G
H
Oct. 29, 2014 Vol. 14 Issue 2 Blue Valley West high school, Overland Park, Kansas
S P 0 T L I T
Photo by Ryan Barrett and Vinnie Garimella
MATTERS OF THE HEART Pg. 9 HALLOWEEN HAUNTINGS pg. 13, 14, 15 HEALTHY CHOICES PG. 16-17 ULTIMATE FRISBEE PG. 25 KC SPORTS SCENE PG. 27
Photo by Vinnie Garimella
Photo by Quinn Coleman
Photo courtesy Judy McDonald
Photo by Ryan Barrett
2
Never grow up Global event updates Apple world Turn down for hearing Little beads: big impact Digital learning Inspiring student ordeal New perspectives Student publishers Halloween fun Healthy living Artists’ goals to serve
19 20 21 22 24 26 27 28 29 30 31
29
Opinion writer expresses concerns about gym class being required
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 12 13 16 18
INSIDE
What’s
22
Dueling opinions about Taylor Swift pits two veteran Spotlight staffers at odds
18
Junior Grace Lamar and senior Rachel Hills aspire to use art to help others
Technology allows students to take more classes with academic grit
8
Book reviews Classic book on stage Performing Arts updates Taylor Swift face off Ultimate Frisbee Blaise Gammon profile Fan craze Winter previews PE opinion Managing classes Just be nice...teachers
never grow old
artist: Sarah Andrievk
you’re in highschool...come on, how old are you?!
click to reply content inbox (1) outbox draft
LETS GO GET CANDY
(still going trick or treating?)
S P O T L I G H T
STAFF
MISSION STATEMENT Spotlight is printed six times a year for the BV West students and community. Its goals are to inform, entertain, and interpret through editorials and bylined articles while providing an open forum of communication for the diverse student population and faculty members. Spotlight aims to be fair, accurate, and impartial. The content of the publication is determined by its student editors as determined by the Kansas Scholastic Press Act and may contain controversial subject matter as the staff exercises their First Amendment rights. Spotlight does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the faculty adviser, the administration of Blue Valley West or USD 229.
Editors in Chief: Lauren Hansen and Erin Walker Managing Editor: Carly McDonald Design Editor: Logan Cole Copy Editor: Beth Gasser Web Editor: Libby Frazier Section Editors: Vinnie Garimella, Julie Kim, Dan Kurtz, Maddy C. Lewis, John Wilson, Leah Zimmerli Reporters: Rebecca Abraham, Sarah Andrievk, Ashley Buehler, John Byrket, Quinn Coleman, Shaye Herman, Emilee Holscher, McKenna Patchen, Matt Stry, Joe Mallory, Lexi Melson, Adrieanna Norse, Alexa Turiello Staffer: Ethan Paine Adviser: Debbie Glenn
ne A
ta
Kan
rk
y
a tl n
w y
o
Cit
The Royals post-season success has drawn national attention to the Kansas City area. For the first time in 29 years, the Royals are in the World Series, playing against the San Francisco Giants in a seven game series. sas
A Doctors Without Borders physician in New York tested positive for Ebola after treating patients with Ebola in Guinea. Despite a fever of 103 degrees, he went bowling and used Uber taxies. He is currently in isolated care at Bellevue Hospital.
Atlanta is home to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), who are working to respond to Ebola pandemic. Though the CDC faces criticism for its lack of adequate response measures, they are currently working on developing new response measures for healthcare workers to employ when dealing with Ebola.
d n y e B the Bubble
Carly McDonald Managing Editor
A continuing series o f wo r l d e v e n t s
Nor g
Ho
i
pa
ng k
th K
rea
n dia
on
an
4
kis t
Protesters gather in Hong Kong’s financial district in protests for democratic representation. This movement is being referred to as the “Umbrella Revolution” or “Occupy Central movement”. The movement started in September.
o
The 2014 Nobel Peace Prize was awarded jointly to Indian Kailash Satyarthi and Pakistani Malala Yousafzai. According to the Nobel Prize committee, Satyarthi and Yousafzai won for “their struggle against the suppression of children and young people and for the right of all children to education.”
North Korea’s dictator Kim Jong-un disappeared from the public eye in early September and was not seen for six weeks. Informed commentators suspect Jongun was disposed by an illness, as he holds a cane in his most recent public appearances.
Apple effect Apple impacts various aspects of society
A
Julie Kim Section Editor
pple: the number one most valuable brand around the world. On Sept. 19, 2014 the tech giant presented the next generation of its iPhone. Thousands of excited iPhone fans camped out at Apple retail stores around the world. Apple’s latest sales topped 10 million in three days. As one of the most influential corporations, Apple triggered various impacts in domestic and global markets; both positive and negative. There is no doubt that Apple is one of the most well known and influential tech giants in the U.S. In 2013, Forbes estimated Apple’s commercial value as 104 billion dollars. Apple opened the new era of “smart” technology. It changed the way modern society perceives the concept of computers. Apple transformed computers into handy and assistive devices that accompany people as they move around the world. In 2013, Apple and Samsung remained the dominant manufacturers that possess 68 percent of the market. Apple’s significant impact in domestic growth can further be depicted through the number of job opportunities that Apple provided to people. Apple created nearly 600,000 jobs for U.S. workers. From construction workers to salespeople, the corporation supported employees as a part of its community. Apple Inc. currently has suppliers around the world including; China, Japan, Germany, and Taiwan. More than 90 percent of Apple products are assembled in China. Specifically, the Foxconn Technology Group is
the largest manufacturer of electronics and computer components worldwide. After more than a dozen workers commited suicide since 2010, issues with labor practices and working conditions at factory rose up to surface. In 2012, Apple called on the Fair Labor Association (FLA) to assess working conditions and labor practices at its suppliers in China. The FLA observed problems with overtime compensation, safety risks, and unsafe working conditions. Apple continually took aggressive actions in which it fired Pingzhou Electronics. The company was found to be hiring underage workers; Apple’s Supplier Code of Conduct sets the minimum age at 15. These days, technology is a unique tool used to educate students. A number of technology companies, including Microsoft and Google, have taken their places in classrooms. Among these tech giants, Apple has been the dominant player in the K through 12 education market since the late 1980s when the Apple II was released to the public. Nowadays, iPad is one of the most popular technologies used for the purpose of effective education in the U.S. Apple successfully attracted many educators and students with its appealing and unique characteristics such as; iBook and the App Store that features over 75,000 education apps. iOS devices assist students with special needs to learn in a simple yet amusing way. Apple’s unique characteristics enabled many students to find pleasure and joy in learning.
5
turn down for what? Everyday sounds can damage hearing
O
Leah Zimmerli Section Editor
ne of the human body’s most valuable senses is its hearing, but according to the Hearing Loss Association of America, hearing loss is the third most common physical condition after arthritis and heart disease. While age is a common factor in hearing loss, noise induced hearing loss is as, if not more, common. Noise induced hearing loss can happen slowly over time if someone is repeatedly exposed to loud sounds for an extended period of time, such as listening to loud music through headphones or earbuds or working in a very noisy environment. It can also happen very suddenly if someone is exposed to loud explosions or gunfire, which is the number one disability caused by combat in current wars. After experiencing both types of damage, a person will hear a high pitched ringing known as a tinnitus. Hearing loss begins when a sound reaches between 90 and 95 decibels (dB), the unit by which sound is measured. To put that into perspective, a normal conversation measures to be about 60 dB. The average concert measures out to be around 110 to 115 dB, which can cause hearing loss after only 15 minutes. The same decibel level is reached when someone has their headphones in and their volume cranked all the way to the top. One in six adults have enough hearing loss to cause problems in social situations, but it can be prevented by having good quality headphones that transmit the bass well, this allows for a lower volume to have the same effect as a higher volume on a pair of low quality headphones. Taking frequent breaks from personal music players also can help keep hearing intact. There also has been some research concluding that antioxidant vitamins, like vitamin C, can prevent hearing loss, so eating foods that contain it can help protect your hearing as well. Because it is difficult to notice hearing loss when it is happening, it is important to be aware of the causes and effects of it so that the best can be done to prevent it.
Loudest Possible Sound: 194 dB Arrowhead Stadium 142.2 dB Headphones at full volume 115 dB
Rock Concert 115 dB
Hearing Damage Begins BV West Home Football Game 89 dB BV West Choir 85 dB School Bus 76 dB Average BV West Classroom 67 dB
Average Conversation 60 dB
BV West Library 50 dB Whispering 30 dB Weakest Possible Sound 0 dB
miCROBEADS Tiny plastics have a huge impact on the environment Maddy C. Lewis Section Editor
I
n face wash, scrubs, toothpaste, and body wash, there is often one ingredient that many consumers do not realize: plastic. Polyethylene microspheres, better known as microbeads, are commonplace in thousands of household products. These tiny plastic beads, ranging in size from the size of a grain or salt to the size of a bead, take a surprisingly large toll on the environment and public health.
Microbeads are designed to wash easily down the drain. The problem is, they are often not caught by water filtration systems and as a result, end up in rivers, lakes, and oceans. Fish mistake them for food and eat them. These tiny plastic particles can absorb almost one million times more toxic chemicals than the water they are in, meaning that when consumed by the fish, it also takes in all of the toxins in that microbead. If that fish ends up on someone’s dinner plate, they too are ingesting toxins. The potential health risks of long-term ingestion of microbeads are a fairly recent discovery. Not much is known about them, other than that consuming plastic is not a good idea. Especially considering all of the toxins that are absorbed from the time that they are manufactured to when they end up on grocery store shelves and how harmful they are to the wildlife.
{ } { } A University of Wisconsin study found up to 1.7 million microbead particles per square mile in the Great Lakes
Microbeads are found in face washes, face scrubs, body scrub, and toothpaste.
A microbead’s Journey From sink to sea
5.
1.
4.
Contaminated fish is purchased, and all toxins in the fish are ingested by consumers which can cause long term health risks.
Beads are washed down the drain and are sent to local water filtration plant where they often are too small to be taken out of the water.
Fish are caught and distributed to shops where they go on the shelves of grocery stores.
2.
3.
Filtered water and microbeads are sent out into rivers, lakes, and oceans.
Fish mistake beads for food and eat them. All toxins the plastic has absorbed are now in the fish as well.
7
crossing the digital bridge Cutting edge program allows students unique opportunities Beth Gasser Copy Editor
V
irtual learning in the Fixed Forum has been expanded to include math and latin studies. Digital Bridge learning now includes students studying advanced Latin. The whole system is set up similar to a giant Skype call. Students enrolled in a class, as well as Latin teacher Caitlin Rose located at BV Northwest can hear and see each other. Rose has control of the SMART Board, which is used to display PowerPoints, videos, and other teaching material. The previous system for taking Latin at BV West was that there was a teacher who came over in the morning, then he or she would drive over to BV Northwest and teach their in the afternoons. Currently students who are enrolled in Latin are in a Digital Bridge class with not only BV West students, but also students from BV Northwest and BV North. “I do like that the Bridge allows students to take Latin at all levels when otherwise they might not get that opportunity,” Rose said, “I think that this type of technology is what is going to shape the future of education and I feel almost as though I am on the cutting edge of that. I like getting to know a different group of students, so teaching at three schools is kind of fun.” Latin 3 student junior Bailey Ellis says that the one downside is that it is difficult to get specific questions answered because the teacher is at another school. “We’re forced to practice self-advocacy, and the class is more based around quizzes, tests and participation rather than homework.” Ellis said. The logistics of coordinating learning with technology has also posed some other unique challenges. “Another downside is that it’s very difficult to match schedules with other school,” sophomore Max Reber said. Digital Bridge is an interesting and new way of teaching that exemplifies the motto of the Blue Valley School District: Education beyond Expectation. It is innovative and unique while offering students advanced academic content.
8
Despite the vast amounts of technology in the Fixed Forum, students in Latin classes still use old-fashioned paper and pencil to take notes and do assignments. Photo by Ryan Barrett
Seniors Billy Ferguson and Abhi Sharma and Junior Himadri Narasimhamurthy learn Honors Multivariable Calculus through Digital Bridge in the Fixed Forum. Latin and advanced math classes are the first to use the new technology. Photo by Ryan Barrett
A change of heart Freshman underwent a heart transplant in January
John Byrket and Logan Cole Reporter and Design Editor
D
iscovering a heart condition at a young age can Kylee’s parents received regular updates from the be a frightful obstacle in someone’s life. During hospital staff throughout her ten hour surgery. Since the her eighth grade year, freshman Kylee Odgers surgery started around 9:30 p.m., the night was a tiring discovered that her heart was no longer in good standing. one for the Odgers family. “As time went on and the more serious it got, I became “We were very worried, but just tried to keep our more scared,” Odgers said. “We are not sure if the minds distracted on other things as we got hourly reason for my heart defect is genetic or because of other updates,” David said. “We were very relieved, but very reasons.” tired when the procedure was successful and she was Odgers diagnosis was not something that could have back in recovery.” been predicted using her parents genetics. Neither of her The heart transplant took place on Jan. 29, 2014 parents have had heart problems. at Saint Louis Children’s Hospital. After the surgery, she “It was obviously very tough,” Kylee’s father, David recovered for a little over three months. During this time, Odgers, said. “We knew she was still allowed to come to from her original heart issue school and was not required to diagnosed when she was four stay in the hospital. Throughout “Doctors want her to months old that a transplant her recovery time, she went back pursue everything she was the last treatment when all to the hospital multiple times over other medical treatments were a span of time in order for a wants to do in life and exhausted. She thrived very well biopsy. not let her medical on medical management for 14 “I now go back every nine condition stand in her years. We were also aware that months in order to get a new way.” -David Odgers there was no way to predict biopsy,” Kylee said. “They take when that could happen or if it a tissue from my heart and then would ever happen. Last January they check my heart pressure when her heart started to fail, it happened so quick that and rejection level in order to make sure my heart is still there was no time really think about what was going on. healthy.” We took it one day at a time.” Since the heart transplant, Kylee will always continue Preparing for the surgery took more steps because at the check ups with doctors as well as she will continue first Kylee’s heart was not strong enough to withstand an taking daily medications. She has not let the idea of eight hour operation. In order to prepare her heart for receiving a heart transplant affect her daily life activities surgery, they inserted a left ventricular assist device. The and she keeps moving forward. device takes blood from the lower chamber of the heart “We are learning about all aspects of post transplant and helps pump blood into the body and vital organs. life, the new medical conditions that can impact her being This device helped make Kylee heart stronger for the long on immunosuppressant medications and also learning operation to come. about all of the various medications she will have to take,” “The surgery went well and there were no David said. “Doctors want her to pursue everything she complications. In order for my heart to stay in the healthy wants to do in life and not let her medical condition stand state that it is in, I must take daily medications and have in her way. With compliance to the medications, she has frequent check-ups,” Kylee said. the ability to live a very normal life.”
{ }
9
Ciao! Hei! Welcome to west! New foreign exchange students acclimate to Midwestern culture
E
very year, BV West has a handful of students enroll that travel from countries near and far to complete exchange programs. These programs’ goals are to open kids eyes to the diversity that another country has to offer. All the way from Italy and Finland, the latest foreign exchange students were quickly welcomed into the Jaguar family. Seniors Lorenzo Ferrari and Veetu Vuori chose to do these programs in very different manners. “First my parents asked me, then I looked at companies and took a test.” Ferrari said. While it took longer for Ferrari to complete the steps to be accepted, Vuori had an easier time. “Many of my friends have been exchange students before so I applied for an interview too,” Vouri said. “But when I got interviewed it was my friends’ girlfriend so she let me pass and skip the test.” For both boys, the struggle to fit in with a whole new crowd of people was not hard. When entering a new country the surroundings may seem very different and intimidating but many fellow Jaguars quickly showed them the ropes. As the school year has progressed Ferrari and Vuori have already chosen their favorite things that make their time here more enjoyable. Both Ferrari and Vuori agree that the new friends they have acquired and the abundance of school spirit have made them feel at home. Being asked what they look forward to most for the duration of their programs here yielded big smiles. “Thanksgiving and the Sweetheart Dance,” Vuori said. Ferrari had a lighter tone. “Christmas, even though I will miss my grandma’s cooking a lot,” Ferrari said. While both Ferrari and Vuori experience homesickness from time to time, the host families they live with know just how to make it easier. Junior Kyle Seager is Vuori’s host brother and loves having him here. “You get to see how other cultures compare to ours” Seager said. “Veetu and I are really good friends. It helps that we are rooming together.”
10
Alexa Turiello Reporter
Italian exchange student Lorenzo Ferrari
Finnish exchange student Veetu Vuori
LORENZO
Clockwise from the top: Ferrari enjoys a Chipotle burrito for the first time. Ferrari and his host family, which includes sophomre Alyssa Kuhlman, spend the day on the lake. Ferrari and Kuhlman pose for a picture at Ferrari’s first American wedding. Photos courtesy of Alyssa Kuhlman Vuori and his host brother, sophomore Alex Seager shoot a smile as they escape the sun. Vouri’s host family meets and greets him at the airport upon his arrival. Vouri smiles and embraces with his host brothers, including junior Kyle Seager. Photos courtesy of Erin Seager
VEETU 11
Get out of your element Elementia, a literary magazine produced by the Johnson County Library, publishes student work
E
lementia is a literary magazine run by the Johnson County Library published to uplift, connect, represent, and showcase the creative talents of young adults. The magazine connects creative youth with one another while also giving them an outlet for self-expression. They accept all original fiction, poetry, nonfiction, fiction, graphic stories, photography, and illustrations. The upcoming twelfth issue is sure to inspire creativity amongst students, as it is dedicated to Naomi Shihab Nye. A poet and National Book Award finalist, Nye’s poems often focus around the conceptual theme of place. The purpose of Elementia is to act as a stage for artists of all platforms to be able to showcase their work that represents like-minded people. The variegated topics of past have been inspired by life experience, prevalent issues faced by teens today, even future aspirations and goals. The magazine gives students all over the world, specifically the Johnson County area, the opportunity to submit their original pieces. A fellow student whose submission appeared in the last issue was sophomore Arooj Khaliq, “I wrote a fictional short story, The Dandelion Girl, for the eleventh issue last year,” Khaliq said. “I had written it some time before and decided to submit it for Elementia on a whim. I didn’t think anything of it until I got an email saying that I had been selected to be featured in the issue. I have always loved writing and literature, but it was the first time I had openly expressed my work. I decided that I wanted to be apart of creating Elementia thus joining the submission committee for the twelfth issue. I think it is a great way to share your thoughts with like minded people.” Khaliq cites a poet who has impacted her writing immensely, and recommends giving her works a read. “A writer who has played a critical role in my literary development is Rupi Kaur,” Khaliq said. “She depicts such a raw form of writing i her poetry which I aspire to be able to achieve one day as I figure out my own style of writing.” The production of Elementia is all made possible by Angela Dew at the Johnson County Library Youth Services. As well as starting the magazine in 2004, she
12
Rebecca Abraham Reporter
heads design, submissions, and does all of the tedious work needed to make the magazine possible. “Over the course of nine years and eleven issues, Elementia has published over 300 writers and artists,” Dew said. “The largest number of submissions comes from students right here in Johnson County; though Elementia has had submissions come from as far away as Zambia, Africa and London, England.“ Dew’s recommended reading draw on the likes of Maya Angelou and Erin Morgenstein, reads to inspire, inform, and appreciate. “I am most inspired by poet and writer Nikki Giovanni,” Dew said. “I recommend reading her works as I love her frank, lyrical style. Some of my favorite books that I recommend reading are are Where Things Come Back by John Corey Whaley, Zen Shorts by Jon Muth, Letter to My Daughter by Maya Angelou, and The Night Circus by Erin Morginstein.” Taking the same position for the literary magazine at BV West is English teacher Trent Stern. He is rebooting the creative outlet, formerly known as Vox, the Latin word for Voice, exclusively for the students at BV West to express their passions for writing. “Being an English teacher with interest in poetry, I figured that it was due time for a revival of BV West’s literary magazine for students who have expressed interest in this concept,” Stern said. “Vox was the product of a writing class in the first few years of this school, as this opportunity is offered at many schools within the district, I would like students here to be able to pursue and grow in their literary talent. There is no set format for the magazine yet, as it has just been reintroduced, but I will be holding a meeting on November 4 after school to discuss the purpose and intent of the magazine moving forward. Anyone with interest in being a part of this process is welcome to attend.” Stern’s advice for students is simple, yet profound. “My advice to aspiring writers is to diversify,” Stern said. “Whether it be music, poetry, or books alike do not hone in on one inspiration, instead be open to multiple genres of whatever it is you take interest in.” Illustration by Michelle Willard
Halloween through history The story behind beloved traditons Leah Zimmerli Section Editor
H
alloween is a much loved holiday filled with costumes, candy, and creepy creatures. But this has not always been the case, in fact, Halloween as we know it is vastly different from the original celebration. Two thousand years ago, Halloween was known as Samhain, which translates directly to ‘summer’s end’ and it marked the Celtic New Year and the transition between the harvest season and the winter season. Halloween is relatively new to the United States, since it only became popular in the 1900s, after several Irish people immigrated to America during the Great Famine. Some of our most beloved Halloween traditions have their roots in Irish folklore that have been carried on throughout the centuries. Dressing up and trick or treating is often the pinnacle of the modern Halloween experiences. This comes from the old superstition that during Samhain, the barrier between our world and the spirit world was at its thinnest, allowing spirits of the deceased to mingle with the living. It was said that these spirits would take the shape of a beggar asking for food door to door. If they were refused, they would haunt or curse the people that refused them. Costumes were used so that mortals disguise themselves from visitors from the spirit world so they could pass without notice. The American tradition of
dressing up on Halloween did not become popular until the late 1950s when costumes were mass produced. Carving pumpkins is another beloved tradition that stems from Irish folklore. Jack o’ lanterns were originally carved turnips with a small candle inside. They were meant to guide the friendly souls that were wandering the Earth. The frightening faces were meant to scare off the less friendly spirits. When several Irish people immigrated to America, they brought their traditions with them. But since turnips were sparse in America, pumpkins were used as a substitute, and it stuck. In ancient times, apples were seen as a sacred fruit that could be used to predict the future. Since Samhain coincided with an old Roman festival honoring the goddess of fruit trees, apples became synonymous with the Celtic holiday and the harvest. Bobbing for apples was actually once a method to predict the future. The belief was that whoever managed to pluck an apple from the water with their teeth would be the first of the group to marry. One rumor even went as far to say that if the apple was then peeled and tossed over the shoulder, then it would form the shape of the first letter of their future spouse’s name. Over the past two thousand years, Halloween has evolved into a very different celebration, but the past continues to live on in our most beloved traditions.
Photos by Quinn Coleman
FAVORITE HALLOWEEN TRADitiONS
“Scary stories with friends.” -Aaron Robinson Freshman
“Scaring people.” -William Livingston Sophomore
“Candy Corn.” -Brittany Peters Junior
“Visiting the pumpkin patch.” -Kyley Ast Senior
“Passing out candy.” -Dr. Potts Principal
13
Halloween Safety Prepare for the Skeleton War Quinn Coleman Reporter
Do not go o ut alone, ever.
Stay away from abandoned houses.
Do not accept already opened candy.
Drive careful, pay attention.
Bring a flashlight.
Avoid dark houses.
Do not be too revealing. (It will be cold)
Be respectful of other people and their property.
Have a designated driver always planned.
Have your phone charged completely. Do not carry candles or sharp objects.
14
Flame resistant costumes.
Keep pets indoors.
Make sure your mask is breathable and you can see clearly. Plan a route if you are trick or treating.
Terrifying Treats Spooky Halloween recipes for the creative mind
t
r B
ownies
Lauren Hansen Editor in Chief
Gho s
Start by preparing a batch of brownies. Once the brownies have been baked, cut them up into squares. On each square, spread frosting and then place a regular size marshmallow on top. Add black icing to make a face on the marshmallow resembling a ghost.
V a mp ir
e
iders
Do n ut
Sp
T e e th
Chocolate chip cookies are the base for these vampire teeth. After baking cookies, cut a cookie in half. Add red icing along the border of the cookies to create gums. Place mini marshmallows in the red icing to mimic teeth and add slivered almonds to create fangs.
These crawly critters make a festive Halloween snack. Use chocolate frosted mini donuts for the body of the spiders. Stick eight pretzel pieces along the edge of the donut, with four on each side to create the legs. Last, add colored candy to make the eyes of the spider.
M o ns
Cookie s
Photos courtesy of Pinterest
r e
Prepare a box of white cake mix. Separate the mix into different bowls and add food coloring of varying colors into each bowl. Instead of turning the mix into a cake, make them into cookies. After the cookies have cooled, add the eyeballs using either candy eyeballs or white frosting with black accents.
t
15
Grace Lamar works with acrylic paint. She hopes to use her artwork to help her career in social work in the future. Photo by Vinnie Garimella
Rachel Hills works on a piece. She wants to pursue a career in art therapy. Photo by Vinnie Garimella
The Art Of Changing The World Art students dream of using their skills to help those in need Emilee Holscher and Ashley Buehler Reporters
S
enior Rachel Hills and junior Grace Lamar are both passionate and talented art students that are planning to use their skills to help the mentally ill through art therapy. Art therapy is a creative process that can help relieve stress and cope with hardships. It is also used to help treat various disorders. This type of therapy is known to help rehabilitate those with learning disabilities, even being used for the treatment of brain damage. “It is a great way for someone to express themself without the pressure of using words,” Hills said. Both Lamar and Hills have explored multiple facets of their shared passion through art courses. Hills prefers drawing, painting, and photography. She has taken all three during her high school career, and is currently enrolled in photography. “Rachel is an emerging art student as she is consistent in developing her technique, images, and subject matter,” teacher Debra Waldorf said. “She is hard-working and very much interested in pursuing a career in art.” In Hill’s junior year, she took AP Psychology with Kevin Bandy. “Rachel was in my psychology class and loved it,” Bandy said. “She put a lot of effort into her work, and
18
showed great interest in studying the brain.” Hills initially became interested in art therapy when she met an art therapist during a psychology field trip to a mental hospital. It is apparent that Hills is not waiting around for opportunities to come to her, but rather she is pursuing her dream and making her goals a reality. “I plan on going to Emporia State or Fort Hays State,” Hills said, “ I am going to get a bachelor’s degree in psychology and eventually go into the art therapy program.” Lamar enjoys working with soft chalk, oil pastel, watercolor, ink, and pencil. Currently she is trying to master acrylics and has many ideas across all mediums, including textile and video. Inspiration to use art to help others came to Lamar quite differently. “I have always liked the idea of pursuing social work, but it took me a while to figure it out as a potential career path,” Lamar said. “Eventually I made the connection between my love for mentoring here at school and an actual career. Before that, I wanted to be an artist. But I wasn’t sure of my talent, and a little dubious that I have the self-regulation necessary for a successful career in the arts. Nevertheless, it is still one of my greatest passions.”
Fall Book reviews Shaye Herman Reporter
T
he first book in a trilogy by James Dashner, The Maze Runner does not disappoint. This book is a great read for anyone who enjoys science fiction, action, or postapocalyptic novels. Throughout the book, suspense and sadness are distributed to keep the reader interested, no matter how short their attention span may be. It’s a challenge to get bored with the plot, and it’s simplistic style is fresh and easy to understand. The book is from the perspective of the smart and curious protagonist, Thomas, who finds himself without his memories in a strange place called the Glade with other teenage boys who had also once been in his place. The main problem is that the Glade is enclosed by a giant, mysterious maze that holds death and horror at every turn. Thomas and his comrades must try to find a way out of their prison soon, because a message is delivered to the boys with the first girl to ever enter the Glade: “Everything is going to change.” The Maze Runner is good for anyone who likes an action based plot that questions about what it really means to lose yourself and be imprisoned, both physically and emotionally.
L
ooking for Alaska is one of those books that completely blows your mind. John Green is absolutely brilliant in creating a book that pulls you in, chews you up, and spits you out as a new person. This novel is insightful, intellectual and stimulating, and creates infinite open-ended questions. Not only does it explore happiness and human self-awareness, but it is also heartwrenchingly sad and deep. The narrator is a 16-year-old boy named Miles, also known as Pudge. He’s caring, intelligent, and deep, and is leaving home for the first time to go to a boarding school in Alabama. Upon arriving he quickly makes friends with his laidback roommate “The Colonel” and meets the beautiful Alaska young. Their lives intertwine and create a story that is rife with class pranks, rivalry with abominable rich kids, breaking rules, and all different forms of love. Reading Looking for Alaska will leave an imprint on your heart forever, and will make you think for hours after finishing. Looking for Alaska is a perfect read for fans of deep, philosophical books combined with humor and realistic views of the teenage mind.
THEATER DEPARTMENT BRINGS BELOVED and CONTROVERSIAL NOVEL TO STAGE McKenna Patchen Reporter
Atticus Finch
Mayella Ewell Jem Finch
Dill
T
20
he theater department is hitting on all cylinders with the completion of the fall repertory Tom Robinson show, improvisational performances, the Thespian jail at the Homecoming Carnival and now the fall play is rehearsing. Since auditions on Sept. 15 students cast in To Kill A Mockingbird, have been working to prepare for their performances on Nov. 7 and 8. Bob Ewell As anticipation increases, so does the fear of incorrectly or disrespectfully portraying the characters of dark skin. The play, based on Harper Lee’s 1960 novel, features an older southern lifestyle and racial discrimination. “Here at BV West, we want to celebrate diversity and promote tolerance in all school activities,” teacher Laurie Vanderpol said. “In the theater department, it is important to celebrate the individuality of every person. ‘Vivre la difference.’ in French means ‘celebrate the difference’. And I think it’s something everyone can live by.” Vanderpol’s attitude embodies not only the care BV West takes in showing respect for others, but the theater department’s ambition to work around any discomfort in order to achieve their ultimate goal: to grow together and entertain others.
Scout Finch
Mayella Ewell - Carly McDonald Dill - Michael Zipse Atticus Finch - Hunter Meyer Tom Robinson - Clayton Henrikson Scout Finch - Sierra Stahly Bob Ewell - Nick Strang Jem Finch - Ben Adams Photos by Ryan Barrett
Performing Arts demonstrates excellence in each program Theater
Photo by Sabrina Cline
Choir
Photo by Emily Wortman
In addition to their work on To Kill a Mockingbird, the theater department has also put up a female version of The Odd Couple, trick or treated for charity and ran their traditional “jail” at the Homecoming carnival. The group is very active with multiple productions, the improv troupe and their annual convention. Auditions for the musical, Beauty and the Beast will be held in Dec.
Orchestra Photo by Emily Wortman
There are five different choirs that rehearse in Rm. 636: Chorale, Choraliers, Chamber, Concert. All groups sang at the Performing Arts Showcase and their first concert. Chamber performed at the Renaissance Festival. A New York trip is planned for April.
Photo by Marin Hodges
Band
Orchestra is a tight knit of talented students that works to bring an appreciation of classic music to our school The group is practicing multiple pieces concurrently and highly anticipates their annual winter concert.
Photo by Mercedes Porter
The band is in the middle of their marching season. So far they have competed in Lee’s Summit and St. Louis. The performance to St. Louis won several accolades. They’ll be in San Antonio, Texas this weekend.
Debate The impact of government policies regarding the oceans has debate students looking at both sides of the issue. The group already has several honors and is looking forward to big tournaments in December and January. 21
i’m gonna
Shake it off
Carly McDonald Managing Editor
Haters can hate, hate, hate, but this Taylor Swift fan is going to shake it off
I
22
am a fan of Taylor Swift. My opinion might be contentious. In order for my point to be made clear, I ask that you leave your preconceived notions at the door. There are few things so subjective in life as musical preference. For some, music has reached it’s precipice way back with the Beatles and the British Invasion, for others, Bach is incomparably number one. For me, Swift is one of the best artists of our age and 1989 might be Swift’s most lyrically developed album yet. Her lyrics often pine with a dreamy nostalgia, as she reminisces on her past, remarks on the present, and hails the possibilities of days yet to come. The way Swift’s songs reach her audience is a show of her superiority.
Consistently, she has been able to channel her feelings and life experiences in lyrics and melodies that translate so well to her young audience. Many fans find her songs relatable and honest. In a business infamous for corruption, Swift stays out of trouble. In the recent nude picture leaking scandal, one celebrity name is noticeably (but not surprisingly) absent: Swift. She is a valuable idol for young people to have, and Swift is aware of her role model status. Swift has matured into a fine young lady in front of the public eye, a task very difficult for the average star. She arrived in the music industry as a brighteyed fifteen year old and four albums later is just as sincere and promising as when she first walked on the scene. Now, I’d like to address a popular concern: her relationships. Swift is portrayed by the media as unstable and fickle when it comes to love. The list of her boyfriends keeps getting longer and longer and people are wondering: when will it stop? Is she sending the right message to young girls, being so dependent on men and relationships? Is she really who girls would be looking up to? In one word: yes. I say that with confidence because a great deal of what is reported about Swift is simply not true. If you pull up one of those long lists of “boyfriends”, something will become apparent the longer you look: all of the boys listed there are people that Swift has been seen with. Some, like Ed Sheeran, are friends. Others, like Zac Efron, were colleagues. However, the
minute Swift was seen with them, they joined the long list of boys proving to the world how “emotionally unstable” she is. That is not to say that Swift has not dated. On the contrary, like most girls in their twenties, Swift has dated plenty. However, the media has blown the actual number dated way out of portion. According to the University of Arizona’s health website, “the median number of lifetime sexual partners was seven for men and four for women”, and Swift’s number of partners (admittedly, not always sexual, although that is not the kind of information I am privy to) is well within that range. To my best knowledge, I would say that she has dated six guys: Joe Jonas, Jake Gyllenhaal, John Mayer, Taylor Lautner, Connor Kennedy, and Harry Styles. All of these relationships lasted for at least a few months. Yes, she writes about her relationships in her songs, and it is obvious as you listen to her albums that she writes from a genuine place. More than a couple of her songs have been directly inspired by guys, and Swift writes But she goes outside of beyond love and romance, Swift writes about alienation (ex: A Place in This World, Mean, The Outside, Tied Together With a Smile), her career (ex: Change, Long Live, The Lucky One), parent-child relationships (ex: Never Grow Up, The Best Day, Ronan), and growing into her skin (22, Shake it Off). She expands past romance, but that is suppressed by the media. You do not hear that ‘Mean’ became an antibullying anthem, winning two Grammy’s, but you will hear
about how much ‘We are Never Getting Back Together’ sucks (never mind that Rolling Stone named it the second best song of the year). With the release of this album comes the other popular criticism: “I used to like her stuff, but now, she’s changed”. I agree, Swift has changed, but to me, that is the beauty of her. As time goes on, Swift has gotten older, and like anyone else, Swift has changed with age. She has spent nearly a decade in the music industry-- I would be worried if she had not changed. Each album has reflected a period of her life, and each has a unique style that gives each album a unique blend of nostalgia and hopefulness. Swift writes to express her life in a poetic fashion, and she is not afraid to be candid. More so than any other artist of our generation, Swift does not fear sharing her hopes. Why not celebrate the girl who chased her dream and made it reality, who has the grit to work for her dream since she was thirteen? Why not celebrate the girl who has pride for her work and upbringing? Why not celebrate the girl who has achieved her own version of the American Dream and continually strives for excellence in whatever she chooses to do? The media has chastised her for singing about what she wants to, but we should be celebrating that ability to express herself: it is the twenty-first century. That is why I am a fan of Taylor Swift, and why I think you ought to be one too.
Oh no...This hater has taste
S
Libby Frazier Web Editor
Anything but Taylor Swift...ANYTHING
hake it off…way over there. Taylor Swift has been around since about 2006, when her first single “Tim McGraw” dropped. Up until her album Speak Now she was tolerable, but now that it is 2014, she is even less than tolerable. To a 12-year-old girl, she may seem like the innocent sweetheart she claims to be. But is she really? There are a lot of different opinions about Swift, however no one ever really seems to hear about the downsides of her, like the fact that she is annoying. Considering she changes her music style every time a new type of music becomes popular. Her list of famous boyfriends is a little bit lengthy, and at least to me it tells a story. She seems to only date famous people. Coincidence? I think not. Every time she gets a little unpopular she seems to have a new piece of man candy on her arm. A very gorgeous, and famous piece. I mean, poor Harry Styles. He has never been one to publicize his relationships, yet when him and Swift were together, it was everywhere. I may be a little biased due to my stance in the One Direction fanbase, however you are never able to turn your head without
hearing Swift’s name when she has a new boy toy. Listen closely to an album of Swift’s, her songs are all about the same thing. Girl likes boy, boy likes someone else, girl sabotages boy’s relationship, and boy somehow falls in love with girl. She is very obvious in her songs about what kind of girl the guy’s girlfriend is; and she uses it against them, instead of complimenting the other girl she automatically assumes the girl is only good to show off instead of showing an emotionally stimulating time. Whenever she is not sitting by the phone waiting for some radiant guy to come and save her from her life, she is ridiculing any other girl who dares to be near her object of affection. Swift makes women look emotionally unstable. In the way her videos are set up, and the way she presents herself lyrically is upsetting. “Abigail gave everything she had, to a boy who changed his mind.” What exactly did Abigail give away? Why would she give everything she has to a boy? These are all questions that remain unanswered, because there is an actual point needing to be made. Swift’s lyrics just seem so thrown together about one heartbreak after the next.
Another annoyance I have with Swift is the fact that every thing she does is for attention. Her awful dancing at award shows? She knows everyone is watching. She would not do it if no one paid attention to it. She would not do much of anything she does if she was not getting the attention she wants and thinks she deserves. I will hand it to Swift. Her songs are the type that get stuck in your head until you will do about anything to get them out. To many 12year-olds, and some high schoolers, she is the perfect idol. However, I am looking at reality. There is a small handful of people who see past the innocent girl façade, and hopefully there are more out there. All in all, Taylor Swift is just another annoyance in the music business. She does not take it seriously, so many people would love to be in her place, only there are people who actually deserve it and would treat it like Swift should; as if they love it. Swift does not seem to love music, just the attention that comes with it. I suggest fans read more into who Swift is instead of looking through the paparazzi’s eyes.
Little that I knew, love is different when you play the fool. -Don’t hate me for loving you (1989) She’s better known for the things that she does on the mattress -Better Than Revenge (Speak Now) You should have known that word with what you did with her.... -Should’ve Said No
(Taylor Swift) I want to know how it feels to be over you for real. Until I do, I’ll keep writing songs about you. -Writing Songs About You (1989)
Cause I can’t help that you look like an angel -Hey Stephen (Fearless) I say ‘I hate you’ we break up, you call me, ‘I love you.’ -We Are Never Getting Back Together (Red) 23
Are you ultimate ENOUGH For Some Frisbee? Senior boys start Ultimate Frisbee Club Adrieanna Norse Reporter
T
he Ultimate Frisbee Club is a new activity that was started by a group of senior boys. It is very different than many other activities at BV West. A group of student’s meet up during the week, as well as the weekends, to play a game of frisbee or hang out. It is an opportunity to meet new people, and develop new friendships. Social studies teacher Andrew Addington is the teacher sponsor for the Ultimate Club. “I believe that the Ultimate Club is a chance for students to bond and build relationships while being physically active and get exercise in a non-traditional way,” Addington said. “A good group of students came to me with a well-organized plan; I would hate to see that the lack of sponsor is the only reason it wouldn’t get off the ground. How could I say no?” Connor Bost approached Addington with a wellorganized pitch for the club, an established base of students, and a commitment to the group. There are a few specific students involved in the Ultimate Frisbee Club. The president is senior Connor Bost, and the vice president is senior Tucker Mallory. “Connor and I had the idea of starting a club dedicated to frisbee early on in the school year after having so much fun with the sport over the summer with some of our friends,” Mallory said. “The Ultimate club is different from any other activity at West, because we have a very wide variety of people and different levels of skill as far as ultimate goes,” Mallory said. “This club also provides students with an opportunity to participate in unique physical activity
Photo courtesy of Jagged Edge
while meeting new people at the same time.” Right now there are about 40 to 50 members involved, but they are always looking for new students interested in joining. Some students may not take this club very seriously. They may not think anything of it, or they may not even think frisbee is a sport. Ultimate Frisbee is an activity that is not talked about alot about when walking the halls of BV West. The fact that this club is very different from other activities is what makes it special. “As our club has been progressing, some of our members have become more competitive with the sport,” Mallory said. “This has lead to the creation of a roster of players who go out on the games against other schools. In the near future we hope to set up a tournament between BV West and BV Southwest, BV Northwest, and BV High.” This sport can definitely be competitive and be taken a little too seriously during tournaments. “Despite some of our players being more serious about the sport than others, the club remains a recreational extracurricular sport that anyone can be a part of,” Bost said. The organization would definitely advise students to join the BV West Ultimate Club, it is a perfect way to both socialize and have a great time. Even though the club is mostly juniors and seniors, they are absolutely open to more underclassmen joining, and they look forward to adding new members. Go join the Ultimate Frisbee Club, Jags.
25
BasketBall Foot Star S
Multi-sport athlete dominates the field and the court
enior Blaise Gammon has come across great coaches along the way that have helped him become a better player and person. Donnie Campbell, the boys varsity basketball coach, has been one of his coaches since fourth grade and has helped him grow as both a player and a person. “He has always stayed by me through better or worse and has had a major impact not only on me as a player, but also as a young man teaching me lots of lessons and shaping me into who I am today.” Blaise Gammon said. Campbell has played a huge role in Gammon’s development as a basketball player and person. Another coach that has played a part in his football career is the varsity football coach, Scott Wright. Gammon stopped playing football his sophomore year before deciding to try out for the team again his senior year. “Blaise is just a super student athlete and gets along so well with his teammates. He has blended right in and continues to make defenses have to play differently that has allowed others to have success” football coach Scott Wright said. Gammon has made his mark on the BV West basketball program so far, earning 2014 First team All EKL honors, along with making Second Team All State. In 2013, he made Second Team All State and was honorable mention for the all-state teams. Gammon has racked up the accolades throughout his career, but he has one more thing he would like to accomplish before he leaves BV West. “My goal for both seasons basketball as well as football is to win a state championship,”Gammon said, “There would be no better way to leave west than leaving with a state championship.” One thing that Gammon uses to his advantage against opponents is his size. Gammon is built with a
Joe Mallory Reporter
frame of six feet eight inches tall in height and 235 pounds in weight. Gammon is a force to be reckoned with inside the paint with his great size. Gammon used his great size while going on to average 15 points per game and nine rebounds per game in his 2013 campaign. Blaise does not know yet where his basketball career will take him in the future, but he has all of the intangibles to be successful at the collegiate level if thats what he decides to do. “He is an excellent rebounder, runs the floor well, has a great basketball IQ and works extremely hard,” basketball coach Donnie Campbell said. Gammon is already hard to defend due to his size and strength, but he can take his game to the next level by becoming a better player in other areas. “He needs to keep working on his perimeter shooting and overall athleticism. Watching him this summer, he has made great strides in both areas.” Campbell said. It is clear that Gammon is determined to become a better player and he has worked hard this past summer to improve all aspects of his game. Gammon will be a force to be reckoned with this upcoming season with his improvements in perimeter shooting and overall athleticism. Gammon has made his impact on the team throughout the years so far, but he has also made a big impact on Campbell as well. “As a coach, you love working with kids that want to improve, want to be coached, want to be challenged, and are all about helping the team be the best it can be. I truly respect and admire Blaise for first and foremost the kind of person he is and second for the kind of teammate he is” Campbell said. Gammon has a bright future ahead of him in, whether it is on the basketball court or on the football field, and continues to strive to be a better athlete and person.
Kansas city pride Vinnie Garimella Photo Editor
Senior Ian Addison with his dad at a Royals’ game.
Senior Amanda Milonovich with her brother at a Chiefs’ game.
Junior Kami Pankratz iwith her friend Bentley Hulshof at a Sporting KC game.
Senior Taylor Weems with her brother Jackson Weems at a Chiefs’ game.
Senior Megan McCarthy with her brother at a Sporting KC game.
Senior Dan Kurtz with his dad at a Royals’ game.
Winter Sports Briefs Dan Kurtz Section Editor
Boys Basketball As this year’s basketball team comes to a start, the Jaguars are eager to begin a strong season now that BV West athletics has moved to a 5A School. Seniors Connor Kaiser, Blaise Gammon, Tommy McCauley, Luke Curtis, and Elijah Martin return to the court, hoping to make an impact right away with the start of the 2014 season. In the off-season, players had a determined attitude of getting better. They have worked with hard, training with local training facilities for young athletes. The Jags hope to take their skills and put them to the test. The season begins on Dec. 9, when varsity plays Shawnee Mission South away at 7 p.m.
Wrestling
Last season for the wrestling team was one of the biggest years for some of the seniors. Ahmad Qarini received the third place medal last year in the 225 pound weight class. The team, coached by Randy Lowe, is beginning his 22 year as a wrestling head coach. Seniors, like Parker McGuire and Drew Fancher hope to lead to the team to state this year. Along with others, the Jaguar wrestling team progresses with their offseason training to lead them to victory in the future.
Bowling The girls bowling team hopes to gain several new people this year. Top bowler Christi LeMunyon is returning for her senior year. Tryouts typically take place before winter break and the season starts in January. Tryouts will take place before Winter Break.
Girls Basketball Although suffering last year, the Lady Jags hope to pick up the ball again and make a move forward. Head coach, Frank LaPointe has over 25 years coaching experience in high school. With many new talented freshmen entering the program, the Jags hope to rebuild and build a brighter future for the program. The Lady Jags begin their season with their first game on Dec. 4, at St. Thomas Aquinas.
Boys Swim and Dive
With a two consecutive state titles in diving, it is safe to say that the diving team, lead by Daniel Fecteau, has a very good shot at winning again. Having a strong set of seniors makes the team have more experience and has influence on their teammates. The head coach, Tobin Sample, returns to BV West after having coached since the school opened in 2001. With a lot of experience, the Jaguar swim team has a solid season ahead of them. The swim teams first meet is Dec. 9 at home.
Tryout Checklist Physical Substance Policy Transportation Form Social Media Contract Concussion Warnings Scan this QR Academic Requirements: Code for access *No failing grades to all required *No unexcused absences forms
One Percent Excercise, 99 percent embarrassment The truth behind school gym class
H
Shaye Herman Reporter
igh school gym class. Otherwise known as the bane of my existence and the absolute worst memories of my freshman year. There is little else that I hate more than physical education (P.E.), and I’m not alone in my views. Ask any student on what they think of P.E. and most of them will give negative answers. So why is it such a terrible experience for most people? First and foremost: Gym class is extremely unfair. Take 50 or so students with varying body types and tell them to run a mile in under 12 minutes. Students that are slim, fit, and regularly practice sports, will do this with ease. Students who are not will not succeed and therefore probably get a lower grade. This sort of system shames and humiliates students who are not fit enough. I believe that all students, no matter what their physical body is like, should have a right to equal opportunities to get an education. When did it become necessary for kids to be physically fit in order to learn? School is a place for learning. Learning has absolutely nothing to do with playing football and doing sit-ups. Another common reason why gym class is so horrible is that it is extremely humiliating. Students are forced to be compared to other students who may be slimmer and more athletic than them and ridiculed when they cannot complete the task that others can do easily because of their weight or shape. Young teenagers are at the most insecure and self-conscious stage of their lives, and this sort of mortification can be very damaging to their body image and sense of self worth. Imagine if gym class was not required for students. There would be so many better things they could be doing with their
time, such as actually important things like doing homework, studying, or taking a class that would actually benefit them in their life. Think about how positively students’ grades would be affected with the extra time to focus on important educatory things. Instead, kids are wasting 90 minutes of their valuable school time to halfheartedly play basketball in a gym that smells like a sewer. Might I add that most of the time in gym class nobody even tries to play whatever sport it is, so that even the original purpose of gym isn’t even being carried out. People argue that gym class is necessary because kids are becoming obese. The problem with this argument is that should in no way concern the schools. Remember that the purpose of a school is to learn, not to control children’s lives. The responsibility of a kid’s health should be in the hands of parents, not schools. Parents should be the ones encouraging their kids to exercise in ways that are enjoyable and healthy for their own well-being. The job of raising a child to have good habits is in the hands of their parents; therefore it is usually the parents’ fault if a child is obese. It is understandable for schools to serve healthy foods in cafeterias, but forcing students to run laps is not helping anything. Gym class has been around for a very long time, and it seems that no one has really questioned the logic of it until now. I am not saying that schools should scrap gym class completely, but perhaps make it optional for students, and make it so that the activities are more enjoyable and made for students who like to exercise to do so in an inclusive and equal way. At the end of the day, will playing kickball really benefit to students future careers? Probably not.
29
Managing classes Not enough hours in the day
T
here are 24 hours in a day, a growing teenager needs at least eight hours of sleep, school is eight hours long, after school activities last from two to six hours, teenagers need to shower which takes 30 to 60 minutes, need to eat dinner which takes an hour and then have homework which lasts from two to five hours depending on the classes taken. So how are we students supposed to manage eight hours of classes and still have a social life? Let’s start with going to school and having to learn for eight hours non stop. We have 90 minute classes and we are expected to soak in information for the entire stretch of time. Then we are given homework that normally lasts at least an hour. Students must endure this four times in a day and are only given a 30 minute lunch break. Many of us have jobs or extra
30
curricular activities we participate in after school. These jobs can take up to four hours or more. “I usually close so I work from 4 to 8:30 p.m,” senior Kaitlin Latta said. Then we must go home and eat dinner, shower, squeeze time in for family, and do our homework. There is little time for sleep, and it’s almost impossible for many of us. We have seven classes on a Friday and only four on Monday and Wednesday. Teachers claim that JAG is a great time to catch up on classes, but we have an insufficient amount of time and can now only visit two teachers instead of the amount we really need help from. Many people take AP classes which have more homework and are even more difficult. “My most challenging class is probably AP US History,” junior Mary Irwin said.
Lexi Melson Reporter
Many of us students are enrolled in classes that are not AP but are just as time consuming as an AP class. Homework is the most challenging part of managing classes because it involves undivided attention for us to get information out of it. Many students work for hours on end and others work for a couple of hours. “It depends on what subject but mostly two hours,” junior Julie Reinhardt said. Even though school is only eight hours a day it is the longest eight hours of many students lives and the hours after school still are consumed with schoolwork for many. Balancing classes and a job is also another problem for many of us, we have to go to school for eight hours and then attend work and it can cause a lot of stress.
he t . it . d e H n s . s p tto re ol. u u t d ho e b k a ze , Ge r sc o ol. . W noo up f y ho l. .m s ke d a c oo a rea 5 s 0 : r sch W t o 6 . f e e • t ts. m G . a . v a 5 a.m Lea ive tar 1 : • 6 :00 .m. Arr ol s ( b o . • 7 :15 a .m. Sch ch. nds l clu n • 7 :25 a .m. . Lu ol e hoo o sc . a 7 h m 5 • :4 . c er s t S a r • 7 1:00 .m. Aft sta s. • 1 0 p .m. ob nd .
I
t u m o e h s h T s t i e l n l i W d K n i K
t is fair to assume that everyone has experienced that sinking feeling in their stomachs when looking at their school schedule for the first time. With the exception of the incoming freshman, most students have heard rumors detailing who is a good teacher and who, well, is not. My definition of good and bad has more to do with attitude and interaction than difficulty or homework. If teachers and administrators would just “be nice” I would never have a problem. It is understandable for teachers and administrators to have an attitude when it comes to misbehaving students or when a teacher is simply having a bad day. Setting those circumstances aside, I will try to keep this article focused on the staff members, teachers, and administrators who seem to will purposely go out of their way to, let’s just say, make a student’s day much worse. It seems that some of the common boundaries that should characterize teacher and student interactions are violated all the time. Reprimanding people for what they wear, taking personal property or using mean comments just seems disrespectful. I have heard that there is a saying among teachers to “not smile until November.” This old adage does not work. If teachers scowl and treat students poorly in the first several weeks, by the time they get around to it, it is too late. Kids need their teachers to be nice, offer an empathetic ear or crack a smile now and then. In researching for this article I actually found several studies that came to the conclusion that it is important to kids success for their teachers to...drum roll please...just be nice. School is supposed to be a safe place where kids go to learn. If they do not feel safe and cared about, they will not learn and that is why we are all here. I have a feeling that most students have not read the introduction in their school planners. It talks about guidelines and rules that must be followed when attending our school. Interestingly enough, I noticed that there were no guidelines for staff to follow when interacting with students. There must be regulations for teachers, and it only makes sense that as students we have the liberty to know what they are, so that we know if our rights are being violated.
Are Negative Nancy’s impacting your classwork? John Wilson Section Editor
Some may not be aware of the new rules and boundaries the district has slammed down on the athletes this year. To make it simple, athletes should not leave their rooms on Friday nights, should delete their Twitters, and should probably just watch movies by themselves during their free time because there are too many ways to get busted, guilty or not. One of these ways could be a simple picture that a friend decides to post on Instagram. Even if the athlete is in the background of a picture that their friend posted, no matter how innocent they may be, they can be punished. Their friend may not have noticed some sort of contraband sitting in the back of the photo and now the wrong person has to deal with the multiple game suspensions. Aside from the administration cracking down unnecessarily, some teachers feel as if they have the same rights. A personal experience and story I would like to share would be when a teacher that I have never met and was not mine threatened to take away my phone, when I was in the hall doing nothing wrong. Why would a teacher ever threaten a student, especially one they do not know that is not theirs, to take their phone away? They might have the power to do that but it should not be their business what students do in another teacher’s class. For some unknown reason, teachers are really worked up about phones. Students often need to use their phones to check their grades or to access other academic resources. Yet instead of listening to the student and allowing them to explain their purpose for being on their phones, teachers regularly assume that kids are doing unproductive tasks. How would they like it if Dr. Potts took away their phones in faculty meetings? Most students have his or her own experience of being pushed to their own limits by a teacher or an administrator. When it comes down to it, you have to follow the rules, no matter how ridiculous they may seem. You do not want to end up being the kid sitting in the suspension room or on the sidelines, so, speak freely but at the same time, obey the rules. 31
Blue Valley West High School Journalism Rm. 233 16200 Antioch Road Overland Park, KS 66085 bvwnews.com
POSTAGE HERE