The Express - April Issue

Education and human rights are at risk all around the country with new legislation and parental involvement

LAND OF THE

Studies show that physical attractiveness can affect your income.

Stances in politics, religion, education and morals play a significant role in starting a romantic relationship.

Battling

Students battling chronic health conditions find ways to pursue their passion for sports.

The overwhelming experience of ringing in the ears or irritating fabrics can leave students with sensory disorders exhausted.

Land of the Banned

Bans on education and human rights are being proposed all around the nation. A bill senior James Nolker said he is particularly concerned with is Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” bill, and how it may affect Kansas legislation. “I have hope that we’ll get that pushed back,” Nolker said. “But the longer this goes [on], the more it seems like we won’t and the more it seems like we’re moving backward.”

Four local coffee shops provide a fun alternative for study spots. A collection of student life photos from February and March.

Photos from girls basketball, boys basketball, cheer and dance.

THE GOLDEN RULE

Imagine your crush, the prettiest person in school, walking up to you and asking if you would like to be their date to prom. You would be ecstatic, planning everything out to the second. Then imagine finding out the promposal was a joke and you were targeted because you are not conventionally attractive. Unfortunately, this cruel prank happens to many students because of something they cannot control.

We all have implicit biases. We all judge someone based on first appearances even if we are not conscious of it. With implicit biases come pretty privilege: the concept that conventionally attractive people are somehow superior to others based simply on the fact that they are pretty.

The idea that pretty privilege exists can be disheartening to those who do not fit into the standards set in place. It can lead to low selfesteem and mental health problems. While it is important to acknowledge pretty privilege exists, it is also important to recognize that the way you look has no effect on your mind and heart.

The media we have consumed has pushed certain beauty standards onto us since we were kids, telling us that we have to look a certain way to be treated with respect. Most of the time, these beauty standards tend to focus on young, eurocentric, abled, skinny and cisgender bodies; making people that do not fit into this slim view of beauty feel “ugly.”

These views have been ingrained into our thought processes and they affect the way we treat others subconsciously. We perceive “pretty” people as more sociable, intelligent, happier or more successful so we will often let this implicit bias cloud our judgment. This can leak into the workplace, making it hard to find a truly diverse workforce. For example, a Harvard study found that employees of “above average beauty” tend to earn 10-15 percent more than their less attractive counterparts.

Implicit biases are not our faults, but it is our responsibility to actively fight against them. The American Bar Association said the best way to fight implicit bias is through contact. Fill your social media with diverse creators, surround yourself with various perspectives and strike back against the biases you are conditioned to have.

We must recognize that physical appearance has no bearing on intellect or skill. All people deserve respect regardless of their appearance. Our actions are reflections of who we are on the inside. Ask yourself, “Do I want to be the person who judges others based on something they cannot control?” It has been said to us as children many times but it still holds the same weight: treat others the way you would want to be treated.

POWER USE YOUR

Written by Jeny Jithesh, Designed by Julia Moser

Congress is filled with old people.

As of July 2022, about four-fifths of the American population was under the age of 65. Yet more than half of current senators representing our young nation are over the age of 65. Our past two presidents have been over 70 years old at the time of their election.

America promised a nation of the people, by the people, for the people. But who really are ‘the people’ if we are only represented by old white men?

According to the Constitution, a candidate for the position of president or vice president of the United States must be at least 35 years of age at the time of his or her election, while the age minimums for the Senate and House are 30 and 25, respectively. However, no upper age limit is set for any position in the American political system, meaning that individuals of any older age can be elected to serve.

Older people often say that young adults have not earned the experience or respect necessary to run a country. But the idea that knowledge and wisdom only come with age has its own flaws. Medically, 65 is considered to be “old age.” Socially, 65 is accepted as retirement age. These ages are not random- doctors have found that after reaching old age, people become more susceptible to dementia, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, arthritis, and cancer.

It’s true that older politicians carry with them invaluable amounts of experience, but it is more important for different perspectives and ideas to be circulated in our government. Younger and older generations have different ideas concerning important issues, such as the environment. We can’t expect older generations to emphasize the longevity of our planet because it’s honestly not relavent to them. So, ensuring this variation is translated into our representation is key to creating an accurately represented nation.

This sharing of diverse ideas in representative governments has been an especially stressed topic in recent years, particularly in the aspects of race and gender. Those are clearly essential, but age is an important factor to take into account as well. As different groups of people value different ideals and priorities, it is essential to provide a platform for everyone. It’s not fair for only a certain group’s ideals to

be appropriatley represented.

In this sense, the 118th United States Congress has achieved many breakthroughs in the demographics of both the House and the Senate. The Pew Research Center found that this year’s Congressional group is the most racially and ethnically diverse in history, and includes the highest number of women, yet. Additionally, there are now 13 LGBTQ+ voting members of Congress. While this diversification is a step forward in the country’s history, the 118th Congress has also taken some steps back, being one of the oldest groups on record. Senator Charles Grassley of Iowa is 88 years old. Senator Dianne Feinstein of Florida will be 92 at the end of her current term. Approximately half of each chamber falls into the baby boomer generation, between the ages of 59 and 77.

So why are there so many lawmakers over the retirement age in America? The root of the issue can be traced back to voting day itself. In 2018, not even a third of 18 to 24-year-olds cast a vote. Only 37 percent of citizens between the ages of 25 to 34 voted. Even though these two age groups make up more than a quarter of the U.S. population, the weight of their votes is overpowered by older groups because of this low voter turnout.

Why don’t young people show up to vote? The list of excuses is endless, from busy schedules to far-away voting centers. But the truth is that we are more likely to be politically disengaged. Many young adults simply don’t care about politics, or feel like their votes matter. Others do not see the direct connection between the people we elect and the path our country takes. But youth voter turnout is essential to any ballot; be it one concerning a state-specific bill or a national midterm election. The trend of disproportionate age in American politics we have been seeing in past decades is one that will not stop rising unless younger citizens start to take advantage of the power of their votes. Voting is not only your right but also your responsibility. If people are to be truly represented and heard, then the current demographics of this country must be reflected in our political systems. Bringing about this change is a responsibility that falls on us and our votes. Building the future starts with today, and it starts with us.

THAN AFRICA BIGGER

Written by Saraphina Wambi, Designed by Julia Moser

When someone hears the word “Africa” they might immediately think of a poor village near the savanna plains with no electricity, no running water and no food. When I hear the word “Africa” I think of “The Motherland” and a land full of joy, culture, rich history and civilizations dating back millennia.

However, we often only see a single narrative of Africa, one of despair and poverty. Most people do not know the names of individual African countries so those countries with different cultures and people are thrown under one misconstrued narrative. As a result, many think of Africa as a continent rife with poverty and in need of saving by western countries.

However, the continent of Africa is home to many ancient civilizations such as ancient Nubia (in North Sudan), Timbuktu (in Mali) and many more. However, since the beginning of civilization, Africa has also been home to all life. Anthropologists and archeologists have confirmed that every single human has descended from the African continent. But that history is not taught. Rather, we insist on teaching history centered around Europeans.

Global African issues, not even individual African countries’ issues, receive minimal news coverage and if they do receive coverage, Africans are depicted as impoverished. However, Africa is a continent that contains immense cultural diversity and pride despite its circumstances. But that Africa is not the Africa portrayed throughout the world. Africa is made up of 54 countries, wealthier countries, poorer countries and countries with different peoples and cultures. However, some people disregard the various cultures in the hope of fitting all Africans into one stereotype. It seems the thought is never how can we share the beauty of African cultures with the world but rather how can we stereotype Africa.

For example, in this country when we talk about

slavery and the history of slavery, we often speak as though the lives of the enslaved began on this side of the Atlantic Ocean. We may mention the dehumanizing treatment they received on the boats toward the New World and the atrocious conditions they experienced on plantations but, we rarely talk about where the enslaved came from, what their previous cultures were and what their lives used to be. To this day we think of the enslaved as Americans but they originated from Africa. Long before slavery, Africa and its peoples began to fight the imperialistic ideals placed on them. A particularly devastating wave of imperialism in the 1800s was the “Scramble for Africa,” when European powers traveled to Africa purely to take it over, take advantage of their people and take advantage of their resources. Africa is home to numerous natural resources such as oil, diamonds, coltan, gold, silver, natural gas and bauxite. But those resources have rarely helped Africa flourish and have instead led to abuse at the hands of foreign powers.

Historically, in the United States, we have prided ourselves on our education system. However, time and time again we fail to educate students about the African continent and its contributions to this country and the world. According to a study done by the National Council for Social Studies, only one to two U.S. history lessons are dedicated to Black American history. This is not enough class time to appreciate the origins and contributions of Black Americans considering their roots go to a completely different continent. When the history of Europe is taught to us, we as Americans lose nothing. In fact, we gain a better understanding of ourselves. That would also be the case if the real history of Africa and its peoples were taught. As a country, the United States has always benefited from people immigrating here from all around the world, including Africa. To truly know who we are as Americans, it is beneficial to gain a deeper understanding of where we came from, which is our home continent of Africa.

To truly know who we are as Americans, it is beneficial to gain a deeper understanding of where we came from, which is our home continent of Africa.”

-SARAPHINA WAMBI

Pretty

PRIVILEGE

Teens illustrate the differing treatment they receive from people based upon societal standards of beauty

Sophomore Brooke Zimmer said there was a time when she thought looking like someone else would change her life.

“At the time, I was sort of lonely, and I thought if I looked a certain way that I would have more friends and not feel like I don’t belong or that I don’t matter,” Zimmer said.

Because of the way she looks, Zimmer said she has endured people treating her differently.

“Throughout middle and high school I have felt like my appearance affects how others view me. People have talked behind my back about the way I look,” Zimmer said.

Factors outside of size and weight can have an impact on how people are treated and feel about themselves. Senior Nia Bender said that being a minority presents different treatment as well.

“I think people of color really struggle to find a place where they can fit in because everything nowadays on TikTok and everything [shows] white features,” Bender said. “Other cultures have different beauty standards, but I know having a big nose or having an asymmetrical face is not considered beauty.”

Bender said as a kid, her selfimage was negatively impacted due to not looking the same as her

peers.

“When I was younger, I was not confident with myself. From first grade to third grade, I was one of the two or three people of color in my class of 15,” Bender said. “I always felt like I stood out in a negative way.”

In our society many people think that a way to fit in is to live up to the beauty standard, but Bender said she disagrees with this.

“Society strongly enforces a beauty standard which is not healthy for us teenagers since all of our bodies are different, which is normal,” Bender said. “People looking different is what makes society beautiful, especially with our unique features.”

Senior Alessandro Navarra said it is a common experience for high schoolers, and even adults, to be treated unequally because of things out of their control.

“I think it happened to everyone, we just don’t know it,” Navarra said. “I know I was treated differently in my school by my peers a couple of years ago because of my appearance, because I was small and short.”

School psychologist Claudine Boldridge said what Navarra

experienced is often felt by teens.

“I guess a common thing could be individuals making assumptions about them as an entire human being just based on their appearance. They make assumptions as to who that individual really is as a human being,” Boldridge said.

Although she said she does not think that appearance advantages are real, Boldridge said she thinks there is bias among teens and children. She goes on to explain the brain is where this bias originates.

“The brain is not fully developed until the age of about 25 and the last area of the brain to develop is the frontal lobe,” Boldridge said. “That is the one that helps to make accurate perceptions of what people’s body language is communicating.”

The reason those who do not possess stereotypical features are treated differently, Zimmer said, is because certain beauty standards have become mainstream.

“I think what society considers pretty is being skinny, maybe skin color and a certain facial structure,” Zimmer said. “What I think society considers not pretty is being plus size, having a certain style that is considered different and just not

Written by Addie Aadland and Bridget Hamlin, Photographed by Norah Alasmar, Designed by Alex Cowdrey

I always felt like I stood out in a negative way.”

-NIA BENDER

looking like a celebrity in general.”

Zimmer said she believes that people who fit into societal beauty standards are more likely to be given more opportunities than those who do not.

“Studies have also shown that [stereotypically] pretty people have better jobs, wages and other positive outcomes than unattractive people.”

According to the University of Fashion, an online fashion school, some 67 percent of women in the U.S. are above a size 14 in clothes which the industry considers “plussize.” However just two percent of women shown in media images are plus-size.

Conventionally attractive people can be seen as perfect and having no flaws, according to Bender. Even though pretty people still can struggle with things, she said others tend not to acknowledge that.

“They might have some internal battles that they deal with, but they don’t really acknowledge that and kind of accept that because they are pretty and that is just who they are,” Bender said. “Nothing can be wrong with them.”

Zimmer also said she believes people assume having few physical flaws equates to being a good person.

“I think a lot of people think that prettier people are kind and good people because they look good,” Zimmer said. “That’s not always the case, however, people can be nice or mean regardless of how they look.”

Boldridge explained that she thinks it will likely not change however she hopes this privilege will decrease as time goes on.

“My hope would be that it would decrease because we as a society would learn to recognize that we have or may have to associate all those good qualities with beauty,” Boldridge said.

She goes on to say that the level at which individuals compare themselves now is much higher than it has been in the past due to social media.

“I think that social media is exasperating it because now we live in the world of constant comparison,” She said. “People are so barraged with images that they can just look at on their phones that 10 or 15 years ago did not exist.”

Navarra said he feels appearance does not only affect emotions but also in their success, but not in every case.

“When you work somewhere, you and your appearance advertise yourself and the company you work for unconsciously,” Navarra said. “[However,] Elon Musk wasn’t conventionally attractive yet he was able to become the wealthiest man alive.”

Zimmer explained she feels that although many people still let one’s appearance reflect who they are internally, over time, society has made an effort to become more inclusive as to who they consider beautiful.

“I think that a lot of people know that words really can affect someone negatively,” Zimmer said. “We’ve even seen stories about how bullying and being exclusive can cause mental health problems with people on social media.”

Zimmer said she feels that something individuals should do to counteract these perceptions is keeping an open mind.

Sophomore Brooke Zimmer says that beauty standards have put a toll on her mental health. “I used to wonder and care what people thought of my appearance and if people would actually be my friend,”Zimmer said. (Photo by Norah Alasmar)

HUSKY HIGHLIGHTS

Sophomore Christina Fu and juniors Addison Ladish and Allison Wolfe perform singing valentines with the choir, Feb. 14. “My favorite thing about singing Valentines is getting to go around with friends and embarassing people all day,” Ladish said. (Photo by George Buckley)

Seniors Ana Sara Rodrigues

Chrisostomo de Brito and Charlotte Holland wait in line to visit the Statue of Liberty on the New York choir trip, March 4. Members of the Northwest choir visited New York to perform at Carngie Hall. (Photo by Kendall Dickerson)

Attempting to achieve the correct color, sophomore Kennedy Shank performs a titration lab in chemistry, March 8. “I enjoy chemistry because I like doing experiments and seeing what colors or substances they result in.” Shank said. (Photo by Rachel

King)

Freshman Addison Fuller carves her stone in her sixth hour sculpture class, March 21. “I like how creative you can be,’ Fuller said. “There are a few guidelines you have to follow, but overall you have the freedom to pick what you want to do.” (Photo by Lila Vancrum)

Sophomores Joe Li and Skyler Masters-Moore get ready to test their pasta bridge for Honors Principles of Engineering, March 8. “I was really nervous watching our bridge,” Li said. “Our beams had a lot of cracks from the glue and I wasn’t very confident in its hardness.” (Photo by Lila Vancrum)

Sophomore Reagan Lattimer and junior Abby Valladares dissect a squid in their seventh hour Zoology class, March 6. “It was really slimy, smelly, and gross,” Lattimer said. (Photo by Shahd Abdeljalil)

LAND OF THE BANNED

A nation that promises freedom instills bans on education and human rights

Written by Lexi Jones and Nafsiya Hafiz, Photographed by Kendall Dickerson,

Senate Bill 180 was voted into law April 4, requiring transgender individuals in Kansas to use the restroom aligned with their sex at birth, on April 4. The bill also prevents individuals from changing their name or gender on their driver’s license.

Senior James Nolker, a transgender man, called the bill ludicrous and discriminatory.

“[The bill] wasn’t thought out well and it definitely isn’t to protect women,” Nolker said. “By this law, I am forced to use the women’s restroom, despite my legal documents saying male. Me being in the women’s bathroom would make everyone there very uncomfortable because I appear as a man.”

In hearing of the bill’s passing, senior Rishab Jain, Nolker’s boyfriend, expressed his disapproval for the “unwarranted attack” on trans individuals.

“It completely erases transgender people in the eyes of the law and ensures that no transgender person can ever be accepted for who they

are,” Jain said. “America used to represent freedom and equality for all. How did it go so wrong?”

Terrified, in shock and in disbelief, junior Hannah Hatton described her reaction to another impactful development in antiLGBTQ+ legislation— the proposal of the “Don’t Say Gay” bill put into effect in Florida.

“I was thinking, ‘There is no way it’s going to actually go through,’ and when it did, it really made me [feel] fear,” Hatton said.

The Florida Parents Rights in Education Act, House Bill 1557, prohibits classroom instruction about non-heteronormative sexual orientation or gender identity in K-3 classrooms and requires such conversations after third grade to be age-appropriate. The phrase age-appropriate has yet to be clearly defined by lawmakers and school officials in Florida.

The signing of this bill gained national attention last year when members of the LGBTQ+ community claimed it was an act to ban exposure to diversity and education about gender identity

and sexuality in schools. The act informally became known as the “Don’t Say Gay’’ bill.

Hatton said she first identified as a queer in the third grade. With her experience of identifying herself at a young age, she said there is a difference between discussing inappropriate subjects such as sex, and discussing gender identity and sexuality.

“If there is any need for this bill, it is the need for it to go away,” Hatton said. “It is a really gross thing—the idea queer people are inherently sexual. That is just not true.”

Additionally, Hatton shared her own experience from third grade and emphasized she did not have any inappropriate sexual ideas when learning about sexuality.

“There was nothing sexual in my third grade mind when I heard about gay people,” Hatton said. “I was not thinking about sex.”

Jain said he worries about the future generations who will be affected by this ban. He also said he does not know who they will turn to for advice about sexual orientation and gender identity inquiries.

Designed by Avery Sigg

“[Before,] if they had questions about their sexual orientation and they did not know where else to go, they would ask their teacher because they trust the teacher,” Jain said. “[Now,] that teacher cannot tell them anything.”

Furthermore, Hatton said she was not educated about sexuality in school. She said no teachers discussed sexuality in class or sought to. So, Hatton turned to the internet to discover her identity.

“I learned on my own online, and when I did, it truly made my life so much easier,” Hatton said. “The second I heard about gay people, I very quickly identified with it.”

Hatton said she wishes children still had the opportunity to be educated about different types of people and relationships at a young age. The ban stops the spread of knowledge regarding queer identities in Florida, which Hatton said could lead to children not knowing how to identify themselves.

“I think all queer identities should know at the youngest age possible that they are accepted and loved,” Hatton said. “There is really no difference between gay and straight. Being gay is no more sexual than being straight.”

Hatton said that she does not like living in the state of Kansas and worries about the children who will grow up here, with the threat of the government policing their

education.

“When it comes to political policies, the urge to leave Kansas gets stronger and stronger every year,” Hatton said.

Likewise, Jain said he worries about the future of Kansas and the political impact of two parties with different beliefs.

“It is extremely concerning that it has spread farther than Florida,” Jain said. “The problem is we live in a perpetual state of fear where if [Democrats] lose one election, all of our rights are taken away. [It] creates so much trauma and it is nearly impossible to live a normal life.”

Nolker said if he was able to talk to the political leaders and parents who were in favor of putting this ban in place, he would express his disapproval for the bill.

“Your actions [have] caused so much distress and depression in the children that you were trying to [protect],” Nolker said. “You are not protecting them.”

Similar to Florida’s Parents Rights in Education Act, Kansas passed House Bill 2236 on April 6. The bill gives parents’ the right to direct the education and upbringing of their children, including the right to object harmful or inappropriate

educational materials and activities that are not included in approved curriculum or impair a parent’s beliefs, values or principles. The bill, however, does not contain any language limiting education on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Although Hatton said she believes parents should be involved in their children’s learning, she said sexuality and gender education should not be discouraged or banned.

“I believe parents should have a right in the education system, but when it comes to something as important as [educational] rights, no,” Hatton said.

Hannah’s mom, Stacey Hatton, expressed similar beliefs to that of her daughter’s.

“I feel parents should be involved in their children’s education but I think the curriculum should be left to the professionals (teachers) instead of politicians,” Stacey said.

Regarding Kansas legislation, Senate Bill 55 and House Bill 2238 were were proposed with the intention to require female student athletic teams to only include members who are biologically female. As of April 5, the House overrode Democrat Gov. Laura Kelly

If there is any need for this bill, it is the need for it to go away.”

-HANNAH HATTON

s veto on House Bill 2238. With this bill now in place, lawmakers who introduced the legislation suggested that a mandatory sports physical would be implemented, including an inspection of athlete genitals to prove their gender. KSHSAA is only aware of one transgender athlete who will be in the state next year, when the bill goes into effect.

Regarding the district, Hatton noted the lack of representation or conversations had about sexuality in the classroom.

“I have never heard a teacher talk about gay people, and the bill made me realize that,” Hatton said. “I truly do believe Blue Valley should be doing a better job of teaching children about queer identities.”

Kelly Ott is the Executive Director of Curriculum Instruction and Innovation for the Blue Valley School District. Ott said the curriculum for students in the district is based on fixed education standards that the state of Kansas requires; required

subjects include language arts, science, art, physical education and others.

“A curriculum is a guarantee that all students will learn certain things,” Ott said. “[Gender identity and sexuality definitions] are not written into the curriculum… it does not contain LGBTQ+ objectives.”

Furthermore, Ott explained the district does not currently have any restrictions on education about gender identity and sexuality. She said students have access to that topic if they choose to pursue it.

“Teachers are required by board policy to follow the curriculum. I

think with topics related to LGBTQ+ you have issues coming in with the area of choice and of student choice,” Ott said. “We certainly do not discourage students from exploring those topics when they choose.”

The limitation of education does not stop within the classroom, but has spread to libraries all over the country. In many states, books like “All Boys Aren’t Blue” by George M. Johnson or “Gender Queer” by Maia Kobabe and other books that feature sexual orientation and gender identity are facing bans.

“A lot of books featuring gay characters have been banned. I find it ironic they claim it is not discriminatory when only books about gay people are being

Junior Hannah Hatton describes what she believes people who support the “Don’t Say Gay” bill should do. “If you talk to a queer person and genuinely try to listen to them, then you would realize that they are just another human being and they don’t

want to hurt your kids. Gay people want to mind their own business, we don’t want your kids.”

She said.

I believe parents should have a right in the education system, but when it comes to something as important as [educational] rights, no.”

-HANNAH HATTON

banned when you could argue any book that features a straight couple or a straight relationship is also about sexual orientation,” Jain said.

Book banning is considered to be a form of censorship. Referred to as a “challenge,” proposed bans aim to restrict access to certain books. This is due to the content of the books being deemed inappropriate or explicit by the standards of private individuals, organizations or the government.

“In our district, we have a policy allowing students or parents to challenge a book, and that challenge would be an attempt to make the case that a book should not be required learning for our students,” Ott said.

According to librarian Mary McCabe, almost all of the books within BVNW’s curriculum have been challenged at least once, usually by a concerned parent. Even though a myriad of books have been challenged over the years, only a few were removed from the curriculumone of which being the classic “To Kill A Mockingbird.” For McCabe, bans like these mean students have less of an opportunity to understand today’s society.

“For one thing, it lessens their opportunity to understand where we are today and put it in perspective. We have books that use words we no longer say are good, acceptable words to use in society instead of injecting a good or bad label on a word, we should understand that [those were] the words used then,” McCabe said. “Kids do not see that if they do not have the opportunity to read those books.”

Sophomore and avid reader Madison Gener said more recent bans seem to be targeting specific voices.

“It is not a new phenomenon, but now it usually targets minority groups, like transgender and queer groups and racial minorities,” Gener said.

Gener explained book banning is an issue she has educated herself on because of her role as student and her position as an ally.

“As a student, I want to be able to read these books in my own library, also just as someone who considers herself an ally. I want these books to be read, understood and valued by a lot of people,” Gener said.

A recently challenged book in Northwest’s library is “Living Dead Girl” by Elizabeth Scott. The book is narrated by a teenage girl who is

kidnapped and endures extreme physical, sexual and emotional abuse. An anonymous community member challenged the book to be removed from the library, and is in the beginning stages of review. More details regarding the challenge will be available on BVNWnews.com soon.

As a librarian, McCabe acknowledged the need for all voices to be heard in the appropriate environments.

“It is really just a matter of putting the right books in the appropriate outlets,” McCabe said. “A high school library needs to think about their patronage, we have kids who are 13, we have students that are 18, we have teachers who read out of our library so we want to pick books that will meet the needs of our patrons.”

Many of McCabe’s outlooks were shaped by her upbringing. McCabe explained how her reading had never been restricted.

“I was always able to go to the library as a kid, and I maybe encountered books that weren’t

Senior Abbie Kratofil describes the origins of her beliefs regarding abortion. “My own sense of morality and sense of what is right and wrong tells me that every human deserves to live and that is something I truly believe to my core” she said.

I believe that the purpose and function of a government should be to protect the rights of its citizens”

-ABBIE KRATOFIL

Senior Rishab Jain says the informal nickname for Florida’s Parents Rights in Education Act does not communicate what the ban is truly doing. “I think it was nicknamed Don’t Say Gay because it rhymes and it’s easy to remember, but I don’t think it shows the gravity of what it actually does,” Jain said.

appropriate for me, but I learned from that. Always having access to books was probably the foundation of my attitude,” McCabe said.

This was much the same for Gener, who said her opinions were shaped by her upbringing. She explained in her youth she was constantly told to read whatever she could.

“[I] have always been told to read whatever we can get our hands on, so you can understand people’s experiences,” Gener said. “I, personally, have gained a lot from reading books by authors that maybe do not have as much of a voice in our modern society.”

Limits on education are not

the only controversial aspect of American life up for reform. In the summer of 2022, the Supreme Court ruled to overturn Roe v. Wade, a law that protected the right to access abortion legally all across the country. The overturning of the law eliminated the constitutional right to abortion. Senior Abbie Kratofil said she believes in the federal decision to overturn Roe v. Wade and to ultimately let states determine their own laws for reproductive health care.

“Roe v. Wade being overturned by the Supreme Court was the right decision from a moral perspective,” Kratofil said.

Kratofil practices Roman Catholicism, a religion which stresses a moral obligation exists

against abortions. She said her religion has influenced her views on abortion bans.

“Sectors of the pro-life community and the movement really influenced me to believe what I believe,” Kratofil said.

Kratofil is the president of Northwest’s Baby Steps Club. She said the club typically meets once a month to discuss topics regarding pro-life movements and to complete related community service projects.

“I found a really good community through Baby Steps. It has helped me to better understand my beliefs and opinions, and to meet with other people who sometimes have the same opinion and sometimes do not,” Kratofil said.

In contrast, sophomore Brooke Troppito considers herself prochoice. Troppito said she believes women should have access and options regarding abortion.

“That should be a decision you make for yourself and it should not

I will always speak out against discrimination, regardless of whoever it is. I will always speak out against misinformation.”

-MELISSA OROPEZA

be something that someone else decides for you,” Troppito said.

Many Kansas legislators, including Sen. Cindy Holscher and Rep. Lindsay Vaughn, were contacted relating to human and educational rights. Democrat Rep. Melissa Oropeza of District 37, covering Kansas City and Edwardsville, was the only one to respond.

On a legislative level, Rep. Oropeza said she believes when it comes to restricting abortion and other health care services, legislators should not be making the decisions.

“That is where legislation and health care need to divide. That is not my area of expertise, I leave that up to the patients and the patient’s family to decide what is best for them,” Oropeza said. “What am I as a legislator to say what is best for them?”

One of Oropeza’s top priorities in regard to these topics and bills are discrimination and misinformation.

“I will always speak out against discrimination, regardless of whoever it is. I will always speak out against misinformation,” Oropeza said.

Oropeza also said the state of Kansas recently proposed House Bill 2439, which further informs individuals considering a medication abortion about the effects of Mifepristone, a drug used to terminate pregnancy. In trying to further understand the intent of this bill, Oropeza developed concerns regarding the reliability of the presented data.

“The intent was to let women know that medication induced abortions are reversible. The problem with that is there is no research to submit that idea or intent. In fact, when they speak about this particular reversal of medication abortion, the proponents use data and information [with] no consent,” Oropeza said. “So, it is very questionable where these numbers are coming from. And it should be alarming to people in general.”

Kratofil’s reasoning to support the ban is that abortions do not protect citizens’ rights and actively work against the right to live.

“I believe that the purpose and function of a government should be to protect the rights of its citizens,” Kratofil said. “All citizens have a right to life, and when there is a piece of legislation in opposition, it should be removed.”

Oropeza encourages citizens who wish to combat certain bills to protest and contact their representatives.

“What I hear from the legislators, is that they want to hear from their constituents. I would definitely, depending on the county and district, [tell students to] get with their representative and see where they stand,” Oropeza said.

She explained that it is important to support the representatives that each Kansan wishes to see in office.

“Go out and find those people. If

Books such as “To Kill a Mockingbird,” “All Boys Aren’t Blue” and “Gender Queer” have been challenged or banned nationwide.

you cannot [donate] money, you can [donate] time. If you cannot do that, you can do social media,” Oropeza said. “[Social media] is helpful because it reaches people, find like minded people in various districts. It has to be a grassroots effort to change the supermajority.”

Written by Ashley Adams, Photographed by Arpa Das, Designed by Sabrina San Agustin

Growing up with parents of an arranged marriage, freshman Sumlina Alam has acquired a unique perspective on the benefits of different types of relationships.

“[Arranged marriages] can be very beneficial because [people] think marriage is just a union of two people; it’s rather a union of two families,” Alam said.

Sumlina’s mother, Moushumi Alam, said there are some aspects of an arranged marriage that can lead to greater success than a love marriage in the long run.

“Most of the time, I saw in [Bangladesh], love marriages didn’t last a very long time… arranged marriages are totally different because our love and affection [and] everything happened after the marriage,” Moushumi said. “But with love marriages, those things are happening before. A boy and a girl are both very emotional, so they cannot see the negative things.”

However, Moushumi is not forcing an arranged marriage upon Alam.

“I just respect my daughter’s decision. I believe my daughter will respect my decision, too, so it’s our mutual decision,” Moushumi said.

Although Alam is not planning to have an arranged marriage, she said she will apply many of the same factors and ideals when choosing her own partner.

“Nowadays, I feel like highly-

educated people usually go with highly-educated people. It’s something that parents or families try to do,” Alam said. “I just want someone on the same level as me.”

Moushumi said she also believes having different levels of education can hinder the success of a relationship, specifically a marriage.

“[Having] the same status of education is better, I think,” Moushumi said. “Otherwise, you feel very uncomfortable in front of your siblings or husband or wife.”

Junior Elliese Thurlby said she must weigh other factors when it comes to dating. It is a family rule that she takes her father’s opinion into account before becoming involved with someone.

“My dad has to talk to the guy I want to go on a date with before I even go… so that does have a huge influence,” Thurlby said.

Essentially, she, her father is looking for a person of good character for her to be with.

“Another thing is, it helps make sure that I’m not going to date someone that’s potentially going to lead me down a wrong road,” Thurlby said.

Elliese’s father, Trace Thurlby, said he believes it is a very basic standard for parents to meet the person their child is going out with beforehand.

“I honestly think it’s a really low bar. I think it’s a minimum,” Trace said. “We want to know just some basic stuff about who they’re hanging out with.”

Trace said he lets his children’s potential dates know what his expectations are when he meets them.

“We let them know that we love our kids, that they’re precious to us, and so we care about who they hang out with and what they’re doing,” Trace said. “And I let them know that my expectations for my kids are that they’re going to tell us where they are, what they’re doing, who they’re with and when they’re coming home.”

In general, Trace said he would prefer his daughter not date at all in high school.

“I hold a relatively low view of teenage boys, because I was one,” Trace said.

The idea that high school dating is practice to break up is something that resonates with Trace, and he said there is not a lot a teenage boy can offer someone at their young age.

“A really impressive young man might have something to offer you when he’s 25,” Trace said. “It’s not personal.”

Moushumi advised her child to remember differing religious views can lead to conflict regarding

Many individuals base potential relationships on like-mindedness in areas such as politics, religion, education and morals

I hold a relatively low view of teenage boys, because I was one.”

-TRACE THURLBY

Trace Thurlby, Elliese Thurlby’s father, advises parents to establish rules with their children. “I would say to the parents that think their kids will think less of them if they have some basic rules,” Thurlby said. “They’re actually glad that you care.”

necessarily true,” Thurlby said. “I guess it’s better, but… it is also [just] high school dating.”

Looking ahead, Furstenau said he can see how problems could occur down the line, if he did not date another member of his church.

“Maybe they don’t believe it’s forever, maybe they’re atheist or something. I’m Christian, so I think, you know, ‘maybe we’ll be able to see each other in heaven,’ but they don’t,” Furstenau said. “It’s just something that’s very cultural.”

On the other hand, senior Jon Krogull has very few absolutes necessary for a potential

“I don’t really have any limitations like that,” Krogull said. “If you have opposite beliefs, or if you’re from a different background or you’ve got a different religion, I’m fine with that.”

Although Krogull does not have parental or internal influences motivating him to date someone with the same religious beliefs as himself, he said he certainly sees the advantages of doing so.

“If I’m looking at it from a Christian perspective, Christians are probably going to want to be with other Christians because the Bible just has a set of morals that most Christians will follow,” Krogull said. “And I don’t know, there’s just some kind of sense in having a common ground.”

Differing political beliefs may also cause difficulties in a relationship. Alam said she believes political stances need to be relatively similar for a successful relationship in her life.

“I’m fine with slightly different opinions,” Alam said. “It’s just that in general, traditional values, or like typical sides, should kind of be on the same level.”

Furstenau said he thinks aligned political views could likely create more peace in a romantic partnership.

“I think [different] political views could have a definite problem, because now everything is so divided,” Furstenau said. “I have a lot of friends with different political views, but I don’t think it would work in a romantic relationship.”

For Krogull, he said if someone

were to have drastically different views than him, he would like to discuss those issues before deciding to end their relationship.

“I don’t think any of those things are deal-breakers, right? I would definitely have conversations with them about those things and pick their mind about it, and see where they stand,” Krogull said. “I think that’s healthy. I think people should do that.”

But, Krogull said hatred toward others is always going to be something he cannot accept from his partner.

“If it’s a belief that’s grounded in bitterness or actual hatred toward a group of people or a way of thinking, then that’s a red flag, because instead of them knowing what they’re talking about, that’s just them having a grudge,” Krogull said.

By not dating someone because they do not fit specific personal ideals, Krogull said finding true love could potentially be missed.

“When you are in a relationship with someone you love, there’s a connection; it can be [between] two

very different people,” Krogull said. Similarities usually make the relationship appear stronger than it truly is early on, Krogull said.

“I’ve been in relationships, and I’ve talked to people who I thought were, ‘Oh my God, this person is really good. This person has a good family, and they’re nice to me and they obviously have good morals,’” Krogull said.

When Furstenau was asked if he could fall in love with someone he was not compatible with, his response was a clear yes. However, Furstenau said that a relationship is not sustainable if compatibility is not present.

“I feel like it would be the start of arguments, differing opinions and views. It could be that you can’t really relate to each other,” Furstenau said. “Relating to each other is something that could also

be needed in a relationship to understand how each other feels.”

Krogull said problems will likely blossom in a relationship, and similarities will not be enough to get through the tribulations.

“You’re gonna hit a problem, or that person is going to see that one thing and be like, ‘Yeah, OK, we’re gonna have to end this,’” Krogull said. “But, if there was a connection, then they would see that, and they’d go, ‘Oh, but I love you. We can fix this.’”

Krogull said ultimately it is up to those who are in the relationship itself to decide why they are in it.

“I think it’s really up to the person and how they view relationships and what they want,” Krogull said. “Personally, I’m not gonna date someone for convenience. I’m going to date for the right person. Because I love them.”

Senior Jon Krogull says he does not have any specific criteria when it comes to dating. “I look for girls who I can relate to and be myself around, but most of all I [want them to] have a strong moral compass,” Krogull said.

It is important that the person I’m going with has to be the same religion as me, or at least have the same faith.”

-SUMLINA ALAM

Hot Study Spots

Written by Lindsay Maresh, Photographed by Shahd Abdeljalil, Designed by Alyssa Gagnon

Jinkies! Coffee and Hangout

Food/Drink

Atmosphere

The first thing you notice when you walk into Jinkies! Coffee and Hangout is the fun ‘70s theme decor and record-lined wall. There is a variety of seating including booths and a bar. There is also free Wi-Fi and outlets. This coffee shop is ideal for studying with a focused environment and lots of natural light. Jinkies! offers a limited edition menu with unique seasonal beverages. They also carry a regular menu with a wide selection of refreshments including coffee, lemonades, brownies and cookies. The Velma lemonade was sweet, making it a light refreshment to accompany your studying. The chocolate chip cookie was large and had a soft texture. Overall, Jinkies! Coffee and Hangout is the perfect place to study due to the delicious refreshments and the fun, focused study environment.

8350 W 151st St.

Jinkies! Coffee and Hangout’s atmosphere is relaxing, fun and retro.

Studying at home can be distracting, but there are a variety of local coffee shops that can be a fun alternative

Outta the Blue Cafe

5291 W 116th Pl.

Food/Drink Atmosphere

When you enter Outta the Blue, the first thing you notice is the tropical, beachy decor. Windows line the walls, creating an open feel to the space. The accessible outlets and free Wi-Fi make this an optimal location for studying. There is a large amount of comfortable seating, including swings for a more fun option. The cafe tends to be busy and the environment is echoey which may be distracting. The refreshments are suitable but nothing special. If you are going for coffee, you can choose from a list of many flavors and add-ins. The chai tea at this location has good spice but is overpowering. In terms of food, the flaky, almond croissant has a delicious marzipan filling and the peanut butter swirl cookie is soft and flavorful. Overall, the atmosphere at Outta the Blue Cafe makes it an ideal location for studying, supplemented with adequate food and drink.

Pilgrim Coffee Company

12643 Metcalf Ave.

Food/Drink

Atmosphere

The first impression you get when entering the cafe is a classic, clean atmosphere. It is sleek and bright with ample natural light. There is a spacious seating area with benches and tables, allowing for guests to spread out. This location is beneficial for studying and provides free Wi-Fi as well as accessible outlets. The environment is not too loud or distracting. The food and drink options are classic and delicious. In terms of refreshments, the iced vanilla latte is an ideal beverage with a smooth flavor. It costs an extra 90 cents for each pump of syrup, but you can choose from a variety of flavors. The monster cookie has a delicious flavor and is roughly the size of a softball, however it was quite crunchy. Overall, Pilgrim Coffee Company is a bright environment that can promote focus while studying.

The Outta the Blue Cafe serves almond croissants and iced chai tea lattes, among many other pastries, sandwiches and beveradges.

Pilgrim Coffee Company serves a variety of drinks and pastries.

Long term health conditions can affect student’s involvment in certain sports

Written by Alyssa Gagnon, Photographed by Remi Nuss, Designed by Prajwal Adhikari

When junior Jordan OuYang was born, he had a gap in his heart, along with one of his valves being much smaller than the rest of

“Some of my arteries had holes in them,” OuYang said. “I also had a separate thing in my valve which is the thing that connects the veins and arteries to the heart, like a little door. That didn’t grow with the rest of the heart so it was smaller, so not as much blood and oxygen could get

Even though OuYang said he does not know the exact name of his condition, pediatric cardiologist William Drake said throughout his career, although he is not OuYang’s doctor, he has worked with many kids with similar heart conditions.

“There are many conditions where kids may not be born with a normal valve and we have to do things as they grow to make sure their hearts continue to work normally,” Drake said.

Despite his heart condition, OuYang said he decided to join his

Sophomore Bailey Kinkelaar prepares her backswing during bowling practice, Feb. 22. “Bowling has positively impacted my lifestyle in several different ways. It is an outlet for me to go to if I want a break from other things and I have made so many friends from it,” Kinkelaar said.

(Photo by Remi Nuss)

best friend’s hockey team around nine months ago.

“My best friend played hockey for his [whole] life and then one day I decided to go to his game and I wanted to play,” OuYang said. “It’s honestly almost a relaxing thing for me to play hockey because I get to take my mind off of everything else.”

Similar to how hockey is a mental break for OuYang, sophomore Bailey Kinkelaar, who was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at 8 years old, said bowling is an escape from school and stress.

“With Crohn’s, since it is a lot of stomach pain, you have to go to the bathroom a lot because you’re scared of all that stomach pain,” Kinkelaar said. “With bowling, I’m always inside and there’s a bathroom. It really comforted me and so then I would forget that I had all that stomach pain, and I would forget that I had Crohn’s.”

According to Kinkelaar, Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that results in inflamed parts of intestine mixed in with healthy parts.

“My parents said Crohn’s is like a closet, flare-ups can hide in the closet, but every once in a while they come out until you get help, you take the right medicine, and after a very long time, it goes back into the closet and you’re OK,” Kinkelaar said.

Sophomore Macie Gorman was also diagnosed with a health condition at a young age, however not with Crohn’s, but with scoliosis. According to Gorman’s dad, Eric Gorman, after his daughter was diagnosed, he was worried she would not be able to do certain

activities.

“She’s able to do everything she really has wanted to do for sure,” Eric said. “Sometimes the hardest thing might be finding clothes to wear that just fit right with the brace and those types of things, but that’s been a pretty limited challenge.”

Gorman said her scoliosis is not bad enough to need surgery, but she does have to wear a brace for her spine 18 hours a day.

“If I did not wear my scoliosis brace, then my curve would worsen and may eventually lead to surgery,” Gorman said. “The purpose of wearing a scoliosis brace is to help the curve improve to prevent surgery.”

However, as a dancer for the BVNW Pack, Gorman said she has to remove her brace when participating in activities such as dance.

“I have to take [my brace] off for basically all physical activities, like I can walk and stuff but for dancing you just can’t bend over and move around as much because it’s pretty constricting on what you can do,” Gorman said. “Just simple stuff like crunches is hard to do and so you have to take it off for more things than you think.”

According to Eric, in many cases, such as Macie’s, people with health

conditions can still be active and involved as long as they are monitoring their conditions.

“You can be pretty active with those things. You just have to manage those conditions, whatever they might be,” Eric said.

Although Gorman is still able to do physically demanding activities, Kinkelaar, on the other hand, cannot. After Kinkelaar was diagnosed, many sports became harder for her. At the beginning of one of her soccer seasons, Kinkelaar noticed running became more tiring and her stomach began to hurt often. She later discovered these were signs of Crohn’s flare-ups.

“Because of those flare-ups, your stomach can really hurt and so I couldn’t do as much physical activity. We did so much running, and I couldn’t stand it because my stomach would not be OK with that,” Kinkelaar said. “I finished the season but then I had to stop [playing] because I couldn’t physically keep up with that.”

Instead of those physically demanding sports, Kinkelaar’s dad, Aaron Kinkelaar, a bowler with his bronze and silver certification in coaching, suggested Bailey begin putting her focus on bowling.

Aaron said. “Her body was sort

of healing now that she was being treated for Crohn’s, so bowling kind of fit that category that you can be indoors,” Aaron said. “There’s a controlled environment and it’s not a lot of high impact physical activity.”

As Kinkelaar grew to enjoy bowling more, her dad said he convinced her to join a bowling league.

“My dad was like, ‘Oh, yeah, you should try and do bowling to replace soccer in a way.’ It’s somewhat physical, but not as much. And so [my dad] started teaching me the more skilled stuff and then he put me into a league,” Kinkelaar said. “I figured out I really liked bowling because bowling was more of a mental sport, rather than physical… so I feel like because of Crohn’s I got into bowling.”

Similar to how bowling fit Kinkelaar’s needs, OuYang said hockey was the right fit for him. OuYang has had three surgeries and two procedures on his heart, the most recent one, in 2015, resulted in a pig valve.

“[For my] first [surgery], they were going in patching holes in the arteries. And then the next one, they tried to expand the valve,” OuYang said. “It usually works, but for my case, it expanded and then a month later it went back to the original size. Then [for] my third surgery, they completely replaced [my valve], so I now have a pig valve.”

According to Dr. William Drake, pig organs are some of the most similar organs to humans, making them one of the most adequate

Sophomore Macie Gorman strikes a dance pose, March 9. “For me, dance has allowed me to be active but has also been an outlet for when I need it to be,” Gorman said.

said it can still be difficult for him to breathe when playing certain sports

“I could play [other] sports, but I’d be short of breath in one run or one play,” OuYang said. “Now, after a few surgeries, it’s better but I still struggle with being in shape like

rotations are quick, he only stays

cardiologists are able to get the capacity, but some sports can be harder on the heart than others. “We can get the heart about 95% of the way there but

example… because it takes every last bit of cardiovascular reserve,”

OuYang said his heart with its challenges regarding sports,

“Always check in with a specialist or a professional [to see] if you can play first. Explore and try different things, see what you like or find a

encouraged trying a new activity, Gorman said despite the challenges she faces with scoliosis, she believes the benefits of joining a new activity

with everybody and just the new opportunities we get to do through say just go for it and try it because you’ll have more fun than you think you will, and it’s always going to be worth it if you just go out and try

OUT OF MY MIND

Suffering from sensory overload, including sensitivity to sound and texture, can be exhausting for students with sensory disorders

Written by Hannah Rakolta and Quinn Brown, Photographed by Norah Alasmar, Designed by

Constant ringing in one’s ears is not normal; something senior Michael James found out when he was 8. James discovered he has tinnitus, a sensory issue where someone hears a continuous ringing in their ears.

People often associate sensory issues with physical touch and materials. Common sensory issues include uncomfortable clothing textures or soft touches that feel unsettling. James, however, deals with auditory issues.

“I’ve had tinnitus since I was in elementary school. It’s been there my entire life,” James said. “It’s not something I would have noticed on my own, it was something I thought was normal but then someone mentioned it wasn’t something everyone has.”

Considered to be an auditory sensory issue, tinnitus can be linked to an ear injury or problem with the circulatory system. James suspects that the loud sounds from his school activities caused the severity of his tinnitus to escalate.

“I think it got worse specifically when I did percussion in middle school. The sounds and drums are super loud. It’s like there’s a certain [audio] threshold, and if [sounds] go above that, my ear starts freaking out,” James said.

Occupational therapist Allison Carter, who evaluates and treats

sensory processing issues, explained what defines a sensory disorder.

“A sensory issue is a difference in how your brain processes information that comes into your body through any of your sensory systems. Specifically, one that affects your ability to function in your daily life in some way,” Carter said. “That makes it an issue, if it affects how you are able to do your daily routines or daily activities.”

For junior Lauryn Burbach, her sensory issues are connected to her attention deficit hyperactivity

Avery Sigg

But the fear [and] panic of it, stuff like that just kind of paralyzes her to where the task seems completely overwhelming.”

-JULIE BURBACH

disorder (ADHD). Burbach was medically diagnosed with ADHD when she was in third grade and said she experiences sensory overload as a side effect of the disorder.

“It’s usually a physical feeling on my skin, or sometimes, the textures of food can make me really uncomfortable to where it’ll be the only thing that I can think about,” Burbach said. “That is really hard to explain to someone who has never experienced something like that before.”

While Burbach is neurodivergent, someone who processes information differently from what is considered “typical,” Carter explained that not everyone with sensory issues is neurodivergent.

“Anybody can have an issue. Most of the time it’s a temporary issue for people who are not neurodivergent,” Carter said. “Even somebody with a typical sensory system can go into Dave & Busters and get overstimulated if they’re inside long enough.”

Going on to explain the difference between neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals, Carter said that those who are neurodivergent tend to deal with sensory issues on a larger-scale basis.

“People who have true processing disorder or sensory processing issues may take a lot longer to recover or may be overstimulated a lot faster and [in] a wider variety of environments, not one as extreme as Dave and Busters,” Carter said.

Besides food and drinks, Burbach avoids certain fabrics when picking out her clothing, causing her to keep changing until she finds a full outfit that does not trigger her sensory issues.

“I’ve had [instances] where I’ve had to change multiple times…before coming to school just because the way the fabric rubs against my skin is really off-putting,” Burbach said.

Instead of assuming she is behind schedule during these times, Lauryn’s mom, Julie Burbach, said she has to remember Lauryn’s struggles and how they are affecting her daily.

“It may seem like she’s running late and that she didn’t time manage, so I just have to keep in mind that it’s a part of who she is,” Julie said. “She’s not up there just sitting on her phone; it’s actually that she doesn’t feel ready to leave.”

When Burbach is experiencing a sensory overload attack, Julie described the terror she notices in her daughter.

“She kind of gets paralyzed, but she knows exactly what to do and she’s capable of doing it. But the fear [and] panic of it, just kind of paralyzes her to where the task seems completely overwhelming,” Julie said.

Like Burbach, James has found techniques to handle his tinnitus when it acts up. He has found that simply quieting his surroundings has helped him with his condition.

“If I tell people to stop yelling and they do, then that helps, obviously,” James said. “If headphones are too loud, then it makes [the tinnitus] bad, but it’s generally not much of a difference.”

While James said his tinnitus does not have much effect on his grades, he has noticed general school noise can aggravate his tinnitus.

“If my teacher is really loud, then it’s very hard to focus when they’re yelling. The school can’t do anything unless they want to pay for ENT (ear, nose and throat doctor) appointments,” James said.

Mentioning how students with sensory issues are prone to a lack of concentration, Carter said small instances, like people talking in a classroom, can act as a distraction.

“It’s very distracting if you’re not able to ignore those background noises and your brain is literally trying to pay attention to every single sound it hears,” Carter said. “It makes it really difficult to listen to [the teacher, or] one sound [the brain] hears.

James noted he finds it difficult to seek help for his tinnitus, as it is an incurable condition. He said his parents are supportive, but cannot help him.

“We’ve been to an ENT, and they’ve told us that we couldn’t do anything about it,” James said. “It’s not like [my parents are] not willing to do anything; it’s just that there is nothing [they] can do.”

James’ mom, Tamara SeylerJames, declined to comment on her son’s

Senior Micheal James deals with an auditory sensory issue called Tinnitus. “Tinnitus isn’t a mental thing. It’s something being wrong with my ear, not my head or the way certain things make me feel, it’s just there,” James said.

A sensory issue is a difference in how your brain processes information that comes into your body through any of your sensory systems. Specifically, one that affects your ability to function in your daily life in some way.”

-ALLISON CARTER

experience with tinnitus.

For students like Burbach who have disorders that cause struggles in a learning environment, they have the option of creating a 504 plan. This helps them to experience school with specific adjustments tailored to fit their learning needs. Burbach’s plan has helped her to finish assignments and learn at her own pace.

“A lot of people with 504 plans can have extended time on a project because they work slower, or they can have it broken down into pieces that will help the student be less overwhelmed,” Burbach said.

Julie said she appreciates the 504 plan greatly and she recognizes how helpful it has been for Burbach since she takes longer on tests and assignments than other students.

“Her peers might be able to finish the test in 60 minutes, where I can tell you it’s gonna take Lauryn, you know, 75,” Julie said. “The counselor suggested the 504 plan, and it’s been a great thing for [her].”

Burbach said she believes if more people had conversations about how behavioral disorders and sensory issues affect so many people, then those who struggle with these issues would feel more comfortable.

“There are different symptoms and

different things that affect people,” Burbach said. “I know everyone gets told about autism and ADHD, but there’s always the very stereotypical, very generalized idea of what they are, and that’s not the exact reality.”

Being told you are acting dramatically or overreacting can be damaging for someone with sensory issues. Burbach finds it hard to explain her struggles over and over again since she said it may come off as confusing to other people.

“I just think it’s really difficult to explain what’s wrong [with me] to someone who has never experienced it. And I think that’s part of why people will poke fun at it and make jokes about it because they just don’t understand,” Burbach said. “But, I think more people need to try to understand how it feels.”

Likewise, Carter said it can be tough for students to express how they feel to other people while navigating through their feelings themselves.

“I think it can be really frustrating, for one, [students with sensory issues] feel a certain way, for two, they don’t know how to

tell people. And they may not quite understand it,” Carter said.

The most important thing is to exude acceptance and calmness when around someone with a sensory issue you might not understand, Carter said.

“I think just being patient with people you know or suspect have an issue…but just trying to be an understanding person is sometimes the best thing you can do. Just to be there for somebody, or be present,” Carter said.

Julie shared her advice for people who do not know how to properly react to sensory issues, emphasizing that judging someone is never the answer.

“Everybody struggles with something. Whether you see it in a physical disability or you don’t see it, everybody should have empathy,” Julie said. “You may not understand it, but still be respectful of other people.”

GAME DAY GALLERY

The girls’ basketball team stands for the national anthem before their playoff game against Blue Valley High School, March 1. “I really enjoy basketball season because it is a lot of fun to represent the school and play the sport we all love,” junior Katie Mitchell said. The Huskies were defeated by the Tigers, 41-32.

Senior Grant Stubblefield goes up for a layup in the KSHSAA 6A state semifinals against Blue Valley North, March 11. “It was really relieving to finally get over the hump and bring a state championship back after not winning the past few years,” Stubblefield said. The Huskies defeated the Mustangs 53-51.

After being presented with flowers, senior Janie Mandry hugs junior Maci Miller during cheer Senior Night, Feb. 24. “Cheer has impacted my life in so many different ways but it has mainly helped my confidence and relationships with my friends grow so much stronger,” Mandry said. (Photo by Remi Nuss)

(Photo by Bailey Thompson)

(Photo by Lila Vancrum)

Member of the Pack dance team senior Amber Follett performs with her teammates during their send-off for nationals, Feb. 27. “At the end we all come together and hug to resemble how we will always have each others’ backs as a team.” The Pack placed 10th in Gameday and 11th in Jazz at the NDA National Championship, March 5. (Photo by Norah Alasmar)

Holding the trophy, senior Landon Braun celebrates with his teammates after beating Wichita Heights in the KSHSAA 6A state championship game on March 12, 55-50. “It felt unbelievably validating, like the whole year of work, my passion for the team and the sport has paid off,” Braun said.

“It was a huge moment for me as a player and a person.” (Photo by Bailey Thompson)

ABOUT THE EXPRESS

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Phone: 913-239-3544

Email: BVNWnewspaper@bluevalleyk12.org

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Letters to the editor may be submitted electronically on our website at BVNWnews.com. Letters may be published either on BVNWnews.com or in our print edition. Letters may be edited.

ABOUT US

The Express is the official high school news publication of Blue Valley Northwest High School, an open forum distributed to all students seven times a year. This is the April Issue of Volume 30. The Express is printed by Valley Print Logistics, 160 S Sheridan Ave, Valley Center, KS 67147.

DISCLAIMER

This is a student publication and may contain controversial matter. Blue Valley Unified School District No. 229 and its board members, officers and employees disclaim any responsibility for the content of this student publication; it is not an expression of School District Policy. Students and editors are solely responsible for the content of this student publication.

EQUITY POLICY STATEMENT

BVNW Publications is committed to amplifying the voices of our student body and community, no matter the color of skin, religious belief, financial status, gender or sexuality. We are an independent platform that by practice, and by law, is not a mouthpiece of the school district. We promise to cover all stories with fact and integrity. We stand in solidarity with all people who are fighting for equality. We promise to educate ourselves and represent our entire community to our audience to the best of our ability. For our students, teachers, readers, viewers and families who are struggling for equality, we deplore the injustices you face. We strive to be a unifying platform that celebrates diversity and shares your stories, and we will continue to work toward increasing minority voices internally, as well as externally. We may not always get it right, but we will try, and we will listen and be open to suggestions on how to better tell your stories.

THE EXPRESS STAFF

Editors in Chief

Julia Moser

Lucy Halverson

Print Editor

Anna Bailey

Online Editor

Liz LaHood

Photo Editors

Norah Alasmar

Lila Vancrum

Sports Editor

Alyssa Gagnon

Opinions Editor

Social Media Editor

Regan Simeon

Chief Photographer

Bailey Thompson

Writers

Alex Cowdrey

Libby Addison

Lindsay Maresh

Quinn Brown

Reagan Kauth

Thomas Rose

Hannah Rakolta

Harper Latta Nafsiya Hafiz

Bridget Hamlin

Photographers

Remi Nuss

Shahd Abdeljalil

Videographer

Alivia Ozbun

Assistant Adviser

Amanda Ford

Designers

Saraphina Wambi

Sydney Barnett

Jeny Jithesh

Copy Editor

Lizzie Lively Adviser

Ashley Adams Design Editor

Sabrina San Agustin

Blue Valley School District #229

Blue Valley Northwest H.S.

15020 Metcalf Avenue

Overland Park, KS 66223

Avery Sigg

Prajwal Adhikari

Lexington Jones

Addie Aadland

Arpa Das

George Buckley

Kendall Dickerson

Rachel King

Jim McCrossen

Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Stilwell,Ks Stilwell, KS 66085 Permit No. 38