October issue 2021

2 SIDES OF BACK TO SCHOOL

The return to school offers pros and cons regarding new schedule and COVID policies

KEEPING CULTURE ALIVE ON CAMPUS

Student celebrate diversity through Hispanic Heritage Month.

PG. 12

FISH OUT OF WATER

Cody Domingos, Angler of the Year, wants to bass fish profesionally.

PG. 22-23

TACKLING STEREOTYPES

Kylee Dayton kicks off JV Football Season as the only girl on the team.

PG. 34

TRANSPORT TROUBLE

Lack of bus drivers causes multiple issues on and off campus.

by Conner Rocha, Photography Director

Cars are lined up for blocks and buses are missing drivers; this is the situation that plagues PRHS students and parents alike. Hundreds of cars crawl in like snails each PRHS morning under slow red lights, snarled traffic, dozens of cars lined up on Niblick every morning, and administrators who are forced to direct traffic with waving arms. Only one bus runs from San Miguel, down eight buses from the 2018-2019 school year.

Students who once needed buses are now forced to find their own way to get to school on time. Kids who live long distances and parents who relied on buses to transport their students to school now have to go out of their way to take their kids to school. So what caused this situation?

and students.

“It’s a mess,” said senior John SedenHansen. “Without the buses the parking lot is so much more busy. It takes so long to be able to exit, and it’s harder to get to practices that are right after school.”

we dOn’t want transpOrtatiOn tO be the reasOn sOmebOdy stays

hOme and dOes distance learning curt dubost

Facing a nation-wide shortage of bus drivers, members of the board had to find a way to circumnavigate the issue. The solution? Cut regular bus services entirely. While transports for sports and other activities would still be in service, the everyday student transport routes were cut, causing panic from parents

In a survey conducted by the National Association of Pupil Transport (NAPT), the bus driver shortage is not just a problem that plagues PRHS, but rather, the entire country. Over 75 percent of the schools in the country have altered bus services for students since the beginning of the year. Half of the schools have described the situation of missing bus drivers as severe, and 78% report the situation as getting worse.

So what does this mean for PRHS? Superintendent Curt Dubost reports that the school is currently short on seven of its typical nine bus drivers.

“People have to remember that driving the school bus can be a very thankless job,” Dubost said. “They were really frustrated by the conduct of the kids, while they were driving they felt unsafe by the disruptions and distractions in the back.”

The high school is trying to return its bus service as quickly

as it can, and is currently running its route through San Miguel, which is one of the highest ridership routes. The plan laid out for a possible route includes running a bus to all the schools, where students could be picked up and dropped off at the schools, and then be able to walk home. While this isn’t the most ideal situation for students, it is a way to be able to give an opportunity for a ride to and from school.

Benefits for drivers have also increased as well. Increased pay, better benefits, and free training are a few of the things that have been introduced to help incentivise new drivers, and Dubost hopes that these will help be able to find new drivers to help bring back routes for students.

“I want to make sure that anybody who wants to drive can get a full time job with benefits,” Dubost said. “We have this brand new electric bus that’s sitting there unused, and all these other buses that are not usable, because we don’t have drivers for them.”

THE UNCERTAiN FUTURE OF THE SAT

by Bricen Chitty, web Director

The pandemic put a temporary pause on the SAT, but as 2021 applications creep closer, many colleges have committed to putting an end to standardized testing as a whole. When the Covid-19 pandemic hit back at the start of 2020, it created an enormous logistics nightmare for College Board, the creators and administrators of the SAT. According to Forbes, College Board lost millions of dollars from canceled tests. But why continue to move away from the SAT? That’s because the “Standardized” test has fallen under scrutiny for creating a racial and economic divide, allowing for “affluent, white and Asian-American students” to have an advantage according to The New York Times.

According to Melissa Furlong, Director of Admissions and Recruitment at California Polytechnic State University (CalPoly) “Overall, test scores being utilized as a single variable do not necessarily tell the entire story of a student”

Before the 2020 admission cycle, the SAT, and other variants like the ACT, were used as a way to measure students ability from around the country, but ultimately the removal of the test has created a much more equal environment for students, especially students at PRHS who can now apply to every California state school without an SAT score.

This solution isn’t temporary either, as more

and more colleges across the nation have committed to finding new forms of standardized testing or removing standardized testing completely from their holistic review. According to the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), back in 2018, 46% of colleges said that SAT scores were very important in the application process. Contrast that to the current year, where 84% of colleges won’t require the SAT for submissions for 2021 applications. 25% of the colleges that responded to the NACAC survey will be completely test-blind, meaning they won’t even glance at submitted scores.

“It’s very difficult to be inclusive [in the SAT] of language, culture, and make it accessible to all students… It’s very inequitable all across the board” Tara Walker said, a college and career counselor at PRHS with 12 years of experience.

If the SAT has been under so much scrutiny for so long, why has it never changed? According to Forbes, several data points are looked at during the admissions process, and the removal of standardized testing would have required colleges to completely revise their entire admissions system, “retraining admissions officers, redoing applications and rethinking entire methodology.” Ultimately it was an inexorable decision, and a perfect example of the school system favoring tradition over progress.

The next several years are crucial for the future of the SAT. According to Furlong, whether or not the CSU will utilize test scores moving forward is a systemwide decision. The future

2017: 50% of application based on SAT (2018)

82.8% of colleges consider SAT important

2021: 84% of colleges test-option or test- blind (2021) 25% of colleges testblind in the US (2021)

of the SAT is uncertain, but as more colleges lean away from standardized testing, the door slowly closes on the SAT. While Covid-19 created countless problems in the last two years, it’s forced many colleges to reevaluate their application process and has leveled the playing field for students across the nation, including students at our very own PRHS.

As colleges begin to evaluate the importance of the SAT, CalPoly Admissions and Recruitment Director Melissa Furlong gives her take on what the test means for students.

Overall, test scOres being utilized as a single variable dO nOt necessarily tell the entire stOry Of a student

Melissa Furlong

WHO’S IN THE LOCKEROOMS?

Lack of knowledge about non-binary facilities leaves students questioning policies.

by Reily Lowry, Sports Editor and Tony Garcia, Podcast Director

While admin and teachers are concerned about vandalism in bathrooms, many students harbor gender concerns about bathrooms and a perceived lack of separate locker rooms and restrooms for non-binary individuals. Some students are unbothered and neutral about sharing facilities; others are opposed to sharing with genderqueer individuals. Some students have refused to voice their opinion on the situation because they are intimidated about the controversy that the subject brings behind it. “It makes me really uncomfortable and I don’t understand why there can’t be other locker rooms for this,” an anonymous student said.

And non-binary students can be reluctant to identify and request access or report problems.

The California Ed Code gives everyone a right to a restroom or locker room where they belong.

Yet sharing lockerooms/restrooms has become a focal point: both traditional and non-binary individuals are uncomfortable when forced to share. Students appear to want a third facilities option -- male, female, other.

PRHS Principal Anthony Overton knows of the need. “We are looking to expand gender neutral facilities as there has been a big demand for them this school year.”

gender neutral restrooms require an administrator for assistance, are located in the 500 and 600 building. Most students do not appear to be aware.

Athletic Director Tori Loney, female locker room, must abide by the California Education Code as PRHS tries to support all students and provide spaces where everyone feels comfortable in the bathrooms, locker rooms, and throughout campus.

The Ed Code and PRHS policy have supported non-binary individuals for over a decade, according to Loney, but the return of in-person learning has increased the number of in-person students using locker rooms and restrooms compared to the 20202021 school year.

“Individuals who have identified as nonbinary or identify with the population for a different locker room or bathroom are allowed to do so,” Loney said. “For over 10 years, students have been able to identify themselves, allowing them to access locker rooms, bathrooms, shower facilities, etc.”

According to Ed Code 210.7, Gender refers to a person’s sex and that includes gender identity. Gender identification is determined by what a person declares themself to be.

“Some schools will ask non-binary students to identify themselves to the office so they can remind teachers and adminstration, but in the California Ed code it is not needed for a student to do so. As a result, PRHS allows students to choose whichever bathroom they decide they fit into,” Loney said.

Policy and Ed Code can therefore leave many students exposed to difficulty or harassment from students unaware of these guidelines.

Loney maintained that PRHS has not faced the issue of the creation of an uncomfortable environment in these vulnerable places so far.

“In the 17 years of being a PE teacher I have never had any problems with non-binary individuals in the locker rooms,” Loney said. “But problems [facing LGBTQ+ students] can range as I have heard stories from other PE teachers that some school atmospheres are very welcoming while others have had fights, people being injured, and numerous students being uncomfortable in the locker rooms.”

Former Equality Club Adviser and acting/technical theater teacher Marcy Goodnow has supported LGBTQ+ students at PRHS for eight years and pushed administration to add the four gender neutral bathrooms that the school has today.

“I think the traditional locker room may not be the best fit for many students. I do know that it has traditionally been a difficult space to monitor. Safety is the priority for our students, and so we need to think about a system to support their needs. I don’t know what that looks like, but I do know that our administration will do whatever it takes to do what is right for our students,” said Goodnow. “It is extremely personal, but safety is the most important feeling. It is impossible to ask a student to learn when they don’t feel safe or comfortable, so it is our job to give them that space.”

The discomfort and inexperience is clear among many students as they must share areas with genderqueer individuals. It’s also clear that administration is committed to providing gender neutral facilities around PRHS. They encourage students to ask questions and communicate if are having trouble with the situation.

There are 2 fully accessible gender neutral restrooms, 1 in400 and the Nurses Office

Nearly 10% of urban school populations identify as non-binary

Tori Loney

Marcy Goodnow

Graphics by Ashley Paulsen

MEET THE NEW STAFF

PRHS appoints fourteen new staff memebers at the start of the 2021 school year.

by Serenity Wulfing, social Media Director

Subject: English 1 teacher

Subject: English 2 and AP Literature

Interesting fact: Attended college at Cal Poly and obtained her Master’s Degree.

Hobbies: Hanging out with friends and going on hikes.

“I knew I really wanted to be a teacher after I worked in the tutoring center at Cal Poly, because at first I didn’t know if I wanted to teach, but working with those students made me like it a lot.”

Subject: School Psychologist

Interesting fact: Bryant is working on her pilot’s license and has been flying a twin Cessna 310 for a year.

Hobbies: Playing tennis and flying.

“I love kids and helping others.”

Subject: ARC room teacher

Interesting fact: Diaz is a former history teacher.

Hobbies: Traveling, reading, and being outdoors. She enjoys spending time with family, friends, and her dog Evy.

“I really enjoy working with students who sometimes need extra support and guidance. I am really excited for my new adventure as the ARC room teacher.”

Subject: PE 2 and PE 1

Interesting fact: Played college basketball at Reedley College.

Hobbies: Reading books, playing video games, traveling, and playing basketball.

“I came to Paso and started teaching at Lewis Middle school. Now at PRHs, I am excited to be a Bearcat.”

Subject:: Building trades in the CTE Department

Interesting fact: Before Sanchez became a teacher, he was a construction worker for 13 years

Hobbies: Going to the beach or golf course.

“I enjoyed teaching special education, but am excited to take my past work experience and use it for teaching and mentoring students interested in the building trades.”

Subject: Algebra 1 and Algebra 1A

Interesting fact: Studied abroad in Italy for a year and learned to speak Italian.

Hobbies: Embroidering, cross-stitch, paddleboarding, and surfing.

“I teach algebra because I have wanted to be a math teacher since I was a freshman in high school. I have always loved helping people and enjoyed math.”

Cesar Barajas: Read about the new EL Counselor on page 16.

Gerald Braxton: Read about PRHS’ new Assistant Principle on page 26.

Interesting fact: Cat mom to her three cats Todd, Cecilia Margot, and Olivia June.

Hobbies: Reading, traveling, and exploring nature.

“I love teaching Freshmen because there is so much fresh energy, excitement, and possibility in the first year of high school”

Subject: English

Interesting fact: Lived in Santa Barbara for 10 years and attended UCSB.

Hobbies: Going outside and going to music shows.

“I teach english because I feel really strongly that if you can articulate what you want, you’re better at getting it. so to me it’s really important that students know how to read, write, and speak.”

Subject: Expository Reading and Writing.

Interesting Fact: As a student, her team won girl’s water polo CIF.

Hobbies: Valadez enjoys reading, baking, walking her dogs, and attending sporting events.

“I feel it is so important that everyone finds their voice and English is a wonderful way to do that. It allows you to explore various subjects while growing and cultivating your own thoughts and ideas.”

Subject: Modified Math and Special Education

Interesting fact: Tankersley lives at Lake Nacimiento.

Hobbies: Spending time with her dog, spending time with her husband and visiting friends in Ventura.

“I really care about kids, I care about education, and I care about quality. I really like all students so there’s not really a student I’ve ever had that I couldn’t get along with, and I just want them to know I’m here if they ever need anything.”

Subject: PE and Beginning Dance

Interesting fact: Wilshusen is a Bearcat alumni—Class of 2017.

Hobbies: Coaching track and field, cheer, and gymnastics. Spending time at the lake with friends and family, and taking vacations to tropical and historic locations.

“Being physically fit is a huge passion of mine, and I really enjoy getting to share that with others and help them learn how to live a healthy and active lifestyle.”

Subject: Freshman reading, Directive studies, and US history

Interesting fact: Makes an hour commute from King City to Paso Robles everyday.

Hobbies: Going to the beach, going outdoors and enjoys sports, and doing activities with my family.

“I teach this because I was signed to those classes. I really don’t have one specific subject that I’m assigned to so I just kind of spread myself out and help out as much as I can.”

Sophia Anderson

Joe Sanchez

Kolby Wagner

Chris Lopez

Erica Diaz

Janice Bryant

Haley Talbert

Marisa Scoggins

Zoe Valadez

Jette Tankersley

Christopher Phillips

Codie Wilshusen

UNITED OVER DIVIDE

It is without a shadow of a doubt that 50 years from now, this time will be known as the COVID ERA. Students will flip through their history textbooks and see the forbidding year labeled 2020 that we all know a little too well. They will glide over pages filled with “Covid Death Rate” infographics, lists of “Covid Procedures,” descriptions of mask and vaccine mandates...and most of all the political polarization on pandemic policy. As a nation, we simply cannot agree on what is best for our country. Is it more beneficial to require all citizens to be vaccinated for the common good? Or is it considered unconstitutional to mandate a controversial vaccine?

We want to question our trajectory as a nation. Will we continue to bicker and fight over who’s right and who’s wrong as we manage coronavirus? Will we judge people who don’t wear masks, or people who don’t get vaccinated because they are viewed as “selfish?” Will we label others as “ignorant,” or “naive” for listening to government officials about public health policies? Are we self-righteous when we distrust the government?

We think that it is essential for you to stand up for what you believe in, and advocate for your beliefs for the growth of a healthy nation. However we challenge this and every generation in the COVID ERA, to consider alternative perspectives and care deeply for unity. A threatening divide makes us all victims.

We propose that we should spend more time thinking about what we have to be thankful for and reminisce over all the good things in our lives. When we realize all we have to be grateful for, we will begin to repair the divide: we often are grateful for the

Cnewsmagazine

Design

same things.

For the majority of our community, and the world as a whole, something to be grateful for is the fact that we-- the students, teachers, and other faculty members--are BACK IN SCHOOL. So what if we have to suffer the inconvenience of wearing masks, or getting the occasional covid test? At least we are back to in-person learning! And for students or teachers who would prefer to continue distance learning, they have the ability now to do so.

We have a sports season this year! Last year many teams experienced a short season, or no season at all, so that’s one more thing to be thankful for.

Ah, joyousness of social interactions. We get to see family and friends now without the fear of infection or death. Because of the intense research, and advancement in health safety, retail stores and restaurants are open again

We cannot afford to take what we consider to be “normal” for granted. We must find a way to appreciate more, or else we will be bound to the shackles that divide us if we criticize opponent or refuse to listen to the shortcomings of our favorite views.

So despite the rules, protocols, mandates, and policy changes at our school and beyond, let us demonstrate our gratitude for all that we have in our lives and the very gift of society itself. Especially during a time of an increased fear, let’s spend more energy on the privilege and gift of living

Then we will once again be the United States of America.

STUDENT JOURNALISM AT PASO ROBLES HS

Reporters

Editors In Chief

Malia Gaviola

Rayvin Wulfing

Ashley Paulsen

Directors

TJ Rothbauer News

Ashley Paulsen Sports

Serentiy Wulfing Social Media

Malia Gaviola In-depth

Rayvin Wulfing In-depth

Maicah Cabello Director

Jocelyn Lopez

Editors

Kalani Gaviola Op/Ed

Liliana Voorheis World

Zoey Rainey People

Miguel Muniz Poli-Sci

Kalista Peterson Health

Emily Rogers PopCulture

Reily Lowry Sports

Asusena Uribe Carmesi

Emily Neri Carmesi

Elise Mathers News

Sienna Ramos

Chris Cisneros

Braydon Hoier

Cadance Eastep

Brooklynn Healy

Photography

Connor Rocha Director

Rogelio Molina

Kayla Degnan

Web

Bricen Chitty Director

Michelle Rosas

Adviser

Jeff Mount Website

www.crimsonnewsmagazine.org

Email crimsonnewsmagazine@ gmail.com

Crimson, an open forum for the exchange of student ideas, is an independently funded newsmagazine produced by the journalism class at Paso Robles High School. Crimson reflects the majority opinion of the staff and does not necessarily reflect the views of Paso Robles High School, its faculty, administration, or students. All stories, graphics, typesetting, and layouts are completed by Paso Robles High School students. We are happy to talk with you further about our content, subscriptions in U.S. Mail, and advertising on our pages.

—Crimson Staff

Despite the many controversial issues plaguing our Nation today, we have a choice to come together or grow further apart.

Photo by Rayvin Wulfing

The Teenage Stress To Impress

by Kalani Gaviola,

Tired eyes and slumped shoulders. Nights spent working late and mornings rising before the sun to get finished with homework. Report cards with all A’s and backpacks overflowing with too many books: These are the staples of your honors and highachieving students, who thrive on compliments and relish in distinctions. They are doing well in high school, flushed with extracurriculars and the most demanding classes, and plan on working even harder when they leave high school and embark on their futures.

But the real, pressing question is where that journey takes place, and students are more competitive than ever.

A stark 11% incline in applicants at competitive colleges accepting less than half of applicants (according to Forbes) and mounting expectations for young people have made getting into college -specifically higher ranked colleges- extremely difficult. Acceptance rates for highly recognized schools are steadily decreasing as well. in 1995, Harvard accepted 11.8% of applicants, University of Pennsylvania accepted about a third of their applicants, and Princeton accepted around 14% according to the Harvard Crimson. Last year, Harvard accepted 3.43% of applicants, University of Pennsylvania accepted 5.68%, and Princeton accepted 3.98%.

More ‘realistic’ public universities display similarly slim acceptance rates. PRHS Crimson senior destinations across 2019-2021 show a total of 18 seniors going to UCSB, three seniors for UC Berkeley, and five seniors for UCLA, the most applied to college in 2021 with around 168,000 applicants.

The pressure is undoubtedly present online, too: there are thousands of high school stats videos on Youtube, thousands of forums dedicated to “chancing” students, and endless opportunities to compare oneself to teenagers that you will never meet.

Overextension manifests in high schoolers through going to extreme lengths to be a perfect applicant. Instead of following one’s passions, one will do what looks good for college, something admitted to be true by sophomore Elie Chavez

these schools and these schools,” Chavez said.

Chavez certainly is a competitive student with a G.P.A. of 4.6. She also plays softball, volleyball, is a leadership student, and is involved in student government on top of her four honors classes. She confesses to have felt pressure to start activities only because they would look good for college, while ignoring activities that could be done “for fun.” She “has literally no time for it” with all her homework on top of her extracurriculars. Most nights, not including time for eating, sleeping, and getting ready, she estimates getting less than an hour of free, stressless time.

Chavez knows there are problems here.

“We’re… stressing too much and worrying about everything so early on. And it’s like this should be a later problem,” Chavez said, and statistically, she’s correct: according to a national survey from the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and the Yale Child Study Center, the most common feeling associated with school is stress, with nearly 80% of students from the survey in agreement.

Here’s the biggest problem, though: People are stressed about getting into college, but according to College and Career Counselor Tara Walker, there’s a lot of misinformation: “About half of… (the colleges in the country) accept more than half of their applicants… So actually, in fact, it’s not hard to get into college. It’s just hard to get into the hard colleges.”

So, we see two responses to lofty college expectations: Either students overextend on things they don’t enjoy, or, more commonly at PRHS, according to Walker, they do the work but shoot too low, only applying to schools they know with limited reach schools because of how they perceive the difficulty of certain colleges to get into.

But either way, misinformation gets to both groups. Over-extenders do activities they don’t enjoy to look good for colleges, but according to Walker, once you get to a certain level, it’s completely out of your hands due to institutional priorities.

“(Colleges have) a billion different things that they’re trying to round for: diversity and different rules of thought… on top of the intellectual standard,” Walker said. “So, for example, Stanford, let’s say they have... 50,000 applications for 1000 spots... Let’s say, 10,000 are four point something crazy (GPA) with a million great activities. So how do you pick? So (to combat that) they’re very picky.”

On the other hand, under-estimators usually don’t know what colleges will be good for them outside of popular choices. They ignore schools that are better for them, but not as well known. This phenomenon is also spurred on by the media, and comparing oneself to others online and at other high schools. They unknowingly pass over many colleges that will admit them.

“Once you’re in the top portion of our school, you’re competitive. Colleges look at our school independently from other schools… because we have different populations… different amount of AP classes, a different amount of students that qualify for free or reduced lunch,” Walker said. (continued on 07)

As elite colleges get harder to get into, unbearable expectations are put on high-school students struggling to stay afloat.

Opinion Editor

We’re stressing too much and Worrying about everything so early on... this should be a later problem.”

EliE chavEz, 10

PICTURED LEFT: Stanford Campus, Elie Chavez’s dream school.

tara Walker

Ultimately, the most important thing is to remember that what college one gets into, competitive or no, is not indicative of self-worth, and though the system of choosing such an important part of one’s careers early is flawed, there is more to life- especially in high school- than others’ (even colleges!) opinions.

Senior Sarah Krumme, ranked in the top 5% of her class, dreams of going to Stanford or Pepperdine, takes AP classes, and participates in a multitude of extracurriculars including choir, tutoring, leadership, creative writing club, FNL, NOSB club, JOOI club, and international club on top of taking care of her family and working.; For her, however, the thought of college applications isn’t exceedingly overwhelming because she “loves what (she) does in school and (her) extracurriculars.”

Beauty Standards Aren’t BEAUTIFUL

Beauty standards have been around for decades. Many Americans, especially those in their teen and pre-teen years, have been negatively impacted by them.

An article by Bulb on “Society’s Beauty Standards Effect on Teens” shows that 58% of 13 year old girls start worrying about how they look. This percentage goes up 25% by the time they are 17, meaning that 78% of girls are affected by beauty standards by the time they finish high school. People forget that men can also be affected by these standards. A study from UCLA shows that 90% of boys in high school and middle school workout often to “bulk up”. Society brainwashes kids and teaches them to mimic celebrities and models. Girls are normally told that they have to be “skinny” and that they can’t have facial hair. They’re told that they all have to look the same. Boys are told they have to look muscular and bulky. They are told they have to look like certain things when they are still developing.

Society’s beauty standards affect men and women , but over the years they have been popularly known to have a bigger effect on women.

Sophomore Nicole Rogers thinks women have higher standards for beauty than men.

“I think it’s really done really poorly how everybody sees women. They don’t have the same beauty standards for men at all. And I think that’s kind of messed up,” Rogers said.

To her, beauty standards are unfair. There are more rules women need to follow or else they are “not good enough.” Women are told they have to change the way they look. It isn’t possible to structure yourself a certain way unless you were born that way. If you were born with big hips, it becomes nearly impossible to make them smaller. If you have a wide ribcage, then there’s virtually nothing you can do about it. You can’t look a certain way if your body wasn’t built that way.

“I am actually proud to say that I have never done something I didn’t want to for college… I like to live my life beyond appealing to what colleges might like, because life is short, and I want to live it in a healthy way that makes me happy,” Krumme said. “...I love the rigor of school, so I feel like a top school with high rigor would be enjoyable for me… but too many people value what college they want to go to based off of the popularity of the name, or their prestigious reputation… when in reality just because a college has a high end reputation doesn’t mean that it is better than any other college.”

In a world where sixth graders on college forums beg for tips on how to mold themselves into the perfect applicant, where seniors are driven to immeasurable stress looking back at their high school years, and where everyone in between suffers similar, unhealthy states, it’s time that students liberate from it all. The college application process may not change, but mindsets can if students start to prioritize learning and passion over colleges’ definitions of success.

by Michelle Rosas, Web Assistant

To Rogers, these standards are toxic and unhealthy. Back in 2016, the “ideal look” was based on a photo editing app called “Facetune,” and loads of makeup. “Now, the beauty standard is a more natural look,“ Rogers said, which begs the question: if beauty standards change so often, why are they so important? An article on The Breeze says that beauty standards can lead to body image issues, low self esteem, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders.

Culture also has an effect on how people look. People from certain cultures or countries can’t fit America’s beauty standards because of where they were raised and how people around them look. Freshman Norelys Canales Lopez says that beauty standards are pointless because of the diversity in cultures we have in America.

“We have [a variety of] people from different regions. We have Mexican people and we have Asian people. Setting a beauty standard for those different types of people I think is useless because they have different features and stuff,” Lopez said.

Race and ethnicity have a big impact on looks. Some countries have completely different opinions on beauty. An article from Slice says that beauty standards differ around the world. In France, French beauty is simple, as they believe in a more natural look. In Russia, however, beauty standards require much more effort. Practices such as beauty rituals are highly common. People from different races get negatively impacted by society’s beauty standards because they are told they have to have certain features when they physically cannot

There is not just one definition of beautiful. Beauty is different everywhere, yet beauty standards seem to ignore that.

norelys Lopez, 10

nicole Rogers, 10

Examining the beauty standards set by society and the negative effects it has on teens

Graphics by Ashley Paulsen

Sarah Krumme, 12

Donda Vs. Certified Lover Boy: Which Is Better?

Amongs all the Drake and Kanye drama, which rapper made a better album?

by TJ Rothbauer, News Director

After months of anticipation, Kanye West’s Donda and Drake’s Certified Lover Boy (CLB) have been made available to hip hop fans worldwide, and with it comes a wave of drama and comparisons spurred by the rappers’ ongoing egotistical feud.

Both albums have been in the works for months. Kanye fans have waited eagerly for the release of Donda since its original announcement back in May 2020. After constant pushbacks, it was finally released on Aug. 29, 2021, and it did not disappoint. announced CLB release to be in Jan. 2021, but he too had to postpone the release due to “ issues,” according to WION News.

DONDA RATING

Production:

How well put togeter were the beats and songs?

Lyrics:

Intricacy, flow, rhythm

Popularity:

Records sold, marketing, streams

Features:

How well did the Kanye integrate features in his album?

Certified Lover Boy was released eight months later on Sept. 3, 2021.

Kanye’s album is about the loss of his mother, Donda, and his attempt to communicate with her through their shared faith. Over the album’s one hour and 46 minute tracklist, Kanye brings listeners through a musical journey, starting with “Donda Chant.” The song’s only word is “Donda,” and is said 58 times, representing her last heartbeats the age at which she passed.

“Jail” is written in lines of six words and tells listeners that the only one who can save Kanye is God. Kanye brought Jay-Z onto the track after not featuring him on any of his songs for almost a decade, which showed that they still have tight lyrical chemistry.

The album transitions from gospel to a feature with Playboi Carti “Off the Grid” mixes upbeat instrumentals and flow from Carti with a repetitive hook from Kanye saying, “Everything we did for the crib,” showing everything that Kanye has done was for his family, friends, and hometown on the South Side of Chicago.

13 tracks in, Kanye gives fans “Moon.” West takes a step back and lets Don Toliver take over the interlude with a high-pitched hook and gives Kid Cudi the spotlight. With his melodic hums and lyrics that resonate with those from Cudi’s previous albums, such as Man on the Moon The song gives me a feeling of ascension, as if I’m actually rising to the moon myself.

“No Child Left Behind,” the final track on the album, wraps up the album with a beautiful piece on the organ and repeated lines saying, “He’s done miracles on me.” Kanye finishes the album on a good note, saying that he has been blessed by his God, and that he has grown as an individual. Throughout Kanye’s discography, there is a constant evolution of Kanye as an individual, coming from being egocentric in his earlier works towards a slow transition to his more gospel and family focused present day works.

Moving onto Certified Lover Boy, Drake comes out strong with “Champagne Poetry,” in which he presents his track like the title says: poetically. In it, he talks about the struggle of staying true to himself amongst scrutiny from the public.

Drake does well on his hook on “In the Bible,” but I feel like his bars could be better. The features are really what made the track stand out to me. Lil Durk elevated the track with his upbeat and faster flow, and Giveon slowed it down right after, which left me wanting to put it on replay.

“Love All” is another strong track from Drake. He dedicated this track to the people who had turned their back on him in the past, mainly addressing the 12 year feud between himself and Kanye. His beat, hook and lyrics on this track captivated me.

While “Way 2 Sexy” is somewhat ridiculous, the beat goes pretty hard and Future definitely redeemed himself on this feature after his previous flop on Life is Good . The song is currently Drake’s most popular track from the album on Spotify, reaching 118 million streams.

“Yebba’s Heartbreak” was such a well made interlude on the album, and similar to Kanye’s “Moon,” Drake lets Yebba take over the vocals on this song. Yebba gives off a candlelit dinner vibe for me, and I really enjoyed listening to this track.

“Knife Talk” ft. 21 Savage shows a transition from the romantic side of Drake to a more thuggish side. 21 Savage did a great job with his bars on this song, and solidified it as my second favorite track on CLB

Drake really stood out on “You Only Live Twice” (ft. Lil Wayne & Rick Ross). The drums and beat on this song brought it to my number one spot on the album. Drake had everything right on this track, between Lil Wayne and Rick Ross’ features, to his own bars, everything flowed perfectly.

Kid Cudi’s feature on “IMY2” brought the track to a new level for me. Drake let Cudi take most of the spotlight on this track and I feel like his choice was valid.

After listening to both albums, Donda resonates more with me personally. While I can understand why such a large amount of people prefer Certified Lover Boy, I think Kanye’s overall production, beats, and features went hard. Though it is somewhat similar to his album Jesus is King, Kanye integrates gospel elements into a more Hip-Hop style. On the other hand, I also have an appreciation for Drake’s CLB as well. Those eight songs on CLB really stood out to me, and Drake’s production, features, and streaming popularity made the decision extremely difficult to decide between the two.

I would rate Donda’s production 8/10, the lyrics 7/10, the popularity 9/10 , and the features 9/10 as well. The beats in this album were some of Kanye’s best. He also did a great job arranging his tracklist. I think the lyrics could’ve been a little better compared to previous albums, but the popularity and marketing that Kanye did to hype up the release of his album was unprecedented. As for his features, most

of them were good, but I don’t think that Da Baby and Pop Smoke really needed to be on the album.

I gave Drake’s production 7/10 because while he had some good beats and a solid interlude, it wasn’t good compared to previous works such as Scorpion . His lyrics were 6/10 because they didn’t have much depth and a lot of his tracks sounded similar lyrically. Drake’s popularity deserved a 10/10 score. He shattered his own previous record of total streams in one day with the release of CLB and definitely earned it. His features were 9/10 as well because Tem’s

CLB RATING

Production:

How well put togeter were the beats and songs?

Lyrics:

Intricacy, flow, rhythm

Popularity:

Records sold, marketing, streams

Features:

How well did the Drake integrate features in his album?

7 6 10 9

Illustrations courtesy of Malia Gaviola

Crystal Craze

by Zoey Rainey, People Editor

Some people swear by them, some do not believe they have any use, but no one can deny that the use of crystals and spirituality has become increasingly popular amongst youth over the past year. There are many reasons for their increasing popularity, such as social media, spiritual causes, and celebrity influence.

Some celebrities who have been open about their use of crystals are: Adele Adkins, Spencer Pratt, Victoria Beckham, and many more, “I collect crystals and place them around my home and office to create positive energy,” Beckham said. But crystals have existed as a form of medicine for thousands of years dating back to ancient Sumerians and Egyptians. Crystals are believed to help promote good energy, help users relax, rid the body of negative energy, and bring physical and emotional benefits. The use of crystals comes from ancient Buddhist and Hindu beliefs and has been simplified in recent years and is known as spirituality. They are based on the fact that everything is made of energy and different forms of matter and rays of light vibrate at different vibrational frequencies. Each crystal has different frequencies depending on its matter size, thickness, and color and they can be used to raise your own frequencies. Crystals are also popularly used for healing, whether it be physical or emotional. This goes hand in hand with chakras; a chakra is an energy wheel within everyone. Ancient Hinduism and Buddhism believed that everyone has many different chakras, but the seven main ones are like all throughout the center of your body (see graphic below). Senior, , shares

his passion for crystals and all that they can be used for, “I use them for many different things. I wear them sometimes for protection because I’m very prone to energy, so when I meet someone you can kind of just tell that it was like a negative encounter or it was something that you kind of never want to experience again, and a lot of times I’ll hold on to that and just kind of like think about that a lot and a lot. And so having crystals on me it all goes to the crystal because it absorbs that energy instead of me,” Social media has had a major influence on trends, and Tik Tok has especially made crystals and spirituality a trend amongst youth, “I think that TikTok has definitely played a big role in them becoming so popular. I think that since there is sort of a new trend of 70s/hippy vibes, spirituality has become more of a popular topic to talk about. I think that crystals and meditation and manifesting are all kind of a part of that,” Senior Abby Lewis said. Some also believe that this new uprising of crystals and spirituality is thanks to the Age of Aquarius, an astrological period of change,

“The last time we experienced this was the hippie revolution, back in the 60s and 70s. These “hippie” topics are on the rise again. A lot more people are getting into yoga and different ideas of life. That’s what I think it is,” Perez said. As this ancient practice continues to gain popularity amongst media and youth it leaves many with the question of “is spirituality real, or worth getting into?” and to this Perez said, “Spirituality is just whatever you make of it and at the end of the day, you don’t need crystals. You don’t need any of it because you have everything within you and it’s more just about using these tools to figure out more about yourself.”

What’s on PRHS’s Screens?

Examing the similarities and differences between staff and student televison consumption. *

by Kalani Gaviola, Opinion Editor

Most WATCHED Shows

Our

FAVORITE Shows

by Kalani Gaviola, Opinion Editor

Ted Lasso

About 79% of staff who watched Ted Lasso had it as their favorite show, making it the favorite staff TV show.

Outer Banks

About 26% of students who watched Outer Banks had it as their favorite show, making it the favorite student show.

Netflix is the most popular TV streaming service for staff (46%) and students (62.1%).

Disney+ is the next choice for students with 14.1% of responses.

Hulu is the next choice for staff with 20% of responses.

of

and

of students marked it as their favorite aspect of TV shows!

Students share how an ancient practice has become a popular trend and why it’s valuable.

Talk? Can We

by Emily Rogers, Pop Culture Editor

It looks like the divided partisan world of adult politics has found its way to 801 Niblick Road.

In a survey conducted questioning 8.5 percent of the student population on whether they feel comfortable or not speaking about their political opinions on campus, around 60 percent said that they would possibly feel comfortable voicing their opinion, while 40 percent said that they’d feel uncomfortable.

Of those surveyed 23.1 percent identified themselves as Republicans, 19.4 percent as Democrats, and 57.5 percent being Independent or unsure of their political standing.

According to the survey results, students who identified as Republicans seemed to be the most comfortable talking in front of their peers who may have a differing opinion than them.

According to college vine, a site dedicated to helping students navigate the process of applying to college, political engagement is important as a young teen. “... it shows that you’ve taken an interest in the world beyond yourself....” said college vine. “Colleges like to see that applicants are projecting past their college years and considering how they might eventually have an effect on the world at large. Whether or not you become a politician, your precocious interest in politics indicates that you’re already thinking about what issues are of importance to you,” said college vine.

Such a process of debate is important to the administration of PRHS. Superintendent, Dr. Curt Dubost, wants students to be able to have civil conversations where they can agree to disagree.

To make students more comfortable speaking or representing their political beliefs, PRHS has a guidance policy for how teachers and staff must conduct themselves concerning controversial ideasRegulation 6144: Controversial Issues.

“I would hope that there would be a culture in every classroom where people are allowed to share controversial ideas, as long as it’s not done in a mean way to try and beat somebody or whatever, as long as it’s legitimate debate that presents both sides of an issue, objectively, that doesn’t put anybody down for having a different opinion,”.

DR. CURT

Principal Anthony Overton is hoping to run a program in February or March called Rachel’s Challenge that hopes to create a safe and comfortable environment on campus. “ It’s really a program all about kindness and acceptance of others and the way we treat each other. I think that’s probably the first thing that people need to hear so we can have a genuine conversations, because right now I’m sad to say that I think a lot of people default to anger or malice towards somebody just because they have a different opinion,”Overton said.

How comfortable sharing your views?

Q: How do you avoid intolerance?

A: “I am always trying to debate with kindness because I get called names for my political opinion constantly which is hurtful so I know how it feels to be put down.”

Q: How important do you think polical debates are?

A: “I think it’s incredibly important for anyone to be able to express their opinions and what they feel is right because no one should be silenced for having their own mind and thoughts,” Bishop said.

Q: How comfortable are you voicing your opinon on a scale from 1-5?

Ella Bishop, 11

A: “I would probably be a 3 or 4 on a scale from 1-5 on how comfortable I am sharing my opinions, just because there are other people who are strongly right or strongly left and so I feel as though they wouldn’t really agree with me; so it’s easier for me to just not show my opinions to others,” Babb said. However, Babb identifies having a safe space on campus to voice his opinions.\\, “There are places on campus, like my Government classroom, with Mr. Askew, where it (political debate) is very much accepted.”

Seth Babb, 12

After the political divide that has happened nationwide in these past years do students feel comfortable speaking about their political beliefs as they return back to campus?

DUBOST, SUPERINTENDENT

Keira Grace, 12

Bearcats Recall Newsom

Contrary to the popular vote, the majority of bearcats believe that current Gavin Newsom should have been removed from his position as governor of California.

by Elise Mathers, News Editor

Nearly 150 PRHS students participated in a survey asking how they would vote in the Governor Gavin Newsom recall election, the results did not align with those of the California voters.

A survey was shared on Sep. 12 with PRHS students asking them about their awareness of Newsom’s potential recall and whether they think the governor should remain in office. Of the 146 students who participated, 12 students said they were unaware of the recall entirely, 38 were somewhat aware, and 96 students were fully aware of the recall.

54% of students who participated said they would choose to recall Governor Newsom. 30% of the voters were against Newsom’s recall, and the remaining 15% were indifferent. While 22 students declared themselves unaware, 44 students said they were opposed to recalling the governor, and that he should remain in office.

Senior Clara Lundy was ready to see Newsom out of office. Lundy described Newsom as a bad example to his constituents, she especially criticized his covid response legislation.

“The way he’s run the state during COVID, he shut down a bunch of different sports, clubs, and events when COVID first happened, and yet he still went out and did all these things,” Lundy said, alluding to his dinner at the restaurant, French Laundry after enacting a shutdown that had made the gathering illegal. “He’s not doing the greatest at this, and he’s been here for too long.”

Junior Mars Gunderson explained that she felt Newsom shouldn’t be facing recall, though he is not her favorite candidate.

“I am personally against this recall election because of COVID-19. Newsom has been in charge since the pandemic started and has a good idea of what to do in this situation compared to the other candidates,” Gunderson said. “I also see it as a waste of time to recall someone when their term ends in less than a year. I don’t personally like Gavin Newsom but compared to the other candidates running and the way he’s handled Californian’s lives he is the better option.”

In hopes of informing and enlightening students on the recall, Civics and Government teacher Geoffrey Land held discussions about the recall in his classes, having 113 of his students participate in a voluntary vote on how they would vote in the recall. Of those who participated, a total of 65 students said they were pro-recall, and 49 said they were against the recall.

Differing from the votes of students at PRHS, on September 14, California residents voted to keep Governor Newsom in office. 62% of voters voted against Newsom being removed from office with only 38% voting in favor of the recall. These results will be certified on October 22.

Attempts to recall governors in California are common as there have been 179 recall attempts in the state since 1913. Newsom is only the second governor in US history to survive recall.

“Democracy is not a football, you don’t throw it around. It’s more like — I don’t know — an antique vase,” Newsom said after defeating recall. “You can drop it, smash it into a million different pieces — and that’s what we’re capable of doing if we don’t stand

Mars Gunderson, 11

Graphics by TJ Rothbauer & Miguel Muniz

Alive On Campus Keeping Culture

Students fight for inclusivity and cultural representation on campus through Hispanic Heritage Month.

by Zoey Rainey, People Editor

PRHS has a student body that is 51% Hispanic/Latino. To try and cater to this, the school has created different ELD programs and recently added the ethnic studies class to teach about Hispanic history. But many students feel the school is not trying enough to educate other students on Hispanic culture and celebrate Hispanic heritage month to embrace the ever-growing diversity on the PRHS campus,

“I think we need to learn more about the diversity of history because I know that a lot of students, like me, don’t know much about Hispanic Heritage Month, and they’d really like to know, I would like to know,” junior Adriana Aguilar, president of the Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlán (MECHCA) said.

Hispanic heritage month takes place in the US from Sep. 15 through Oct. 15, 30 days of celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. The Activist Coalition of Tomorrow Club (ACT) has been especially focused on celebrating this month by creating Instagram posts of influential Hispanic people in history. They also planned an event in the quad, on Friday Oct. 8, educating students on different Hispanic cultures while playing games, listening to latin music, and eating popular latin snacks. Towards the end of the month, they also did a chalk art event to celebrate Hispanic culture.

The president of the ACT club, senior Melissa Gonzalez, shares why she felt it was important to celebrate Hispanic heritage month at the school, “I personally love being Hispanic I love being part of this culture. I think it’s just really awesome and I feel like people don’t understand that being Mexican isn’t just being brown and speaking Spanish, there are so many dialects spoken in Mexico, and many different skin tones. This whole month is like a door opening because we’ve never really celebrated it before, it’s just to know how rich this

culture is and we should celebrate that,” Gonzalez said.

Ethnic studies teacher and ACT club advisor Geoffrey Land gave his insights on how the school lacks representation of the Hispanic student body, “I think the school could do a lot better at hiring people who have lived experiences like their students, maybe go to the same churches or listen to the same music, or having had the same upbringing,” Land said.

Many students have found that embracing and celebrating their culture is very important to them and this heritage month is a way for them to truly embrace where they’re from. Senior Zaira Gomez shared what she’s most proud of about her culture,“The most important thing in my culture, I would say, is that I’m from Oaxaca, it is known as one of the poorest states in Mexico, but it is one of the richest in culture and diversity. And just being able to celebrate that and always say proudly that I am from Oaxaca,” Gomez said.

Senior Riccardo Navarro shared his perspective on what it’s like being from México and getting to experience the unity there, “My family is from Guadalajara. It’s the most beautiful city in México, I feel like anybody can see that too, if you have been there. It’s really nice and over there everybody says hi to you on the streets, no matter who you are. Whatever you are doing everybody’s really respectful and I think respect is a big part of our culture. The most important thing about my culture is we’re so united as one family. That’s really all that matters,” Navarro said.

This month is about unity and celebrating diversity at PRHS, while they may feel their culture is unappreciated at school, students are embracing their cultures and striving to educate each other, along with faculty, on their differences and similarities to make a difference and make everyone feel comfortable and valued on campus.

Learn more about Hispanic Heritage month at Crimson Newsmagazine.org

SPREAD THE WORD (above): The ACT club shared Instagram posts, like the one above. They were created by club members and included facts an images of influential Hispanic people.

MONTH OF CHANGE

(above): Graphic from the Touro University of California Website with facts about different hispanic countries and cultural trraditions.

Images of: Melissa Gonzalez, 12 By: Zoey Rainey

Manteniendo Viva La Cultura En Escuela

Estudiantes luchan para inclusión y representación cultural en la escuela a través del Mes de la herencia Hispana.

by: Zoey rainey, People editor

PRHS tiene un cuerpo estudiantil qué es 51% Hispano y Latino. Para atender a eso, la escuela ha creado diferentes programas de ELD y recientemente han añadido la clase de estudios étnicos para enseñar sobre historia hispano. Pero muchos estudiantes sienten qué la escuela no está tratando lo suficiente para educar otros estudiantes en la cultura hispano y celebrar él Mes de la Herencia Hispana para adoptar la cada vez mayor diversidad en PRHS.

“Yo creó qué necesitamos aprender más sobre la diversidad de nuestra historia porque yo se qué hay muchos estudiantes, como yo, qué no saben mucho sobre el mes de la herencia Hispana, y ellos quieren saber estas cosas, yo quiero saber tambien,” Adriana Aguilar, presidente del Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlán (MECHA) dijo.

El Mes de la Herencia Hispana ocurre desde Sep. 15 a Oct. 15, 30 días para celebrar la historia, cultura, y contribuciones de ciudadanos Americanos qué tienen ancestros de España, México, él Caribe, y América Central y Sur. La coalición de activistas de mañana (ACT) han sido particularmente enfocados en celebrar este mes creando publicaciones de Instagram de miembros influenciales en la historia hispana. Ellos también han planeado un evento en la escuela qué tuvo lugar viernes, el octavo de octubre para educar estudiantes sobre diferentes culturas hispanas. De manera de jugando Loteria y juegos con la baraja, escuchando música latina, y comiendo bocadillos latinos. Hacia el fin del mes ellos también tuvieron un evento de arte de tiza para celebrar la cultura hispana.

La presidenta de ACT, Melissa Gonzalez, comparte porque ella sienta que es importante celebrar el Mes de la Herencia Hispana en la escuela, “ Yo, personalmente, me encanta ser hispana, me encanta ser parte de esta cultura. Yo creó qué es muy impresionante y yo siento que la gente no comprende qué siendo Mexicano no solo es ser moreno(a) y hablar español, hay muchos más dialectos hablados en México, y muchos diferentes colores de piel. Este mes es como una puerta abriéndose porque nosotros nunca hemos celebrado este mes antes, es para saber qué rica nuestra cultura es y debemos celebrar esto.” Gonzalez dijo. El maestro de la clase de estudios étnicos y consejero de ACT, Geoffrey Land, dio sus ideas sobre cómo la escuela falta en representación de estudiantes Hispanos, “Yo creó qué la escuela puede hacer mejor en contratar gente qué han vivido experiencias como sus estudiantes, quizás van a las mismas iglesias

o escuchan la misma música, o qué tienen crianzas similares ,” Land dijo.

Muchos estudiantes han descubierto qué adoptar y celebrar sus culturas es muy importante para ellos y este Mes de Herencia Hispana es una manera para que ellos puedan verdaderamente adoptar de donde vienen.

Zaira Gomez comparte qué ella es más orgullosa de su cultura, “La cosa más importante para mi sobre mi cultura, yo diría, es qué yo soy de Oaxaca, es conocido como uno de los estados más pobres en México, pero es él más rico en cultura y diversidad. Y solo ser capaz de celebrar esto y decir orgullosamente que yo soy de Oaxaca.” Gomez dijo.

Riccardo Navarro comparte su perspectivo en cómo es ser de México y teniendo la oportunidad de sentir la unidad allí, “Mi familia es de Guadalajara. Es la ciudad más bella en México, yo siento qué cualquiera pueda ver eso también, si has ido ahí. Es muy agradable y allí todos te dicen hola a ti en las calles, no importa quién eres. Todos son muy respetuosos y yo creo que el respeto es una parte grande de nuestra cultura. Lo más importante de mi cultura es qué somos unidos como una familia. Eso es lo más importante.” Navarro dijo.

Este mes es sobre la unidad y celebrando diversidad en PRHS, aunque algunos sienten qué su cultura no es apreciada en la escuela, los estudiantes están adoptando sus culturas y luchando para educar a sus compañeros y facultad, sobre sus diferencias y similaridades para ser una diferencia y hace qué todos son confortables compartir sus culturas en la escuela

Aprende más sobre el Mes de la Herencia Hispana y las historias de estudiantes por videos en CrimsonNewsmagazine.org

Cultura de los Estudiantes

estudiantes compartiram sus pensamientos sobre cultura hispano y como la escuela esta representando a ellos.

“Aquí en la escuela trato de representar mi cultura. Por las mañanas, todo el equipo de fútbol y yo hacemos gritos y tocamos música mexicana. Y para el día de disfraces en la escuela me presenté con un traje de Charro. Intento llevar mi cultura y compartirla con la gente todos los días.”

- eder Velasco (11)

“En la escuela trato de hablar con los estudiantes y educarlos sobre lo que está sucediendo en los clubes y que es el mes de la herencia hispana. Y todavía tengo mucho que aprender sobre mi cultura, pero quiero que la gente sepa que está bien si no lo sabes todo, pero mantén la mente abierta.”

- Tiffany robles (11)

Images of: Melissa Gonzalez, 12 By: Zoey Rainey

BARAJAS BEGINS

New Counselor Cesar Barajas joins PRHS and involves himself in the ELD Program

by Asusena Uribe, Carmesi Editor

Ceasar Barajas, newly hired ELD counselor, knows what it is like to go to school and not know the language coming out of the lips of the teachers and his peers. As a graduate of an ELD program, he reclassified his language skills yearly in tests that determined his English proficiency.

Barajas relates to the experience of students going through the English Language Development program and seeks to give guidance and support.

Barajas came from the town of Terra Bella, California where the population was mostly made up of immigrants—like his parents—who worked in manual field labor. Barajas became a first generation college student who earned a criminal justice and worked at a juvenile hall for seven months. While attending this hall, he also was involved with a nonprofit agency named Wrap Around, focusing his efforts on families. These experiences and passions led him to acquire his masters degree in educational counseling so that he could achieve his goal of helping students find successful paths.

“My passion is working with students to help them reach college, help prepare them, and give them the tools they need in order to be successful,” he said.

Principal Anthony Overton has observed the amount of effort that Barajas has made

CARMESI

in connecting with students and their families in helping them navigate the school system. He also described that according to the Western Associations with Schools and College Accreditation, there were gaping deficits when it came to ELD learners and that Barajas, a counselor solely focused on ELD learners and making them feel supported, was the way to combat these holes.

“We are excited to have him here! We had some support before, but not someone who focused on the sole purpose of making sure these students are welcomed,” Overton said. “He’s already thinking about ways to bring in things, to not only support the students directly but to support the culture and the heritage of our students as well.”

Teacher contact is often Barajas’ strategy for reaching ELD goals.

“I am consistently talking to the teachers. I’m talking to the students as well. I’m monitoring their grades, giving them tools and also communicating with the older students about suggestions they have for their teachers,” he said.

Barajas creates a relationship between the student and the teacher to better understand each other on the best process to learn. However, the program is also controlled by students. Older students are constantly giving suggestions on how to help newcomers. Barajas then gets involved to make helpful changes and interventions.

The goal of his involvement is to get all of his students reclassified, the process where natively Spanish speaking students prove English Language proficiency in academic classes. He hopes to create a welcoming environment where they feel

included in the school and advancing toward graduation and next steps.

“I think it’s a great program to help students that, you know, lack those language elements. We get them prepared in order to be successful in their English classes or science classes—and also when they get to college,” he said.

Despite being new to the campus, Barajas has marched into the job of advising the Expedition Club, which he created to connect students from different backgrounds, countries, and cultures.

“I want students to have fun, find new friends, be active in the community, and feel welcome,” Barajas said.

COMIENZA BARAJAS

Ceasar Barajas sabe lo que es ir al colegio y no conocer el idioma que sale de los labios de los profesores y sus compañeros. Como graduado de un programa de ELD, sabe lo que es pasar por el proceso de reclasificación de tomar una prueba anual para determinar su dominio del inglés.

Barajas conoce y se relaciona con la experiencia de alguien que pasa por el programa de Desarrollo del Idioma Inglés y busca brindar orientación y apoyo.

Barajas procedía de la localidad de Terra

Bella, California, donde la población estaba mayoritariamente compuesta por inmigrantes, como sus padres, quienes trabajaban en labores manuales como el trabajo de campo. Barajas es un estudiante universitario de primera generación que obtuvo una licenciatura en Justicia Penal y trabajó en un centro de menores durante siete meses. Mientras asistía a este salón, también estuvo involucrado con Una agencia sin fines de lucro llamada Wrap Around, donde se enfocaron en las familias. Fueron estas experiencias y pasiones las

I WOULD LOVE TO HAVE A SPECIAL PLACE WHERE ALL THE ELD STUDENTS COULD GO DURING LUNCH, AFTER SCHOOL, OR EVEN SOMETIMES DURING CLASS IF TEACHERS LET THEM

PARA SEGUIR LEYENDO EN ESPANOL, ESCANEA EL CODIGO QR

que lo llevaron a adquirir su Maestría en Consejería Educativa para poder lograr su objetivo de ayudar a los estudiantes a crear vidas exitosas.

Principal Anthony Overton

Ceaser Barajas in his office.

ELD PAVES THE WAY

Inside look on the English Language Development program

By: Emily Neri, Carmesi Editor

The English Development Program (ELD) involves more than 230 students in their pursuit to be reclassified during high school. Reclassification is the process where students demonstrate language proficiency in order to be successful in their academic studies. These classes are offered to help the students learn English and provide support to welcome them into the school’s environment.

Florentino Aleman teaches two newcomer classes. The 2021 school year marks Aleman’s second year teaching at PRHS but has taught the ELD program for over 20 years. In his experience he has found that maintaining a positive connection with students has fostered their success in the program.

“If the teacher speaks Spanish then the students have a good relationship [with them]. If they don’t, it becomes difficult for them to communicate,” Aleman said . “The main purpose of this program is to get students to be successful in learning English and also complete and be successful in their academic classes.”

Along with Aleman, Elizabeth Cordoba, Humberto Cera ,Deborah McPherson, and Tyler Useda also teach the ELD cirriculum.

“The Goal of the ELD program is for them to practice their english. One of the most difficult things is talking. I have given them an environment to feel comfortable speaking and making mistakes that

ELD Department Assignments

way they can do it in other classes,” said Aleman.

Student Nathaly Hernandez is a senior who joined the program two years ago. With her family, she immigrated from Honduras to Paso Robles three years ago in hopes of challenging herself in her academics. The ELD program gave Hernandez the opportunity to learn a new language, culture, and environment.

“My goal for the ELD program during and after is to help all students who came from other countries learn how to communicate in English, and that they feel comfortable and welcomed in this new place. [This program] helped me with my transcripts, and I made new friends from different countries which helped me to understand their culture.”

Through her involvement in the program, Hernandez has been reclassified while maintaining a 4.0. Hernandez was particularly noticed as being a great achieving student by the new college and career counselor Cesar Barajas.

“He comes and talks to them here in class. I know he’s trying to start a club just like me and our goal is to try and make them feel comfortable, know what we have to offer, and for them to be successful,” said Aleman.

Along with the great strides of the ELD program, there are a few minor setbacks. Some of the issues with the ELD program is the lack of help students receive in a classroom where teachers aren’t familiar with their second language. It is also difficult for some students to practice pronunciation due to fear of embarrassment. Barajas has been working dilifently to make improvements on the program.

“One of the things we can do to help them is allow them to use the app during class so they can listen to the teacher and understand what they are learning. A lot of newcomers don’t know what’s available at school so having an opportunity for them to see what electives there are, so they can try something different, is important,” said Aleman.

“I feel that the program can be improved by introducing beginners reading books to the students, where they can

see the grammar of English and also so that they have an idea of how and when to use the words,”

Hernandez said. “The improvement that I would like to see is to encourage our students to practice each other’s pronunciation.”

In response to these shortcomings, Aleman is starting a new club called Makerspace. In this club participants will have the opportunity to practice their vocabulary. Students will also be able to learn real world skills as Aleman will even teach them how to fix cracked phone screens. Barajas is also advising the Expedition Club , which he has created to unite all students to get involved into the PRHS community and create a welcoming environment.

ELD is slowly growing in numbers and currently teaches 10% of the school’s student population. This program has aided in welcoming students from different backgrounds into our community and campus, simultaneously opening doors of cultural appreciation and representation. ELD is paving the way for teachers, students and families by diminishing the language barrier and allowing room for educational opportunities.

NEWCOMER 1

NEWCOMER 2

ENGLISH LITERATURE 1

ENGLISH LITERATURE 3

ENGLISH LITERATURE 2

Tyler Useda

elizabeth cordoba

Florentino aleman

This second level of newcomers is for students who haves improved their skill level in English

FLORENTINO ALEMAN

This class is for newcomers who don’t speak any English and are being introduced into the community 2 periods long

The last literature classes o ers students an advance nal pro ciency class 2 periods long

DEBRAH MCPHERSON

The second literature level now introduces students more deeply into launguage sophistication 4 periods long

Humberto cera

Debrah mcPherson

TO BACK TO SCHOOL

The return to school offers pros and cons regarding new COVID and schedule policies

by Malia Gaviola, Editor-in-Chief

The Fall of the school year is a time of growth and new experiences: freshmen scuttling around not knowing where their classes are; seniors ready for their last year at as Bearcats; new staff entering the Bearcat family while the holes of those who have left are still healing;teachers and staff and students ready to make new connections. However, after a year of quarantine and a few months of hybrid learning, the PRJUSD Board decided that students would be returning to an eight hour day for the first time in two years. Back to school, back to normal. However, as Aug. 19 rolled around and students walked through the gates on the first day , they found that the “new” normal was both alike and different from past years.

This in-depth section will explore the two sides of back to school: coming back during COVID times and to an unfamiliar schedule that has affected students’ lives.

An 8:30 start, two lunches separating the campus, and shorter nutrition and passing periods has

Likewise, COVID procedures that were either introduced or adapted as the pandemic and positive results in the county fluctuated, left students masked, sometimes quarantined , and faced with potential vaccine mandates.

Back to school at Paso Robles High School has ushered in a period of change that has left many students excited to return--yet disgruntled. They are motivated to battle in sports, learn in new classes, and dance again-yet there is dislike of the new. They must juggle both back-to-school COVID policies and a new schedule, and the consensus on each topic is mixed. A survey of over 350 students, plus interviews and research, will exhibit student opinion s on these two sides of back to school.

Back to school has allowed staff and students to strive to finally make connections without a screen separating them. It still has freshmen searching for classes on campus, lost... though sophomores are wandering along with them. Seniors are still looking forward to a final year with a hope that they won’t be sent back to distance learning.

Crimson news magazine investigates the new rules, regulations, controversies of starting a new school year in

2 SIDES TO A NEW SCHEDULE

by Malia Gaviola, Editor-in-Chief

The complaints piled high as the school year has rolled out. Third period students in the east campus were sent to early Lunch

A. West campus students headed to fourth period, launched afterwards, and the whole day started 30 minutes later than any year in anyone’s history. It was a recipe for perfect grumbling, and a logical result of available resources and Senate laws.

Students of course were quick to state the issues they disliked about the lunch: separations from friends and routines. In an Oct. 5 survey of 354 students, 65.5% of students stood against the split lunches and speak openly of the social costs.

“It causes a multitude of inconveniences for students i.e. not being able to meet with teachers during lunch, most clubs not being able to have meetings during lunch, not being able to sit with friends. I think it’s causing more trouble than it’s worth,” a sophomore said, encapsulating most of the student issues with the schedule.

“I never see my friends and it makes me feel so lonely and left out when half of my friends have a different lunch period,” the junior said. “If the friends I have in my lunch period are absent, I have to sit alone in the library at lunch. And it sucks. Lunches are so bad when you don’t have any friends to hangout with.”

Assistant Principal Michael Godsey maintained that the two lunches were enacted because PRHS has over 2,000 students enrolled and that is a staggering number to oversee at one time.

I’m sure there are other little reasons [why we should have split lunches], but the main one, the real one, is safety,” Godsey said. “There’s just so many kids at this huge high school. If there was a big safety situation that we want to make sure that we have enough security to handle it.”

Only 15% of students have been able to see the bright side of the smaller lunches as they wrote because there are less people, it is less crowded, more places to sit, shorter lunch lines,

have plagued the campus since 2019. Moreover, the first day of school is associated with waking up “early” for the first time since summer started. Yet on Jan. 1, 2020 Senate Bill 328 prohibited high school instruction from beginning until after 8:30 a.m.--zero period excluded.

A “Back to School” survey Oct. 5, 59.8% of students were “for” the 8:30 start.

“ I think it really helps students who live far away get a chance to sleep in a little later and have a somewhat better mental health,” said a sophomore

On the other hand, 19.5% were against the late start, citing a later start leads to a plethora of consequences .

“I always come home later now after school because of practice, which means that I start homework late and I end up staying up late,” a junior said.

Yet, changing the start time of the high school was the least of the changes in the schedule: the most infamous of all, split lunches split the student body to PRHS.

Despite 50.1% of surveyed students stating that they know the rationale behind the lunch policy in a free response section where they could write the reason, many students stated that it was to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

Godsey sympathized with students struggling in this time. He acknowledged the fact that students are disgruntled with not being able to see their peers and that they should look ahead.

“What advice would I give is that this is a new opportunity to make new friends and meet new groups to get outside your circle a little bit,” Godsey said. “I encourage them [students struggling] to see their friends at nutrition, within their own classes, and that there’s a whole lifetime of after school and on weekends. Now it’s all the more exciting to see them at dances or other school activities.”

For or against 8:30 am start

QUotes From sUrveY

Because of the split lunches, I don’t get to catch up with a lot of my friends. Also, it makes it a lot harder to meet with teachers during my lunch time because they are teaching during that time.

Less students at lunch means lower wait times for food and fewer students to supervise.

-TEACHER

It’s always better to have a less crowded campus and it feels more peaceful.

19.5% 20.7%

59.8% For or against split lUnches

15%

19.5%

FOR N E U TRAL

65.4%

AGAINST NEUTR A L FOR AGAIN S T

New COVID policies and schedule changes affect students for better or worse now it’s all the more exciting to see them at dances or other school activities.

MICHEAL GODSEY

-FRESHMAN

2 SIDES TO COVID POLICY

Students believe they should have the choice to be vaccinated, despite the new California public schools vaccine mandate.

In the face of Governor Gavin Newsom’s plans to require COVID 19 vaccinations for students on Oct 1, most PRHS students surveyed objected to his mandate, sharing a variety of convictions and questions.

California is the first state in the nation to announce such a measure, but it is not a policy supported by 51% of students according to a survey of over 350 students conducted between Sept 28Oct 8, 2021.

“I think we should have the choice and be able to decide what is best for us as individuals. If you want it, great. If not, then don’t get it,” one student wrote. Another student said, “People should be free to decide if they want to get a certain vaccine. No one should be limited to going to public school and getting an education. Those who have the underlying conditions should be free to get vaccinated if they want, but nobody should be forced to do it if they aren’t comfortable with it. We especially shouldn’t practice the use of forcing parents to abide by the district telling them how to care for their child through a controversial supplement.”

Still, student convictions pale next to CDC data. Over 396 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine have been given in the United States from December 14, 2020, through October 4, 2021, according to the CDC.gov. The CDC recommends that all U.S. individuals receive the vaccination. In California, 28,542,080 people (72.24% of the population) have received at least one dose. Overall, 23,482,292 people or 59.43% of California’s population have been fully vaccinated. “COVID-19 vaccines were evaluated in tens of thousands

MASKWEARINGATTHEHIGHSCHOOL? YES NO 33.9%66.1%

Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of a vaccine for age groups within each grade span, the CDPH will consider relevant recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Academy of Family Physicians prior to implementing a requirement, as required by the Health and Safety Code section 120335(b) (11).

Based on current projections for full approval for ages 12+, the expectation is that the requirement would apply to grades 7-12 starting on July 1, 2022. Back in August, California also led the country in requiring all teachers and school staff to either get vaccinated for COVID-19 or undergo weekly testing and “schools must be in full compliance by October 15, 2021,” (ca.gov, Office of Gavin Newsome).

“For the health of our community, believe all students and staff at the high school should be mandated to get a vaccine. People seem to forget that we have many mandated vaccines in our country. In order for any of us to attend a public school we all received vaccines as young children. Vaccines are intended to protect our health, not to create a political divide among people,” one teacher wrote.

Student attitudes stand in contrast to the adults who teach them. Nearly all 100-plus PRHS teachers and admin staff have been vaccinated. Those who haven’t (or decline to state) must test weekly. Similarly, the National Education Association, the nation’s largest union representing nearly 3 million educators, has been tracking vaccination reports since February 2021. In their most recent survey, 86% of teacher members have had at least one shot.

Students at PRHS think requiring vaccination for teachers is good for their educators. 42 % of students (in a survey of over 350) think that teachers should be required to get vaccinated. 12% of students do not think teachers should be required, 10% say they are not “informed enough to say,” and 36%

Though the majority of students (57%) are either pro/ against covid vaccination, 10 % think that regardless of their opinion, students should have a choice.

Some students wrote of the importance of a public vaccination campaign. Many students who support getting a COVID vaccination urge students and teachers to get it so that “everything can get back to normal.” Another student wrote, “It is something people should take to stay safe and go back to a ‘normal’ life.”

Another student said, “I’m all for the COVID vaccine. I think it’s important to take every measure

it. People expect the vaccine to eradicate covid completely, but it seems to me as though this is an overly idealistic view.”

Another student believes that there is not enough scientific evidence to support covid vaccinations. “I do not support it. don’t believe it has been tested and studied enough to thoroughly actually help without repercussions. Not only that but don’t think it should be required either. And if the covid vaccine is so effective, then why should people around them still be forced to wear masks, if the vaccine really does it’s job? People who get the vaccine are still spreading covid and are still catching it, and even dying from it.”

Students also doubt the effectiveness of masks. 88% think that face coverings should not be required to be worn outside. “Face coverings must be worn everywhere on campus, indoors/outdoors, and on buses,” regardless of ability to maintain 6ft apart, according to the Paso Robles Joint Unified School District (PRJUSD) COVID 19 Prevention Program handbook (CPP).

According to the CPP, face coverings with an exhalation valve or vent and surgical masks are not acceptable to be worn at school. Face coverings may be removed during meals, snacks, and drinking as long as 6 feet distance is maintained from others. Participants in sports are required

by Rayvin Wulfing, Editor-In-Chief

to wear face coverings when participating in the activity, even with heavy exertion as tolerated, both indoors and outdoors--unless the face covering could become a hazard. Face coverings may also be removed when an employee is alone in a room.

“Face masks are required in all indoor settings per public health. They are not required in outdoor settings,” said Deputy Superintendent, Jennifer Gaviola

“Public health mandates face masks in k-12 settings because they state: face masks block up to 50-70% of fine droplets and particles that were not captured. Cloth masks also reduce the wearers’ exposure to infectious droplets by filtering fine droplets and particles,” Gaviola said.

The CPP also states that schools in the PRJUSD must “perform routine environmental cleaning following CDC Guidelines” and “routinely clean all frequently touched surfaces.”

Amidst this new era of guidelines and preventative measures, PRHS students want to be able to decide for themselves whether or not they should be vaccinated. While most students (66.1%) agree with the mandatory indoor mask wearing regulation at the high school, most believe that they should choose whether getting the vaccine is the right choice for them.

QUOTES FROM SURVEY

I think if everyone at school was vaccinated I would feel much more safe.

I believe its everyone’s freedom to choose whether or not they get the vaccine. As Americans we should have the final say and not be forced to take it.

For the health of our community, I believe all students and staff at the high school should be mandated to get a vaccine. Vaccines are intended to protect out health, not to be a political divide among people.

do not think students should be required to get the COVID vaccine. I should be able to decide what I feel is right to put in my body.

possible against COVID so that people won’t keep dying and that we can all go back to a somewhat normal life.”

One student who is opposed to the vaccination believes that the eradication of COVID is too idealistic of a view, therefore it should not be required.

“I don’t really care if people do or don’t take it. Their health is none of my business. Personally, I’d like to see if there are long term effects, and don’t see much of a reason for younger people with no underlying conditions to take

Covid-19 School Sympton Screening Flowchart Student

PRJUSD Contacts:

STUDENTS: Ashley Aeillo, laaiello@pasoschools.org

STAFF: Marcy Garcia, mrgarcia@pasoschools.org Jen Gaviola, jjgaviola@pasoschools.org

*Note: Asymptomatic people with recent close contact with someone with COVID-19 should quarentine.

42% THINK THAT TEACHERS SHOULD BE REQUIRED TO GET VACCINATED.

Graphics by Malia Gaviola and Serenity and Rayvin Wulfing

Photo by Rayvin Wulfing

Taking a Leap

Taking a Leap

Come spend a magical summer evening with G and G

Brave enough to go on a blind date? Take a break from reality and read about a sunset adventure where two students took a chance on a blind date Sept 21st, 2021 in downtown Paso. This date was a momentous occasion for two Bearcats and one that continues the 20 year tradition of Crimson’s Blind Date.

Each frantically guessed and constantly wondered who the other would be.

It’s time that we reveal the duo… His hair makes him irresistible to the ladies and being on the varsity football team helps too. She is an amazing athlete with a bubbly personality that entrances anyone she meets. Ladies and gentlemen, our 2021 blind daters were senior Gustabo Lara and sophomore Georgina Abreu

It was the 21st night of September,what we would call the perfect night for our long awaited blind date. As the sun fell, a light breeze glided through iconic downtown Paso Robles, where the couple first laid eyes on each other around 6:30 p.m. The couple let out a laugh of relief followed by a hug in the gazebo.

Lara and Abreu strolled side by side on their way to the local thrift shop, Goodwill where, following our instructions, they picked out an outfit for each other to wear. Walking in with ten minutes until closing, they could tell the employees wanted them to leave. While trying to suppress their giggles and laughter, they explored the colorful aisles of second hand clothing. It proved difficult to find something that the other would like but just as the cranky worker exclaimed at them to “get moving” they each found a piece for the other and frantically ran to the register.

After the frantic ten minutes they spent in Goodwill, the two of them tried on their new looks. “One, two, three” they opened the fitting room doors in unison to surprise each other. Gustabo had picked out a velvet emerald green sweater for her that would match her eyes and was also his favorite color; Georgina selected a vintage grey v-neck from the brand Abercrombie.

For Love For Love

by Kalista Peterson & Sienna Ramos

The couple learned that they shared a love for pizza and wings, so they made their way over to Sweet Lew’s Pizzeria downtown. Climbing the disco lit staircase with growing hunger they came across a sign that spelled out CLOSED. What’s a date without something askew?

They instead took the cobblestone path through the park to PPK. We set the lovebirds free by leaving them to wait for their order alone. As they approached the set up of twinkling lights, fresh flowers, and candles they were wowed. Their plates were piled up high with pizza and wings and the conversation continued. The couple light heartedly shared their summer memories- bonding over their jobs, hanging with friends, and enjoying the time off school.

Ready for a sweet treat after their meal, they headed over to Cold Stone Creamery.

To keep them jumping into the unknown -- much like the date itself -- they sampled some ice cream flavors and attempted to guess what they were. Both successfully guessed the blind flavors, they settled on a seasonal batch of pumpkin ice cream.

Seeing a familiar face, everyone recognized a fellow Bearcat waiting in line. They goofed around explaining the situation of how we had roped them into this debacle. Pulling out a crumbled bill, senior Luke Martin asked “What are you guys doing?”. We were all shocked and overwhelmed with gratitude as he explained, “I just paid for you guys.” The pair ate their ice cream as the night was coming to a close.

The town lights illuminated the walk to Gustabo’s car. We left the two of them to say their goodbyes. They conversed over the top of his shiny

CODY DOMINGOS

This Angler of the Year has aspirations to compete in bass fishing professionally.

by Rayvin Wulfing, Editor-In-Chief

Looking out over the horizon, senior Cody Domingos admires the dark and gloomy sky filled with grey clouds. He thinks to himself, ‘perfect weather to catch some bass.’ Out on Lake Shasta, the water is calm and Domingos is eager to get a bite. The bass are in a feeding frenzy right now because they can sense a storm coming. Suddenly he feels a sharp jerk on his line. He quickly realizes an opportunity has arisen. His heart starts to pound as the battle with the bass begins. He struggles to reel it in--this bass is a fighter--but Domingos is persistent and clever with his fishing game. Finally after a well fought match of constant tugs and clever reeling, Domingos is the victor. A massive 7lb largemouth olive-green bass, marked by a series of dark blotches along each flank, is pulled out of the water. With the defeated bass in the live well, now it’s onto the next fish...and the tournament continues with $25,000 on the line...

Beginning when he was 3 years old, Domingos has been fishing ever since he can remember. “I’ve fished my whole life. Since I could barely walk I fished,” Domingos said.

It was always a priority for his parents to emerge themselves in the outdoors; camping in the trout fishing, ponds or planning their around Domingos was found with a fishing pole in hand.

“Almost everything we do revolves around the outdoors and mostly where there is water with some sort of fish in it,” Cody’s dad said.

Domingos is self taught; mainly educating himself by watching YouTube tutorial videos about bass fishing, fish behavior, and also by “just going out there [on the lake] for fun,” (Cody).

During his early childhood, Domingos and his father would go fishing on a short ten foot boat. Though this was a humble start, Domingos now competes in statewide tournaments with prizes as large as $25,000.

“Both Julie (Cody’s mother) and I have contributed to Cody’s hobby by providing him opportunities to succeed in something he has shown a tremendous interest in. It was my idea to take him fishing when

he was little. Cody continued to want to go fishing, so I would take him whenever I could,” Jason Domingos said.

In addition to his father, Cody has another fishing partner, Kyle Goldstein. Goldstein is a sophomore at Mission College Preparatory Catholic High School in San Luis Obispo, who has known Domingos for a couple years. They first began fishing together by sneaking into various winery ponds and lakes, until they eventually began fishing together in some of the local tournaments such as the Good Ole’ Boys and Ambushers.

“When it comes to Cody as a friend, I’d say he’s the best friend anyone could ask for. He’s hilarious, and always willing to help me out with Spanish homework. He always responds to my 10:00pm 911 texts and helps me through girl problems. Everyone loves Cody and that’s

This year, Domingos and Goldteain will compete in a Major League Fishing (MLF) Series for high school. They are also planning on going to a couple out of state tournaments: placed the that a future it wasn’t turned 14 when he really dove into the competitive side of fishing. Domingos has competed in over a dozen fishing competitions in the last two years he has been in the sport. Most of the tournaments he has attended were held at Lake Nacimiento, an 18-mile (29 km) long lake on the Nacimiento River; 15 min out west of paso, Past Flamson Middle School. The largest tournament he has competed for so far was with his father in Jan, 2021 at Lake Shasta with 200 boats--the prize money

As of right now, Domingos is a member of multiple “clubs” including Good ol Boys and Ambushers (which are both local clubs), as well as Wild West Bass Trail (WWBT, 200+ boats each tournament), American Bass Association (ABA, 50-60 boats each tournament), and Best Bass Trail (BBT, 40-50 boats each tournament); which are all over the state of california. As a team, Cody and his father won “Angler of the Year,” in a BBT tournament they competed in this year. BBT is a statewide bass organization that divides the state into 5 regions. Cody and his father are also the Coastal Division Champions and will compete in a Tournament of Champions on Oct. 9-10, 2021 at Lake Don Pedro, which is nestled in the Sierra Nevada Foothills, east of Modesto, California and offers 160 miles of shoreline with 13,000 surface acres of water.

Cody is leading the points race for “Angler of the Year” at the local Ambushers Tournament Series. There are around 30 competitors that fish these tournaments on a monthly basis and he is the youngest one there.

“It’s pretty cool to see all the older guys look up to him as an accomplished angler. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for him in the sport,” Jason said.

Despite the competition, Cody enjoys fishing with the guys in his club.

“I pretty much know all the guys. And it’s just kind of cool because whether you know them or not, the whole fishing community is pretty cool. Everyone’s so welcoming to each other. It’s just a bunch of guys who go out and they’re all having a good time. You know? I mean, obviously, it gets pretty competitive at times, because you’re all fishing for a bundle of money, but everyone’s pretty supportive of each other,” Cody explained.

As a member of these clubs he has access to various different tournaments, locally and throughout the state that he competes in during the beginning of the year to mid summer. The first club Domingos competed in was the Good Ol’ Boys. He placed fourth out of 10-20 boats.

At 15 years old, Domingos won his first tournament. It was an individual tournament, which means he was the only one on the boat, and the prize money was $500.

“The feeling of catching a fish alone is what got me hooked on the sport. From the moment the fish bites the line to the time it takes my brain to recognize that there’s a fish on the line is what gets the adrenaline going. The amount of support I got from the people around me to sinking in all the

countless hours of work I had put in to get to that moment...winning that [first] tournament was the cherry on top,” Domingos said.

After that first triumph, Domingos was motivated to win more tournaments, not just for the money, but mostly because he fell in love with the process and the challenge of the sport.

“From the time that my hand recognizes that I’m getting a bite, to my brain realizing that it’s all happening and then setting the hook...that’s just like the magic of it all,” Cody said. “It’s like a puzzle to figure out where the fish are, where the bigger ones are, what color they’re biting, what looters are biting...there’s all these different components that make it a mystery. And once you start to figure it all out, and you’re slowly peeling away at it, you realize, ‘wow, it’s really happening, I can feel it.’ And a lot of the time before you even weigh in to the tournament, you’re gonna know how you did so if you feel pretty confident about the day, usually you’re gonna do pretty good.”

Domingos’ long term goal is to fish professionally as a career. Ideally he would like to earn a scholarship to compete in collegiate fishing competitions in college, and then from there go pro. But if that doesn’t work out for him, he would be interested in any career in the fishing

“There’s hundreds of thousands of jobs in the fishing industry, which means marketing itself, or creating a fishing company, or representing a company. A lot of that stuff is like, it’d be awesome to

Out of the 14 years Domingos has been fishing he has learned “that you really have to enjoy your time with whoever you’re with, whether it’s fishing, or whether it’s doing your chores, or whatever, because a lot of that time goes by so fast,” (Cody). Since he will be leaving to go to college soon he has reminisced over the many years he has fished with his father and he would like to savor every moment he has

“I’m taking off for college soon, and I won’t have my dad as a tournament partner forever. And so some of the times you might get annoyed or butt heads with one another, but you want to make sure to enjoy the time you have together,” Cody said.

“It makes me both happy and proud to fish with Cody. It’s truly amazing to see how far he’s come as an Angler,”

FISH OUT OF WATER

Cody and his father earn Anglers of the Year.

Domingos and Goldstein at Lake Nacimiento.

Digging deep for the courage to set back her medical struggles, junior Brooklyn Pesenti has to push her way through a condition most don’t. Pesenti plays volleyball and softball for the high school and excels at both sports.

Recently she was diagnosed with Chiari Malformation 1 and Syringomyelia. Her brain was too big for her skull, growing into her spinal column, causing the spinal fluid to be restricted from flowing throughout her body and forming three fluid sacks in her spine. Surgery and doubt lay ahead for Pesenti and her family.

“While I was preparing for surgery, there were many thoughts going through my head. A lot of negatives, but I tried to stay positive and tried not to think too much about what was going on,” Pesenti said. “I didn’t want it to affect me mentally because it had already affected me physically. It definitely brought me down. However, I never would’ve imagined having to go through something like I did.”

During the surgery, the surgeons went in and removed a part of her skull to create room for the fluid to flow. They also took out her C1 vertebrae to help the fluid flow easier through her body.

According to physio-pedia.com, 20% of patients suffering from Syringomyelia died at an average age of 47. Syringomyelia has a prevalence of approximately 8.4 out of 100.000 individuals.

“The biggest thing I worried about was something going wrong in surgery and me not being able to play sports again. Sports are a big part of my life,

by Braydon Hoier, The Freshman

and although I can’t participate in soccer anymore due to the contact, I am still able to play softball and volleyball, so I am extremely thankful,” Pesenti said.

As everybody who knew Pesenti was crossing their fingers in hopes of a successful surgery, their hopes were answered when she came out of the surgery in good condition. Postsurgery she felt good, and she is now working on coming back stronger and better than ever to doing what she loves. It’s definitely going to take her some time, but with her coaches and trainers guidance she knows she can do it.

Vicky Luna has been a coach and friend by Pesenti’s side since her middle

school years at Flamson Middle School.

“Brooklyn has the best work ethic! She always gives 100% at everything she does. As a coach I know I can always count on her. As a 16 year old young lady, she has a very bright future ahead of her,” Luna said.

Luna’s printing company Fluid Screen Printing made shirts, sold for $20 each. All sales went directly to the Pesenti family to help with the surgery.

“[Brooklyn] is always there for her friends, family, and teammates. She is my role model, and I wouldn’t want to be by anyone else’s side,” junior Ireland Lynch said. Ireland has been Brooklyn’s best friend and teammate since earliest memories . “She is an amazing teammate, always wanting what’s best for her team,” Lynch said.

Scores of supporters wore the Brooklyn shirts -- or light blue -- on surgery day in September and again on “Pesenti Night” in the game against AGHS Tues Oct. 5. Pesenti is still recovering from surgery physically and mentally, but she’s scheduled to return to school Monday, Oct. 11th and sports December of 2021. Although Pesenti will not be able to return to volleyball, she will be on the bench cheering and pushing her teammates to their fullest potential.

125

SHIRTS SOLD RAISED

$2,500

BIGGEST SUPPORTERS; Friends Georgina Abreu (sophomore) & Ireland Lynch (junior) support Brooklyn even while she’s recovering on Tuesday Oct. 5, 2021 at Paso High Gymnasium.

A Dog on Campus

by Cadence Eastep, Reporter

Ruminating in the back of junior Lexi Keller’s mind is dreams of college. Graduation caps fly, tears fall, and she flaunts her medical degree. She accomplishes all of her dreams and prepares for the life she’s been planning for. In her future, she sees herself with a higher education, but the road to this landmark may be more difficult for her than for others due to medical struggles.

Keller has been a part of one of Paso Robles High School’s Career technical Education healthcare pathway for 3 years. This pathway begins with an Introduction to Health Care course, continues with the CTE Sports Medicine class, and ends with a capstone course of either the Athletic Trainer Practicum or Community Healthcare Practicum. This has been a very positive experience in Keller’s life.

She’s also currently taking classes such as Anatomy which have really helped her in this journey towards a career in healthcare. She hopes to bring this repertoire of classes to Washington University or any medical schools in Colorado once she graduates in 2023.

However, she may face some road bumps along the way. Keller has Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH), a condition which means that her body doesn’t produce enough cortisol. Cortisol

Junior Lexi Keller on Her Life Training Her Service Dog

is a very important steroid for human life. When released in someone’s body, it helps with making their body respond to danger and stress, their metabolism, their blood pressure, and it reduces inflammation, so this condition could be very dangerous for her if she runs too low or hurts herself in some way.

“If I were to get into an accident or to break a bone I would need an emergency dose of Cortisol through a shot,” Keller said.

She has had multiple concussions in her life, one of which has caused her to develop a condition called Post Concussive Syndrome (PCS). This condition means that she has migraines and headaches at all times.

These conditions were never really seen as issues for Keller and her family, as she has always had access to nurses and care throughout her public school experiences. However, Keller knew she had to learn how to thrive in this world on her own.

Four years ago, Keller and her family came to the decision to adopt Tahoe, a dog from Woods Humane Society when she was just four months old. She is part Border Collie, Shetland Sheepdog, Guard, and Herd dog.

Middle Schoolers at Heart?

by Kayla Degnan, Reporter

Learning through a bright screen for the first part of their freshman year, the class of 2024 has experienced three different schedules in the short time they have been bearcats. From distance learning as freshmen, then later switching to an in-person schedule that was broken up into mornings and afternoons, that same year, the decision by the school board on Aug. 11 to allow students to be in-person for eight hours a day for the 2021-22 school year came as a surprise. With 85% out of 90 students preferring a full day at school rather than the abridged hybrid schedule from the prior year, many have gone through a series of emotions: relieved to finally be on campus, confused by their lack of experience, and ecstatic for the new year.

According to a survey offered to tenth graders, being on campus for a full six period day after 17 months of either no or some time on campus created an awkward atmosphere for 47 out of 90 tenth graders that felt more like freshmen than sophomores. The same survey demonstrated that 52.2% felt as if they were still in middle school or still stuck in freshman year because of the haphazard transition in the school schedules.

Over 55% students enjoyed being back on campus while 28%

were somewhat happy coming back to eight hour school days. Bianca Rangel, a sophomore coming from Daniel E. Lewis middle school has experienced both the positive and negative aspects of returning to school.

Rangel is in her second year of the cheer and stunt program, a base on the varsity cheer team. She had started her cheering career last year during the schedules, being an athlete and a dedicated student. Rangel had ended her freshman year with a 4.0 GPA even during her difficulty in the hybrid schedule.

“It’s affected me in the sense that I’m not home, so I don’t have much time for myself or my schoolwork, so I just have to stay up later.” Rangel said.

In order to prepare for the imminence of college, Keller chose to train her to become a service dog before her high school years are up.

Junior Zoe Smith has been a friend of Keller’s since kindergarten. The two challenge each other often and are very close. Smith has seen Keller through all of her medical struggles, and she couldn’t be more proud of her.

Zoe Smith, 11

“She doesn’t let her lasting injury hold her back, even if she needs to take breaks in between,” Smith said.

She has seen how Keller doesn’t use her conditions to her advantage in any way. Instead, she overcomes her problems and finds a way to solve them herself.

“She hasn’t given up on a normal life or used her predicament as an excuse to get out of anything,” Smith said.

Outside of being her service dog, Tahoe also loves the outdoors. The two spend time at the beach or hiking very often, even though Tahoe hates water. She also adores the snow.

“We went to Yosemitie and we got out of the car and she raced around in the snow and then pounced in it and fell through a large portion of the snow,” Keller said.

With Tahoe by her side, Keller looks forward to her future in the medical field. Without having to worry about her medical conditions, she can follow her hopes and show her ability to be independent. After accepting her degree in medicine, she’ll walk with Tahoe’s leash in hand and a life she finds fulfilling at her fingertips.

“I don’t sit on my couch all day, and I’m not at home all day. I can go outside.” Tobin said, a Varsity track and field athlete during the 2020-2021 school year

During hybrid learning, right when I would go into my breaks for class I would go and help my younger siblings with their schoolwork or their meetings, my parents weren’t home because of work, and then right after school I’d either go to work or to go straight to [cheer] practice.

Bianca Rangel, 10

Rangel has liked schedule more so than the hybrid because she is able to see her friends more and understand concepts better from her teachers. She enjoys learning hands on from her teachers while immersing herself in a normal classroom environment filled with 30 to 35 students per class.

Sophomore Jack Tobin has also had similar struggles with the transition. He found that it impacted his lifestyle and involvement with extracurriculars.

By the end of his freshman year and season, Tobin reached a vaulting height of 10’6 foot tall pole. Through his involvement in sports and the ability to be in person during school, Tobin perfected the key to success in pole vaulting, his academic eligibility. With his 4.2 GPA, Tobin is striving to keep his grades up in rigorous classes so that he will be able to vault once again this spring.

Both agreed an experience they missed participating in are school dances. So on September 17 when PRHS hosted its first dance of the 2020-21 school year, called the Pound the Hounds, Tobin and Rangel enjoyed the spirited, lighthearted atmosphere that surrounded them on the dance floor.

“I would have wished to experience more dances my freshman year, because I had a lot of fun,” Rangel said.

The experiences have been different for both but they have not been the only ones to undergo a pretentious start of the school year. From screens to laughing with their peers, being able to hear the sound of voices not muffled by a speaker and the crinkle in their eyes has been a positive experience sophomores., being back on campus.

She hasn’t given up on a normal life or used her predicament as an excuse to get out of anything

Zoe Smith, 11

Being back to school, sophomores are trying to embrace the high school experience

BRAXTON SPEAKS LOUDER THAN WORDS

Working in public education for 20 years, Gerald Braxton looks to make PRHS his new home as the new Assistant Principal.

by Malia Gaviola, Editor-in-Chief

As Gerald Braxton stood in the middle of the Gil Asa gym and looked out to the sea of students at Freshman Orientation on Sep. 11, He could see there was a sense of comradery between the ninth graders and his July appointment as PRHS Assistant Principal. Both are new to Paso Robles High School.

“I want the freshman to concentrate on the fact that I am there to help no matter what, no matter how big or how small you think the problem is, come to me,” Braxon said about the challenges of starting at a new school.

Braxton spoke to the 200 freshmen from a place of candidness as both the assistant principal and as the ninth-grade administrator who is specializing in the overseeing and discipline of the class of 2025. Similar to one of PRHS’s counselors, he will work with these freshmen until they are seniors and they graduate.

His campus-style after a day or two on campus after the Aug. 19 start was noted by many as friendly and approachable as he introduced himself to students he did not know and began the process of building a new high school home. However, on the fourth day of school, he was sent to the hospital with a head injury due to a confrontation between a student and a community member just outside of our campus gates. The staff and students of PRHS were quick to send their support to their new assistant principal by sending well-wishing cards, chalking the font of the office, and signing a football helmet.

“I was really dumbfounded by the amount of support I had... I was only there for three weeks and then the first four days of school... It’s like wow, I don’t even know these people,” Braxton said, specifically wanting to thank everyone for their phone calls, texts, emails, cards, letters, and gifts.

Receiving his Bachelor’s in Psychology and Masters in Education at CSU Stanislaus as well as a California certification as a School Counselor and School Administrator, Braxton is accustomed to being in leadership positions with his 39 years of work experience. Yet, Braxton is also fairly diverse with the jobs he has held. From working in education for 20 years, being a factory foreman for 13 ½ years, to a Juvenile Probation Officer for 13 years, he is able to apply the four decades of experience to his job now as PRHS’ newest

little,” Braxton said. “They [my past experience] prepared me with the skill-set to work with very diverse people, culture and beliefs, fix and growth mindset thinking.”

Principal Anthony Overton was on the interviewing panel for the position after Tom Harrington left to become the district Director of Student Services. He described the attributes of a good assistant principal and what he was looking for in the candidates: a love for students and a drive to make the school a better place, the ability to put in hard work, and a strong work ethic because the high school runs 20 hours a day, six days a week.

“Right from his interview, I think my first thought was that it was so clear that he was all about kids,” Overton said. “He comes from a long history of serving students and is going to help us increase the support for all of our students so they can be successful while they’re here. We’re just excited to have his experience and his background and his perspective on campus.”

This year Braxton will be in charge of the social-emotional learning opportunities during the Thursday tutorials are meant to provide. According to Overton, these tutorials are going to center around presenting materials that are going to engage students and foster conversations about kindness, acceptance, inclusivity, equity, and mental health.

Though discipline plays a major role in his job as an administrator, Braxton plans on focusing on student achievement, solution focus, and “continuous improvement.” He has also maintained a mantra of forming connections with students.

“In all my years as a leader in law enforcement and education, I have come to know that when people feel connected, and feel a sense of purpose they feel they belong and thrive in their endeavors,” Braxton said.

And make connections he did. Freshman Class President Brandon Nguyen was at Orientation and was able to hear Braxton speak to the class of 2025. He looks forward to collaborating with Braxton in years to come.

“He was a very pumped up, energetic guy, and I really liked his vibe. He was pretty cool,” Nguyen said.

Though a specific date is not yet set for his return to campus, Braxon is still keeping up with the activities going on at PRHS. With an avid love for sports as a cross country and track star in his youth, he looks forward to seeing all the extracurriculars Paso has to offer.

“I really liked the sporting events, and I’m just floored missing football right now... I was a cross country and track guy, and then you know that’s why I kept my grades up so I could run track. If it wasn’t for that athletic piece I don’t know how well I would do academics,” Braxton said.

As Braxon looks to foster connections among himself, students, staff, and the extracurriculars on campus, he comes in with the mindset of an athlete.

“My coaches always told us to let our ‘running do your talking’ and that’s kind of my philosophy of life. I just let [my actions] do my talking.”

School Counselor

Learning Director

Dean of Students

3 Assistant Principal Positions

Administrator of Staff and Student Services

2 Summer School Principal positions

Principal of a Continuations School

Principal of Community Day School

Principal of a Special Needs School

Coordinator of Special Education

I am there to help no matter what, no matter how bIg or how small you thInk the problem Is, come to me. gERALD bRAXTON

Photos provided by gerald braxon

an aDmIn anD athlete : Braxon runs in a 1974 cross country race

In this Together

Married and pregnant in June; both science teachers continue to give back

by Jocelyn Lopez, Design Co-Editor

Just married in June 2021, Evan Johnston and Lynda Johnston, will be expecting their first child in Feb. 2022. Mrs. Johnston has been teaching Science academy two honors/regular at PRHS for the past four years and Mr. Johnston teaches Science Academy three and AP Physics one.

With being pregnant there are many apprehensions that Mrs. Johnston faces with the return back to school. According to an article by CDC.gov, “pregnant and recently pregnant women are at a higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19 than non-pregnant women.”

Mr. Johnston suffered similar circumstances back in early Nov. 2020. Although Mr. Johnston is a “pretty healthy guy” according to Mrs. Johnston; in early Nov. 2020 blood work revealed that Mr. Johnston was immunocompromised leading to being at higher risk for Covid-19.

“He got really really sick before COVID happened and he was out of school for a few weeks and had pneumonia and a hard time breathing and he was almost hospitalized,” Mrs. Johnston said.

However, after several months his health has seen some improvement.

“It’s not as big of a concern anymore now that my kind of blood work has improved,” Mr. Johnston said.

Because of these risks, Mr and Mrs. Johnston have been taking all the necessary precautions to keep others but most importantly themselves safe during this time.

“Anytime we’re in public pretty much we wear a mask, even like outdoors farmer’s market... and we wash our hands frequently,” Mrs. Johnston said.

“I’m definitely washing my hands still all the time...I’ve gone home and actually complained that I’m washing them so much that my knuckles have started to crack,” Mr. Johnston said.

Family

Expanding their family was a conversation that Mr. and Mrs. Johnston had been talking about, for a while and “came to the conclusion that this could be a good time,” Mr. Johnson said. So, it was no surprise when they found out they were expecting. Both are very excited to become parents to a baby boy in Feb. 2022.

Lockdown has made Mrs. Johnston more aware about how strong her and her husband’s relationship really is. Although, spending everyday with each other wasn’t much of a difference from their normal life she believes that it’s brought them together and made them grow.

“We can face things together and it’s not going to make us weaker as a couple, but it’s going to make us stronger together,” Mrs. Johnston said.

Missing out

With a child on the way and being at higher risk Mr. and Mrs. Johnston have not been able to participate in some of their favorite activities: going out to eat at restaurants, attending school events, and going to the gym.

“Because, I mean, biologically her immune system is suppressed right now. And that means that we can’t be as laws a-fair and cavalier about just kind of our day to day actions,” Mr. Johnston said.

Both still make efforts to work around these obstacles; they’ll go out and get takeout and eat at someplace that is less public.

The Classrooms

Through the efforts of coming back in person and teaching both Mr. and Mrs. Johnston have faced difficulty with students not following the proper CDC guidelines. Constantly

reminding students to wear their masks properly has become a common issue in both of their classrooms.

“COVID is a concern, especially coming in and getting the classroom ready and thinking about masks and all the safety things and still worrying about my health too, it’s scary, but at the same time, there’s not a whole lot I can’t do about it, other than, trying to get kids to wear their mask appropriately and to wear mine,” future mother Mrs. Johnston said.

Mr. Johnston was gone for over 17 months and didn’t get to step foot into his classroom until June of 2021. With the efforts to go back to normal; after not being able to teach digitally from home like he did last spring, that just hasn’t been the case.

“It’s a hard balance in making sure that I’m not putting myself at risk and so it’s been challenging...the first weeks, I definitely was kind of culture shocked and it felt surreal for me, quite frankly,” Mr Johnston said.

Digital notebooks has became a new custom that Mr. Johnston has had to implement in his classroom. In order for kids not to miss two weeks full of instruction if they need to quarantine, the digital notebooks are easily accessible with all of the material that would be given during class.

“Digital notebooks are something which I’ve never done before, and it just was a whole kind of new beast of approach and how to do it and so it’s been different,” Mr Johnston said.

“It’s been a lot and I’ve tried to fall back in, doing what I used to do because I want to be here for my students. I really have found that teaching really feels like my calling.”

After lockdown and the isolation most students faced, Mrs. Johnston found it necessary to include “smiles and frowns” in her classroom.

“I started doing something in my classroom, where we go around and everyone has a chance to share a smile, something good going on, or a frown and they can always pass.”

Mrs. Johnston tries to create a safe environment for her students in her class. Being interactive and communicating with her students through smiles and frowns is a step towards creating that safe-space.

“I really like how she has smiles and frowns and she checks up on you, it’s not like she’s just asking you. She genuinely cares and you can really see that through everything that she does she likes to get a lot of feedback from all the students and I really appreciate that,” Sophomore Nicole Rogers said.

SHE’S MY BEST FRIEND AND I LOVE SPENDING TIME WITH HER. MR. JOHNSTON

Nicole Rogers, 10

BABY ON thE braIN

by Brooklynn Healy, Reporter

espite the trials that having a previous miscarriage and having a baby during COVID bring, English teacher Robyn Barringer has been able to focus on both her son and her students: learning how to balance being a mom, a teacher, and making sure everyone gets the support they need. Losing a child is always a hardship, and it is estimated that more than one million women in the United States are affected by pregnancy loss through misscarriage or stillbirth annually, according to the University of Rochester Medical Center.

“I think now that there really are no words to fully express what it’s like to have your own child,” Barringer said. “Before I had my son, I actually lost my first child. And so through that process I learned, first of all how badly I really wanted to be a mom, and then second of all, just what a true miracle every single life is.”

Barringer and her husband have been able to remain strong through a tragic loss, and have grown as people and now have a healthy son, Lincoln Carlisle Barringer

Their son was born January 11, 2021 at 8:18 p.m. Despite what Twilight fans might be thinking knowing that Mrs. Barringer is an English teacher, Lincoln’s middle name Carlisle comes from one of his great grandfather’s, and not the vampire character from the popular saga. He was born during a time that was hard on everyone, but Barringer has described the extra time with him as “a blessing in disguise. In the midst of a really nasty situation I was able to benefit a little bit because I wouldn’t have had that time with him otherwise.”

Dand be responsible for raising that baby to become an amazing human has given her a new perspective.

Becoming a mom has made Barringer more focused on her students’ personal well being. Therefore, she has taken time this year to implement a new grading system that is individualized to each student and also standards-based and formally assessed. Her growth- based grading approach mainly focuses on the academic and personal growth of the student, not the completion of assignments. She also has her students complete self-checks at the start of each class to reflect on their well being and how they feel about school and their lives. Barringer has always wanted to change from a standardized grading system and quarantine gave her time to work on the actual logistics.

Student athlete Leila Barela-Gonzalez explains that Baringer’s personalized grading system is being found helpful. Barela is a sophomore on the girls water polo team and has Barringer’s honors English class for sixth period. She has to miss a lot of the class to play her games, which with a standardized grading system based on points would mean a lot of extra time spent on late or missing assignments. But the grading system that Mrs. Barringer took the time to plan and strategize isn’t based on points.

NOw I cOmE IN wIth that mINdsEt aNd I kNOw that EvEry sINgLE ONE Of my studENts that waLks IN thE dOOr Is a mIracLE, aNd that thEy dEsErvE just as much LOvE aNd attENtION as aNy OthEr kId IN my cLass. I fEEL that I thINk mOrE strONgLy thaN I dId PrEvIOusLy, that I havE aN ObLIgatION, a NEEd, a dEsIrE tO rEaLLy takE carE Of Each Of my studENts NOt just ON aN acadEmIc LEvEL but at a hEart LEvEL as wELL.”

For Barringer, becoming a mother was a lifechanging experience. She had always felt responsible for her students, and that they were all her children in a way; but to grow and give birth to a human being

“I think that Mrs. Barringer’s grading system is one of the most realistic from a student and teacher perspective. She doesn’t hold social life (sports, clubs, family, etc.) against us and her main goal is to see growth in each of her students,” Barela said.

Barringer has managed to find time to create a new grading system that benefits her students the most by focusing on their growth throughout the year despite adjusting to her new life as a mother and having a baby. She has decided to implement these changes because becoming a mother has given her a deeper appreciation for each and every one of her students. She wanted to make sure that their personal well-being and growth comes before just doing what is needed to get the grade. As Barela has noticed, this effort has not gone unnoticed by her students, and many appreciate the opportunities provided by the different workload.

Grading the grading system with Barringer

Do you prefer her grading system to the standard point grading system? Q

a

I prefer her grading system to the standard grading system, mainly because it doesn’t get held against a student if they don’t understand the criteria first time around, her main goal is to make sure we do understand and put our best effort into our work and growth.

Do you feel that you have a better chance to succeed with her gradinging system? Q

I do feel I have a better chance of success with her grading system, especially with such a busy schedule. Like I said earlier, her main goal is to see improvement, meaning not everything is about accuracy but our effort. a

Barela, Grade 10

A look at how having her first born has affected Mrs. Barringer’s life and teaching style.

Troops Withdrawn, Thousands Dead

by Liliana Voorheis, world Editor

The war in Afghanistan, officially known as “Operation Enduring Freedom,” has finally come to an end as President Biden announced the withdrawal of U.S. military troops from Afghanistan, leaving the Taliban in dictatorial command of the country. Jesus Aguilar Navia, PRHS graduate of 2016 and an ex-military member who served in Afghanistan for about a year, believes that “there’s many absolutely brilliant and talented individuals with strong leadership abilities that could step up and run the country as it should be. Unfortunately with the Taliban in power, that won’t be happening.”

Geoffrey Land of the PRHS History department also feels a personal link to this story. “I’ve had several students serve there. I’ve had students from the town where Bin Laden was found and killed,” he said. While these current events majorly affect the people of Afghanistan, they are also affecting people all the way in the United States.

After 11 years of war, President Obama makes a plan to pull US troops out of Afghanistan in July 2011. Two months earlier, bin Laden, leader of al-Qaeda, is killed by the US military. However, the death of their leader does not cause the terrorists to pull back. Obama’s drawback plan keeps getting pushed further and further away, and is never seen through during his presidency.

In September 2021, the Taliban announces a new all male interim government, headed by acting Prime Minister Mullah Mohammad Hasan Akhund. This particular man is on the FBI’s

most wanted, blacklisted terrorist list. CBS Sports says that this new government has legally put an end to all protests in Afghanistan, as well as women’s sports, particularly cricket, so women won’t have any opportunity or reason to take off their traditional clothing and burqas (traditional head and face coverings). Robert McLaughlin, an ex-combat engineer for the U.S. military, believes that with our troops withdrawn, “the women and children will be in more danger, and treated more harshly now that we are no longer there.” These women are now essentially under house arrest, not allowed to leave their house without a man accompanying them. UNICEF has stated that if the children of Afghanistan don’t receive help, “one million under-fives in Afghanistan will face severe acute malnutrition, a life-threatening condition.” According to the UN News, more than four million children are out of school, and many have been deprived of basic health care.

free reign to do as they wish, leaving the children and women to suffer by enslaving the women and trafficking the children. It’s devastating, because it is so prevalent. And there’s nothing we can do about it now.”

United States citizens and officials were finally permitted to leave Afghanistan this year, and there is footage of mothers throwing their children and babies over the fence that divides where the public and the planes were, hoping that that slim chance of their child arriving in America would give them a better life than they would have in their torn home country.

On 9/11’s twentieth anniversary this year, the Taliban flag was seen waving over the Afghan presidential palace. Other world officials like Secretary-General Antonio Guterres are worried that this success might encourage other extremist groups like the Taliban in different sections of the world to attempt to achieve their own terroristic goals.

Two days after this new government was formed, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said that al-Qaeda, the extremist group that used Afghanistan as a type of sanctuary, “may attempt to regenerate in this country… The nature of al-Qaeda is they will always attempt to find space to grow and regenerate,” whether it’s in Afghanistan or not.

Aguilar Navia is “without a doubt sure the unjust culture amongst children and women will continue to get worse. Now that there is no more U.S. presence there, the Taliban will have

AFGHANISTAN: What’s Already Happened?

Land feels that occupying Afghanistan in the first place was a poor choice by our government. He said that “there are no winners” in this war, but that the exit of American troops from Afghanistan means defeat for the United States. Land ended his interview with these words: “We need to find ways to see ourselves in them, instead of seeing an enemy. Too often it seems we create our own enemies.” 1996

2021 2017 2014

to Peace:

US government released a tape in which Osama bin Laden, the leader

The United States drops its most powerful non-nuclear bomb on Islamic State militants. President Trump outlines his Afghanistan policy saying that he will press ahead with an open-ended military commitment to prevent the emergence of “a vacuum for terrorists.”

of al-Qaeda,

Path

U.S. and Taliban envoys sign an agreement that includes a significant drawback in US forces and a promise that Afghanistan won’t be used for terroristic purposes.

Obama announces U.S. troop withdrawal.

Obama commits an additional thirty thousand forces to the fight, specifically to help train Afghanis so they can join the fight. Obama sets July 2011 as the start of a troop drawdown.

United Nations Security Council linked the al-Qaeda and Taliban groups together and identified them as terrorist groups that needed to be cut down.

The Taliban rose from the ashes of Afghanistan’s civil war and provided sanctuary for al-Qaeda.

NATO member countries sign a declaration agreeing to hand over full responsibility for security in Afghanistan to Afghan forces by the end of 2014, at the same time of the US troop drawdown. US bombs Afghanistan with the aid of the British.

Photos provided by Jesus Aguilar Navia

BEARCATS

PRHS welcomes six foreign exchange students for the 2021-22 school year

by Emily Neri, Carmesi Editor and Maicah Cabello, Design Director

Justin Zheng

After always being interested in the United States, Justin Zheng traveled from Bamberg, Germany to visit big cities like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and San Francisco.

Learn more about our exchange students and scan this QR Code for full stories! (More coming soon so stay tuned!)

Willa Wrolden-Rolland

Willa Wrolden- Rolland made the move to Paso Robles from Bӕrum, Norway while following in her mother’s footsteps. After Wrolden- Rollan’s mom met her current hostmom when she was an exchange student, they made a deal that each of their children could be foreign exchange students in their homes.

Candela Esteban Ortiz

Traveling from Madrid, Spain to Paso Robles, California, Candela Esteban Ortiz wanted to mainly improve her English but also pursue her love of traveling and learning about other cultures.

Gemma De La Cruz

Gemma De La Cruz chose to be a part of the foreign exchange program so she could experience what is known as the high school “American life” in Taranto, Italy.

Rana Takada

Coming from Tokyo, Japan, Rana Takada decided to study abroad so she could have the opportunity to play tennis in another country.

Eduardo Galindo Van Zeller

Wanting to get out of Lisboa, Portugal, Eduardo Galindo Van Zeller took the opportunity to travel to Paso to speak a new langauge and experience a new culture.

We put in 13 hours of practice, each week but it’s all worth it.

Reily lowRy

Fall Sports Update

A compaision of the three major fall sports.

by Rogelio Molina, Reporter

QUEstIoN: Which varsity team is out performing the rest of them at prHs?

Football

Players have been working very hard every single day and putting in around 18 hours a week into football.

Total Players

55

Football has played five games and of those have won three of them putting them at 3-2. Each player loves the sport and puts 18 hours a week into football. Along with the two hour practices, they use sixth period as a weight lifting period and spends four hours at the games. Some of their standouts are senior offensive line players Nate Guerrero and Dominic Weber. Coach Matt Carroll is pround of his team due to their hard work and dedication.

Boys Water polo

Water polo has participated in 27 games. They’ve won 17 as of press time. Their biggest accomplishment this season is breaking their two decade losing streak against Righetti High School 14-12. Along with 11 games planned, they have 16 games from non-varsity tournaments and the CCAA League Championship. Captain Reily Lowry had no fear in mentioning all 13 hours of work he and his team put into the sport a week.

Girls Volleyball

They had 10 games planned for the season but had one cancelled due to lighting.

They lost to Buchanan High School 0-48. Carroll without hesitaion talked about Buchanan’s ranking in the state.

Paso’s varsity football team had 65 players and had some drop the sport. The team now consists of 55 players.

Paso’s men’s varsity Water Polo team has 12 players on the team with Collin Moore coaching them.

Volleyball has taken part in 27 matches. They’ve won 12 of them and tied one, leaving them 12-14-1. With six hours of practice each week, and ten hours hours dedicated to games and traveling per week, the girls and coaches put their hearts into it. The teams biggest achievement was their game against Righetti. They played five sets and won the last three. They have 17 games scheduled and three tournaments for the season.

Of the 16 players on the team, some of their standout players are senior libero Avery Testerman and junior outside hitter Ava Berezay. The

team has made a lot of progress with the coaching of Caleb Ferguson.

We all played really hard and faught until the end with lots of energy on and off the court.

Buchanan is ranked in the top 20. Matt CaRRoll

Breaking a two decade losing streak against Righetti high school.

SKylaR MCeNtiRe

Breaking

SPORTS ACTION

THE BEST SPORTS ACTION PHOTOS FROM THE FALL SEASON

DoDging the Defense: Senior Jake Morones #3 rushes a total of 44 yards, breaking the Lompoc defense as he goes on Aug. 20.

ready to strike: Senior Cody Domingos pops from the water to slam the ball through back of the net in their win against Morro Bay.

set Up For sUCCess: Junior Olivia Prickett jump sets for sophomore Skylar McEntire’s kill against Templeton on Aug. 24.

Treading The woods: Junior Sydney Moore pushes through the trees and other racers prior to winning 3rd overall at the Morro Bay Invitational Meet on Sep. 11.

photos by Malia Gaviola, EIC Ashley Paulsen, Sports Director Emily Rogers, Pop Culture Editor

the Ball: Junior Olivia Lazar tosses up the tennis ball before a serve.

Tackling StereotypeS

Sophomore, Kylee Dayton, kicks off the JV football season being the only girl on the team.

by Emily Rogers, pop Culture Editor

The Bearcats newest defensive lineman, number two, is not the typical football player you’d expect. She can be seen fighting through the trenches with intent of blowing up the play. “They” are Kylee Dayton, a linewoman.

Sophomore, Dayton is the first female football player of the decade in PRHS. According to a statista survey of 2,200 respondents 18 years old and older in June of 2021, 47 percent of women are interested in football; however, next to none actually play the sport (only 6.4% of women).

Strong and ambitious are two words that can be used to describe Dayton. According to the JV coach, Scott Gardener, Dayton is the first female to try out and compete on the JV football team in the past decade. Her strong will and lack of care for what others think allowed her to pursue her interest in the sport.

“All of the guys were kind of weird about it at first but honestly I just didn’t really care and decided to play instead because I don’t care what other people think about me,” Dayton said.

Dayton’s love for football could be attributed back to the time when she was four, as sports have always been a major part of her life. Her father and grandfather are both avid football fans, peaking her interest in the sport.

“I played on my dad’s little league team at first, then softball, and then I later started playing football,” Dayton said. She started playing football because as she says, “I love the sport, and it’s really not for attention or because girls are the ones that can’t do it. I have a love for the sport and just want to try new things.”

So far in her football career, Dayton is most proud of the relationships she has developed with her teammates, and her performance on the

field. This is currently her second year playing football and Dayton tries her best to improve to the level of her fellow teammates by, “just taking the criticism that the coach gives me, and trying to use that to my advantage,” (Dayton)

Sophomore James Cogan, a fellow teammate and friend of Dayton, has played with her ever since she entered the football scene.

“I played football with Kylee in 8th grade and I never really thought much about it to be honest I felt like she’s another teammate like everyone else. I treat her like every other football player on the team and I feel like the coaches do as well, at least in every way I can see,” Cogan said.

6.4% of females play football, while 47% are interested

“Kylee is a JV Bearcat player, same as her male counterparts,” Gardener said. For the future Dayton hopes to get on the varsity team and, “know the game well enough to then coach it someday,” (Dayton).

Since the first female football player in 1926, America has become more accepting of having diverse teammates.

In 2020 the NFL announced that they plan to enhance their diversity, giving rise to the possibility of women being major parts of the sports.

Dayton can be considered a trailblazer in her efforts to join the JV football team. To those who want to pursue something but feel as though they can’t for various reasons Dayton advises that, “you have to have a strong mentality and just basically just don’t care what other people think, it does not matter, it’s not their life.”

Kylee is a JV Bearcat player, same as her male counterparts.

SCott gardener, CoaCh

Kylee Dayton, 11

scott Gardener

James cogan, 10

BEARCATS vs GREYHOUNDS MYTH OR FACT?

by Ashley Paulsen, sports Director & Co-EIC

Volleyball

“Atascadero is definitely a team that we want to beat so we take that match-up seriously, but I don’t think they pose any real threat,” junior Olivia Prickett said. Prickett is a second year setter for the varsity team, also playing on club team Flight Academy 17’s during the high school off-season.

The 2021 team already played the Greyhounds on Aug. 19 for their pre-season opener at home, taking the game to five sets and pounding them out in the last one 15-9. Varsity volleyball hasn’t lost to Atascadero in three years. However, over the last 13 years their record is 12 wins and 13 losses.

“I consider Arroyo Grande our actual real rivals because we have always wanted to beat them, but we always fall short. We are hoping to overcome that this year,” she said.

tennis

The women’s tennis team stands with the status-quo of Atascadero being their rival, unlike some of the other varsity teams. They already matched up against them this season, winning 8-1.

“They just have always been, and it has always been a tradition to “pound the hounds”,” senior Sophia Berry said. Berry has been playing varsity tennis for the Bearcats for four years.

“I feel, as our team improves everyday, that Atascadero is not the “easiest” team we have played, but they aren’t any real threat. In years past, we have lost to Atascadero, but in the last year, our team has improved immensely,” Berry said.

Football

With the football game against the greyhounds being one of the most attended throughout the season, it may seem that Atascadero is the rival... On the contrary, Arroyo Grande Eagle’s can be attributed the title of greatest rival for the football team. Atascadero is a part of the Ocean League in the Central Coast Athletic Association, while Paso Robles and AG are in the Mountain League, the more advanced grouping of that 13 school league.

“[Atascadero] hasn’t posed a real threat to us since 2015. I would consider AG to be our real rival. Arroyo Grande’s defense is overall well coached and aggressive, and their offense is talented,” junior Derek Tidwell said.

Paso Robles has won 7 out of the last 10 games played against Atascadero. Comparatively, Paso has lost six times to Arroyo Grande with five wins in the last ten years.

Girls Golf

“Atascadero is one of the sweetest and most kind teams that we get the opportunity to play in the league. Competition wise, all of us play in about the same range with some Varsity players in the 40’s and some in the 50’s,” senior Ceci Martinez said. Martinez has been on the girls varsity team since her freshman year.

Despite the kind words about Atascadero, she believes that San Luis is their real rival. They lost to SLO earlier this year, and have yet to play Atascadero this season.

“I don’t feel as though [SLO] compares a lot to Atascadero just because Atascadero and us aren’t as focused on being perfect in the sport, and we are more so there to have fun. Whereas SLO is a lot more serious, and most of the girls that are on the team have been playing their whole life,” Martinez said.

Girls Water polo

Girls water polo defies the typical sports rival of Atascadero, choosing Arroyo Grande as their biggest competitor. Paso has pounded the hounds nine times in the last four years, with only one loss to them. On the contrary, Paso girls haven’t beat the Eagles once in the same time frame. The Bearcats are currently 3rd in the Mountain League, and Arroyo Grande is currently undefeated in league and holds the #1 spot.

“They haven’t lost a single game in years and everytime we play them, we go into the game with the mindset of wanting to win. It’s always an intense game because we tend to always be right behind them when it comes to scoring, and everytime we play them we always improve. Even though we haven’t beat them yet, we know we will,” junior Sarah Rodriguez said. Rodrgiuez has been playing for the varsity team for two years.

Boys Water polo

Sinking their opponents this season with a record of seventeen wins and eight losses so far this season, boys water polo has few teams in the league that can compete. They’ve beat Atascadero twice this season already 1610 and 12-8 respectively, and take them on one more time for their last game of the season on Oct. 20. Although Atascadero isn’t their true rival, the team considers San Luis one of their toughest opponents.

“They are more of an even match for us and it is always a very competitive game. Against Atown it is certainly always a win but competing with SLO you really never know how the game will turn out,” senior Evan Swettenam said. Evan has played on the varsity team for two years, with a total of five years of experience under his belt (or speedo).

Paso’s Men’s polo team has matched up against SLO four times this season, winning one out of the four games. Despite losing three times and winning only once against SLO, Paso is ranked higher in league, claiming #2 in the Mountain League compared to SLO ranked #3.

“Pound the Hounds!,” a phrase commonly heard or seen on social media, posters, from athletes, or even promoted with a post-football game dance, narrates the enthusiasm to defeat Atascadero’s Greyhounds in each match up. PRHS has an almost century long rivalry with neighboring city of Atascadero, but are the Greyhounds actually all of Paso’s sports teams rivals? Let’s ask the team’s themselves:

sophia Berry, 12

sarah rodriguez, 11

Evan swettenam, 12

Ceci Martinez, 12

olivia prickett, 11

Derek tidwell, 11

the Varsity Hole set’s Guide to those Extra penalty points: REILY LowRY

by Ashley Paulsen, sports Director & Co-EIC

Swimming and scoring his way to be a starter and captain, senior Reily Lowry has spent the last four years on PRHS’ Varsity Water Polo team perfecting his shot. Only taking a break from polo during swim season, Lowry has poured his heart into the sport, spending over twenty hours per week lifting weights and practicing with his team ten months out of the year.

“Without water polo, I wouldn’t be as determined towards my goals, and I wouldn’t have made some of the friendships and memories that I have throughout the years. Winning doesn’t come easy, and by putting the time in I have set myself up for greatness,” Lowry said.

He was pulled up to the varsity polo team part way through his freshman year, and has made his mark since then. He has played 55 varsity games, with a total of 149 goals, 17 assists, and 27 steals. He has scored 100 of those goals in just his senior season-- 20 goals away from breaking the record of most goals in a season held by Zach Tucker set in 2018. With a current average of four goals per game this season and three games left plus a tournament, Lowry is well on his way to achieving that goal.

He plays the hole set position, which is the center of the playing field (pool), allowing his teammates to dish him the ball for a closer shot at the goalie.

”Reily is very commanding and reliable. If we are ever in a hard pinch, we know that we can funnel the ball and get Reily open to score. He is a very important piece to our team and we would not be the same without him,” senior Evan Swettenam said. Swettenam has been friends with Lowry since middle school, and has played Varsity polo with him for three years.

GRIP STRENGTH

Only one hand allowed on the ball, good grip allows the player to have more control

HEIGHT

Core strength and water treading allow the player to get further out of the water and above the goalie

Strong shoulders and arms provide more power to get the ball past the goalie

photo by Ashley Paulsen