Issue 4

vo l u m e7 1

H iss 11 ue 4 H 10 November 20

H

t st.

Photo by ROSIE HUTCHISON

er es a’s aca dem y the

dart

(especially at an all-male high school like Rockhurst, where the Dart sent two staffers to shadow and research the benefits of single-sex education for young men) See pages 8-9

boys will be boys

2 | news | dartnewsonline.com | the dart | November 10, 2011

DART

people and policies Eric Thomas............................................................advisor Katie Hyde................................................editor-in-chief print Hannnah Wolf.....................managing editor of print Allison Fitts....................................................copy editor Mary O’Leary................................................news editor Lucia Maschler........................................opinion editor Katie McCombs..............................................a&e editor Kate Rohr........................................centerspread editor Lane Maguire............................sports & health editor Christina Barton.....................................features editor Rowan O’Brien-Williams....................lifestyles editor Sara Meurer.........................................in the mix editor Emily McCann........................................last look editor Caitlin Fletcher...............................................staff writer Sara-Jessica Dilks...........................................staff writer Lauren Langdon............................................staff writer Adrianna Ohmes...........................................staff writer Mickey Redlingshafer..................................staff writer photography Celia O’Flaherty..........................................photo editor Sarah Godfrey................................staff photographer Rosie Hutchison............................staff photographer Meghan Lewis................................staff photographer Shaeffer Smith...............................staff photographer

Scan on your phone to read McCormick’s blog on dartnewsonline.com

web Cara McClain........................managing editor of web Chelsea Birchmier........................................copy editor Nikki Rodriguez.....................multimedia web editor Erin Sellers..................................................photo poster Emily Bresette......................................daily web editor Emily Wemhoff....................................daily web editor Abby Uche............................................daily web editor Natalie Fitts........................social media & circulation Emma Wheatley.......................................videographer Anna Leach................................................videographer Katie Parkinson................................standing features

STA academic principal visits China with a delegation of educators to observe classrooms, bridge cultures

policies ownership and sponsership The Dart is created by the student newspaper staff and is published by general operating funds of St. Teresa’s Academy, a Catholic institution sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet. The Dart will not publish opinions that contradict the teachings and beliefs of the Catholic Church, whether on a diocesan or worldwide level. editorial policy The Dart is subject to prior review by the St. Teresa’s Academy administration in circumstances that concern student safety and illegal behavior by students. Otherwise, the policies above will guide the Dart. The Dart intends to be a public forum for voices regardless of diverse ages, sexes, races, cultures, religions or beliefs. Signed columns reflect the opinions of the individual, not necessarily the newspaper staff or the school community. letters policy The Dart encourages letters to the editor. Letters can be sent in the following ways: in person to Eric Thomas in D204; by mail to St. Teresa’s Academy, attn: Eric Thomas, 5600 Main Street, Kansas City, MO 64113; or by email to ethomas@stteresasacademy.org. Letters should be limited to 250 words.

The Dart staff reserves the right to edit or shorten letters for publication. photo illustrations Photo illustrations are conceptual photos that combine the limitless possibility of the drawing with the realism of the photograph. They are not intended to be documentary photos of real moments. corrections policy The Dart will print corrections as soon as possible after the error is discovered.

dartnewsonline.com

ni hao H Principal for academic affairs Barbara McCormick visited China to visit schools and learn more about the culture and visit sights like the Great Wall of China. photos submitted by BARBARA MCCORMICK

McCormick travels to China

by KATIE HYDE khyde@dartnewsonline.com Principal for academic affairs Barbara McCormick is currently visiting China to see schools and learn more about Chinese language, culture and history.

Along with 400 other delegates selected from 700 applicants by the College Board in conjunction with the Hanban Confucius Institute, McCormick met with Chinese educators and observed classrooms in a group of 35 educators and administrators from the United States.

McCormick left Nov. 4 and will return this Friday.

After STA began its own Mandarin foreign language program this year, McCormick looked for an exchange or awareness opportunity when she read

about the program on a College Board newsletter.

As she travels to both Beijing and Tianjin, McCormick hopes to bring back lessons from the classrooms she visits to improve STA’s program.

“What really helps a student learn the language?”

McCormick said. “They have to learn so many characters; what does that look like? What resources are readily available to them that may be available for us?”

McCormick also hopes to establish a sister school with an institution in China.

“It’s a great opportunity for an exchange,” McCormick said. “I can see students here writing in Chinese to students there who are learning English, and they’re writing to us. We’re both practicing a second language, and we’re bridging the two countries.”

Senior KaiLi McCamman is one of five students enrolled in Mandarin this year, and hopes, like McCormick, that STA’s program will grow in the coming years.

“We only have five people in our class right now, and that’s pretty sad compared to the typical class

at STA,” McCamman said. “The Chinese are probably going to take over in the next 20 years, so we need to start learning the language.”

Although McCormick’s travels will focus on improving STA’s Mandarin program, she is also excited to learn more about the Chinese culture. Among an itinerary full of school visits and seminars, she will travel to the Great Wall of China and the Forbidden City.

“I am just eager to be immersed into another culture,” McCormick said. “It’s just being there and being open to their customs and learning about how they educate their students.”

In addition to researching a few important customs, like the use of chopsticks, the exchange of small gifts and the importance of business cards, McCormick hopes to increase awareness of the importance of understanding other cultures.

“I think [the trip] is to create an awareness that English isn’t the only language,” McCormick said.

“And I think many of us are now seeing that we will need to be bilingual because of the melting pot that we have.” H

driving from neighbors and other students who have noticed STA girls weaving in and out of traffic and speeding on sidestreets near the school.

“If [teenagers] have not experienced an accident they don’t know how traumatic it can be,” Hoecker said. “Driving recklessly to get somewhere in time is not worth the consequences of harming someone, and I think [teenagers] have to slow down enough to really understand that.”

According to Shedd, being in such a serious accident has made her a much more careful driver.

“It just makes me mad when I see people driving so carelessly because they don’t realize how dangerous it is because they haven’t seen or experienced an accident,” Shedd said.

In 2009, 11 percent of all drivers in the United States involved in fatal car accidents were between 15 and 20 years old.

“I think sometimes [teenagers] live in the moment when they could be late for school or something else, and so they’re thinking about speeding to get there, rather than safety while driving,” Hoecker said.

According to newly licensed driver sophomore Grace Bullington, she is conscious of not always being as careful as possible sometimes.

“I try to be a defensive driver, but I don’t always

think about it since I have never experienced an accident,” Bullington said. “I think never being in [an accident] makes it seem like it could never happen to me.”

In 2009, 196,000 15 to 20-year-old drivers were injured in motor vehicle crashes, according to the National Center for Statistics and Analysis.

This means 1.5 percent of the 13.3 million drivers in this age group were hurt badly enough to be taken to a hospital.

Bullington “A lot of people just don’t think about the huge responsibility and the dangers of driving,” Shedd said.

Last year two teenagers who had been involved in crippling car accidents came and talked at the freshman class meeting about their experiences.

Hoecker believes programs about safe driving can help teenagers experience and understand car accidents and their consequences.

“I think a person just has to slow down and really visualize what [being in a car crash] would be like,” Hoecker said. H

STA receives complaints about driving After receiving complaints about reckless student driving, STA encouraged students to drive safer

by KATIE PARKINSON kparkinson@dartnewsonline.com On her way to school, senior Rachel Shedd exited the highway and got ready to merge with traffic. As she was yielding, the driver behind her kept going and hit her car. Not only was her car totaled, but she also had to undergo five months of physical therapy for intense headaches and back pain.

One car crash was all it took for Shedd to become another teenage driving statistic.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation website, 13.67 percent of the 296,796 drivers in Missouri ages 16-20 were involved in car crashes in 2009. This means one in every seven teenagers was in a car accident that year. People in this age group also had the highest number of car crashes at 18,017 accidents during the year.

According to principal for student affairs Mary Anne Hoecker, the administration has recently received three complaints about reckless student

November 10, 2011 | the dart | dartnewsonline.com | news | 3

Protestors occupy park in KC

Lace it up

The construction crew began putting up the metal lace panels for the Windmoor Center and Chapel of St. Joseph Nov. 7.

According to president Nan Bone, all the lace panels, made by the A. Zahner Company, will be in place either this Friday or next Wednesday at the latest. Bone said there will be three big panels on the front of the Windmoor Center that will circle up to a skylight, and there will also be a panel of lace on the inside of the building.

The lace panels were created in the image of multiple pieces of lace created by Sister Ramona, of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet. The panels also feature a piece of lace given to Bone when she became president at STA in addition to a generic piece of lace used to tie the others together. The piece of lace given to Bone is from the motherhouse of the Sisters of St. Joseph in France.

Cross country takes fourth

penn valley protest H A group of protestors holds signs displaying their thoughts about the economy in America at the Occupy KC protest Oct. 23. This protest came from the original protests from Wall Street about the 99% of American citizens who are not wealthy. photo by ROSIE HUTCHINSON

Occupy Kansas City, which branched off of the Occupy Wall Street movement in NYC, continues

by CHELSEA BIRCHMIER cbirchmier@dartnewsonline.com

Hundreds of people march across Wyandotte Street chanting phrases like “Banks got bailed out, we got sold out!” Written on the back of someone’s car are the words “It’s not about right vs left. It is about right vs wrong.” A young man in a “V for Vendetta” Guy Fawkes mask holds a sign that says “Being young means we have the most to lose by being idle.” People in “We are the 99 percent” shirts greet newcomers who join the event. “Welcome to National Call to Action Day,” they say, “And welcome to Occupy Kansas City.”

Occupy Kansas City, which began Sept. 30, is one of many protests that branched off of the Sept. 17 Occupy Wall Street movement in New York City. In Kansas City, protesters camp out in shifts at Penn Valley Park, near the Liberty Memorial and the Federal Reserve Bank.

Protesters hope to call government officials’ attention to what they see as unfair control of politics by corporations. The fact that 1 percent of the population controls half of the nation’s wealth inspired the movement’s “We are the 99 percent” slogan.

Some politicians and media figures have criticized protesters for having no clear, united message. However, supporters of the movement say that they do have a message, one that the politicians are ignoring. It’s a message of equal opportunity, they say, that has allowed communities from around the world to come together in support of a common cause.

STA junior Lena White, who attended the first major Occupy Kansas City march Oct. 9, believes that supporters of the protest need more time to decide on a collective course of action.

“The protest is still very young,” White said.

“Right now, it’s more of a manifestation of discontent and unhappiness with the way that things are being run. I think what’s important is that the Occupy movements are tending to operate in White a way that they’d rather see the country operate.

They’re making all decisions by consensus, rather

than having one person that’s the biggest and the most wealthy making the decisions.”

White also believes that when 1 percent of the population controls half of a nation’s wealth, a country can hardly say it offers equal opportunity to all citizens.

White explained her views through an infographic she saw on a website called OccupyGeorge.com. “[The infographic] showed the top 1 percent [of 150,000,000 people], about 400 people, controlling half of the wealth,” White said. “That’s very striking because if you think about it, 400 people is less than we have in this school. It is not right for a country that champions freedom and equality to have this kind of wealth disparity.”

Unlike White, junior Allison Hogan, who witnessed an Occupy Wall Street protest in New York, does not fully support the goals of the protesters. She does not Hogan believe distributing the wealth is the answer to income disparity.

“One protester was being interviewed, and he said people who earn more money shouldn’t be spending it on things that they don’t need,” Hogan said. “Personally, I disagree because I think that people who work for their own money and are successful should be able to spend their money on whatever they want and shouldn’t have to be giving it to people who don’t work for theirs. If someone in your class got an A and another got a D, but they didn’t think that was fair so a teacher lowered yours to a B, that’s not fair.”

Hogan also feels that protesters may cause more harm than good because of the way they run the protests.

“I think the protesting is just going to end in violence and that they should be more peacefully assembled,” Hogan said. “[Protesters] were trashing the streets, and I just think they were handling it the wrong way.”

Although not everyone supports the protesters’ beliefs, White feels all students should at least inform themselves about the Occupy movement.

“I think that at St. Teresa’s, a lot of people are not as interested in politics because they’re worried about divisions it might cause in their social life,” White said. “Some people disagree with me, but I still think it’s good to be knowledgeable about it and be able to defend your argument. Also, from a Catholic point of view, it’s very important to think about because

Catholic social teachings involve the rights of workers and options for the poor and vulnerable.”

Ms. Kai Smith, a former civics teacher, has attended the protests in Kansas City since day one. Like White, she feels concerned about where America’s economy and politics are headed.

“In examination of the history of my nation, what our Constitution entails doesn’t match up with the way politics are run today,” Smith said. “I’m certainly concerned with the influence that corporations have on our political structure, particularly after the Citizens United Ruling.”

The 2010 ruling Smith referred to is the Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission case. In this case, the Supreme Court decided 5-4 in favor of Citizens United, allowing corporations to spend unlimited amounts of money to support political campaigns.

“To me [Citizens United is] too close of a relationship between a corporate structure and our government, which is supposed to be of the people, by the people and for the people, not corporations,” Smith said.

Smith also said that her daughter, Grace, who is almost 5 months old, has become a sort of mascot for the movement.

“I want to see my daughter have whatever opportunities there are available,” Smith said. “I don’t want somebody else to determine what’s available to her.”

Smith’s 5-month-old daughter was not the only child who attended the protest. Many youth, especially teens, participated as well, with signs like one young boy’s that said “This is MY future.” Smith believes that if people of all ages can continue to come together to support each other, then the protest will continue to gain momentum.

“I think the success we see now is that every day we have more people coming, more people asking questions and entering into conversation,” Smith said. “What this is really about is reclaiming our community and being able to come together as a community. To have conversations with individuals about what we want to see for ourselves and for our neighbors, that’s where it starts.”

Like Smith, White also believes that—whether or not people support every aspect of the protest—the movement reflects true democracy, as people from different political parties and professions join hands for a common cause. “[Occupy Kansas City] was a really great way for people to voice the way they’re feeling about the state of affairs in this country right now,” White said. “It was really powerful, this image of all these people walking and being in solidarity over a common issue. I think that just doesn’t happen as much in this country as it used to.” H

The cross country won fourth at the State meet this weekend in Jefferson City. Junior Courtney Coppinger and freshman Ann Campbell were named All-State runners for placing the top 25 runners.

Coppinger, who placed first for STA, explains that she is happy about the the team’s as well as her own finish.

“We couldn’t have finished as high as we did without the strong effort of every runner, as well as our supportive fans,” Coppinger said. “I am very happy with how I placed individually. I met my goal of attaining top 25, which earned me an All-State honor.”

Varsity runner sophomore Lindsey Valdiviez, who placed 96th, is specifically excited about the banner that will hang in the Goppert Center. “[I am excited for the banner] because my name will be up [in the gym] forever,” Valdiviez said.

Alternate runner sophomore Katie Hornbeck is impressed with the team’s State finish. “[The team was] really happy with the finish at State,” Hornbeck said. “It’s really awesome that Courtney improved about seven places from last year, and Ann is just a freshman, so to get the recognition of All-State is impressive.”

All-State choir

STA junior Ruby Dibble and senior Mackenzie Jones earned Missouri All-State choir honors. To be in the All-State choir a junior or senior must have one of the top scores at district.

Before the All-State choir audition, Dibble ran into a problem.

Jones “The week before my audition I lost my voice because of allergies,” Dibble said.

Dibble’s voice came back in time both she and Jones to sing romantic solos in Latin for the All-State audition.

Dibble is one of the six mezzo sopranos Dibble to make All-State choir, and Jones is one of six altos.

“I was so happy to get in,” Dibble said. “[AllState choir] is something I was working really hard towards.”

After spending Jan. 25-27 together practicing, the All-State choir will perform Jan. 28 at the TanTar-A Resort at the Lake of the Ozarks.

“I’m excited to meet the other people who made [All-State choir] and the people who are directing it,” Jones said.

The last STA students to make All-State choir were McKenzie Miller and Kirsten Hyde in 2009.

Compiled by Adrianna Ohmes, Mickey Redlingshafer and Lauren Langdon

Baila, 7 56 8

4 | features | dartnewsonline.com | the dart | November 10, 2011

After learning from family, senior Brianna Casey performs cultural dances in the US and Mexico

by EMILY BRESETTE ebresette@dartnewsonline.com

Sitting down in a studio in Armourdale, Kan., senior Brianna Casey buckles on her black dance shoes. Wearing yoga pants and a t-shirt and with hair pulled back in a bun, she and 15 other members are ready to practice for an upcoming performance.

While talking and laughing, the instructors tell the class to settle down. Soon, the dancers are kicking their legs back and forth and holding their hands by their heads as if they were wearing cowboy hats.

They stop and clap their hands in unison.

Three times a week for around an hour, Casey practices traditional Mexican folkloric dancing with El Grupo Folklorico Atotonilco. Rooted deep in her heritage, she continues this tradition of Mexican dancing. For Casey, dancing is not only a family affair, but something she loves.

All in the family

Scan this QR code with a smartphone to see a video of senior Brianna Casey dancing in her class.

Dancing runs in the Casey family.

Many of Casey’s family members enjoy Mexican folkloric dancing. Casey’s aunt, Maria Chaurand, is the director of El Grupo Folkorico Atotonilco, and her son, Casey’s cousin, Andres Chaurand is an instructor and dancer for the group. While all members of the group have Mexican heritage, it is not a requirement to join the group.

According to Casey, all her cousins on her mom’s side dance.

Her older sister Mikaela also danced, but stopped when she went to college.

“I mostly started dancing because of my aunt,” Casey said. “[I started dancing] mostly because it was a family thing, and it was important for me to [start dancing].”

Andres originally started dancing when he was three as well because of his mother, Maria.

“I started because my mom is the director,” Andres said. “I was kind of born into dancing. If I hadn’t wanted to do [dancing], I wouldn’t been forced into it. It’s something I enjoy.”

Andres now teaches some classes at his mom’s studio.

“I definitely enjoy [teaching],” Andres said. “I like helping people out and teaching them something new. Just having that feeling of satisfaction, I guess. I enjoy [teaching] personally.”

Maria was five when she first performed folkloric dancing. Born in Mexico City, she came to the United States when she was three years old. Folkloric dancing helped keep her culture alive.

“It’s part of who I am,” Maria said. “My mother and father opened a Mexican restaurant, and we also have a tortilla factory, so we’ve been keeping our culture alive.”

Because of her love for dancing, Maria founded El Grupo Folkorico Atotonilco in 1979, what she considers to be the closest thing Kansas City has to professional folkloric dancing.

“It is my passion,” Maria said. “It is something I just love.”

Performing across Mexico

Graphic by Sara-Jessica Dilks

For Casey, performing is something she enjoys.

Baila,Baila!

November 10, 2011 | the dart | dartnewsonline.com | features | 5

The group performs by Mexican states. Each performance represents a single state, although according to Casey, some performances showcase two states. There are 31 Mexican states, and within each state there are multiple regions. The type of music one might dance to depends on the region in Mexico.

“The music is much different in some places than in others,” Casey said. ”It really just varies by state.”

For example, music from the state of Jalisco is mariachi band music, while one well-known song from Veracruz is “La Bamba.”

The dancing schedule can change as often as the type of music the group dances to. Certain times of the year are busier than others, in terms of performances, but there are usually at least two performances a month.

“There are times during the year where we have more performances,” Casey said. “ Like [Mexican] Independence Day, we have a bunch. Cinco de Mayo is another one where we have a lot of performances.”

Andres says the group tries to book as many shows as possible. Since September, the group has had over 13 shows. According to Andres, the group as a whole, not individual dancers, will take any kind of payment for performing in order to help pay rent for the studio. However, the group does perform for free as well, because they love performing.

For Casey, there are many reasons why she enjoys performing.

“I like that [performing] is service back to the community,” Casey said. “I like knowing that the people enjoy watching.”

Andres agrees with Casey and likes performing to give back to the community.

“I like that we’re able to go around and perform

and watch the crowd get into it,” Andres said. “Just performing for people’s entertainment is a good time. It makes you feel good.”

Maria believes that performing is a way to show others their culture.

“We love performing,” Maria said. “Come see us, learn about us. We’re here to be teachers to you.”

Traveling is another reason Casey likes performing. The group has traveled all around Missouri and Kansas as well as Chicago, Texas and Mexico.

“I would say Mexico is my favorite place [that we’ve traveled to],” Casey said. “It would be really fun to go back.”

Andres also said that one of his favorite parts about dancing is getting to travel.

“We like to travel,” Andres said. “That’s one of the best times with the group you can have is spending that much time with the group on the vans or buses. It’s a good time.”

Looking the part

According to Casey, the costumes for each dance may change, but the hair and makeup generally stays the same.

“The costumes are different depending on what state we’re dancing,” Casey said. “If we’re dancing somewhere from the coast or somewhere beachy, then [the costumes are] usually white or not as busy skirts. But if it’s a city that’s more [Hispanic] then we usually have the traditional costumes that I think most people expect.”

For example, if the group were dancing Jalisco, they would wear what most people think of as the tradional outfits: the big flowy skirts with vibrant colors. But if the group was performing Veracruz, then they would wear a white slip with a white skirt and flowers in their hair.

For each performance, dancers’ hair is sleeked back into a bun. This is something that never changes.

Andres said that while some costumes are fine to wear, some are not as enjoyable.

“Some of them are okay,” Andres said. “Some are kind of annoying. It just varies. I think some of them are more annoying for the girls then they are for the guys, just because they have to put more accessories on and do more [to get ready].”

Performers’ makeup is what Casey describes as “big makeup,” or stage makeup.

“The makeup is always fun to do for performances,” Casey said. “The hair is kind of a pain, but I’m so used to it now I don’t really mind doing it.”

Maria says that the makeup is always uniform for all the performers. If one person is wearing blue eye shadow, the whole group is wearing blue eye shadow. The group must all look the same.

Maria says that even though many times the costumes can be expensive, it is a small price to pay in order to keep the culture alive.

“Gosh I probably have around $10,000 worth of costumes,” Maria said. “They’re expensive. You have to really put in some money. We don’t want to go away from that. We don’t make our own costumes.

We bring them in and show the originality of every state that we do, because we respect [our culture] that much.”

Connecting to culture and family

Because his family is so heavily involved with folkloric dancing, Andres believes that this helps

him connect to his culture. “[Dancing] definitely connects me to my culture because it’s part of who I am,” Andres said. “It’s my heritage and where I come from. I think it’s definitely a big part of my culture.

Maria also feels very strongly that dancing lets her connect to her culture. She believes that her culture defines who she is and she is very close to her culture.

Maria believes that no matter where one is in the world, people will embody their culture.

“I think everybody that’s from a different country can attest to that,” Maria said. “You know, Irish, Italian, Chinese, Indian. If they’re taught by their parents and have their culture instilled in them, it’s going to stay with them.”

Even though Maria is American, she does not want to lose this part of herself and her culture. “[Embodying your culture] doesn’t have anything to do with being American, because I am very much American,” Maria said. “But at the same time, I want to keep my roots, keep my culture, keep who I am.”

Maria believes that dancing connects her not only to her culture, but to her family as well. She said that within her family, their beliefs, the way they cook, their dancing, their music and language keep them all extremely close.

Casey agrees with her aunt and believes that dancing also connects her family.

“Well since it’s a family affair, I feel really connected and just really empowered and inspired,” Casey said. “I just like spreading the culture.” H

just dance H Senior Brianna Casey practices with partner and cousin Andres Chaurand at their Mexican folklore dance class Oct. 25 at a studio in Armourdale, Kan. photos by NATALIE FITTS

6 | main ed | dartnewsonline.com | the dart | November 10, 2011

Girls & boys: better together?

While some research suggests coeducational schools are better, the leadership opportunities, academic rigor and development of independent women at single-sex schools outweigh the disadvantages.

STA

Donnelly Building

ROCKHURST Rockhurst HAWKLETS Hawklets

*Now accepting female ROCKapplicants* STATE! graphic by: Sara-Jessica Dilks During our four years at STA, many of us come to believe that STA is a machine of women of leadership, independence and selfconfidence. We’ve also come to believe that STA creates stronger leaders, more independent and self-confident women and better students than the typical coeducational school.

Studies show that perhaps we aren’t all that different than our coeducational counterparts after all. While studies may show that single-sex education doesn’t have quantifiable benefits, our faith in it is strong.

According to a study on single-sex education conducted by the UCLA Graduate School of Education and Information Studies, female graduates of single-sex and coeducational high schools rate themselves almost equally as leaders. Sixty percent of girls in both types of schools rated themselves as above average leaders.

This raises the question: do we actually become better leaders by attending STA, or would we receive the same training at a co-ed school?

It’s important to note that the self-rating from the UCLA study is not the most accurate

RIGHT ON

TARGET Each issue, the Dart asks three people their opinions of the issue discussed in the main editorial.

Here’s what they said: compiled by KATIE McCOMBS

the typical prepSTAR

science. Rather than using objective data to support the study, each student rated her own leadership ability. If we accurately measured the leadership ability through a different technique, would STA students score higher than other female coeducational high school students? We think so.

It is hard to believe that students at a coeducational high school would receive the same leadership opportunities and experience as at STA. Here, every student raises her hand at least once a day, girls are challenged to lead in class, in clubs, in sports and on academic teams, and every leadership position within the school is held by a female.

The National Coalition of Girls’ Schools study on single-sex education agrees: 93 percent of girls studied agreed that girls’ schools provide greater leadership opportunities than coed schools and 80 percent of women surveyed held leadership positions since their graduation from an all-female high school.

While single-sex students may be more prepared to lead in high school and beyond, the UCLA study showed that social self-confidence is almost the same between high school students in coeducational schools and single-sex

we receive at STA, the hundreds of times we schools. raise our hands in class each year, the countAccording to the study, females in singlesex schools are more confident in their public less debates, speeches, papers, projects, and service opportunities all prepare us to step speaking, academic, mathematic and computer skills than students in co-ed schools. into college as independent, confident women.

We are women who know how to lead a group However, when it came to rating social project, who know how to take charge of a situself-confidence, girls in co-ed and single-sex schools rated themation, who know how to speak up in class selves equally.

This lack of without a second The staff editorial represents the thought, all because confidence may come views of the Dart editorial board: we have done just from the doubts that float though many that countless times in high school. students’ minds: after 6 out of 7 editors voted in support While studies we graduate, are we of this editorial may doubt the quanequipped to handle tifiable benefits of a co on single-sex education ed environsingle-sex education, those doubters should step onto STA’s campus. ment? Are we equipped to complete a group They should attend an AP American literaproject with boys, or take a class with a boy or see boys on a day-to-day basis for 7 hours a ture fishbowl discussion where every student speaks her mind. They should observe an acday or more? Are we equipped to handle sexist celerated algebra I class where girls answer the jokes? Are we equipped to handle students, or teacher’s questions, even if she might be a little even teachers, who underestimate us because afraid she has the wrong answer. of our gender?

While we all may feel this doubt, we must Contrary to any study, we are all testimonies to the success of single-sex education. H understand that the four years of schooling

Do you think STA prepares girls for a co-ed environment in college?

“Even though we’re a single-sex school it’s not like we have no interaction with guys. It builds our confidence so when we do have to deal with guys, we won’t be timid and shy. ”

“Yes, the time spent in the classroom [doesn’t] prevent you from living in a coed environment. The girls know boys, they just don’t sit in the classroom with them.”

Cricket Martin junior

“Yes, because we have our brother school, Rockhurst, and we’re encouraged to go to their events, too, and not just stay in our all-girl environment. ”

Jennifer Petree testing center moderator

Martin

Lucy McManness senior

Petree

McManness

November 10, 2011 | the dart | dartnewsonline.com | opinion | 7

Sometimes I get a little“Carrie-d” away

Economic inequality is a reality

by KATIE McCOMBS kmccombs@dartnewsonline.com

by CHELSEA BIRCHMIER cbirchmier@dartnewsonline.com

To be honest, our relationship started off a bit rocky. No, I didn’t fall in love with her when she won “American Idol” in ‘05 like the rest of you.

We met through YouTube February of last year.

We went on a couple of dates to the CMA Awards and the Grand Ole Opry. We started going steady after I religiously began watching her music videos and adding around 2,000 additional hits to her “Idol” audition video.

Yes, I’m now proudly a “Care Bear” and can certainly call myself Carrie Underwood’s number one fan.

My slight affection for Carrie quickly developed into an full-out obsession. The hours I spent watching Carrie’s performance to “Jesus, Take the Wheel” are countless and, might I add, took precedence over any homework I had.

I found myself subconsciously maneuvering my way to YouTube and typing Carrie’s name in the search bar. I could fluently recite the judge’s comments from her rendition of “Alone.” “Not onlay will you win this show, but you will sell more recahrds than any otha previous ‘Idol’ winnah.”

Touche, Simon.

I am also a rigorous member of Carrie’s Facebook fan page and openly “like” and comment on her stati. I treasure her three albums and she even has her own playlist nuzzled in my iPod labeled “carrie <3.”

Every true fan should know Carrie is never seen without her lemon Sobe water and loves pizza, but make sure it’s vegetarian! Oh, and did you know she has a video tutorial about how to “wear the right makeup”? I do.

Some might call my stalker-ish actions an illness, but I consider them completely normal.

Carrie’s your average “All-American Girl” who was raised on a farm, milking cows in Chectoah, Oklahoma.

A huge milestone in my life was when I was privileged enough to actually drive through her hometown. To say I was excited is an understatement. I got out of the car and kissed the ground, prior to taking a picture of the city sign, which still remains the wallpaper on my phone.

One thing led to the next, and before you know it, I was eating a veggie sub in Carrie’s honor in Checotah’s Subway and grilling the cashier about Carrie’s life.

Carrie will always have a place in my heart.

Shockingly, I have yet to see her in concert, but I can’t say I wouldn’t travel 600 miles to go see her or pay hundreds of dollars for a VIP pass, because I would.

Did I mention Carrie returned to “Idol” last year to sing with the runner-up? Yeah, I got pretty emotional. Watch your back, Lauren Alaina. You will never take Carrie’s throne.H

In an Oct. 5 interview with Wall Street Journal, Republican candidate Herman Cain’s message to Occupy Wall Street protesters was, “Don’t blame Wall Street, don’t blame the big banks, if you don’t have a job and you’re not rich, blame yourself!”

Hearing this, I decided to evaluate Cain’s statement in light of the Occupy Wall Street protests and our own Occupy protests in Kansas City.

First, I compared the Occupy movement’s purpose to Cain’s statement and noticed some inaccuracies. Cain makes it seem like protesters are blaming Wall Street alone for their own economic woes, which I disagree with for two reasons.

One, Occupy Wall Street’s website says that the movement is “fighting back against the corrosive power of major banks and multinational

The final say I’m a die-hard Underwood fan, y’all.

Correction

In Volume 71 Issue 3 of the Dart, the coverage on page 15 under the headline “My Life Sucks” contained an error. The quote was Kelly O’Byrne’s story. The Dart regrets the error.

corporations over the democratic process.” Clearly, the protesters don’t just blame Wall Street. They also criticize the government’s role in allowing banks and corporations to take over politics and the economy. The idea that 1 percent of a nation’s population controls half of its wealth reflects just as poorly on the country’s government as it does on its economic system.

Two, the Occupy slogan “We are the 99 percent” shows that protesters don’t just want change for themselves, but for all Americans.

Next, I analyzed how well Cain’s views coincide with statistics. In an Associated Press-GfK poll, 37 percent of people said they support the Occupy Wall Street protesters. In the same poll, 7 in 10 people said they believe the country is headed in the wrong direction. In a New York Times/CBS poll, 7 in 10 Americans said they think Congress’ policies favor the rich, and 89 percent said they distrust the government. While these views may not reflect the sentiments of all Americans, they do represent a sizable minority.

While researching the Occupy Kansas City protests, I also had the pleasure of talking to a diverse group of people involved in the movement. Almost every person I interviewed, from civil rights activist Ron Taylor to college student Monroe Perez, defied critics’ descriptions of the protesters as lazy, uneducated, anticapitalists without a clear message. In fact, I found

just the opposite; most of the protesters were well-informed, hardworking people who simply disagreed with the way the government has handled corporate influence on the economy. And in response to any claims that protesters should “get a job,” most of the people I met not only had jobs, but also families to support and would come to protest during their free time.

After evaluating Cain’s statement, I find that he underestimates how many people in America are struggling economically. As the gap between the 1 percent and 99 percent of the population grows, we can no longer blame individuals alone for their dismal economic situations. Income disparity this great does not occur because people are lazy and do not want jobs, and politicians like Cain exacerbate the problem when they pretend economic inequality only exists for a small minority of the American people.

“We are the 99 percent” is more than just a slogan for the Occupy Wall Street protest; it is a reality that is rapidly dividing the American population. H

The final say Occupy Wall Street protesters deserve the right to protest income disparity in America.

Stop stressing about small things How stressful is St. Teresa’s Academy for you?

3

by ERIN SELLERS esellers@dartnewsonline.com I have a new resolution that can’t wait until January. I will no longer complain about stress, or cause myself unnecessary duress...right after this article dwells on it extensively.

Like the average STA girl, I have an entire list of things to be stressed about. But besides making me feel better, it doesn’t bring good to anyone when I sit around complaining when I could be taking steps to minimize the pressure I’m feeling.

So this article will be my personal pledge to place responsibility and the solution to decompressing where it has always been: on me.

My first step will be to reject the common belief I once subscribed to that every grade counts. Every quiz, every five point assignment, every participation credit will make or break my grade. No, I’m not going to stop studying or doing homework, but now when I receive a grade that I am unhappy with, I will let myself be disappointed, and then I will move on. Instead of dwelling on how terribly I did when nothing can change the grade, I will look to the next test or assignment and think about how I can do better.

Step two: I will stop blaming teachers for all of my stress. Because guess what? We all knew there was going to eventually be a test. Surprise!

We attend a college preparatory school and our teachers have to test us over so much material in so many weeks. How dare they not have my schedule memorized and know that their class is clashing with another? So instead of whining over my insane week, I will use that time to study for the test I knew was coming eventually.

My next step involves looking at “the bigger picture.” It connects back in some ways to step

How stressful is St. Teresa’s for you on a scale of 1 to 5?

2

6%

1

The Dart surveyed 374 students, and this was their response:

25%

5

4

48%

20%

1%

one. My GPA may be important when applying to colleges, but schools also want to know that there is a personality behind the numbers. There have been numerous studies showing grades aren’t necessarily indicative of an individual’s success in college. Personality traits like discipline, grit and integrity matter more in the long run and in the real world. So I will stop checking PowerSchool every other activity period and focus instead on creating habits that will help me succeed later in life.

Finally, I will take time out of my day to appreciate those around me, and do things I will actually want to remember in several years. Before I martyr myself on the weekends or during week nights I will ask myself this question: would I rather tell my kids about how I studied hard all of the time and got superb grades, or would I rather tell them about the time I skipped studying to go coning with my friends and still did fine in school? Or like this: should I stay up until 3 a.m. to

1: I could do this in my sleep!

2: School is usually pretty easy, but I’m occasionally stressed with a test or project.

3: Somewhere in the middle. I’m learning a lot, but can still keep up with everything.

4: I’m often stressed, but never to the point where I can’t manage my work.

5: I want to cry because I never seem to be caught up.

study information that my brain probably won’t remember very well, and create a sleep deprived cycle that will haunt me for the rest of the week, or should I put the book down and get some sleep?

I won’t have a cram session during activity period; I will eat, talk and laugh with my friends because they matter. Being happy and stress free matters. Of course I’ll still talk about being busy, but I will realize that everyone is just as stressed as me and there is something I can do about it.

So from now on if you hear me complaining around campus, I give you full permission to politely poke or savagely shove me as a reminder of my resolution. H

The final say Students should stop stressing about all the little things and focus on the bigger picture.

November 10, 2011 | the dart | dartnewsonline.com | centerspread9 |9

8 | centerspread | dartnewsonline.com | the dart | November 10, 2011

boys benefit from the brotherhood

Rockhurst senior shares his thoughts about his STA shadowing experience

Students starred at us, some whistled, others yelled, “Girl!” While we walked up the stairs to class, a boy asked, “What are you doing here?”

What we were doing there was a two-day student ex‑change between Rockhurst High School and STA. The Dart ventured to “Rock State” to determine how all-boys schools utilize a single-sex environment. Last Wednesday, STA seniors Celia O’Flaherty and Hannah Wolf dove into the sea of boys to observe how an all- male environment functions compared to the all-female one STA girls are used to.

by HANNAH WOLF hwolf@dartnewsonline.com As one of Kansas City’s two all-girl Catholic high schools, STA often views Rockhurst as its “brother school.” Many STA students have brothers, boyfriends and best buddies that attend the Jesuit high school on State Line Road. Although both schools are both $9,000plus per year, college preparatory, independently Catholic, single-sex high schools, we experience it all differently, especially when it comes to the single-sex part.

Principal of Rockhurst Greg Harkness addresses the idea of male and female students benefiting from a single gender education differently.

“It used to be said that single-gender education was more beneficial for young women,” Harkness said. “I wonder if the tide has turned now and that it may be more beneficial for young men.”

From spending a day at the Rock, it seems as if high school boys benefit from single-sex education in ways that STA girls wouldn’t anticipate. The boys seemed more apt to participate in non-traditional, less “macho” activities. Rockhurst students experience a different curriculum than us STA girls, one that is tailored specifically to how males learn. This single-sex environment also seems to foster more life-long friendships than would happen in a co-ed environment.

A Day in the Life

As first hour approached, 21 boys frantically studied for their upcoming anatomy test or tried to finish their pre-calc homework from the night before. The bell rang, the books went away and the announcements began.

The classroom was silent while a monotone voice read off all the announcements for the day. The boys sat up straight and listened to the morning prayer. The class was attentive, with nearly nothing to distract them. The walls were bare, only a whiteboard and a cross hung on the wall.

Once announcements were over, the homeroom teacher began to hand out papers concerning Kairos and senior service projects to the students. The bell rang again at 8:10 a.m., signaling the start of Catholic faith and practice, a senior theology class at Rockhurst.

In comparison to the squirmy boys of grade school, the boys in the religion class seemed much more attentive in class without the distraction of girls. And although it seems that we females experience the same benefit, is it possible that males are more distracted by the opposite sex?

Rockhurst senior Henry Hilliard believes so.

“Guys probably benefit more because I feel like guys are more concerned with girls in the classroom than girls are,” Hilliard said. “The difference between an all-guys school and a co-ed school is way more different than between an all-girls school and a coed school.”

Check out dartnewsonline.com for more content on the school swaps between STA and Rockhurst.

work for young men, they won’t work for young women.

I can use the same textbooks and teach the same grade After first hour, Celia and I rode in level at STA, and the methods I would use would be the car with senior Matthew Gude to Ward completely different. I think it allows the whole focus Parkway Lanes for Lifetime Sports. I watched of the place, from the curriculum to the people to the the boys quickly enter the bowling alley, grab program, to better meet the students where they are.” their size 10-13 bowling shoes and 14-pound bowling Rockhurst English teacher Chris Bosco keeps this balls and head to a lane. With 10 frames to bowl in one idea in mind when teaching. class period, there was no time to mess around. I didn’t “You can tailor pedagogy, the way you teach, to the hear anyone taunting another boy for his gutter ball or general skill set of men,” Bosco said. “That also means bragging about his three strikes. you can identify areas that need growth. I recognize that Perhaps this atmosphere was created by the singlethere are certain generalizations about the male learner, sex environment. According to a study by NASSPE, the but I also realize what are their deficits.”

National Association for Single Sex Public Education, One thing Bosco tries to tailor to men is the set up of boys may ditch their “macho” attitude when not around his classroom. girls.

“I understand that space tends to be a bigger issue to “In coed schools, boys tend to adopt a ‘masculine’ males,” Bosco said. “Boys or young men more often than attitude because girls are there,” a NASSPE study said. not feel confined by spaces and want to move around.

“They feel they have to demonstrate their emerging If you know Henry Hilliard, you know he can’t stand masculinity by gross macho over-reaction. Boys in still. He’s always moving around. I read that as he has a single sex schools become more sensitive men and tremendous analytical capacity. So I might be aware that they’re more polite.” how the room is set up is very important.”

In addition, NASSPE says that boys are able to Bosco is also aware of the competitive spirit in the overcome this “masculine” mindset when it comes to boys at Rockhurst, and tries to utilize that competition atypical hobbies in an all-male environment as well. in the classroom.

“There is a subtle pressure toward gender stereo“We’re competitive; we’re goal oriented,” Bosco said. typing in mixed schools,” the NASSPE study said. “In “Which is what research says about men. We create an boy’s schools, boys feel free to be themselves, to follow environment where students have to come forward. We their interests and talents in what might be regarded as sell it to the students as a personal pride thing.” non-macho pursuits: music, arts, drama. We’ve heard This personal pride became evident at Rockhurst, from many young men who have shared how their inboth in and out of the classroom. In AP literature, a terest in poetry or history, discussion-based class, etc. only began after they almost every boy in the enrolled in a single-sex classroom participated. school. In the single sex I watched boys eagerly There’s something about allowing [men] environment, they didn’t raise their hands, almost to be who tey are; it’s more effective acafeel any embarrassment competing to speak next, in showing an interest anxiously awaiting their demically. Boys are able to come into their in those ‘non-macho’ turn and showing slight own academically now. activities.” disappointment when Greg Harkness And in fact, it seems they weren’t called upon.

Rockhurst principal that men at Rockhurst Social Success utilize this benefit of Whether it was the single-sex education. numerous high fives exchanged in the hallway during Many boys participate in choir, ceramics or drawing passing period, a 5-foot-tall freshmen talking with a at Rockhurst. Last week, Rockhurst put on their own 6-foot-tall senior, or boys sitting next to people in class musical “Godspell,” starring many of their own students, that they don’t hang out with on the weekends, deeper and several Rockhurst students will perform in the STA’s friendships seemed to be evident at Rockhurst than musical “Curtains” this week. what I saw in my co-ed grade school.

These Rockhurst boys even seem to be pursuing Harkness believes that the boys at Rockhurst benefit these artistic talents beyond high school. While we were socially from the all-male environment. there, the boys had to sign up for Career Day. There “I think in an all-male school, the boys are nicer were three pieces of paper filled with students who to each other,” Harkness said. “There’s a willingness, wanted to attend the artist session. and almost out of necessity, there’s friendships on Harkness also sees this benefit of an all-male envia deeper level that wouldn’t happen if there’s girls ronment. around.

“There’s something about allowing [men] to be who “I think that’s one of the most positive things about they are; it’s more effective academically,” Harkness single sex education. It allows the students of the same said. “Boys are able to come into their own academically gender to have deep and meaningful relationships. You now. With all the pressures in adolescence, removing just have a different way of relating to people. You tend that type of tension from an academic environment is a to be more open and accepting.” good thing.”

Hilliard also appreciates this level of openness that Rockhurst has created among its students.

Gender Specific Stratagies Harkness also said that Rockhurst uses the all“I feel like it gives guys more opportunities to do things they wouldn’t be able to do at a school with male environment to tailor to the academic needs girls,” Hilliard said. “That level of openness wouldn’t of men. happen if we were coed. That level of comfort “[Single-sex education] allows you to have really wouldn’t be there.” H gender-specific curriculum,” Harkness said. “If things

Masculine Mindset?

“

“

Through a shadow experience at Rockhurst, the Dart evaluates how boys utilize a single-sex education

by BLASE CAPELLI editor-in-chief of The Prep News

odd woman out H Senior Hannah Wolf, left, talks to Rockhurst High School senior and host for the day Emerson Hodes at the end of the school day Wednesday, Nov. 2. During her day at RHS, Wolf researched the benefits of single-sex education for males. photo by CELIA O’FLAHERTY

overheard quotes Hannah Wolf recorded things she heard during her day at Rockhurst Nov. 2.

“You can’t enroll here, girls. Sorry. It’s just the rules.”

“Let’s keep this class PG-13 today.”

“I’ve never taken the ACT, but I’ll probably get a 36.”

“I’ll offend those girls within 10 minutes of class.”

“I always tell these boys if a girl doesn’t like to bowl, don’t date them.”

“At STA all they do is study. They treat their teachers with dignity and respect.”

“We have a test in here? I thought the test was tomorrow?”

“He’ll make fun of you because you’re a girl.” elephant in the room H Rockhurst High School senior Matthew Gude listens to math teacher Jo Weller during a precalculus class Friday, Oct. 28. Gude and RHS senior Blase Capelli shadowed STA senior Allison Fitts for the school day. photo by CELIA O’FLAHERTY

prep preparationH Rockhurst High School senior Emerson Hodes, left, shows senior Hannah Wolf a draft of their next Prep News issue during newspaper class Wednesday, Nov. 2. Wolf and senior Celia O’Flaherty shadowed Hodes for the day. photo by CELIA O’FLAHERTY

“Oh, you’re writing about Rockhurst?

Make us look good.”

Interesting. That’s how I summed up my day shadowing St. Teresa’s. It was interesting going through a completely different schedule. It was interesting experiencing other teachers in class. It was interesting going to school with 800 girls. Yep, it was interesting.

Don’t worry; that’s my short answer. As for a long answer, well, I thought would answer the question I was asked repeatedly throughout the day, “What are the differences between STA and Rockhurst?” (Aside from the obvious fact that we don’t have girls.)

Some differences were small, some were big, some funny, some boring, some obvious, some not so obvious, but all should be considered. Remember, you asked…

Girls like to play with their hair. Weird, I know, but I got so distracted when one girl, in my first hour class, started braiding her hair. It was like I was sucked into one of those late night infomercials: you know they’re worthless but you keep watching. Later in the day, during activity, some girl asked another girl to braid her hair. This time I was prepared and resisted watching. Luckily no one braids their hair at Rockhurst, or I would be failing.

Lunch: Can someone say chaos? Not really chaos, but I think our moderator, the all-powerful and feared Coach Mo, would have had a heart attack. Book bags in the Rockhurst cafeteria?

No. Homework during lunch? No. Chanting and pounding tables? No. Standing up for a class picture? Ha. I think you get the picture.

Typing noises are less annoying than pencil noises. I sat in on a timed write for AP lit. I thought the use of netbooks for in class essays was awesome. I would give my right hand to use those netbooks for my in-class essays, because right now, it ain’t doing the job. All I see on my graded essays are question marks above every other word. During the essay, I realized how soothing the rhythmic typing of the keyboards sounded. I think I got a little nap in during that class.

Desks. Every time I sat down in one of the desks, I felt like I was going to break it.

I’m here to tell you I didn’t, thankfully.

Passing periods. I don’t think you can appreciate the open, fresh air until you experience a whole school day stuck in one building. Every time I went outside it was a shock to the system; I’m not used to going outside from 8 a.m. until 3 a.m.

Free time. Not to sound like I’m complaining, but at Rockhurst we might get three activity periods in one week, that’s only 90 minutes of free time. My first two hours alone at St. Teresa’s were free periods, that’s 80 minutes—in one day. I’ll let you do the math.

10 | sports | dartnewsonline.com | the dart | November 10, 2011

PLAYER

Every issue, the Dart highlights an exceptional athletic achievement accomplished by an STA student

by LANE MAGUIRE

Basketball team short on height The basketabll team faces different challenges this season, including a lack of height due to loss of seniors

by LANE MAGUIRE lmaguire@dartnewsonline.com 5’8”: about 2 inches shorter than the average height of most players on a girls high school basketball team and now the height of the tallest player on this year’s varsity basketball team. The Dart talked to three of the “tallest” returning players to see how this lack of height could affect the season. And through the process, the Dart discovered that height may not be the team’s only challenge.

“

“

POWER

We are going into [the season] completly wondering what’s going to happen.

Ann Campbell freshman

What: Recieved All-State in cross country When: Nov. 5 at 1:05 p.m.

Where: Jefferson City, Missouri How: The top 25 finishers at cross country State are recognized as All-State and recieve an additional medal and certificate. Because the cross country team placed fourth, Campbell came away from the State meet with two medals.

Campbell is one of the few freshman ever to receive All-State in STA cross country history.

“I was really excited for her,” junior cross country runner Courtney Coppinger said.

“As a freshman that is an honor. I don’t think she realizes how good she is.”

“My little Ann,” senior Kelly O’Byrne said.

“Before each race, Ann was always so chipper. Her spirit calms everyone down, especially her giggles.”

dartnewsonline.com

Maggie Rellihan varsity basketball player

“We are going into [the season] completely wondering what’s going to happen,” varsity basketball player Maggie Rellihan said.

Also accompanying the lack of height in what Rellihan calls an “iffy” season is the loss of five varsity players, a new coach (the fourth in four years), a player with a fractured metatarsal and another with a sprained thumb knuckle.

Although the latter preseason injuries may sound like bad omens to top off the already “iffy” season, they are expected to resolve before the season officially begins. Basketball player Jennifer Blake said she has already been playing with her sprained thumb knuckle, and Rellihan’s fractured metatarsal will be cast-free early into the season. “[Rellihan] will be fine,” varsity basketball player Becca Lueke said. “They said three weeks, so you know her dad is going to make her come back at that three weeks. I’ll make her come back.

All she’s going to miss is open gym, tryouts and then the first week of practice.”

The team’s next challenge, the loss of seniors, helps to explain the lack of height, as last year’s seniors made up the majority of the Lueke height on the team.

Former STA senior varsity basketball players include forwards Katie Pautler (5’11”), Maddie Lueke (5’8”) and Alli Franken (5’10”) and guards Emma Steck (5’8”) and Caroline Gray (5’8”). In addition, two of last year’s potential varsity players, Peepers Gray and Katherine Barnthouse, will not be returning.

According to Becca, a post (usually the tallest player on the team) is normally between 5’9” and 5’10.” To work around the height issue, Becca, Rellihan and Blake agree that the team will probably play a 5-out offense, meaning that the players will stay outside of the 3-point line, rather than stationing taller players inside that line. On defense, the team may double up on opposing post players. Becca believes that certain plays constructed to take advantage of the lack of height, such as these, will make up for any disadvantage in height.

“There are some really big people, but they’re not fast,” Becca said, referring to height of players on opposing teams.

Blake is familiar with these tactics designed to counter taller players from opposing teams because she faced similar height issues on her

shooting star H Senior Jennifer Blake makes a shot November 7. Blake, along with the team, must overcome obstacles, including height and two injuries, to be successful this season. photo by SARAH GODFREY premier summer team. However, she thinks the new plays may be a hard transition for other players.

Another transition that Blake believes will be hard is that of a new head coach, Mr. Chance Stephen. Although Blake describes his coaching style as tougher than that of previous coaches, his style will address the height on the team.

“He’s going to train everybody to be guards,” Blake said. “His coaching style is to play everyone every single position on the floor.”

Despite the shortcomings the team may face this season, the team is confident that they have the potential to do well.

“We went really far last year and that was with our falling out, or whatever you want to call it,” Becca said, referring to the coaching change midseason. “But with all the [coaching] struggles we had last year, we pulled it all together when it came down to it and we went far into Districts.

We hope to do that again but hopefully win and get a banner, a new basketball banner.” H

Reaching new heights: This year’s basketball team lacks height. Below are heights of returning varsity players. compiled by LANE MAGUIRE

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Megan Lankford, guard: 5’7” Mary LeRoy, forward: 5’9” Megan Lewis, forward: 5’9” Becca Lueke, forward: 5’8” Maggie Rellihan, guard: 5’8” Savannah Trujillo, guard: 5’4” source: Mark Hough athletic director

November 10, 2011 | the dart | dartnewsonline.com | health | 11

Gettin’ the dirt on STA hygiene Dart staffer Emily McCann

How often does your discusses binge drinking that school skirt get washed?

How often do you brush your teeth?

commonly occurs after dances

by EMILY McCANN emccann@dartnewsonline.com

How often are your sheets washed?

How often do you shave your legs during the school year?

Statistics and probability class sends out survey to discover the realities of STA student hygiene Math teacher Jeanella Clark’s statistics and probability class surveyed the STA student body about hygiene during a unit on polling. “[The students] thought it would be funny,” Clark said. “They wanted to debunk the mystery of ‘Are STA girls really unclean?’”

According to senior Jessie Vincent,

one of the students in statistics, the class was surprised by the results.

“We got some answers we didn’t expect,” Vincent said. “One thing I was really surprised by was the amount of people who shaved their arms. I mean, the hair will grow back darker.”

Senior and statistics and probability student Lizzy Imperiale agreed.

“I was impressed,” Imperiale said. “I honestly thought that STA girls had worse hygiene than the results showed.” H

Meurer nd Sara

on a Parkins ie t a K y phics b

dartnewsonline.com Check out dartnewsonline for more graphs from the survey

gra

HEALTHY

HABITS Each issue, the Dart provides suggestions for changes in daily habits to increase the well-being of the mind, body and soul.

by MICKEY REDLINGSHAFER

MIND

BODY

SOUL

According to memory-improvement-tips.com picture word association is an effective way to learn the meaning of words. French teacher Alice Amick agrees and uses this technique while teaching.

“I like to attach an image to a [French] word, Amick said. “That way the students are more likely to recall [words] in French than translate it in English.”

According to WebMD, teenage girls who exercise daily strengthen their muscles, improve their general growth and keep their bones strong later in life. Former STA basketball player junior Katherine Barnthouse explains she feels accomplished after her workouts.

“I like to exercise after school,” Barnthouse said. “I do both running and spinning. They both are demanding on my body, however after I finish I always feel good.”

Secretary Julia Berardi likes to focus on the good aspects of her life and advises students to keep their priorities straight during tough times.

When situations are tough, she tries to remember what is important.

“Treating everyone equally [is important to me],” Berardi said. “Everyone deserves respect. And trying to help others when times are difficult [is important] too.”

4

12 | A&E | dartnewsonline.com | the dart | November 10, 2011

FASHION “NO-NOs” FROM OUR CHILDHOODS

by EMILY McCANN emccann@dartnewsonline.com

A

lmost every girl remembers her favorite childhood outfit.

Maybe it was a fuzzy Limited Too sweater, a jean skirt and Crocs, or a darling Abercrombie graphic tee, with sparkly, flare jeans and custom-made Nike Shox. These outfits were almost always accompanied by pig tails, side ponytails or other preposterous hairstyles. Accessories included Claire’s clip on earrings, slap bracelets and stretchy wristbands. Tweens would carry sequined, over-the-shoulder purses or knock-off Coach wallets. On the playground, girls compared how many American Eagle polos or Juicy Couture velour hoodies they owned. People judged your personal style on how many layers of camis and shirts you wore.

Every decade is defined by those outfits that we look back on and can’t help but cringe. What are we wearing today that we will regret in 10 years? The Dart compares your regrettable childhood wardrobe to your current fashion trends.

CROCS

Comfy, squishy, holey and oh so comfortable, who didn’t love their first pair of Crocs? Coming in a rainbow assortment of colors to match every pair of socks and outfit, and durable enough to withstand even the harshest climates, these functional shoes could be worn year-round. photos by ERIN SELLERS

Overalls

Overalls were an American classic. Durable and functional, these jean onesies made dressing easy. All you had to do was choose an undershirt and shoes and because they were denim, everything matched.

Flashback: “When I was really little, like 6 or 7, I wore overalls to school with a turtleneck and a giant hair bow. I stopped wearing them when my sister told me they looked bad. I would never wear them even again, even if they came back in style.” —Carson Beineman, freshman Fashionistas today would wear: Rompers Fashion police: “I think they’re cute. I would personally never wear them. I don’t understand how you get in and out to go to the bathroom. I definitely think that we will look back on rompers in 10 years and wonder what we were thinking.” —Carson Beineman, freshman

GAUCHOS

MADDIE DOYLE senior

ISSUE complied by CHELSEA BIRCHMIER

CLOGS

Clogs from Hanna Anderson, Birkenstock and other retailers were a staple to many childhood outfits. They could be worn with any outfit to add some height and make our little grade school selves seem older.

Flashback: “They may be trendy now, and we all wish we could wear them but my sister, Jane, and I wore them to church and basically everywhere we went.

We thought we were cool because our clogs made us taller. I realized they weren’t very stylish in about fourth grade.” —Katie Evans, senior Fashionistas today would wear: Wedges Fashion police: “I think wedges can be either really cute or really gross. I never wear them because I can never find the right event to wear them to.” —Katie Evans, senior

Flowy fabric, awkward length and bizarre waistline: who didn’t love a good pair of gauchos? They were the new jeans of fifth and sixth grade. Pair them with sassy tops, any kind of shoes or maybe even Crocs?

Flashback: “I had brown gaucho pants and they were comfortable. They had a fold-over waist and were flared and capri-length. I remember wearing them to a band concert. I probably realized in seventh grade that I didn’t like my gauchos because they were just really unattractive.” —Kelly Fletcher, sophomore Fashionistas today would wear: Yoga pants Fashion police: “I don’t like them because I don’t like wearing pants that are tight. I think they look fine on most people, like my sister. I think in 10 years they’ll look better than gauchos since they don’t flare funny or hit at the knee.” —Kelly Fletcher, sophomore

ARTIST OF THE Every issue, the Dart interviews one of STA’s rising artists about her talents and inspirations

Flashback: “In about fourth grade, I had some purple Crocs with the charms. I wore my Crocs to dinner, to the pool and [even] paired them with my gaucho pants. I thought they were cute, but they actually looked weird on my tiny legs.

I think in about seventh grade I discovered there was a reason everyone stopped wearing them.” —Elizabeth Arensberg, junior Fashionistas today would wear: Toms Fashion police: “I would like some [Toms]. They look really cute and comfy. I think we will look back on them and think they are cute. But, that’s also what I said about my Crocs.” —Elizabeth Arensberg, junior

What type of art are you most interested in?

Fashion illustration.

Doyle

What art classes have you taken?

Drawing 1, advanced drawing, painting, graphic design, fibers, art portfolio

and computer illustration.

Do you have any artistic inspirations?

I like my Vogue magazines and the “9 Heads” book about drawing fashion figures. I love Marc Jacobs, Philip Lim and I’m a big fan of Zac Posen.

What is you favorite thing to design?

I love to design dresses, especially red carpet dresses, and couture gowns. I love drawing things that might be impossible.

Where do you like to draw?

I draw most often in my room, but it doesn’t

matter where I am. I’ve drawn in planes and buses, but the main thing is that I have my iPod. I almost can’t draw without my iPod. Do you think art will play a role in your future?

I want to be a fashion designer, so sketching will definitely play a role in my future. The colleges I’m looking at are the Fashion Institute of Design in Los Angeles and Merchandising and the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City.

Describe your designs in one word or phrase.

Classic with a twist.

November 10, 2011 | the dart | dartnewsonline.com | A&E | 13

STA students and their partners get jiggy with it in preparation for the third annual senior fundraiser, “Dancing with the Stars”

Dancing in the

by LUCIA MASCHLER lmaschler@dartnewsonline.com

Couples Junior Elaine Schmidt and Mystery Partner

Beauty Shot

STARLIGHT Strength

Weakness

Expectations

To the Competition

To the Audience

“My greatest strength is my will to succeed despite adversity.

I let nothing get in between me and my goal.”

“By adversity, I mean lack of rhythm, dancing ability and experience.”

“Well, I mean, it would be nice to win.”

“Good luck.”

“I can’t wait for y’all to meet my secret partner.”

“I think our greatest strength is our unknown talent. Mr. Egner’s fit legs and hips can move in any direction.”

“Our weakness would be me, and the fact I have to constantly keep up with [Mr. Egner’s] unique dance steps.”

“I expect to win because no dancer has ever done what we’re about to do.”

“I want to tell those ‘Rock’ guys that they have nothing on Mr. Egner.”

“The audience better get excited for a fierce battle on stage with Mr. Egner and I.”

“Ms. Johnson was an Olympic Gymnast and a Top Gun Dancer, and I won every child beauty pageant because of my triple threat abilities.”

“Our artistic abilities are too abstract for some people to understand.”

“Duh, we expect to win.”

“Be afraid. Be very afraid.”

“Hold on to your socks, because they are about to be blown off.”

“Sam and I both have deep dance backgrounds. We bring each others’ different styles to the table to make for a really intricate dance.”

“We show no weakness.”

“We fully expect nothing less than victory.”

“I think our biggest rival is going to be Kelly and Mr. Egner.

I’ve heard he’s got the moves.”

“Bring sunglasses because these stars are going to dazzle you.”

“I think my greatest strength is my passion for dance.”

“My greatest weakness is time management.”

“I really want to win but I don’t want to be too confident, there is great competition out there.”

“What competition?”

“I want to tell the audience to vote on entertainment, but also on skills and if it looks like the group took time to choreograph a dance.”

“Well, I guess my love for dance. Many people don’t know this, but I’ve always wished I was a dancer.”

“Lack of experience.

Ms. Blessen and I are going into this blind.

I’ve never danced in front of an audience, so this should be interesting.”

“I guess I would label us as the underdogs, but who knows what could happen.”

“You might have experience, maybe a few more moves and a lot more coordination, but watch out.”

“Get excited. Trust me, you don’t want to miss this. We’ll be incorporating various dance styles, so you’ll just have to come and see for yourself.”

“Our greatest strength is the fact that we come from a strong lineage of dancers in the family. The jitterbug in our DNA will lead us to victory.”

“Our greatest weakness is that since we live at the opposite ends of our house, it is sometimes difficult for us to find time for practice.”

“We definitely expect to win. Why would we even enter if we knew we wouldn’t?”

“I dare you to try and out-dance the O’Rears. Like I said, we have the dancing gene.”

“Prepare to have your socks blown off by the awewsome-ness of the O’Rears.”

“Schmystery” Senior Kelly O’Byrne and history teacher Mike Egner

“Egbyrne” Sophomore Katie Tampke and counselor Amanda Johnson “Jampke” Senior Margot Livers and Rockhurst High School senior Sam Maassen “Mivers” Senior Mary Cate Feuerborn and Rockhurst High School senior Hunter Meacham “Mearborn” Senior Stephanie Hampel and math teacher Diana Blessen “Blampel” Senior McLaren O’Rear and physical education teacher Stacie O’Rear “O’Rear Squared”

photos by SARAH GODFREY

¢ ¢

¢ Bringin’ home the

14 | lifestyles | dartnewsonline.com | the dart | November 10, 2011

Senior Erin Hutchison sits down at her computer, creating a spreadsheet that she uses a couple times each month.

Hutchison said she likes using this spreadsheet because it helps her stay organized. She categorizes the spreadsheet into things she needs to pay for and things she is saving for. What is she planning? Her finances. Hutchison helps pay for part of her STA tuition.

According to principal for student affairs Mary Anne Hoecker, about one fourth of the student body needs financial aid or scholarships. Hoecker said tuition at STA this year costs about $9,750. One way or another, every family with a daughter attending STA must pay this amount. Some families, like the Hutchisons, have their daughters help cover this cost. According to Hoecker, many students pay $1,000 or $500 toward their tuition and a few even pay for one third of their tuition.

Hutchison has helped to pay for her tuition throughout her high school career.

Freshman year she paid for the registration fee and sophomore year she received a scholarship worth about $1,000, which counted toward her portion of the tuition. Last

300

WORDS Modeled after Brady Dennis’ original 300 words, this series captures people and moments in 300 words: no more, no less

by KATIE HYDE

bacon

Student works two jobs, plans own finances to pay for portion of STA tuition and prepare for future life

by ROWAN O’BRIEN-WILLIAMS robrienwilliams@dartnewsonline.com

year she paid $1,000 for her tuition and she will do the same this year.

“I realize the benefits of paying for [my tuition], but by the time I’ve gotten other expenses like car insurance and gas and saving for other things, it’s harder for me because I’m saving up for a lot of other stuff,” Hutchison said.

Hutchison’s jobs as a babysitter and as an employee at the Dime Store allow her to pay the expenses.

“For the first three years I paid for everything off babysitting alone,” Hutchison said.

“I babysat a lot, and I made enough because I still had money for other things.”

Ms. Mary Hutchison and Mr. Monty Hutchison, Erin’s parents, asked Erin to help pay for her tuition. They set these standards for her based not only on finances, but also the lessons it teaches Erin. “[Monty and I] felt that by [Erin] making an investment in her education early in high school, she would realize the importance of [her education] and that the fiscal discipline would carry over to college and

It all began with Nintendo 64.

Then came the Gameboy, Playstation 2, Gameboy Advance, Xbox, Nintendo DS, Xbox 360 and Wii. Finally, the Playstation 3.

Senior Alexis Buford can’t remember a week she hasn’t played a video game. Whether it’s Rockband, Guitar Hero, Halo, Call of Duty or Battlefield 3, every weekend Alexis turns on her Xbox Live, dons her headset to communicate with other players and spends a couple of hours chatting with her friends while killing off the Axis Powers on Call of Duty or destroying aliens on Halo.

Sometimes when Alexis buys a new game, she challenges herself to defeat the game in one day, sometimes playing up to 5 hours.

teach that it’s important to save for something that you really want to do,” Mary said.

Erin’s parents also feel like the demands they put on their daughter are realistic. According to Mary, Erin uses a spreadsheet to plan her finances, just like an adult would.

“Maybe this will help her as she goes through college and goes from being a young adult to an adult and budgets her salary and saves for goals,” Monty said.

Erin says she respects her parents’ decision and realizes how this decision benefits her.

“As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized there’s a lot of stuff I want to save up for and as I save up for these things I know what to do,” Erin said. “I put a little bit of money away at a time.

I know how to handle money and take care of finances to get what I want.”

Hoecker says she respects students, like Erin, who help pay for their education at STA. “I really admire students who care enough about being [at STA] to contribute toward tuition,” Hoecker said. “Money management is part of [this contribution], but I think valuing this education enough to contribute to it is pretty significant.”

“I think when something is important enough to parents and students, they will find whatever means they can to make it happen,” Hoecker said. “If part of that means the students can help pay, [the students] do.” H

“

She has defeated Call of Duty, Halo, Battlefield and the guitar on Rockband each in one day.

It’s that “addictive.”

Alexis’ conversations with other players amidst a game are “pretty random.”

Buford Among the cacophony of voices on the headset, one can hear “Nice kill!”“What game do you want to play next?” “How’s your day going” or even “Who do you like?” coming from one of the “immature” Rockhurst boys Alexis frequently plays with.

Of course, there’s also the good days when Alexis is home sick and gets to play the Brits or the awkward

“

green machine H Senior Erin Hutchison prices items at the New Dime Store where she works about two times a week. Hutchison uses this money to pay for part of her annual STA tuition.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized there’s a lot of stuff I want to save up for, and as I save up for these things I know what to do.

Erin Hutchison senior

Graphics by Rowan O’Brien-Williams and Sara-Jessica Dilks

realization some evenings that she is the only Englishspeaking player. But it’s not all fun and games.

Fellow gamers often doubt Alexis’“skills” because she’s a girl. After she defeats the doubters repeatedly, they sometimes assume she’s a guy with a feminine voice. When she finally convinces them that she’s a girl, they’re shocked.

So she changed her username to theGIRL428 to avoid confusion.

Although beating her male friends comes with bragging rights, Alexis remains humble about her victories.

After crushing her opponents, Alexis only has one word to say.

Rematch.

November 10, 2011 | the dart | dartnewsonline.com | in the mix | 15

CAPTION THIS

THE FIRST

TIME I...

by HANNAH WOLF hwolf@dartnewsonline.com

Post a caption for this photo to dartnewsonline.com and vote for your favorites. The winning caption gets a free Dart t-shirt!

Scan this QR code with a smartphone to enter your caption or go to dartnewsonline.com photo by ALLISON FITTS

DAYS OF OUR

LIVES

The Dart created a countdown to some of the most anticipated upcoming days of school

Exactly 29 days until the end of first semester.

Approximately 51 days until 2012.

compiled by SARA MEURER

Exactly 94 days until the Father-Daughter Dance.

Only 13 days until Thanksgiving break.

About 121 days until Spring Break.

Only 23 days until the Christmas dance.

And only 199 days until summer.

MY LIFE

MY LIFE

I walked downstairs to find the parents of Cam from “Modern Family” at my house for dinner. Not only did I get inside information about their son’s personal life, but I got to see their pictures of getting ready for the Emmys. Also, Meyers his dad continued to compliment my shirt which had a dream catcher on it. Apparently they collect Indian art? Hey, whatever floats their boat. My life rocks.

—Anna Meyers, senior

Last Wednesday, after the ACT prep test, my friend and I came to STA after having lunch on the Plaza, and while outside Verheyen [Room], where we did not know the teachers were having a meeting, Emily [Godfrey] surprisingly de-pantsed O’Neill me. Right at that embarrassing moment, Mr. [Matthew] Bertalott unexpectedly walks out and sees the scene. Emily burst out into laughter as I pulled up my pants. My life sucks.

— Lily O’Neill, freshman

ROCKS SUCKS

compiled by MARY O’LEARY

THAT’S WHAT SHE

SAID

The Dart prowled Facebook for the most catchy and intriguing statuses on the social network.

STA, “What’s on your mind?” compiled by NATALIE FITTS

THE FIRST TIME I... discovered what I wanted to be when I grew up, I was five years old and at a local park. My grandma was pushing me on the swing, and that’s when it hit me. Literally, I was swinging so high I hit a tree branch. But what hit me was the idea that my grandma had the ultimate job at that moment. A swing pusher.

I had my whole life planned out. I was going to spend my life down the street at Arno Park, pushing kids on the swing all day. I was going to charge each swinger $5 per swing, and definitely accept tips; plenty of money to make a living off of. I was going to live at home, a whole 7 houses away from the park and bring my own picnic basket for lunch every day. Throw in a game of tag or two and this is any kid’s dream. My fiveyear-old self wanted to love the job I had when I was older, and there was nothing I loved more than swinging. It was perfect.

My world went crashing down when I told my parents my whole plan. Guessing from their laughs, I realized this plan of mine wasn’t going to work. I couldn’t grow up to be a professional swing pusher; there would eventually come a time that my arms would get sore and I would grow annoyed of kids yelling “Higher! Higher!”

And maybe I didn’t like the thought of living at home with my parents for the rest of my life.

So I moved on to more typical kindergarten aspirations. An astronaut when we were studying the solar system, or a mail-woman when we were practicing how to write and mail letters. Maybe even a hair dresser when I helped cut my friend’s bangs under the table.

Then, one day in middle school, we had career day. There were no professional swing pushers, astronauts or celebrities. It was just a bunch of moms and dads, doctors and lawyers, teachers and accountants, real estate agents and secretaries, engineers and architects. I started to realize all my past aspirations were impractical.

I thought I was going to be one of the people in this room when I was older, so why not give it a stab.

So I went to the nurse’s table and stabbed an orange with a needle. “The quicker, the better,” she told me. I was officially freaked out by nurses. To this day, I still cry whenever a nurse gives me a shot in the arm. Do they think the same thing when they’re about to prick me? The quicker, the better? No, that flu shot still hurts regardless of how fast you do it. What an evil profession.

Despite this rough beginning with nurses, I now think this is what I want to be when I grow up. Don’t freak out; I won’t ever picture that orange when trying to give someone a shot one day in a hospital. And even if I get light headed and nauseous while dissecting a rat in anatomy class, don’t worry. I believe I’ll fare much better when working with people than rodents.

Now I don’t just have my parents asking me what I want to be when I grow up. My kindergarten teacher or a parent at career day could care less. I now have five college applications asking me to declare what I want to major in. This decision carries way more weight than the “career interest” drop down menu gives it justice. Choosing what I want to be now actually matters; there’s no going back now. And although “professional swing pusher” doesn’t show up as an option, I’ve now discovered what I want to be when I grow up. H

dartnewsonline.com

16 | last look | dartnewsonline.com | the dart | November 10, 2011

AUTUMN at the ACADEMY

I

tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that time of year when STA has shifted into fall and the leaves decorate the Quad of the Little Flower with shades of yellow, red and orange. Aside from student conversations, you can hear the crunching of leaves under your feet and see your breath as you walk between classes. The sun rises above the Donnelly Building and illuminates the colors of the trees. You anxiously anticipate the familiar feeling of leaving a warm building and walking into the crisp autumn breeze. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that time of year when STA can enjoy all the little beauties of fall. H photos by MEGHAN LEWIS

2.