlights Common App disciplinary policy changes
September 9, 2013 Volume 87, Issue One Beverly Hills High School Beverly Hills, Calif. beverlyhighlights.com
New coach revitalizes team
news
College Admissions Dean The School Board approved the hiring a Dean of College Admissions to replace recently resigned high school college counselor Jill Lewis. page 4
Juliette Deutsch staff writer There have been changes to the Beverly Hills Unified School District and high school administration policy regarding the disclosure of student disciplinary information to universities through the Common Application. This new disciplinary policy states that counselors as well as staff members, have the option of whether or not to disclose a student’s conduct record in his or her college admission process. This policy, which was initially recommended by the school board, stated that counselors and administration refrain from giving out student conduct information. Counselors are instructed to respond to questions regarding student dis-
“New policy states that counselors can choose to disclose students’ conduct records” ciplinary statuses on the Common App by simply stating that “school policy prevents me from responding.” Though this policy was meant to aid students, many students have contradicting views on this policy. “I think that the punishment should match the crime,” ASB President Leili Hashemi said. “Depending on how severe the action was and depending on the suspension, it should show up on the Common Application.” Similarly, senior Tori Hertz believes that the new policy is unfair to students who do not have a flawed conduct record. “It is unfair to those of us who have worked hard. If someone violated a school rule or was suspended, that should show up on the Common App,” Hertz said. A 2008 study of secondary school policies by the National Association for College Admission found that 38 percent of secondary schools do not disclose secondary school disciplinary records to colleges, and records are only disclosed in some cases. According to Assistant Principal Toni Staser, the issue of the disciplinary action arose when the administration noticed that “[they] did not have a policy on how issues on the common app were reported. This policy cleared the air and made things more consistent.” The goal of this change is to help counselors and students with the college admission process, and clear any confusions that might have occurred from students and administrators.
spotlight
Changes to ASB Returning to school in the wake of last year’s changes, the Associated Student Body is trying to rebuild itself with the help of a new advisor. page 5
culture
Plante Plays Lolla
ROP DANNY LICHT
FORWARD — Charlie Stansbury, the new football coach, grew up watching his father coach the sport at Beverly.
Jackson Prince staff writer At first glance, the black and orange clad Norman football team looks similar to those of years past. They still don the same helmets, pads and cleats they did last season, and the seasons prior to that. However, what the Beverly players are doing while wearing the gear is where the changes lie, an evolution attributed to the new “captain of the ship,” coach Charlie Stansbury. When Stansbury was hired, the news spread and reached the ears of many alumni; they recognized the recently hired football coach as the son of Bill Stansbury, an assistant to the football team in the 1980s. Stansbury found great value in having a football coach as a father. “Growing up with a family in which your dad is a football coach, you get to meet a lot of people and see a lot of different places,”
Stansbury said. Although Stansbury noted that his dad taught him the intricacies and strategies of the game, the coach expressed hope that he’d grown out of his dad’s shadow. “I knew that [the fact that my dad was a football coach at Beverly] would be brought up into conversation, but at this point, I know what I can do…and I know that I’m not him,” he said. In fact, the only piece of advice that Stansbury-the-elder gave his son regarding the job was to “be consistent,” which is “important when bringing in a new coach.” Stansbury has an extensive résumé. He served as fullback and tight end for Paso Robles High School, and even played for the University of San Diego, until several injuries ended his playing career. However, Stansbury wasn’t ready to give up football completely, and immediately began to coach. He held positions at the
University of San Diego, Concord University, Santa Barbara Community College, San Diego State and Golden West College, where he won a championship as the team’s offensive coordinator. Brandon Davis, a defensive lineman, is aware of his new coach’s previous experience. . “Coach Stansbury brings experience,” Davis said. “He knows how to win.” Though Stansbury and his team are eager for the season’s start, he doesn’t deny that the spirit and passion surrounding Beverly football isn’t what it used to be. In the past two seasons combined, the team won just four games out of 20. But Stansbury believes that the team can revitalize the football culture at Beverly with hard work and a new game plan. He is “confident” that his players are making significant progress toward this “revival.” Continued on Page 11
Rappaport improves ROP department Audrey James-Anenih staff writer Braden Bochner staff writer Steve Rappaport, Director of Career Development and Head of the Regional Occupational Program (ROP), spent the summer reinventing the ROP Dept. After Robert
“LAC School Board is no longer employing counselors for the ROP within their districts.” Hayne, the previous Work Experience coordinator announced his retirement, as well as the school board’s decision not to approve the position of ROP counselor, Rappa-
port, who also serves as the varsity boys soccer coach, decided to view the changes as an opportunity to improve his program. Over the summer, the Los Angeles County Office of Education cut expenses and is no longer employing counselors for the Regional Occupational Program within their districts. All 23 LA County employed districts lost their ROP counselors. The county later chose to continue providing the funding needed to keep the ROP program alive, but decided to allow each individual district to determine how its budget is to be distributed. “When LA County decided to no longer employ ROP counselors in all districts, the county made it clear that funding for the department is still going to be honored for the next two years,” Rappaport said.
With this series of events, many subsequent questions were posed about how the Beverly Hills Unified School District would readjust and reorganize the ROP Dept. “The county also mentioned that each individual district would be responsible for how they distribute ROP resources,” Rappaport explained, “leading our district to choose whether or not they would like to rehire the counselor position, previously held by Anspach, but the school board voted against it.” The district’s yearly allotted budget is no different than it was last year, but with Rappaport exploring new developments in the program, the money is being distributed to different aspects of the courses offered. According to Rappaport, “money Continued on Page 2
page 6 culture
Thau Like Goodall Senior Adar Thau spent the summer in Puerto Rico studying monkeys at the Caribbean Primate Research Center.
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comment
You Only Live Once So don’t waste time with procrastination, “the inner demon,” which has only adverse effects, especially for students.
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Even more stories at beverlyhighlights.com NormanAid Center training First year counselors are being trained by Peer Counseling on how to give advice to students seeking aid.
Robotics at Technotainment Camp Members of the Robotics program, MorTorq, presented the program at a local technology-focused day camp over the summer summer.
Cinespia displays film in cemetary Students can release their built up stress by attending Cinespia’s weekly graveyard screenings at the Hollywood Forever Cemetary, now showing a wide variety of films, from thrillers to classics.
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HIGHLIGHTS NEWS SEPTEMBER 9, 2013
Dean of college admissions position to be soon filled Jessica Lu spotlight editor The School Board approved the hiring of a Dean of College Admissions to replace recently resigned High School College Counselor Jill Lewis. The position is said to cost the District $127,000, an increase from last year’s $121,000. Assistant Principal Amy Golden, who oversees the Counseling Dept., expressed positivity regarding the new position. “I think [students] should be excited about having someone else who’s here to help them with the college process and figuring out what they want to do,” Golden said. “I think Ms. Lewis did a fantastic job and it’s important to get someone in here to fill those shoes.” The position description is
available online, and cites several duties and qualifications required of the new hire. Said person is required to have an administrative services credential and three years of experience as a college or an admissions counselor. Golden described her idea of a good candidate. “[We want] someone who has a lot of experience with college counseling; someone who understands high school, who understands Beverly Hills High School,” she said. “[The Dean should be] someone who has a lot of connections with colleges already, who is passionate about helping out students pursue a higher education.” In addition to collaborating with administration, faculty and students, the Dean is expected to create educational programs
pertaining to college preparation for all grade levels. The Dean is responsible for coordinating events, such as the College Connections Fair and scheduling college visits. Lewis had similar obligations, but there will be some differences for the Dean. “I think that the position is going to evolve once we see who the person is,” Golden said. “[The Dean] will have more responsibilities. There may be some more oversight of [the] program and evaluation of the Counseling Dept. It will depend on the person and what that person’s strengths are.” Golden expressed that evaluating the success of the new dean might take a few years. “I think the first year is going to be a little trial and error
and a learning process for any new person who comes into the school,” Golden said. “I think there are a lot of ways to evaluate how successful they are, but I think over time someone gets more and more successful with a job.” As college application deadlines draw closer, seniors may be more impacted by the shift in positions. “I went into the college room to look for help, but I was surprised to find out we no longer have the college counselor!” sophomore Eli Mandel said. “It was a bit unsettling to not find official college help at my high school, so I’m hoping the new dean can fulfill the new role.” For some underclassmen, the position will bring more awareness of college preparation.
“Most college events are targeted at juniors and seniors,” sophomore Scott Senior said. “I hope the new Dean of Admissions can help guide the younger students, because while I don’t have specific colleges in mind, I want to know what I need to be doing to be a competitive applicant later.” Currently, counselor Susann Chamberlain is filling in Lewis’ role, as the new Dean position is still accepting applications. Ms. Chamberlain is consulting for us,” Golden said. “She was here last year when Ms. Lewis was out on maternity leave, so she’s done the job before.” The application for the position closes Sept. 16. Golden expects to hire the new dean within the subsequent two weeks, after screenings and interviews.
“I have the colleges which I want to apply to in mind, so I’ll look forward to the dean’s help in polishing my résumé and leading me in the right direction to help me get accepted into those colleges.” -Sarah Benyamin, 9
“I hope the dean will give me better advice on which courses I should take to succeed in high school and get into the universities I am aiming for.”
“I hope the future dean will be caring and not judgemental about each person’s decisions and personal goals.”
“I would like the dean to inform me of all my available options and encourage me to take the path that is best suited to my needs.
-Joel Gabbai, 10
-Jane Pak, 11
-Michelle Nemanpour, 12
the
STUDENT voice
What qualities do you look for in the future Dean of College Admissions?
Spike in CST Math Scores Percentage of students who scored proficient and advanced
60 53% 55%
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47% 41%
40 30
Geometry
38% 33%
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CST math scores rise greatly Michelle Banayan news editor The percentage of students scoring Proficient and Advanced on the 2013 annual standardized testing for Algebra I and Geometry had what Assistant Principal Toni Staser called a “sharp increase.” “I had read an article in the LA Times about how the California standardized test scores were down,” Staser said. “However, when looking at our scores, I noticed that we actually had a sharp increase in our math scores.”
While a 3 to 5 percent increase is not uncommon, statistics from the California Department of Education show that 38 percent of students scored above Proficient in 2012 for Algebra I; however, that percentage moved up to 55 percent in 2013. Additionally, 41 percent of students received a Proficient or Advanced score in Geometry in 2012, while 53 percent received those scores the following year. “I think the Algebra I test tested well because students may have taken the course previously and
were already familiar with the information,” sophomore Bo Mee Kim said. “But I’m also surprised because I thought people wouldn’t really take the test seriously.” Assistant Principal Dr. Regina Zurbano credits the improvement of the math scores to the recent changes within the Math Department. “The school focused on accurate placement of students to better ensure their academic success in mathematics,” she said. “Students with the greatest need for additional support were identified and
received additional intervention through programs supported by Title I funding.” The administration strives to prolong the progressing effect of test scores by being in constant communication with both the staff and the students. “We hope to continue this support by encouraging math teachers to analyze the CST performance data and identify strengths in instruction. We will also facilitate teacher collaboration to share best instructional practices across the board; continuity in instructional strategies from year to year will help students feel comfortable accessing the curriculum,” Zurbano said. “We also plan to continue to identify students that have the most need in order to provide them additional support through Title I supported intervention programs.” In upcoming years, the CSTs will no longer be administered and will be replaced with Smarter Balanced Assessments (SBAs) based on the Common Core State Standards. The SBAs will be taken via the use of a computer and will be writing-oriented in order to give students the “skills required of the high-need demands of the jobs of the future,” Zurbano said. Therefore, although this year’s CST math score data will not necessarily be comparable to the scores of years to come due to the change in standards, it still works to provide information regarding the application of the recent changes within the department.
[Continued from page one] is being distributed to different aspects offered. Extending the ROP Dept. includes new staff, and new courses that respond to current student interests. In order to give students a “real world experience,” Rappaport is working to provide an on-campus opportunity to interact with businesses. The ROP Dept. recruited two new teachers to instruct the recent course additions. Culinary consultant Rick Leece was hired for a full time position, allowing the ROP Dept. to add two additional Advanced Culinary classes. Charles Stansbury, serves not only as the head football coach, but also teaches Work Experience, Sports Marketing and Entrepreneurship. Furthermore, Stansbury co-advises D.E.C.A. (Distributed Educational Clubs of America) with Jarvis Turner. Stansbury views teaching ROP based classes as an opportunity to give students insight into the everexpanding world of business, which can be applied to any career. “I want to give students the understanding, knowledge and confidence to succeed in creating their own business someday,” he said. The teachers within the ROP department all share a common goal: to develop a program that exposes students to life outside of high school, giving them a better understanding of their world, as well as confidence in their work ethics and academic strengths.
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HIGHLIGHTS NEWS SEPTEMBER 4, 2013
Technology center supplies support for newcomers Eunice Kim staff writer Karen Moses, an English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher, was determined to help students who were suffering in school because of their limited knowledge of English. Moses collaborated with Chris Hertz, director of student services and special projects for BHUSD and began to organize a program to help immigrant students do better in English using the money from the Title III program, which is a federal fund used for helping students who are learning English or are new to the U.S. After brainstorming, Moses decided to create the After School Newcomer Technology Center to help students in need. The After School Newcomer Technology Center is an intervention and enrichment with English language learning and academic support. The program strives to use technological resources and internet and software programs to help students read, type and speak English. According to Moses, students will explore a variety of websites, from Khan Academy to
Hot Math. They will explore programs from Khan Academy to Hot Math. Instead of taking notes while on the web, students will interact with their teachers so they can be more comfortable with their English and meet new peers. “[In] coming to this program [the students] get to meet other people who are new to the United States, and I hope that they [make] new friends and... feel more comfortable,” Moses said. “But [the program is] more for academic help. A lot of times when you are new to a place or if you are struggling with the English it makes [interacting] really difficult.” Students who attended the first day of the After School Newcomer Technology Center were fully engaged and eager to learn. “[The program is] helpful,” junior Kevin Zhao, who came to America last summer from China, said. “They have all the important information like biology in the websites.” While the program proves beneficial for students in ESL class, they are not the only ones eli-
gible to participate. Immigrants who are struggling with their English can come to the program and learn too. “The federal money is specifically for new immigrants to help them find their way. But if somebody just shows up [even t h o u g h they’ve been in America for more than three years] I’m not prob- COMMON LANGUAGE — Moses speaks with her students in the After School Newcomer Technology Center for the first time and goes over the objects of the program. EUNICE KIM ably going to kick them Newcomer Technology Center, The program is open at 3 p.m. out,” Moses said. students must sign up in the For- every Thursday except block To apply for the After School eign Language Computer Lab. weeks.
New cafeteria brings Service Learning gets early start new food, awareness to planning charitable events Zoe Kenealy staff writer The cafeteria has undergone another change in management. It is with the combined effort of the school board, student body, teachers and principal that the new menu was set. The ultimate goal was to come up with the perfect balance of tasty, yet equally nutritious food that the students would want to eat. Due to the cafeteria’s dedication to spreading the word of its newly offered cuisine across campus through various signs, students are becoming more aware of the meal options and are bringing in additional traffic to the cafeteria. The cafeteria features new meal and snack selections such as macaroni and cheese, chow mein, nachos and more. “I saw a sign that said the cafeteria now sells Chinese food and burritos,” senior Simonna Krichevsky said. “I never bought lunch from the school’s cafeteria bWefore, but the options actually sound pretty tasty and the least I could do is give the new and hopefully improved, cafeteria a try. I think it sounds as if the school is putting in more effort now in terms of understanding
Key Dates
the types of foods that teens actually like to eat. ” The school’s goal for the new meal plans and cafeteria management is to serve nutritious, healthful and portion controlled food. Beverly’s cafeteria, for example, now sells chocolate chip cookies because the students do tend to want a tasty snack to accompany their nutritious meals; the chocolate chip cookie, however, is made of whole grains. “We need to limit waste and loss. We want new and returning students to purchase food. We would like to put more carts at lunch to sell more food and decrease waiting time,” Food Service Manager, Heather Oyamo said. “All employees in the kitchen are working together as a team and want the kids to be excited about the food while operating in a fiscally sound manner under the budget that was approved by the board.” Although only 15 percent of students on campus currently purchase lunch from the cafeteria, the school aspires to have approximately 50 percent of the student body purchasing school lunches. Under the new cafeteria management, the administration hopes to attain this goal.
Thanksgiving Food Drive will be held again with slight changes. “Many of our events will be difWith the advent of the new ferent this year simply because school year, Service Learning we are doing a lot of planning has already begun preparing and preparing early on. For infor a fundraisers, activities and stance, we want the hair donamore. According to Co-Chair setion event to be held after prom nior Leora Hakim, the class is so that more girls will donate,” organizing early to avoid future Hedvat said. chaos. In addition to the fan favorites, “This year we are getting a head Hedvat also mentioned that Serstart and planning things in advice Learning will be partaking in vance to ensure that each event new events such as a collaboratis the best that it can be,” Hakim ing with the on-campus Teens said. “We have also created timeCuring Cancer organization. lines in order to stay on track and “Community service is an enorhelp us plan ahead.” mous part of my life and I am exAlthough Service Learning lost cited to finally partner my non-profit organization, Teens Curing Cancer, with Service Learning to fundraise for pediatric cancer research by means of the student body and staff,” senior Yaniv Sadka said. According to Hedvat and Hakim, Service Learning hopes to make a positive difference at school and hope that more people will become acquaintPLANNING AHEAD - In addition to its traditional events, Service Learning plans upcoming ed with the class and programs such as Albion St. and a Teens Curing Cancer fundraiser. BRENDA MEHDIAN its events. Brenda Mehdian staff writer
a significant number of members due to the graduation of last year’s seniors, the class has over 15 new participants. To welcome the new members to the class, Service Learning spent the first week of school getting to know one another through icebreakers. “While there is a new group of people every year, it is exciting to get some fresh minds because they bring new perspectives to the program,” Service Learning Advisor Michelle Halimi said. According to Co-Chair senior Simon Hedvat, many popular events such as Pantene Hair Donations, Albion Street and the
Club Day
Back to School Night
PSAT
Homecoming
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Sept. 18
Oct. 16
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HIGHLIGHTS NEWS SEPTEMBER 9, 2013
New Year, New Staff
Highlights speaks to the newest faculty members on campus
Heather Goedin
Charlie Stansbury
Dr. Regina Zurbano
Dana Findley
After being a member of Beverly for the past 12 years, health teacher Heather Goedin officially became a faculty member this school year. Goedin was was first attracted to Beverly because of its convenient location and reputation. “I started here in 2001 as a teacher’s assistant,” Goedin said. “Then I got my credential in 2002 and I’ve been teaching health since.” Goedin enjoys working at Beverly and hopes to teach her students valuable life long lessons. “I love all my students,” Goedin said. “I just really want the kids to take what I teach them in class and apply it in [their] everyday lives to make the right decisions.”
Adapting to a new environment can be difficult. However, Coach Charlie Stansbury was able to transition to Beverly “because of the friendly faculty and students.” Rather than concentrating on teaching solely one subject, Stansbury teaches a wide range of subjects on camapus. “I teach work experience, sports marketing and entrepreneurship,” Stansbury said. “I am also the head coach of the football team and a co advisor of DECA.” Although it has not been long since he met his students, Stansbury has been quickly impressed. “My favorite thing so far has been meeting so many students who are so involved in extracurricular activities and have a focus and determination to succeed and go to college,” Stansbury said. Stansbury hopes that his students put forth their best and become the best they can be. Dr. Regina Zurbano was recently hired to take on the position of assistant principal for House B. As an assistant principal, Zurbano overlooks the overall school program and devises ways for students to maximize their academic ability. “ As a house administrator, I help to resolve questions or concerns that students, teachers, or parents may have about what goes on at school,” Zurbano said. “ I work to support everyone else do their jobs to the best of their abilities so that our students have the best experience they can as members of the Norman Nation.” One of the aspects about Beverly that stood out to Zurbano was the large number of alumni who had returned to work at the school. “They were influenced so greatly by their time here that they wanted to give back to the next generation of Normans that pass through these halls, Zurbano said. “What a great gift to share!” For this school year, Zurbano hopes to make Beverly greater while developing positive relationships with both the staff and students. After a long history with the Beverly Hills Unified School District, Dana Findley has returned as artistic director for Dance Company. Findley started her career teaching dance at Beverly in 1996. After seven years, Findley moved up and became the Assistant Principal to House A until 2005, only leaving to finish pursuing her goal of an addition of masters degree- one in Fine Arts and another in Dance. Halfway through her master’s program, Findley came back and worked at the District Office as the coordinator of visual and performing arts, only to leave to Horace Mann to become their assistant principal for the past four years. “I feel like I’m back home. I miss my Horace Mann family, but I get to still be part of Horace Mann as a parent. It’s fun being back at a high school level. I really feel like the students are mature and that I have great kids in all of my classes,” Findley said. Findley mainly teaches dance, both for Dance Company and as a general unit in P.E. courses.
Angelica Pineda
April Stalker
Rick Leece
Daneille Beaverson
Not all new faculty were interviewed by print date. Articles and photos by Aurora Hamner and Audrey Park. Ethan Smith
Attracted to the positive environment of Beverly, Spanish teacher Angelica Pineda decided to take on her sixth year of teaching at the high school. Although she was offered a permanent position at another school, Pineda decided to choose a part time position as Roberta Steven’s first semester substitute. “It’s a nice environment. The students are very nice and respectful. They’re very polite. They seem to be worried about their grades, they do their homework,” Pineda said. “ Even though they called me for a permanent position at another place I really like the environment here.” Pineda is currently finishing up her masters at Cal State Los Angeles and plans to become a teacher there at the end of this semester. Due to district changes, psychologist April Stalker recently moved to the high school after teaching at Horace Mann Elementary School for four years. Despite the sudden change, Stalker managed to adjust and become comfortable in her new environment. Although the issues students deal with at the high school are different from those that students deal with at Horace Mann, Stalker enjoys working with a more mature group of students. “I like working at the high school,” Stalker said. “It’s a nice change working with the big folks. The kids here are in high school so there are different issues. For the boys and girls its about graduating and dealing with the stress of school work.” Although coming to the high school was a change, Stalker was able to adjust quickly. Stalker is available for students to visit in House A. After graduating from Michigan College, culinary arts teacher Rick Leece took on his first year of teaching at Beverly. Leece became a faculty member after a mutual friend of his and the previous chef, Darrell Smith, introduced him to the position. “I’ve probably cooked for a total of seven to eight years. Whether you’re in a regular kitchen or a commercial kitchen, you get new cooks in all the time and they won’t know much. So, you have to teach them- and it’s kind of the same idea, but now I’m teaching the students instead of the cooks,” Leece said. Along with culinary arts classes, Leece aspires to get involved with the Track and Field program at Beverly.
After teaching in the New York City School District, the largest district in the country, for the past four years, special education teacher Danielle Beverson decided to take on her fifth year of teaching at Beverly. Beverson became a part of Beverly Hills Unifed School District because she wanted to work in a smaller district. “I just wanted to be in a smaller district where I could be part of a community,” Beaverson said. However, with every new job comes changes and Beverson was surprised by the general attitude of her students and the long 10 minute passing periods at Beverly. “My students, so far show up on time, they do the work, everyone did the reading last night, and their annotations. This is not something that people used to do in the South Bronx,” Beaverson said. “My kids are super responsible and on top of it and it seems to be the overwhelming motivaton here that everyone wants to succeed and do their best.” Despite these differences, Beaverson is learning to adjust to the new environment through the help and support of the Norman Faculty. After teaching for a total of 18 years across America, Ethan Smith now teaches Piano Workshop, Minnesingers, Concert Choir and Intro to Acting and Madrigals to Beverly’s students for his 19th year. Smith taught for the past five years at Horace Mann Elementary, preceded by three years in New Mexico and 10 years in Northern California. “In middle school, you’re kind of teaching students how to be students in a way... how to do homework, be responsible, etc, but by the time you get to high school they already know that, so we can really dive into our subjects more,” Smith said. “[Compared to other schools, students are more mature and settled down and know what’s required to succeed in class.”
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HIGHLIGHTS SPOTLIGHT SEPTEMBER 9, 2013
A S 13 Leili Hashemi President
“One of our main goals is to really get the whole school involved and create a strong connection with all the different groups on campus. I want to build a new and strong ASB.”
Josh Schenk
Ellie Dubin
Secretary
Vice President
Alanna Schenk Treasurer
ASB faces program changes, Mead appointed adviser Max Stahl comment editor Dani Klemes web editor-in-chief Jessica Lu spotlight editor After the changes from the spring 2013 semester, the Associated Student Body (ASB) seeks a return to normalcy. Ten days into the school year, English teacher Mark Mead was approved as the new adviser at the Aug. 27 school board meeting. “I’m excited about [the decision],” Mead said. “It’s going to be a new challenge for me. I’m hopeful that I can take ASB, which is already great, and make it better,
BY THE NUMBERS 44 Members in the 2013 spring semester 26 Members in the 2013 fall semester 7 Returning spring representatives 2 Headrow positions unfilled Statistics courtesy of LEILI HASHEMI
or at least as good as it has been.” Mead said that his responsibilities include guiding the students with fiscal and social decisions. After his first day as adviser, he commented on his impression of the class. “The kids are all great,” Mead said. “They seemed to be cooperative and they seemed to work well together.” Prior to Mead’s arrival, Student Body President Leili Hashemi was running the class, aiming to respond to the high number of new and inexperienced representatives. “While the class is brand new, [my goal] is to get everyone used to how ASB works,” Hashemi said. “There are only about six students that have had experience with planning our events.” Math teacher John Borsum acted as the substitute adviser for the first 10 days of school. During that time, Borsum mainly reviewed summer expenditures with the students and organized class conversations. “I have been trying to teach [the students] how to use parliamentary procedure so that when they do have discussions, they can be orderly and efficient,” Borsum said.
Parliamentary procedure involves debate and discussion among ASB members, adherence to one topic at a time, equality of all ASB members and the right of the minority and majority rule through voting. Hashemi agrees that this systematic approach has benefitted the cooperation of ASB members. “They all are really impressing me one by one,” Hashemi said. “They’re all coming out of their shells, talking more, getting more comfortable with the class.” Still, according to Hashemi, who served as junior-class president last semester and as junior representative the semester before, the experience of running ASB without an adviser was “terrifying.” “In the first week I was really worried,” Hashemi said. “We expected [former adviser Loren] Newman to be back. Newman did a lot for us, and there’s a lot that we can’t do without her.” ASB is working to familiarize new members with the process of event-planning and coordination. Hashemi explained that ASB will evaluate its progress after hosting its first event. “We’re going to have a tester event soon to have the new [mem-
bers] try everything out,” Hashemi said. “Just a lunchtime event, not a big deal, but that’s just to get them familiar.” Despite these shifts in ASB, Hashemi noted the election process was “essentially identical” to those of past years. The elections brought new members not only to class rows, but also to leadership positions. Parham Senehipour was in KBEV before being elected senior co-president with Zack Bialobos. “I thought it would be a good class and an interesting experience to see what actually goes on
in our school,” Senehipour said. “The class is really small compared to other years, but it’s full of bright people with great ideas.” With no ASB-related events yet, the student body may not yet feel impacted by these changes, but some are anticipating what will happen in the fall. “I always look forward to Homecoming and so I hope ASB will be able to carry the event out smoothly still,” junior Shannon Cohanzad said. ASB is currently working with new and returning club applicants in preparation for Club Week.
STUDENTS: How confident do you feel that ASB will be successful in carrying out its events and responsibilities?
41 students were surveyed from the second floor patio at nutrition. MAX STAHL
Anticipated ASB hosted events for 2013 fall semester Homecoming
Club Week
Candy Grams
Spirit Week
Winter Formal
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HIGHLIGHTS CULTURE SEPTEMBER 9, 2013
Summer fun fades into school year with new beginnings Taking advantage of summer: students explore next level of passion, interest
Thau follows Goodall’s footsteps in Puerto Rico
Courtesy of ADAR THAU
FUNKY MONKEYS — After feeding the monkeys, Thau works alongside fellow researcher in the lab.
Robert Katz web editor-in-chief It was a classic stand-off, straight out of a Western movie. At one end, Carlito, the 1-year-old rhesus macaque monkey, lay under the feces-coated lining of his enclosure. At the other end, senior Adar Thau, the human girl, gazed intently at him, clicking her tongue in the language of the macaque. After a minute, his tiny eyes made contact with hers, and little
Carlito shrieked, dancing playfully in his cage before again diving underneath what Thau referred to as “the poop blanket.” Hide-and-seek was a common game between Thau and Carlito during her month-long stay in Puerto Rico this summer, as she aided in the study of rhesus macaques at the Caribbean Primate Research Center. Thau was offered the opportunity af-
ter sending a flurry of emails to about 50 doctors, asking each if they could use assistance and would mind supporting a 17-year-old student in their lab. Many declined the offer, but not Dr. Arina Zhdanova of Boston University, who stipulated that Thau be vaccinated and equipped with knowledge of Zhdanova’s field of study to join her. The subject of the research center’s work could not be detailed, as Zhdanova’s findings have yet to be published. Thau worked in the Research Center, an abandoned, plant-infested navy base, and performed routine tasks such as taking care of the monkeys and monitoring their behavior. Each of the macaques in the lab had its own unique personality and habits, which Thau discovered as she formed deep bonds with the monkeys. “[The monkeys] all have their own little habits,” Thau said. “Some like to paint with poop on their walls, some like to pace back and forth. Others sleep or do certain things with their hands, pop up their heads in certain ways or furrow their brows every time they see a hose.” Thau’s most pleasant memories were spent with the youngest monkeys. She came back to the husbandry area often
to bathe and feed the baby macaques. Thau found strong companionship in Aron Silva, a Boston University sophomore. “I was there for 15 days before Aron came,” Thau said. “[When he came to the lab] I thought, ‘Please, let it be someone who’ll like me.’ He was so nice. We had such fun together.” Silva, who equipped every monkey’s cage with a computer-operated fruit slicer, viewed Thau’s enthusiasm as an essential element of the lab. “She kind of loved [everything she did],” Silva said. “She worked really hard and she made the lab more homey, in a way. [The lab is] basically all adults and when Adar was there, she livened it up a bit.” Since Thau returned to the states, she has still kept up with Dr. Zhdanova and her research. “I still email most of them and keep track of what’s going on currently, as they are trying to integrate these monkeys that have been isolated for ten months into rhesus society,” Thau said. Though Thau is not sure when or if she will return to her work with Dr. Zhdanova, she does know that her journey to explore the natural world has just begun.
Plante reaches new career heights at Lollapalooza For Plante, having the opportunity to play at Lollapalooza The sounds of The Killers, was something he Kendrick Lamar, Mumford and was able to share Sons, Vampire Weekend and with his family and Imagine Dragons filled Grant friends. As the festiPark in Chicago, Ill. Lollapalooval is popular among za, easily compared with the music lovers, the fact more-local festivals Coachella that Plante was able and Outside Lands, is a threeto perform was yet day music festival in which another impressive esteemed artists play day and accomplishment in night for large audiences. his career. This past summer, Beverly’s “My parents went to very own Cole Plante performed the first Lollapalooza, at the festival. so they and the rest “Playing at Lollapalooza was of my family were so the greatest honor and best happy and excited for feeling,” Plante said. “For any me,” Plante said. “My musician, to be able to say he closest friends felt played at Lollapalooza is incredthe same, and as well ible. Knowing that I played with everyone who went my favorite artists and had the EDWARD PLATERO there too!” ‘THANK YOU CHICAGO!’ — Plante plays for 20,000 fans at Lollapalooza over the summer in Chicago, Il. chance to talk and hang out Plante plans to attend with them was amazing.” college after high school For Plante, the greatest memory from enjoy the experience with me,” Plante “A festival usually has a list of artto study film scoring and composing. playing at Lollapalooza was when his said. ists, that they want to book,” Plante In the meantime, however, Plante does brother, Ethan, and three friends were The process of getting to play at Lolla- said. “Lolla went to my agency [Wilfeel he has enough on his plate with his able to join him on stage. palooza for Plante was a rather smooth liam Morris Endeavor] and approached “[Having my friends on stage] brought one, as the Chicago festival had known my agent. He called me and asked if I producing, so he will have to leave the up the energy even more than it already of Plante beforehand and thought him wanted to, of which the answer was 100 branching out for later on in his career. Zoe Kenealy staff writer
was, and it was great to have my friends
to be a worthy performer.
percent yes!”
Speaker Scott Backovich motivates students at back-to-school assembly.
Ask the Students
MARGUERITE ALBERTS
What do you most anticipate seeing at school this year ? “[High school] is different from [middle school] in that there are a lot of people in different classes. I am meeting a lot of people. I want the school to have a longer lunch time.”
“I hope to see the school be entertaining this year. [High school] is a lot different [from middle school] because of its bigger campus. There are so many students with diversity.”
“I am already starting to notice that school became a lot harder than [it was] last year, because I started taking AP courses. The classes are new for me and the amount of work, especially in English classes, has gone up greatly. However, I want the school to be just like [it was] last year. Students were friendly and teachers were great.”
“Seniors are gone and new kids come [to school.] It’s pretty exciting to have different teachers. It’s a new year, a fresh start, and I hope to be in a safe, good learning environment that can offer me more opportunities to get interested in something.”
Sophomore Jonathan Gunn
Sophomore Sami DeMello
“I think [the school] is offering new selections of food in the cafeteria this year. I have never tried [cafeteria’s food] yet, however.”
“I noticed that the cafteria food changed and [the school] took away enrichment. I would rather not have a [longer] school day and I wish we had cafeteria food from two years ago, whcih I thought was really good. I hope to see better food this year.”
Freshman Niki Kretschmann
Freshman Samantha Kurtz
Junior Diego Cabrale
Junior Rebecca Edler
“I heard about the [adoption of] Common Core guidelines for the school. I think it will be good that [the school adopted these changes to curriculums] especially in math courses because I heard from Mr. Paul that [the school] was teaching 19th century math and should also introduce 21st century [math].”
“I can’t believe [high school] is almost over for me. I can not wait until we get to second semester when there are going to be so many senior activities. I have a feeling this year is going to be better than any other years.”
Senior Nicole Mehdian
Senior Josh Koloff
Compiled by EUNICE KIM
Meet the Teachers
Krisha Deaver overcomes with pencil, highlighter Audrey Park staff writer
AUDREY PARK
“You need the skills to be able to read and understand complex materials by yourself.”
Reading can be considered a hobby or a chore. For English teacher Krisha Deaver, however, reading became a lifechanging skill. “Your ability to read and read complex materials could someday save your life, which is the experience I had with my husband last year when he was diagnosed with a rare cancer [mesothelioma] that doctors did not have answers for,” Deaver said Mesothelioma is a cancer that does not show up on scans, many doctors have difficulty in diagnosing it. Therefore, Deaver and her husband took it into their own hands to get the help her husband needed. They researched and analyzed complex medical documents to get a better understanding of the cancer. “The surgery would have been $180,000 and our insurance initially rejected it,” Deaver said. “My husband ended up writing a 25-page document that we sent out to the head of our in-
surance company. We had to be goodenough researchers and readers to write the letter.” Deaver is a strong advocate of making annotations and using a dictionary when reading complex materials. She believes that students need to trust their skills and commit to breaking down the material on their own instead of relying on online resources. “I think that [students] need to understand how they are weakening their skills if they [rely on online resources],” Deaver said. “There are no Sparknotes for your future job, for the assignment from your boss, or that task from your client, or that legal paperwork that you will need to read through for your mortgage or taxes.” Because of her strong reading and researching skills, Deaver was able to break down complex medical documents and ultimately save her husband’s life. Deaver concludes that reading is an important critical reading skill that all students, regardless of their careers, need.
8
HIGHLIGHTS COMMENT SEPTEMBER 9, 2013
Student concerns should not supplant world concerns Robert Katz Web Editor-in-Chief A wanted vigilante wanders the planet, while another sits imprisoned by iron bars and a body she can’t accept. Far-off nations roil with conflict as governments terrorize their citizens. Political parties wage rhetorical war to decide the fate of the civilized world. And amid the blaze of current events, a former Disney starlet dances on the lap of a 36-year-old R&B singer, lighting up Twitter with a fury hotter than that of a red dwarf star. It comes as no surprise that in the midst of some of the most gripping stories in recent times, the most attention still goes to the shock-andawe of pop culture. Still, it might occur to some that the helter-skelter world beyond the one MTV helped build is still worth paying attention to. If anything, current affairs may be worth more of our notice than ever before, especially as our generation steps into the political and cultural batters’ box. The wonderful powers of suffrage and adulthood will soon fall into our hands, but that’s the easy part. Getting older and becoming of age just happen; we’re now the ones who have to keep our ears and eyes open for the disorder of the universe. And disorderly the world is. The
recent discoveries of government whistleblowers Edward Snowden and Chelsea Manning, as well as said discoveries’ globe-shattering aftermaths, have opened the floodgates wide for government distrust and questioning. Syria and other nations bubble with civil turmoil. All the while, the tug-of-war for the civil freedoms of all Americans rocks on carefully. We must be ready to accept both the inevitability and responsibility of the planet’s issues, to recognize the flawed plans and ideas of those who came before us and resolve, if not to rectify them, at least not to make matters worse. Yet, it sometimes seems as though the rest of the world conspires against curiosity, flooding our peripheries with everything that doesn’t matter to drown out what really does. It seems that people often prefer to down the sugary, inconsequential offerings of pop culture rather than the eternally bittersweet and uncertain realities of world events. The possibility exists that, as students, we can sometimes lock ourselves in bubbles, hermetically sealed off by the long-decried pressures of high-school life. Keeping up with every class and club often seems to be enough of a commitment to last us through four years of high school without ever having
AJ PARRY
to glance away from our schedules. However, people make time for what they care about. Though students’ lives seem more complex and consuming than ever before, we can now connect to the rest of the world through the smartphones that pervade every other aspect of life. Digital conveniences like RSS feeds, which tidily collect and present updates from myriad websites, have made keeping a fin-
ger on the world’s pulse as easy as scrolling through an app every now and then. The daily paper is always there for those who prefer it. We’ve grown into a world so small we can touch the farthest corners of it on a five-inch screen, but we still only have to see the parts we want to, especially in a privileged city such as Beverly Hills. However, as all the graduation speeches seem to say, we are not only burdened but
rewarded with the responsibility of taking on a new world of immediacy and distrust, where every action can send internet ripples across the globe. To remain willfully deaf to the cries of the world, every injustice and discovery, would be to surrender ourselves and our future to a dull, meaningless dystopia of televised twerking. The future of the VMAs, nay, the entire world depends on it.
Held back by the inner demon, students procrastinate Dami Kim Culture Editor Marthe TrolyCurtin, the reputed author of Phyrnette novels once said: “Time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time.” This statement rings true for many students across the nation. This idea of “wasting time” has actually been rooted among students as a motto to live by. Rapper Drake may have popularized the word “YOLO,” but the meaning of the acronym existed long before. In fact, when humans nurture this meaning, the word comes to life. It becomes an eternal creature that tramps on the path of human nature, exploits human behavior and consumes human energy. It feeds off human desires to idle and loiter. This inner demon living in-
side students is otherwise known as procrastination. As defined in Webster’s Dictionary, procrastination is “the act or habit of putting off or delaying.” The pure definition of “procrastination” does not suggest anything close to malevolence. As a matter of fact, procrastination is a natural habit. According to India’s independence leader Mahatma Gandhi, “your habits become your values” and “your values become your destiny.” Relating this observation back to the study of procrastination, this simple habit of delaying can become a person’s future. The inevitable truth is that the tendency to procrastinate lives inside everyone, even the most punctual person. According to an article by American Psychological Association, a 2007 research conducted
by University of Calgary psychologist Dr. Piers Steel, 80 to 95 percent of college students procrastinate on their coursework and 26 percent of general Americans admit to having chronic procrastination behaviors. Procrastination cannot be avoided. Furthermore, the Academic Skills Center at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo describes procrastination as a “complex psychological behavior and a considerable source of stress and anxiety.” However, the source of this behavior comes from three different situations, which, oftentimes, relate to each other. The first of these situations depicts a procrastinator struggling with his or her self-confidence. Low self-confidence and loss of dignity lead to the fear of not being capable of performing certain tasks, and ul-
timately delays the process. Secondly, a student’s tolerance level can influence procrastination. In an article in Psychology Today, Joseph Ferrari, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology at De Paul University in Chicago, and Timothy Pychyl, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology at Carleton University in Ottawa, states that procrastination can only be learned from one’s surroundings. A student actually learns how to procrastinate when he or she cannot cope with working under pressure and falls into denial. As a side effect, a student can start fabricating excuses such as “I am too busy” or “This looks too difficult.” Lastly, students’ emotions can stimulate procrastination. Frustration, anger or any other negative feelings associated with the student
at the time an assignment is given can impair a student’s ability to focus. With a preoccupied mind, the student ultimately tumbles into the trap of procrastination. Ferrari and Pychyl believe that procrastination is not an effect of poor time management, although poor time management can lead to procrastination. And such behavior can physically attack students by weakening the immune system and causing insomnia. Thus, resolving procrastination requires a great deal of self devotion and willpower. However, the first step to freeing oneself from the grasp of this monster is acknowledging that this monster does exist. So to those students who dream for a change in lifestyle and success in school, let us proudly confess now: “I am a procrastinator.”
New bell schedule balances students’, teachers’ needs Marguerite Alberts graphics editor For the last few months of the 20122013 school year, a group of teachers and students worked to assemble a new bell schedule that would accommodate the needs of their peers and colleagues. As a student, the best option was clear: a schedule that comprised block periods every week, all week. Although block schedule would mean enduring classes for longer periods of time, it would also mean that students would have more time to focus their energy on each individual class in-
stead of needing to divide their attention every night among at least five different classes. Furthermore, there would be at least one day each week when students could sleep in an extra hour. As a student who had had a first period during the past three years of high school, this idea was considerably promising. Instead, the committee’s efforts resulted in a schedule that closely resembles last year’s with a few minor changes including an earlier start. It appears as if every year the school day has begun earlier and earlier. Though the new start time for first period is only five minutes earlier than last year’s, and though a
five-minute difference seems small, it’s not. To students, five minutes can be the difference between getting to class on time and losing .6 percent of their grade. It assures a little cushioning and, psychologically at least, 7:05 seems much later than seven o’clock on the dot. Furthermore, the extra three minutes is unnecessary for students, only serving to prolong students’ attempts to stay focused, though teachers undoubtedly like getting any extra time they can to impart their knowledge to their pupils. However, this year, there is a silver lining: no Enrichment. Finally, we are free from these time vacu-
ums. Enrichment periods were intended to either give students extra time with teachers for help or to serve as study halls or for possible fun classes. In some cases, students didn’t even do homework, but instead watched movies or did things that were only planned to make the time go quicker. Except for the first reason, the other two were bogus. In short, these periods ended up being an utter waste of time that could have been better spent at home. Almost every year for the last four years, the bell schedule has changed; sometimes dramatically, sometimes not. This year is no different. In some respects, the sched-
uling has seen some major changes. In other respects, the changes are rather minor. Whether or not the schedule is ideal, there are parts of it which need to be recognized as being better for the welfare of staff and students alike and credit must be given to those who made it for ensuring that at least some of the opinions of the school’s population were listened to. This schedule is neither worse nor better, though it is disappointing. It would have been preferable to have something that had more block periods and didn’t start so early, but after three years, students have become used to this new bell schedule.
9
HIGHLIGHTS COMMENT SEPTEMBER 9, 2013
THE FORUM
a debate within the Highlights staff
Upperclassmen denied privilege of off-campus lunches Mabel Kabani editor-in-chief
How much freedom does the school allow us? Over the next several issues, members of the Highlights staff will contend with this question. As the discussion develops, different writers will bring up different aspects of the overarching question, elaborating upon and refuting arguments brought up in previous articles. This debate begins with an endorsement for off-campus lunch.
Back when I was a mere elementary schooler, I would always watch and admire the movies in which high school upperclassmen ran to their lavish cars in packs when the lunch bell rang. They would then happily drive off to devour Chipotle burritos, sip Starbucks lattes and gorge on Sprinkles cupcakes in the golden glow of the California sun. I envied their freedom, but I understood that high schoolers needed this 40-minute break from school in the middle of their hectic days, and I knew that my moment would eventually come; however, school policies have restricted upperclassmen from enjoying what some would say is their “right” as a high-school student. Upperclassmen have long been forbidden from driving off-campus during school hours, and many enforcements have been made to prevent their escape; for instance, security guards have been strategically placed around campus to catch students in-
tending to leave during school hours. However, upperclassmen should be given the privilege and opportunity to go off campus. For one, many students drive off during lunch anyway. Instead of indirectly causing students to blatantly disregard school rules, the school administration should alter its policies so that the rules are more flexible. With some form of cooperation between administration and student population, students will be more willing to respect school policies. However, students shouldn’t be given full reign in this situation, and there should be rules they must adhere to in order to be given this privilege. Students should, of course, acquire signed permission slips from their legal guardians to be able to go off-campus during lunch. Students should also have above a standard GPA (gradepoint average), such as a 3.0, to show their academic integrity in order to leave campus, as academics should take priority over recreational activities. This reward also gives students an additional incentive to do well in school. And students who are ir-
responsible with their freedom, for example arriving to school late from their lunches, will be penalized as the attendance policy states that students who are tardy will have their grades deducted by .6 percent. Another reason administration opposes the concept of students going off-campus for another reason: cafeteria food is much more nutritious, according to an administrator who prefers to remain anonymous. Though the new change in the cafeteria system offers employee-prepared food, “branded food options are available in the corner cafe and in the carte,” according to Mary Anne McCabe, the Executive Director of Budget and Fiscal Services. Students, in their practical lives, will have to choose options for food instead of being forced and restricted to certain options, so giving them the freedom to choose what they would like to consume is good practice for the future. So, let us upperclassmen fulfil our dreams of wandering the streets of Beverly Drive during our time off, and give us the freedom that we ask for, and so deserve.
This article is the first of the series. Next week, Robert Katz will continue the debate. If you feel you have something meaningful to contribute to the discussion, don’t hesitate to send a letter to beverlyhighlights@gmail.com
Highlights Mabel Kabani and Danny Licht editors-in-chief
Michelle Banayan news editor
Max Stahl
comment editor
Dami Kim
EDITORIAL
culture editor
Adjusted schedule beneficial When Shakespeare wrote that “summer’s lease hath all too short a date,” he had no idea. For us at Beverly, this past summer was far shorter than any before it. And although it’s easy to gripe about that fact in the wake of a midsummer’s first day of school, from an objective standpoint—instincts be damned—this calendar adjustment is, in many ways, more lovely. For one, first-semester finals are now scheduled to occur winter break. This move should alleviate most of that awful, oxymoronic vacation-work with which we’re all too familiar. And with that free time, seniors will be able to visit college campuses and polish their applications, juniors will be able to begin or continue SAT preparation and everyone can soundly sleep. The most obvious reason, perhaps, for the calendar shift is the May AP testing, after which, with previous calendars, AP students had time to watch more movies than they might have cared to. Moreover, with those extra few weeks, now in August rather than June, AP students will have more
time to learn the material. This, of course, is good. In our experience, classes sometimes crammed too many chapters of too-dense books in too few days. This extra time will help alleviate that stress. This same logic applies to CST testing, too, for which there will be more time to prepare. For seniors, this adjusted calendar is especially helpful. Coping simultaneously with post-AP classes and senioritis, the class of 2013 sometimes struggle to even show up in June. Plus, the collegebound students’ upcoming summers last for about three months (i.e., the length of an actual summer). And that thought might just be enough to take our minds off the fact that, on the day after Labor Day, we’ve been in school long enough to produce a 12-page issue.
Jessica Lu
spotlight editor
Arman Zadeh sports editor
Marguerite Alberts graphics editor
Robert Katz and Dani Klemes web editors-in-chief
Braden Bochner, Juliette Deutsch, Aurora Hamner, Audrey JamesAnenih, Brenda Mehdian, Audrey Park, Jackson Prince, Zoe Kenealy and Eunice Kim staff writers
Sasha Park and AJ Parry cartoonists
Gaby Herbst adviser — The mission of Highlights is to deliver school/community-relevant news in a timely manner while adhering to professional ethics. Highlights is a forum for student expression that is produced by the Advanced Journalism class of Beverly Hills High School, 241 Moreno Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90212. Letters to the editor may be sent to beverlyhighlights@gmail.com. SASHA PARK
Visit beverlyhighlights.com Like us on Facebook, and follow @bhhihighlights on Twitter and Instagram Ads are not endorsed by BHUSD Beverly Highlights is sponsored by PTSA and BHEF.
10
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11
HIGHLIGHTS SPORTS SEPTEMBER 9, 2013
Stansbury brings new football team game plan Jackson Prince staff writer Continued from Page 1 “I think these guys are just now starting to understand that football is as much about working hard and playing fast as it is about X’s and O’s,” he claimed. The new boss isn’t the only one witnessing the improvement. Quarterback Zack Bialobos notices “everybody putting in extra work, whether it be on the field or in the weight room.” Bialobos also appreciates the new intensity that Stansbury brings to practice. “If he tells you to go somewhere, you bet you’re sprinting there,” Bialobos added. Jordan Etebar, center, finds practices to be more difficult than those of previous years. “The pace of practice really picked up from last year. We’re
running and conditioning more than we ever have, but the work is going to be worth it in the end,” Etebar said. Left tackle Harrison Van Pelt, who had never played tackle football, admires his coach’s ability to teach the little things during practices. “His explanations of things, like why the choice of hand being put on the ground in my stance matters, are clear and improve my game,” Van Pelt expressed. The fact that Coach Stansbury has no prior notions regarding his players is viewed as an “advantage.” “All decisions are based on what we see our guys doing now and not on the successes or failures of the past,” Stansbury said. From a relatively outside perspective, football manager Hunter Lambert is aware that the team is operating with an added fire.
“[Stansbury] is getting the team to play at a level at which they didn’t expect to be playing,” Lambert said, as he watched over the team from a bird’s eye view. “Everyone is playing to their best ability, because a new coach means new opportunities.” This attitude toward hard work and even harder workouts follows an evenbigger change in Norman football culture: the game plan. According to Stansbury and many of his players, fans will see a significant increase in the use of passing in games, which allows for the ball to move downfield more quickly and demands the “best” from each of the players on the field at all times. The team is excited to abandon the traditional ground game of the past as the playbook evolves. “There’s a bigger emphasis on quick passing, isolation plays and trick plays, and fewer simple runs
up the middle. We’re a new team, and we’re going to be dangerous on the ground and in the air,” Davis said. The past two seasons was plagued with losses, and it was apparent that something had to change. The addition of Stansbury, with a lengthy résumé and strong family ties to Norman football, promises new opportunities for the team. “If we get the idea that this is a fun thing, and that we can learn from each other and do something
JACKSON PRINCE
as a team, then we can bring the passion back to Beverly football,” Stansbury said. The first game of regular season on Sept. 7 at Santa Barbara High School.
Cross-country team starts from scratch Juliette Deutsch staff writer
CARRYING THEIR WEIGHT — (Top right) New football head coach Charlie Stansbury brings his experience and knowledge of the game to this year’s football squad. (Bottom) Members of the football team begin training with heavy weights.
AUDREY PARK
The cross-country program is headed in another direction this year. With a new coach and many additions to the team, the crosscountry program plans to have a very successful season. Head coach for cross-country this season Coach Dwayne Washington has a positive and confident outlook on this season, despite the fact that the program lost many seniors from last year. “The program will be just as strong as last year. Although we have lost some great talent, we have talented seniors on this team. Clearly we are rebuilding the program and we are looking to be very competitive this year,” Washington said. Washington has a new outlook and goal for coaching and train-
ing. “The biggest change for the athletes will be getting used to the modifications in the training regime. We are focusing more on quality. We are also looking to change the culture. We want every athlete in the cross-country program to feel like they belong on the team and enjoy being a member on the team,” Washington said. Washington also sees a lot of new talent and potential in his teams. “We have a strong core group on both the boys and girls teams, and there are a number of openings for younger athletes to move into supporting roles. There is definitely a lot of young talent and I am excited about the prospects,” he said. Cross-country looks forward to having a great season and welcomes the new training approach this fall.
David Kotlarenko competes in Junior Olympics Dani Klemes web editor-in-chief
This summer over 500 teams, 8000 athletes and 600 coaches came together in Orange County for USA Water Polo’s 44th Annual Junior Olympics. This four-day tournament is the largest age-group water polo tournament in the nation, drawing athletes and teams from all over the country. During July and August, senior David Kotlarenko competed as a member of the Bruin Water Polo Club, practicing with players ranging from 14 to 18-year-olds at various UCLA aquatic centers. “The practices were three times a week for three hours at night, usually from six to nine. The level of experience that the club players had was way more than what I was used to at high school, so it was much more of a challenge,” Kotlarenko said. In order to qualify for the Junior Olympics, his team had to compete in its respective Zone Qualifying Tournament. “Qualifying was tough,” Kotlarenko said. “[We competed for] two days and we played around
six games. We were trying to get into a higher bracket, so we had to beat a lot of teams. We didn’t get into the bracket we wanted, but we [did pretty well].” After much preparation, Kotlarenko and his teammates drove to Ocean View High School in Huntington Beach, Calif., for
tween winning and losing is how many games you had to play. If you win, you play three, but since we lost, we played two. It also affects how you place in the division,” Kotlarenko stated. The tournament continued through July 30 at a number of aquatic vicinities in Orange
high school season,” Kotlarenko said. This fall will be Kotlarenko’s fourth year as a member of the boys water polo team, his third year as a varsity starter and his second year as a team captain. His involvement in Norman water polo inspired his decision to pursue a club program. “My coach, Rob Bowie, recommended that I join a [club] team so I could practice more and get more experience with real players [rather] than just the practices that we have here at school,” Kotlarenko said. According to Bowie, playing on a club PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVID KOTLARENKO team greatly benefitMAKING A SPLASH— Senior David Kotlarenko competes as a member of the ted Kotlarenko. Bruin Water Polo Club in USA Water Polo’s 44th Annual Junior Olympics. “I think it got him their first game against Tuala- County. Despite the large influx out of his comfort zone and tin Hills Water Polo Club, which of players at the pools, Kotlaren- broke him out of his shell. Playtook place July 27. ko was able to spot a few familiar ing with new people really built “Even though we lost the faces. his confidence, not only athletifirst game, we still had to play “There were people that I rec- cally, but socially,” Bowie said. throughout the course of four ognized from different schools Kotlarenko agreed that playing days. The only difference be- who I had played against during club water polo greatly enhanced
his knowledge of the sport. “I learned a lot more, mainly because my coaches were Olympic players,” Kotlarenko said. “One was [an Olympian] goalie, Merrill Moses, and another was [an Olympian] field player, Adam Wright. They just taught me a lot, how to anticipate more and be more aware of what’s going on and more fundamental stuff.” Despite his years of practice, Kotlarenko still felt intimidated by the widespread competition that he and his teammates were up against. “These teams were from all over the country and no one knew what to expect from them,” Kotlarenko said. At the culmination of the four day tournament, Kotlarenko and his team placed ninth in the Championship bracket. After immersing himself in this experience, Kotlarenko is encouraged to pursue water polo in his future. “I felt a sense of accomplishment after playing against people with much more experience than me,” Kotlarenko said. “I definitely want to do this again.”
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HIGHLIGHTS SPORTS SEPTEMBER 9, 2013
Amanda Block vaults in Junior Olympics, AAU competition Brenda Mehdian staff writer Over the summer, sophomore pole vaulter Amanda Block traveled to Las Vegas, Nev., and Orlando, Fla., to compete in various Junior Olympic and Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) meets and was ranked sixth in the state. In Las Vegas, Block competed at a regional meet against athletes from the western region of the country and walked away with the top spot. Next, she traveled to Orlando for the AAU National Championships, where she placed fifth in the 15-16 age group of pole vaulters primarily from Florida. “The UCLA program was one of the best in the area and I couldn’t pass up an opportunity to help my daughter with something she likes,” her father, Alan Block, said. Block first got into pole-vaulting when she was in eighth grade. She was a competitive gymnast for about 12 years, and in her last year of gymnastics, she began pole-vaulting once a week. Block soon realized she preferred the sport to gymnastics and decided to stop doing gymnastics completely. “I switched because gymnastics didn’t seem like a sport I would want to do in high school or college,” Block said. According to Block, her foundations in gymnastics gave her the strength, athletic coordination and ability to pole vault. “I like pole-vaulting better because there’s nothing subjective about it, you either clear the bar or you don’t, unlike in gymnastics where you are scored by a judge,”
Block said. What began as a simple suggestion from a fellow gymnast’s parent turned into something more when Block’s father found a club at UCLA called No Limits Sports, where she has been training ever since. Block pulls her athletic inspiration from Kaitlyn Merritt, a junior at Santa Margarita High School. Merritt has been the California state leader since her freshman year in high school and she holds national and state records for her age with a personal record of 13-8. “She is my role model because of all of her outstanding athletic achievement, and also because I’ve competed against her before at an invitational. Like me, she was a gymnast first and later became a pole-vaulter. She is one of the nicest girls I’ve met and is very supportive to her teammates. I strive to emulate her achievements as an athlete,” Block said. Block plans on pole-vaulting throughout the rest of high school and hopes to continue through college as well. “It’s still early in my career to look too far ahead, but if the opportunity were to come, I would definitely like to go beyond collegiate pole-vaulting,” Block said. Block looks forward to the Pole Vault Summit, which will take place in early 2-14 in Reno, Nev., the Arcadia Invitational and the Indoor State Championships in Fresno, Calif. As far as her participation with the Beverly track and field team, Block’s goal is to go further this year in the CIF Championships.
The Jackson Fives: Week One Fantasy Football Advice Jackson Prince staff writer Pickups that make you look smarter than your CST scores suggest, as well as this week’s version of “High Fives” and “Low Fives” As the Sept. 5 showdown between the Denver Broncos and the Baltimore Ravens inches closer, the fantasy football community licks its metaphorical lips in anticipation of another chance at proving its prowess. Depending on the players you selected during your draft, you are either anxiously fearing Week One, or eagerly awaiting its arrival. Regardless, the choices you made during your draft are irrelevant now. Boys and girls, there is a championship to win,
and win you must. With the right pickups, trades and start-sit decisions, you can propel your team to fantasy football glory. A seemingly hopeless team can join the elite class with a few crafty, in-season moves. However, without an understanding of the importance of these vital week-to-week decisions, your team may become buried at the bottom of the standings. A successful season cannot be accomplished alone. You might be asking, “Where can I find that partner to lead me to the holy grail of fantasy football?” If I must. Jackson Prince, three-time fantasy football champion, at your service. To read the full story, go to www.beverlyhighlights.com
PHOTO COURTESY OF AMANDA BLOCK
LEAP OF FAITH— Amanda Block competes in Las Vegas, vaulting her way to the top spot in the standings.
Basketball stengthens core through summer league work Arman Zadeh sports editor Following a second round playoff exit against Compton last season, the basketball team began a productive offseason, participating in seven tournaments and leagues during the condensed summer. The broken up squad, missing team members both for personal reasons and recent graduates, competed against California’s top teams in competitions in Westchester, San Diego, Providence, Crespi and others to sharpen its skills during the offseason. Head coach Jarvis Turner noted that, even without the entire team participating this summer, the team managed a number of wins, a majority, according to forward Ben Cohen, against top schools while improving its individuals and the team as a whole. “I think we had a pretty good summer, a productive summer,” Turner said. “Guys got better individually and I think we also got better as a team collectively.” One of the biggest assets this year’s team has that past year’s
teams lacked is chemistry, according to Turner. The team’s core this year is comprised of seniors Cohen, Siavash Yektafar, Brandon Neman, Eli Sachs and Nima Rafizadeh, all of whom have played all four years of high school basketball together since beginning on the freshman team. The team also features senior Ronan Massana who has been a member of the varsity team since his freshman year. “Both the JV and varsity teams got to go down [to San Diego] for one weekend, bond a little bit. Just playing together, working out together, has created a stronger bond for our guys,” Turner said. “I think the guys have matured a lot more. Our core is pretty much seniors and they matured a lot this summer.” The team’s individual’s performances this summer were highlighted by a 46 point performance from Yektafar in San Diego and a 30 point performance from Cohen in Westchester. “Individually we all improved our games by playing against good competition and players we aren’t used to playing,” Cohen said. “We became
closer as a team and developed more chemistry which is definitely going to be important for us if we want to be successful this season.” As for the upcoming season, Turner looks to take the year step by step in hopes that it can lead the team back to CIF playoffs for the third year in a row. “Our goal is to just take it one day at a time and work hard every single day. We want to come to conditioning, practice, and work as hard as we possibly can,” Turner said. “As far as what’s out in front of us right now, we’re just focused on what we have to do to get better every single day, and I think the guys understand that.” Before the season begins, though, the team will continue to participate in preseason leagues in the fall hosted by Nike in Inglewood along with other local leagues in preparation for the year. “We’re excited about the year. I’m very proud of my guys just for the steps they have taken. They’re becoming better people and becoming better basketball players,” Turner said.