STANTON COLLEGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL
DEVIL’S ADVOCATE
FEBRUARY 2020
Recent changes in safety protocols are being implemented to keep students safe
DRA THE WIN LINEG By C HAR LOTT E RO GER S
DEVIL’S ADVOCATE Adviser: Larry Knight Editor-in-Chief: Tatyana Esquilin Managing Editor: Phong Huynh Managing Editor: Katie Stevens Layout and Design Editor: Jake Nachman Business Manager: Ysabella Rodriguez Photography Editor: Prachi Misra Digital Media Editor: Zachary Genus Public Relations Manager: Christa Assi Assoc. PR Manager: Angela Villanueva Art Director: Caroline Robbins Senior Videographer: Dylan Janson Section Editor (Features): Katelyn Colley Section Editor (Opinions): Kennedy Cottle Section Editor (Sports): Seth Abouhalkah Section Editor (Student Life): Tatum Bowen Staff Artist: Eden Kershner Staff Writers: Reem Abdelmagid, Brenna Dupries, Elise Gideon, Fabrizio Gowdy, Aulani Marley, Charlotte Rogers, Janelle Tengco Staff Photographer: Hannah Furry Staff Photographer: Austin Mendillo Staff Photographer: Tyler Pottenburgh
Contributing Advocates The Devil’s Advocate is searching for contributing writers, photographers, artists and filmmakers. Contact Editor-in-Chief Tatyana Esquilin at tatyanaesquilin@gmail. com, Opinions Editor Kennedy Cottle at kennedybcottle@gmail.com or Digital Media Editor Zachary Genus at zacharygenus301@ gmail.com.
Ads and Sponsorships The Devil’s Advocate is dependent on our advertisers and our sponsors. When you purchase an ad with us, it reaches a diverse student population that can help your business. We can also design your ads. Our prices are: $45 (1/4 page), $70 (1/2 page), $75 (insert), $135 (full page), $150 (back page). For an additional $5 fee, we can advertise your business on our website. Contact Business Manager Ysabella Rodriguez at rodriguezysabella16@gmail.com or our adviser, Mr. Larry Knight, at knightl1@ duvalschools.org. Follow Us on Social Media
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FEBRUARY 2020
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photo by Austin Mendillo
Photography
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MIRRORING IMAGES
A variety of photos looking at things with a new perspective.
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HUMANS OF STANTON Based on Brandon Stanton’s photolog “Humans of New York.”
Sports
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SPORTS & HEALTH
A look at Stanton’s sports medicine program and the health aspects of participating in a sport.
10 SELF DEFENSE Although self defense is a sport with many benefits, it is not offered at Stanton.
Arts and Entertainment
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THE RECORD
The names, numbers, and notions you need to know.
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PAINTING THE WORLD
STUDENT OPINIONS
Senior Olivia Bullock shares her artistic passion and aspirations to change the world.
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Columns on the death of Juice Wrld, the terrifying legacy of Ted Bundy, and the toxicity of “stan culture.”
Features
STREAMING WARS
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As the entertainment industry expands its number of streaming services, students are asking how many is too many.
Due to a recent increase in awareness of safety risks, new policies are being implemented to keep students safe.
30 COMICS The latest adventures of “The Nerd Herd,” by Caroline Robbins, and “Mane Event,” by Eden Kershner.
DRAWING THE LINE
Student Life
22 THROUGH THE DECADE
Opinions
As the decade comes to a close, it is time to reflect on the major Stanton accomplishments and significant world events.
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EDITORIAL
SECOND SHIFT
The disconnect between generations has become problematic to those fighting for a better future.
Students at Stanton detail how they balance employment with their school work.
DEVIL’S ADVOCATE | 3
OUR TABLES ARE SET FOR YOU.
E N J OY T H E F L AVO R S O F T H E B L AC K S H E E P R E S TAU R A N T G R O U P
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photo by Tyler Pottenburgh
photo by Prachi Misra
photo by Prachi Misra
photo by Tyler Pottenburgh
MIRRORING IMAGES
Photography by Prachi Misra and Tyler Pottenburgh
photo by Prachi Misra
photo by Prachi Misra
photo by Prachi Misra
photo by Prachi Misra
photo by Prachi Misra
photo by Prachi Misra
There isn’t anyone you couldn’t love once you’ve heard their story. — Mary Lou Kownacki
What’s the happiest moment of your life?
What’s the most pain you’ve been in that wasn’t physical?
“Well, this year I tore my ACL two times in a row so it hasn’t been great.”
“Last year, one of my best friends, I lost her as a friend. So that was really hard because me and her, when I switched schools, clicked right away. So I was best friends with her. And then she changed, a lot. I didn’t really like the person she was anymore, so then I had to let her go. So that really messed me up.”
Well, what’s the saddest moment of your life? “Tearing my ACL the second time. Going to the doctor I was dreading it. Then I got there and I already knew what he was going to say.” photo by Tyler Pottenburgh
Is there anyone who’s changed your life but doesn’t know it? “I guess my close friend, Taylor. I feel like I’m more outgoing, I used to be super shy and stuff. But now I’m not really as afraid, I just don’t care what other people think anymore.” photo by Austin Mendillo
photo by Tyler Pottenburgh
“At the beginning, I wasn’t doing that hot. So whenever you’re not doing that great you have people coming up to you saying ‘Oh you should stop, you’re not going to make a lot of money, just get an actual job.’ But, I was like, no, I’m going to do this. I’m going to sell shoes and I’m going to turn shoes into a profit — and I started doing that. After the first month or so I started making my first major profit. Now the haters aren’t there that much.”
What are you most proud of? “I’m most proud of my sister. She and I, we’ve been through a lot. We have an older brother but he’s very separate from us. My sister and I, all the things we’ve been through, we’ve been through together. Everytime someone does something great, it’s ‘we did something great’ not just that person.”
photo by Tyler Pottenburgh
You can’t keep giving Juice Wrld answers. “Yes I can.”
What about yourself is hardest to admit? “My work ethic about school work is very limited and insufficient... because I’d rather listen to music.”
Juice Wrld? “Yeah.” photo by Austin Mendillo
photo by Austin Mendillo
SPORTS
SPORTS AND HEALTH Stanton athletes engage in off-season activity and use sports medicine to remain fit throughout the year. By AULANI MARLEY, Staff Writer
iiiiiStanton College Preparatory School offers a wide choice of unique clubs and diverse extracurriculars for students to be involved in, and has gained attention for its achievements and awards in academics. Stanton also offers sports health programs and opportunities for student-athletes to obtain the proper assistance in regards to injuries or problems maintaining their academic performance. There are clubs, courses, and organized teams within the school’s sports programs available for students to become physically active in a variety of ways at anytime of the year. iiiiiStudent-athletes, especially those on Stanton’s varsity teams, often train throughout the year to build their endurance and prepare for the upcoming season. Being physically active offers a variety of health benefits for individuals, especially students. iiiii“Regular exercise helps people develop healthy
habits, strength, and cardiovascular fitness,” said sports psychologist Dr. Mark Register. “Those who are disciplined to play a sport or exercise regularly tend to have better health outcomes such as reduced incidence of diabetes and obesity.” iiiiiExercising regularly offers various health benefits, especially to developing adolescents and students. Routine exercise builds stamina, prevents possible health problems, and can benefit the mental health of individuals by releasing internalized stress. iiiii“I think it is important for students to be involved in a form of [physical] activity because it helps your overall health,” said senior Mary McDonnell, who is on Stanton’s varsity volleyball team, as a libero (defensive specialist) and outside hitter. “Being physically active can reduce stress and anxiety. When I’m feeling stressed, I go for a run or to the gym and I feel better.”
photo by Hannah Furry
Athletic trainer Mrs. Lacey Bracken tends to an injured athlete.
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iiiiiPhysical activity can act as an outlet for students, especially for Stanton students, Stanton who deal with the stress and effects of a rigorous and heavy academic course load. Having practice or a game after school can also be an event for students to look forward to, acting as a break from school. “I think being physically active is beneficial because I can release some stress,” said sophomore Riti Ammanabrolu, a player on Stanton’s tennis team. “I look forward to [playing tennis] after sitting in a classroom all day because it allows me to get some exercise.” iiiiiWhile sports help students generally feel better as they release stress while they exercise, it also offers biological benefits. Routine exercise aids the overall physical state of an individual by alleviating stress, enhancing performance, and improving mood. iiiii“Student-athletes will find commitment to exercise is an excellent way to shut off stressors from the classroom, family, friendship groups, and social media,” said Dr. Register. “They allow endorphins to elevate their mood during training and competition while cortisol, a stress hormone, is diminished.” iiiiiStanton also offers health and sports classes in addition to its sports teams, such as Team Sports, Soccer, and Basketball. Offering the opportunity for students to become physically active within the school day allows individuals to receive the benefits of exercise without the commitment of an afterschool sport. iiiiiThere are also courses available at Stanton that focus on sports medicine, which enables students who have aspirations of becoming athletic trainers or physical therapists to learn more about the job’s purpose. Health Opportunities and Physical Education (HOPE), First Aid Safety, and Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries are courses students can take to become more educated on sports medicine. Classes focused on sports education may help students decide if they want to pursue a
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iiiii“I believe SCP Sports Medicine Club is important because not only do you receive volunteer hours, but you get the opportunity to help others by providing healthy snacks before a sports game or learning the specifics of an injury,” said sophomore Jaydon Ellison. iiiiiSCP Sports Medicine Club offers the opportunity for students to understand more about the field and become involved by helping student-athletes prepare for their sports games. In addition, the club helps expand students’ knowledge on other aspects of health.
“It’s important to be a leader and advocate in sports safety for athletic competition so athletes can participate safely.” —Mrs. Lacey Bracken
infographic by Seth Abouhalkah
career path involving sports medicine. iiiii“I think classes [such as First Aid Safety and HOPE] are important because they help people stay healthy,” said Coach Robert Fleming, the Department Chair of Physical Education and Health at Stanton. “Healthcare is a field that may interest students and these classes will help students make career decisions.” iiiiiIn addition to offering a variety of courses to help students become more educated on sports medicine themselves, Stanton also employs an athletic trainer available on campus for students to get help. Stanton’s athletic trainer, Mrs. Lacey Bracken, is available for student-athletes to see whenever they are having any issues with their athletic performance or injuries. iiiii“As an athletic trainer, I am a licensed healthcare provider who is trained in prevention and recognition of sports-related injuries,” said Mrs. Bracken. “I am able to complete rehabilitation protocols, refer to medical doctors when necessary, prevent injuries through hydration, and provide continuous sports-related education for athletes, parents, and coaches.” iiiiiMrs. Bracken also sponsors the SCP Sports Medicine Club, which gives students the opportunity to understand the field of sports medicine within this club. Members can expand their knowledge on sports medicine and interact with other sportsminded individuals while helping others within the community.
FEBRUARY 2020
iiiii“Sports Medicine Club is a wonderful opportunity to expose students to the physiology of the human body in a fun way,” said Ellison. “I believe this is important because Sports Medicine Club members can apply these concepts to their everyday life.” iiiiiMrs. Bracken said she offers support for studentathletes within the school day and at their games. She arrives on Stanton’s campus around 1 p.m. daily for students to visit her office in case they need assistance with injuries they obtained while exercising or participating in their sport. iiiii“Student-athletes come to see me most often for their injuries and how to care for them,” said Mrs. Bracken. “Whether that is the prevention of further injury such as rehabilitation, post-injury treatment such as modalities and ice, or to answer medical-
related questions.” iiiiiMrs. Bracken attended Georgia Southern University, earning her Bachelor’s degree of Science in Athletic Training, and has applied her experience from the university to her belief that high schools should have an athletic trainer available for students involved in physical activities. iiiii“I believe it is important for high schools to have athletic trainers to have someone medically trained to respond to injuries and medical emergencies to provide the appropriate care until EMS [Emergency Medical Services] can arrive,” said Mrs. Bracken. “It’s also important to be a leader and advocate in sports safety for athletic competition so athletes can participate safely.” iiiiiAthletic trainers are present during sporting events in case any players are injured during their games. Mrs. Bracken explained how this allows players’ injuries to be assessed and so these players may obtain the help necessary either from the athletic trainers or from medical professionals. Participation in sports during high school can offer a variety of benefits to the overall physical and developmental health of an individual throughout the course of their lives. Mrs. Bracken said being involved in sports earlier in her life helped later on and helped to shape her interests and traits today. iiiii“Sports are a great way for students to decompress and have an outlet to express themselves,” said Mrs. Bracken. “Athletics shaped me to be the person I am today, teaching me hard work, perseverance, commitment, obedience, and teamwork. Coaches teach you great skills during sports that stick with you for the rest of your life.” iiiiiSports involvement offers a wide range of benefits, especially for students at Stanton who must work through rigorous classes throughout the school day. Stanton’s choice of sports and courses enables students to have the opportunity to become physically active within the school day and to have an outlet after school. Having health programs available to students and individuals specialized in these areas can help further the benefits, enabling students to thrive and grow.
photo by Austin Mendillo
Mrs. Bracken tends to an athlete who obtained an injury during a basketball game.
DEVIL’S ADVOCATE | 9
SELF
Although Stanton offers a variety of sports, self-defense is not one of them, causing students to seek opportunities outside of school.
DEFENSE By REEM ABDELMAGID, Staff Writer iiiiiFor many high schools, sports are an integral part of campus culture. They offer students a way to relieve stress, stay active, and protect themselves. Despite Stanton College Preparatory School’s wide range of athletic activities, self-defense is not offered. Although some students have already made self-defense an important part of their lives by participating in organizations such as Stanton’s Multicultural Club’s Martial Arts group or outside programs, many believe it may be more beneficial to offer it as a class or extracurricular. Self-defense comes with many physical and mental benefits such as balance, self-discipline, and confidencebuilding. As it stands now, students interested in these activities have to search outside of school for places that offer it. iiiiiSelf-defense — a form of protecting oneself by attempting to counter-attack an aggressor—comes in many different styles. Commonly practiced selfdefense disciplines include karate, Krav Maga, and
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The advantages of a student practicing self-defense are similar to the benefits of participating in any other sport. In contrast to other sports which only focus on cultivating one’s physical stamina, self-defense also offers an opportunity to increase mental strength. iiiii“Some benefits [of self-defense] include health advantages because it is a form of cardio, so you’re able to stay healthy physically,” said sophomore Simran Dubey, who has practiced taekwondo for
“[Practicing taekwondo] helped improve my confidence and helped me grow physically and mentally stronger. —Simran Dubey, 10th infographic by Gracie Jiujitsu
photo by Prachi Misra
Priya Shah performs martial arts at Multi.
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seven years and now teaches a course at Karate America. iiiii“[Practicing taekwondo] helped improve my confidence and self-esteem. It’s amazing to see, from a teaching and learning point of view, how a student really blossoms and changes, growing stronger physically and mentally.” iiiiiBesides health benefits, learning self-defense offers high school students an opportunity to learn how to defend themselves. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, almost 20 percent of girls between the ages of 14 and 17 have been victims of sexual assault or attempted sexual assault. According to a 1990 study reported by the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, one in four girls and one in six boys will be sexually assaulted before they reach the age of 18. Given the risk of attack to young people, the implementation of selfdefense in schools could offer many high schoolers the chance to fight back. iiiii“The safety part of [taekwondo] is very important
to me because I know if I were to get into a fight, I’ve had enough practice to know how to respond to the situation,” said junior Andreus Chrisman, who has been practicing taekwondo for three years at Yesha Ministries in Jacksonville. iiiiiOther students, like junior Emma Martin, provide kids with an opportunity to protect themselves. Martin is an instructor for the program radKIDS (Rape, Aggression, and Defense), a program based on empowerment that teaches children how to avoid abduction. The program is located at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center in Starke, Fla., and also offers courses that teach women how to remain safe in dangerous situations. iiiii“[The women’s program] is teaching women how to stay safe in a public place and be aware of their surroundings,” said Martin. “[It also teaches] selfdefense for when you get into situations that can lead to unfavorable consequences.” iiiiiIn spite of its practical uses, Duval County Public Schools (DCPS), has not implemented any form
VOL. XXXVI, NO. 3
photo by Prachi Misra
Duong Pham (left) and Anh Lee (right), members of the Martial Arts group, perform in the Multicultural Extravaganza. of self-defense courses. According to the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA), DCPS does not offer any self-defense classes or sports because the FHSAA has not sanctioned it. iiiii“The only sports offered have a stipend attached to it for a coach,” said Stanton Athletic Director Coach Christopher Crider. “Without a paid position for a coach, there is no sport. Usually, when the FHSAA sanctions a sport, it means they have surveyed students, coaches, and administrators, over a period of time and have determined there is a large enough interest.” Therefore, students
“The safety part is very important to me; if I were to get into a fight I’ve had enough practice to know how to respond to the situation.” —Andreus Chrisman, 11th who are interested in taking a self-defense class or program have to go to an outside source in order to participate. Many places in Jacksonville have self-defense lessons or programs for all ages, like Karate America, St. Johns’ Krav Maga & Fitness, The Women’s Defense Company, and Athena Women’s Self-Defense. These places offer classes for teens and adults who wish to practice or learn self-defense skills.
FEBRUARY 2020
iiiii“Self-defense should be offered in schools,” said Athena Self-Defense instructor Mrs. Mattie Brown, who has been teaching classes in Jacksonville on and off since 2013. “Unfortunately, we live in a world where people want to take [your life] from you and have no value of life. There is one common statement in almost every victim’s story: ‘I never thought it would happen to me.’ This is why it’s difficult to fill up a women’s self-defense class. Few women actually entertain the idea it could happen to them.” iiiiiAlthough some people believe self-defense could be a positive school experience with many advantages, others believe self-defense and school should remain separate. Stanton, in particular, does not have many altercations so there is not much of a need to learn to fight back in school. “I don’t think we need self-defense since our school already has a safe environment and fights don’t happen frequently,” said freshman class president Ryan Sevilla. “Self-defense would just take away time from us when we could be doing more important stuff. If a student really wants to learn about self-defense, they can take it outside of school.” iiiiiA number of students felt if self-defense was offered as an elective in school, it could take away attention from courses such as Advanced Placement (AP) subjects, which offer students the opportunity to take AP exams and gain college credits. iiiii“It could definitely be offered at school as more of an after school club, but to dedicate a whole semester to self-defense takes away [time] from more meaningful classes,” said sophomore Stephanie Marques. iiiiiBesides taking time away from core classes,
the athletic aspect of self-defense is considered by students to be too violent for an educational environment, which can create liability issues for schools. Although self-defense sports can be
“[Practicing taekwondo] helped improve my confidence and helped me grow physically and mentally stronger. —Simran Dubey, 10th dangerous, other contact sports, such as football, are offered by the district. iiiii“I would compare [sparring] to wrestling,” said junior Anh Khoa Le, who co-leads the Martial Arts group in Stanton’s Multicultural Club. “[In] wrestling, you can definitely get hurt, but martial arts also involves striking and that’s not a good image for schools.” iiiiiDespite the potential issues with implementing self-defense courses in schools, it could offer many benefits for students, including an overall improvement of mental and physical health. Selfdefense classes could also provide students with the means to defend themselves. As more students pursue an education in self-defense, increased interest in the sport could strengthen the argument of why it could be beneficial to include in schools.
DEVIL’S ADVOCATE | 11
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The Record
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VOL. XXXVI, NO. 3
OPINIONS
DEVIL’S ADVOCATE Est. 1983 I Stanton College Preparatory School
2019–2020 Editorial Board Tatyana Esquilin Phong Huynh Katie Stevens Jake Nachman Zach Genus Ysabella Rodriguez Prachi Misra Christa Assi
Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor Managing Editor Layout and Design Editor Digital Media Editor Business Manager Photography Editor Public Relations Manager
iiiiiThe Devil’s Advocate serves as the official newspaper of Stanton College Preparatory School. It is produced quarterly by members of the Journalism class. The editors reserve the right to edit any material submitted into the paper for content, grammar, length and accuracy. iiiiiThe Devil’s Advocate is a public forum for student expression, which encourages free exchanges of opinions concerning controversial and noncontroversial community and school related issues. The advertisements and ideas expressed within the newspaper are not necessarily those of the newspaper adviser, newspaper staff, Stanton administration or the Duval County Public School Board. iiiiiThe Devil’s Advocate accepts advertisements from all businesses in the Stanton community. The ad format can be given to the staff or the adviser, Mr. Larry Knight. iiiiiReaders may contact the staff and adviser at (904) 630-6760 ext. 012204 or at knightl1@duvalschools.org.
photo by Hannah Furry
Letter from the Editor
iiiii The issue of school safety has no simple fix. It runs deeper than bag checks and metal detectors. There are some under-appreciated benefits to these measures, as they can eliminate some of the smaller threats and make students feel safe. However, none of these new protocols can protect our schools from the cause that got us here. A school shooter is not going to wait for the alarms of a metal detector to go off before they begin shooting. Sitting silently in the corner of a classroom is not going to deceive them into thinking we are not there. Our identification cards cannot stop a bullet. iiiii School districts can mandate procedures to create more security on our campuses, but to eliminate the real threat, we must go higher. The only way to stop gun violence is to implement better gun control on the federal level. According to the Gun Violence Archive, the United States of America has already experienced 10 mass shootings in January of 2020, a devastatingly high number to say the least. Despite ongoing consequences of poor gun regulation, the movement for gun control has accomplished little in the form of improvement. Congress needs to wake up and start protecting its citizens.
FEBRUARY 2020
illustration by Caroline Robbins
Generational Gap By THE EDITORIAL BOARD
iiiii The society in which we are raised has a significant impact on our beliefs and principles, and age gaps between younger and older generations have always created cultural differences that cause them to butt heads. The current bickering between Generation Z, millennials, and baby boomers stems from a general misunderstanding of each other, and an unwillingness to cooperate from all sides. iiiii Members of the younger generations often feel as though baby boomers, those born in the mid-1940s to early 1960s, are constantly belittling their problems. As millennials and Gen Z speak openly about issues such as climate change, college tuition fees, and the housing crisis, baby boomers seem to look the other way. Millennials looking to purchase real estate — many already in debt from student loans — are faced with unaffordable prices. Baby boomers do not understand this trouble, as they experienced a more favorable housing market. According to an April 2019 article from the Berkeley Economic Review, baby boomers still account for around 40 percent of all homeowners in the U.S., despite being outnumbered by the younger generations. Although baby boomers could do a better job at trying to understand the issues of the younger generations, millennials and Gen Z are often unreasonable in the way they approach problems. We are often extremely radical in views — many of us want change, and want it now. We are quick to point fingers and demand reform without adequate knowledge of how much time and resources actually goes into improvement. Baby boomers, having experienced that real change comes gradually, can be put off by the urgency of the youth. iiiii It is disappointing for members of the younger generations to be denied support from our elders, especially when the issues of the present aren’t so different from the issues of the past. The truth is, we all face problems during our youth that are important to us, and we all experience the struggle of not being taken seriously. It is clear that the earliest baby boomers wished more people had listened to their protests against the Vietnam War, so we question why is it so hard for them to join us in the fight for our planet? iiiii Baby boomers, however, are not the only ones responsible for the generational gap. Millennials and Gen Z have a tendency to widen this gap by dismissing their elders like they dismiss us. Most recently, Gen Z has coined the term “Ok Boomer” to mock the traditional views of the older generations. However, taunting baby boomers via memes on social media is not likely to get them on our side. iiiii Generation X, the generation separating baby boomers and millennials, has been left out of the conversation entirely. Members of the generation voice their thoughts on Twitter, some happy to be left out of the chaos, others begging to be acknowledged. The younger and older generations are so focused on proving each other wrong that neither pay attention to the generation bridging the gap between us. iiiii The issues we face today have the potential to harm generations to come. We should recognize that the generational gap does exist and try to overcome it. Baby boomers, we ask that, regardless of our age, you hear us out and try to understand. Millennials and Gen Z, instead of mocking them, we should focus our energy on trying to compromise with them. Gen X, we ask you to no longer remain silent. All generations should band together, in spite of cultural differences, and fight for a better future.
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Joyner Lucas vs. The WRLD By KYLO NOCOM, Contributing Writer
iiiiiAnti-drug programs have been rammed into kids’ heads since elementary school — several of my peers have been through the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program that allow police officers to discuss the dangers of substances. iiiiiJoyner Lucas seems to wish he was the DARE for a new generation. When Juice WRLD died on Dec. 8, 2019, Lucas’s first tweet was a call-out of the supposed glorification of drugs by the new generation of rappers. The Smart Rap Elite loved it — anything to politicize the death of somebody they deemed less intelligent than them. A reply indicates a more quaint picture of what Lucas really meant: “Since [J. Cole’s album] KOD, three rappers have OD’ed, should have listened.” iiiiiPerhaps there were no sincere intentions in what they were saying; perhaps they thought his death as deserved retribution for being a victim photo by Prachi Misra
of, and engaging with, a system that swallows up young men. Lucas’s generalizations of rap music are harmful, and this is where the problem lies in the conversation: by focusing on Soundcloud rap culture in vague platitudes, nothing is solved. We have to talk about addiction as a product of the conditions that lead to its expression rather than blaming it on the most easily visible scapegoats.
The glorification of drugs in trap music became thinkpiece journalistic gold after Juice’s death. iiiiiAfter Juice WRLD’s death was revealed as an attempt to avoid arrest, it felt like his detractors had their thoughts confirmed: suddenly the narrative was not that of a young man suffering from addiction, but that someone that somehow “deserved it.” How
Ever-Present Fear By TATUM BOWEN, Student Life Editor
iiiiiTed Bundy, one of America’s most infamous killers, was born Nov. 24, 1946 and executed Jan. 24, 1989 in an electric chair. People rejoiced at his death, and though this seems harsh, Bundy was a human without an ounce of humanity. After admitting to killing 36 women, he once said, “I don’t feel guilty for anything. I feel sorry for people who feel guilty.” iiiiiBundy was a hunter, and his car was the trap. After luring people, he would knock them unconscious, sealing their fates. Bundy had removed the passenger seat of his ‘68 Volkswagen Beetle to make room for the bodies of his victims. Additionally, there were no door handles on the inside, making escape nearly impossible. iiiiiBundy took advantage of these womens’ kindness and exploited their generosity. People like Bundy create a world in which others have to live in fear for their entire lives. These people serve as a reminder that life does not solely consist of excitement; unexpected events can happen to photo by Prachi Misra
tear apart families, ruin trust, and leave people with horrid, unforgettable memories. iiiiiBundy was a serial killer. He took lives before they were lived and destroyed the families of those he killed. People like Ted Bundy make up a small percentage of the world, and if everyone decided to turn their noses up at anyone who needed help putting their groceries away, then we would all be in a pretty lousy place. Letting the idea of murderers, terrorists, and heinous people weigh you down means they win, and gives them a satisfaction they do not deserve. iiiiiThere are dangerous people and there are people that brighten every day; be the light in someone’s life, not the monster that deprives others of their existence. It is important to be kind, but it is also important to know that Ted Bundy isn’t an urban legend. We need to enjoy our lives, and help others enjoy theirs without being extremely paranoid that someone is going to come and end everything in seconds, but seeing the faces of those who were murdered on the news reminds us that we are not immortal.
Be the light in someone’s life, not the monster that deprives others of their existence.
much of the disdain for Juice’s “glorification” of drug abuse is nothing more than aesthetic distaste masked by socio-political grandstanding? It gets exhausting to have “conscious” rappers dominate the conversation of social issues in hip-hop when artists that don’t fit the mold of the rap intelligentsia still try to say something meaningful. (That was the subtler point of “This Is America” that many missed: all black rappers are America, not just the “woke” ones.) Mac Miller’s death was treated as an important sign of fighting addiction; Juice WRLD got Instagram seizure memes. iiiiiThe glorification of drugs in trap music became think-piece journalistic gold after Juice’s death. Yet who’s asking why people in the scene end up succumbing to opioids, why people are terrified of the system, what is actually being said in the music of rappers who suffer from these issues? I’m not here to answer those questions — I’m observing from the outside, and most of the people who are reading this will never have to suffer from the same issues that Juice did — but it’s important that the conversation is not built on vague preconceptions.
To Stan, or Not to Stan By RAHA RIAZATI, Contributing Writer
“Ugh, an icon. We stan.” iiiiiIt is a popular phrase among teenagers and young adults, meant to indicate deep admiration for a person or an idea. Like most slang in Generation Z, the word “stanning” (originally coined to mean a stalker-ish, invasive fan) is an instance of hyperbole to the extreme. Yet “stan culture”, as it is now called, has adopted a dangerous mob mentality. iiiiiIt is not uncommon to hear of people, especially impressionable kids and teens, breaking off friendships over interests in music, film, and other content. It is even more common to see these irrational arguments in an online space, where anonymity is a helpful mask when insulting others aggressively. Such behavior is strange, almost ridiculous; none of us know the celebrities we worship, who seek to manipulate our emotions to make the greatest amount of profit. Yet some are willing to attack complete strangers over them. The most concerning part of “stan culture” is its elimination of basic human decency. We saw it with the #MeToo photo by Prachi Misra
movement, where fans were more willing to support celebrated male actors whose personality and appeal was entirely a product of capitalism, rather than the honest, real women around them. iiiiiSo now we must ask, “Why do people lose their humanity as fans?” The question can be answered simply by looking at other “fans” throughout history: religious extremists and fascists who idolized a figure or an idea to very many faults. Fandom fundamentally erases an individual’s sense of self, as apparent in the many online accounts whose usernames are a mashup of various fictional characters and celebrities. iiiiiLife is difficult, after all, and full of failure. It’s easy to subscribe to a group identity provided by something external, and that’s not a bad thing. Fan culture and “celebrity worship” can be a healthy form of escapism in an increasingly depressing world. Yet we must hold onto ourselves along the way; it is dangerously easy to lose yourself within the masses.
cartoon by Caroline Robbins
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VOL. XXXVI, NO. 3
If you could go back in time, would you choose Stanton again?
“
Stanton is probably the perfect school for a person like me. Unlike schools like Fletcher, Stanton has a community that is accepting and kind.”
“
Stanton is a school filled with bright minds but I can’t help but feel like this school was falsely advertised when I was in middle school.” — Bianca Jean Philippe, 11th
— Dylyn Hurley, 10th
“
I am incredibly happy with the academic nature of the coursework at Stanton, and I am sure that I could not get this experience and rigor elsewhere. Additionally, I am happy with the social environment as I have met some of the most important people in my life here at Stanton.
“
Stanton has brought me many experiences I will never get anywhere else. From learning to manage my time, study and do work, to the new relationships with both old and new friends, Stanton has allowed me to grow and change as a person for the better.”
— Sarah Copeland, 11th
“
Although the work is tough and the nights are long, I would not give up the experiences I’ve had or the friends I’ve made for anything.” — Colleen Mackin, 12th
“
The workload is heavy but the name of the school is good which is better for colleges; however, I don’t know if it will be worth the effort in the long run.” infographic by Kennedy Cottle
— Anushka Patil, 9th
— Freddy Pacheco, 10th
“
Honestly, Stanton is a great school. A lot of people have already transferred out because ‘it’s too hard,’ but personally, I think they just don’t want to work that hard. There are so many great opportunities at this school, and there are great guidance counselors. I don’t think I would have chosen to go anywhere else if I already experienced Stanton firsthand.” — Jasmine Tavares, 9th
Choosing Stanton By HEAVYN DOXEY, Contributing Writer
iiiii“Stanton kids have no social life. You stay up every night doing homework. All of them are depressed.” iiiiiStatements like these filled my head my eighth-grade year as I applied for Stanton College Preparatory School. The rumors and horror stories sought to warn me of a terrible place, devoid of happiness. Listening to negativity and lack of faith from others was my first mistake when deciding which high school to attend. It took me listening to the love and support of my friends and family for me to see the truth. I realized I had to surround myself with people who believe in me and believe in hard work just as I do. iiiiiEver since elementary school, I knew I wanted to be a surgeon. Medical school, residency, and developing my own ophthalmology practice were all things I could not wait to begin; however, I knew photo by Prachi Misra
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each of those steps would be competitive and difficult. In order to thicken my skin and prepare me for the road ahead, I had to choose a school challenging enough to get me ready.
We regulate between fun and focus like no other school. iiiiiThe academic rigor of Stanton is not a joke. Every day, an assignment is due or an essay needs to be written. Many times, the sheer amount of work has led me to doubt if Stanton is really worth it. Seeing my fellow peers with baggy eyes and sweatpants that they probably slept in reflects the struggle we all endure at Stanton. But I stay, knowing that I am not going through the stress and frustration alone.
iiiiiOur dreams and ambitions differ; however, our determination and drive are one and the same. Stanton is a place where future engineers, dancers, football players, and doctors sit at one table to cry and converse. It means a lot to me to attend an out-of-school sporting event where someone is on Quizlet and someone else is reading Wikinotes. We regulate between fun and focus like no other school. That regulation has prepared me in ways I never thoroughly analyzed until now. iiiiiThis school has instilled principles and tactics I can use in my next four years of undergrad, and to reach my goal of practicing medicine. I can now be one of the success stories that young students listen to when considering a high school. I could not imagine going anywhere else, and I am glad I chose a school that has prepared me for the road ahead. Columns published in the Devil’s Advocate represent the views of the contributors, not those of the newspaper.
DEVIL’S ADVOCATE | 15
With the increase of district and state safety policies, many students are seeing the daily impacts these procedures have on their school life. 16 | devilsadvocatepaper.com
DRAWING THE LINE
By CHARLOTTE ROGERS, Staff Writer DEVIL’S ADVOCATE | 17
FEATURES A rise in the number of school shootings in America has resulted in an increased call to action to keep campuses safe. The Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School mass shooting in February of 2018 exposed many citizens to the potentially dangerous atmosphere that exists in schools. This event sparked a wave of change in state and district legislation in Florida, and Stanton College Preparatory School, along with many other schools across the nation, has yielded to this new reality. However, some wonder where we should be drawing the line. Students arriving to Stanton on the first day of school were met with metal detectors lining the doorways to the main hallway and a new policy requiring all students and faculty to wear identification cards. These state and districtmandated protocols are just two of several that were implemented at Stanton in response to an increase in gun violence, drug use, and other security threats in schools. Yet, nearly two years after the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School mass shooting in February of 2018, a tragedy that sparked many of these changes, a grand jury and state commission have reported that many districts in Florida have failed to enforce these new policies. It has become increasingly evident that Duval County Public Schools has implemented new security in its schools. Similar protocols have been experimented with before; during the 2018–2019 school year, there were several instances where Stanton took on new and short-lived policies, such as performing bag checks for students on the one-year anniversary of the Stoneman Douglas mass shooting. However, the beginning of the 2019–2020 school year was different — this time, these measures carried a weight of permanence. Several of the new safety measures introduced this year at Stanton were not mandated by school administration, but were a part of state-wide and district-wide legislation aimed to protect high schools in Duval County. These policies are
To report school threats: 904-348-SAFE (7233)
To report suspicious activity: FortifyFl app
To contact school police (general):
904-858-6100
intended to create an environment where students can focus on their education rather than their dayto-day safety concerns. School resource officer Kristopher Bennett spends each day patrolling Stanton’s campus to ensure proper security measures are implemented and students, faculty, and staff are safe. “My job is to maintain the safety and security of the campus, students, Duval County School Board property, and equipment. This especially pertains to the students and faculty inside, and the community outside,” said Officer Bennett. “I make sure that outside threats or dangers stay outside the property and I look for suspicious persons or things.”
“I think we are providing an illusion of safety that we all benefit from feeling.” —Mr. Ben MacKay Officer Bennett also believes that Stanton, by nature, has a safe environment encouraged by the students. After working as a school resource officer in Nassau County and Duval County for roughly 16 years, Officer Bennett has experienced many different school environments. “The atmosphere here at Stanton is extremely safe,” said Officer Bennett. “The students here want to be here and want to better themselves. They’re better behaved and more mature than students at other schools.” Students cite the familial atmosphere created by Stanton students as one factor that provides a sense of safety on campus. The bond the Stanton student body has developed due to shared experiences and values leads students to agree. “I feel pretty safe here on campus,” said freshman Mackenzie Jones. “I think a lot of the students here wouldn’t do anything bad, and the school has taken precautions to prevent someone from bringing a weapon into school.” One Florida state law that has had an influence on school safety is the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act. This legislation requires schools to implement new security protocol, such as mandatory “safe school officers” like Officer Bennett, as well as increased surveillance and improved mental health resources. Within Duval County, this legislation has been applied with the aid of an $8.7 million state grant to provide schools with increased lighting, perimeter fencing, a new visitor management system, identification badges for students, and walk-through metal detectors. Another security protocol the district has been using for a longer time is the implementation of code red drills. After the mass shooting in Parkland, the number of drills conducted annually increased. infographic by Katelyn Colley
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VOL. XXXVI, NO. 3
Classrooms were also given designated “hard corners,” distinguished by a red line taped to the floor, where students would be safest in the event of a code red emergency. “I think we are providing an illusion of safety that we all benefit from feeling, like we’re doing something or that there is a plan,” said Mr. Ben MacKay, a Stanton history teacher. “I don’t think what we’re doing adequately protects us from somebody with an automatic weapon, but it’s a little bit like swimming in the ocean. I know there’s sharks, but I don’t feel like it’s a big threat so I still swim in the ocean anyway.” According to Duval Superintendent of Schools Dr. Diana Greene, these new policies were created to give students a feeling of security while not disrupting the learning environment. When applying the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act, preserving student comfort was just as important as keeping students safe. “We want our students to feel like they can be in an environment where they are not worried about their safety,” said Dr. Greene. “We need balance so that our students do not feel like they’re walking into a prison, but that they are in a nurturing space.” Stanton administration has also integrated the district’s new protocols into everyday life for students and faculty. Ensuring that IDs are worn and subjecting students to random bag checks are two of several new measures administration has taken in the name of keeping students safe. According to Assistant Principal Michael Kerr, every person on the school campus must play their part to keep Stanton secure. “It takes everybody in the building to remain safe—parents, students, teachers, staff,” said Mr. Kerr. “Most of the time we find out about security threats through those people. Increased awareness of one’s surroundings means an increase in safety.” For some, these new changes are problematic, as students feel the strict protocol enforcement is
photo by Austin Mendillo
Officer Kristopher Bennett oversees Stanton’s campus affairs with multiple security camera monitors to ensure the safety of students and faculty. not doing enough to keep them secure. “The district is avoiding the real issue at hand, which is gun violence,” said junior Ashley King. “Students wearing IDs isn’t going to change the risk or number of school shootings we experience.” Per Duval County policy, all students, faculty, and staff are required to wear IDs. According to administration, being able to identify students is extremely important when it comes to keeping Stanton’s campus safe. “IDs help us identify who belongs here at Stanton,” said Mr. Kerr. “We can identify an outsider and act accordingly. It’s actually happened several times this year.” Students also have concerns about the emotional impact the issue of school and gun safety has had on them. For many, the school shootings that occur periodically are distressing. “It’s definitely very upsetting to see it happening in the news,” said King. “Those kids are your age, and it could’ve been you.”
photo by Austin Mendillo
Students undergo random bag checks by administration and security personnel to maintain a sense of awareness about the items students carry to school.
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The issue of gun violence is just one of the concerns students have for their own safety. Some students have grown upset over recent actions taken by administration and school faculty. Upperclassmen have been asked to get out of their cars when parked on campus before school, resulting in student complaints. For some, this affects their daily morning routine. Before the institution of the policy, students utilized this time to prepare for the school day before going on campus. “I would usually stay in my car until 7:55 a.m. reading, studying or listening to music,” said senior Tommy Pottenburgh. “The next couple of weeks the mudlot changed. Students aren’t showing up early to school anymore simply because they can’t sit in their cars.” However, Stanton administration and faculty justifies asking students to leave their vehicles in the morning. According to school security guard Ms. Rachel Rodgers, who has been ensuring students get out of their cars in the morning and promptly leave the campus in the afternoon, administration and security’s focus is on keeping the student body safe. “At a certain point, there is no adult supervision out there, and we can’t see who comes on and off the grounds,” said Ms. Rodgers. “At that point in time, all the students are asked to move up to where there is supervision. It’s not safe for them to sit out in their cars because they’re not paying attention to their surroundings.” Car safety is just one example of the variety of precautions being implemented to keep the campus secure. Although it can be inconvenient for students, administration has made it clear these actions have been applied with student and faculty safety in mind. While some have embraced the new policies at Stanton with open arms, others are concerned about the effects they have on the school’s atmosphere and the extent to which the student body is willing to tolerate. For now, students can expect many drills to come and security measures to maintain a stronghold at Stanton.
VOL. XXXVI, NO. 3
STUDENT LIFE As the 2010s come to a close, it is time to recognize and reflect on the significant events that have occurred at Stanton College Preparatory School.
Through the 2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
The BP oil rig explosion in the Gulf of Mexico released over 200 million gallons of crude oil.
The Deathly Hallows Part II was released, officially ending the world-famous Harry Potter series.
The Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting occurred, resulting in the death of 27 people.
The Boston Marathon bombing left people shaken, causing them to reflect on previous terrorist attacks.
The World Trade Center was rebuilt, becoming the tallest building in the United States.
iiiiiThe past decade at Stanton College Preparatory School cannot be defined by a single event but rather a collection of events that have shaped students into who they are today. Since 2010, the Devil’s Advocate has covered Stanton news ranging from sports team wins to the threat of the magnet program being discontinued. These events, and many others, have had an impact on the entire Stanton community throughout the 2010s.
POLITICS
iiiiiNational elections are extremely important to our nation’s welfare because the security of the people rests on whoever gets elected into positions of leadership. Since 2000, the Devil’s Advocate has held a quadrennial mock-election in which the student body has consistently predicted the nation’s popular vote. In 2016, the school’s mock election focused on Republican Donald Trump and Democrat Hilary Clinton, where the latter won the school’s popular vote. As first African American President Barack Obama prepared to leave office, the election of Donald Trump marked a significant change in the nation’s political culture that yielded many different responses from Stanton students. iiiiiRegardless of the results, these mock elections assist in promoting student involvement and interest in current politics by keeping them aware. iiiii“I voted in the [2016] mock election my freshman year and I voted for Hillary Clinton,” said senior Matthew Kirkland, a Stanton freshman at the time of the 2016 mock-election. “I still remember that
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after the mock-election on the bus ride home, I looked up the different candidates to learn more about them and their platforms.”
“The way gun control is handled in the U.S. is ridiculous and needs to be improved, especially for the sake of schools.” —Adrianna Ward, 10th iiiiiWhile mock elections garner the interests of Stanton students, the anticipated results can affect their opinions. Recently, on Dec. 18, 2019, President Donald Trump was impeached by the Democratic-led House of Representatives on one article for abuse of power and one for obstruction of justice. The verdict of the impeachment trial could impact the way Stanton and the nation’s youth vote in the next national election later this year. iiiii“The impeachment did not change the way I’m thinking of voting next election,” said senior Carson Blank. “I’m most likely going to vote conservative,
however, I’ll have to see what happens during the primaries.” iiiiiA political movement that gained recognition in the 2010s is the campaign for increased gun regulation. In the spring of 2018, Stanton students organized a protest allowing participants to stand in solidarity for the 17 lives lost in the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting. In 2019, the Duval County School Board took more measures to prevent such shootings from happening in schools with the installation of metal detectors and the implementation of other security measures. School shootings became an event that students mourned over as they urge politicians to enforce gun regulations to prevent future shootings. iiiii“The way gun control is handled in the U.S. is ridiculous and needs to be improved, especially for the sake of schools,” said sophomore Adrianna Ward. “Teenagers and kids should be able to feel safe in their schools.”
STANTON ATHLETICS
iiiiiDuring the decade, Stanton’s culture has been defined by sporting events. One of these sports events is the ongoing rivalry against Paxon School for Advanced Studies. Every year, Stanton’s football team plays against the Paxon football team, and for the past three years, Stanton has come out victorious. iiiii“Winning against Paxon felt really good,” said Ethan Mere, a senior on Stanton’s football team. “Especially since we were coming off a poor
VOL. XXXVI, NO. 3
DECADE By ELISE GIDEON, Staff Writer
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
Gay marriage was legalized in all 50 states after the Supreme Court struck down bans.
Donald Trump won against Hillary Clinton and became the 45th president of the United States.
The #MeToo Movement gained new momentum after producer Harvey Weinstein was accused of sexual assault.
The California wildfires left a path of destruction, destroying thousands of homes and livelihoods.
The first photo of a black hole was taken by a team of scientists after years of research.
“I think it was easier for all of the girls to work together... they all wanted to be there to play soccer.” —Mr. Brian Heggood season, the Stanton versus Paxon game was the game to win and the whole team was in on it.” iiiiiSeveral of Stanton’s sports teams excelled in the past decade. During the 2016-2017 school year, the girls varsity soccer team was the perfect example of these sports. In the same year, the team’s prowess earned them the opportunity to play at the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) Girls Soccer State Championships. The team was led by Coach Brian Heggood who “has kept waiting for one milestone” in the “more than two decades” he has been at Stanton, according to The Florida Times-Union. iiiii“The girls were always motivated to be successful,” said Mr. Heggood in “Journey to Deland,” a story published in the February 2017 issue of the Devil’s Advocate. “I think it was much easier for all of the girls to work together because they all mainly wanted to be there to play soccer.” iiiiiThe girls going to states would never have happened if the funding for sports teams in Duval
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County had remained cut after it was eliminated from magnet schools district-wide. In the 20112012 school year, the Duval County School Board decided to cut funding for sports districtwide and transportation funding for six magnet schools, including Stanton. The cut in funding prompted worries that Stanton could face closure, resulting in more than 300 students per year not having the chance to graduate from one of the top high schools in the nation.
iiiii“When I first heard of the budget cuts, I believed it was just a ploy to get more money from the state,” said Coach Robert Fleming. “I believed that if any budget cuts were to be made to Stanton, the community would have come together to replace any losses.” iiiiiWhile Stanton is known for its widely-acclaimed academics and sports, these series of past events have shaped the school’s culture and students into who they are today.
1. Avengers Endgame 2. Frozen 3. Black Panther 4. Frozen II 5. Avengers Infinity War
The results were determined by a cluster sample poll of students. Visit @scpnewspaper on Spotify for new playlists curated by the Devil’s Advocate.
1. Lucid Dreams 2. Gangnam Style 3. Party Rock Anthem 4. Super Bass 5. XO Tour Life 6. Boy with Luv 7. Uptown Funk 8. What Does the Fox Say 9. Old Town Road 10. Despacito
6. Avengers 7. The Joker 8. Into the Spiderverse 9. Moana 10. Lemonade Mouth
1. The Office 2. Stranger Things 3. The Good Place 4. Victorious 5. iCarly 6. Parks and Rec 7. Jane the Virgin 8. The Flash 9. Spongebob 10. Breaking Bad infographic by Tatum Bowen
DEVIL’S ADVOCATE | 23
D N O SEC T F I SH By BRE
riter
, Staff W
PRIES NNA DU
photos by Tyler Pottenburgh
Whether out of desire or necessity, many Stanton students are balancing their after school jobs and their academic work. iiiiiAfter sitting through four rigorous and lengthy classes at Stanton College Preparatory School, senior Kristen Norton leaves to go to work as a lifeguard for several more hours before finally beginning her homework. In addition to her extracurriculars and working a five hour shift at the Winston Family YMCA as a lifeguard, Norton is challenged by having to balance this with her seven hours spent at school. This is not an uncommon reality, as many students take on the daunting
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task of fulfilling their job responsibilities while also keeping up with their studies. iiiiiThousands of minors across America work, some because they need to pay bills, others because they want to have a little extra spending money. While there are some jobs that are commonly held by students, there are a variety of employment fields to explore. From city pools to sushi cafes, a large portion of Stanton students work in vastly different sectors of the job market.
iiiiiAlthough their basic needs are met by their parents, a majority are still expected to pay additional expenses on their own. For students who drive, extra food and gas may have to be paid out of their pockets thus making employment necessary. iiiii“I coach figure skating about twice a week for two hours each time. Balancing school and work is challenging during the week, but I have to pay for things like gas and food so working is a necessity,� said junior Sarah Copeland, who has worked for
VOL. XXXVI, NO. 3
four years at the Jacksonville Ice & Sportsplex. “By working, I am making money to pay for the things I need, [and] coaching figure skating helps me stay involved with something that I enjoyed participating in for a long time.” iiiiiLike Copeland, some students need to work to pay for everyday expenses, but this responsibility does not have to be a grueling task. The challenging aspect for working students is not solely their jobs, but maintaining a balance with their academic life inside and outside of Stanton. Students who wish to work and do well in school have to manage their time to avoid slipping in either task.
“My mom does not help me pay for gas so it is up to me to work enough to cover the expense.” —Kristen Norton, 12th
Making Money
As school becomes more rigorous, fewer teens are pursuing jobs.
20%
50%
29%
Of teens in high school have jobs (2018); compared to the 34% in 2000.
Of people ages 16-24 have jobs (2018) compared to the 60% in 2000.
Of teens in high school have summer jobs compared to the 50% in 2000.
Sources: childtrends.org, pewresearch.org infographic by Tatum Bowen
iiiii“My shifts are from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., meaning that I leave to go to work as soon as school is out and I do not get home until 9:30 p.m. I try to work three times a week but with soccer, sometimes I work fewer shifts,” said senior Kristen Norton, who has worked as a lifeguard at the Winston Family YMCA in Riverside since August. “My mom does not help me pay for gas so it is up to me to work enough to cover the expense.” iiiiiFor the students who are able to maintain employment and complete school work at the same time, they use their hard earned money in different ways. Students like Norton and Copeland may use their earnings for things like gas and food, while others find different things that need to be paid for. iiiii“I work at Sushi Cafe as a hostess and waitress year round and manage to take care of siblings, pets, and my homework,” said junior Shanna Lin, who has worked at Sushi Cafe for two years. “I need to pay for things such as club dues, clothes, and other basic luxuries. Working on weekends and
five days a week in the summer helps me pay for those things.” iiiiiStudents working to pay for everyday items may also find it enjoyable and a good way to keep busy. Over the long summer break some students can find temporary jobs to earn a little spending money while staying off the couch.
“I wanted to gain some extra experience in the employment industry and stay productive over the extended summer break.” —Trisha Mutha, 11th
iiiii“I was a lifeguard at Adventure Landing this summer. I wanted to gain some experience in the employment industry and stay productive over the extended summer break,” said junior Trisha Mutha. “I didn’t really need the job to pay for things so once school started I quit in order to focus on my grades.” iiiiiFor some students like Mutha, jobs are not a necessity but they do offer a way to pass time productively. Over the extended summer break students find themselves lacking stimulation, summer jobs can be a temporary source of revenue without getting in the way of one’s GPA. iiiiiEmployment can be a positive way for students to earn money to pay for the things they desire in everyday life. When comparing these individuals, the jobs they occupy, their motives for seeking employment, and the things they spend their money on, all vary. Despite the possible complications involved with maintaining a job and school, many students still seek employment throughout their high school years.
Opposite page: junior Jaylon Mitchell (left) works at Publix, senior Abdullah Waleed (middle) works at Chick-fil-a, and senior Marisol Pacheco (right) works at Metro Diner. All of these Stanton students must balance their job hours with school and extracurriculars.
photo by Tyler Pottenburgh
FEBRUARY 2020
DEVIL’S ADVOCATE | 25
ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
g n i m a e r St rs a W
As the entertainment industry expands its number of streaming services, students are asking how many is too many.
By DYLAN JANSON, Videographer
iiiiiOn Nov. 12, 2019, Disney released its longawaited streaming software, Disney Plus, in the United States, joining Netflix, Amazon Prime, and other competitors in the rapidly growing streaming industry. Packed with classics, new films and television series, and entire movie franchises, Disney Plus instantly became a contender amongst other popular streaming services upon its release. The new service arrives amid a rising trend in the entertainment industry toward the monopolization of digitally-distributed content. Dubbed the “streaming wars,” companies that produce original content are rushing to establish their own instant-access streaming platforms which could significantly change how audiences access content. iiiii“The ‘streaming wars’ is a pithy name that people are using to refer to the new marketplace for streaming film and TV content services,” said Stanton College Preparatory School film teacher, Mr. Brandon Cox. “This is obviously not a new thing, but it has ramped up in recent years, especially as major content producers have launched their own services.” iiiiiWith the recent surge in the number of streaming platforms, it is clear the entertainment industry is experiencing profound changes in how entertainment is made available to mass audiences. Long-time streaming industry leaders such as Netflix and Amazon Prime are currently facing increased competition from AT&T, Disney, and Apple in an attempt to secure a monopoly over popular content. Companies investing in the streaming market can choose to release their content exclusively to a single streaming platform, forcing audiences to pay for subscriptions to multiple services in order to view all the movies and shows they want. iiiii“For people who only have one or two streaming services, in the long run, they’re going to suffer,” said senior Cristian Merino. “They’ll want to watch this show that they have now on Netflix, but maybe in the future, AppleTV will own one show and Disney Plus another show, and they’ll have to end up buying two more services. It’s going to be a hassle.” iiiiiThis new trend toward privatized entertainment comes with substantial consequences for the streaming industry. The current streaming model includes new and re-released content and a wealth of entertainment options, often without the advertisements that plague traditional television programming. While the price of one subscription
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may seem relatively low for a particular streaming service, prices start to add up as more services are purchased. Additionally, many services increase subscription costs for those who want to watch content without ads and with the highest quality. What may start as a $6.99 per month subscription to Disney Plus can quickly add up to prices outside of people’s budgets. For Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video, and Netflix’s basic subscription plan, costs equate to around $25 per month, which translates to nearly $300 per year. iiiiiThose who are unable or unwilling to pay lofty
fees for multiple streaming services will be forced to choose which platforms they want to subscribe to. Subscriptions to cable and satellite television services are also important to consider, especially since they still contain exclusive content of their own. iiiiiStreaming holds an immeasurable amount of potential for both consumers and teenagers. According to a 2017 Pew survey, around 60 percent of U.S. adults between ages 18 and 29 prefer watching streaming services to television, the highest percentage among adults of all age groups. This demonstrates a growing trend of younger people spending more time with streaming platforms than television. iiiii“I enjoy platforms like Netflix and Disney Plus where there is a greater variety of content,” said junior Madison Rose. “I like having that freedom to pick and choose between watching a documentary or an animated movie.” iiiiiWhile streaming services like Netflix offer a wide range of content for everyone, other services embrace more niche audiences. The Criterion Channel, for example, streams entire collections of classic films from around the world, while ESPN’s streaming platform, ESPN Plus, streams live content intended for sports fans. Other services draw in audiences with popular original shows, a prominent example being Netflix’s “Stranger Things.” iiiiiCoinciding with the monopolization of streaming shows is an increase in funding for original film productions by streaming services. Two major award season contenders, Martin Scorsese’s “The Irishman” and Noah Baumbach’s “Marriage Story,” were released directly to Netflix after having a limited-release in theaters. While the full impact of streaming on the film industry is currently unclear, there is a noticeable shift in how movies are being made and how audiences gain access to them. iiiii“Where we run into trouble is our access to streaming content being inherently controlled by a third party,” said Mr. Cox. “If Netflix decides one day that it is going to remove ‘The Irishman’ from its streaming service, we lose it. There’s no physical media that we can watch on our own. That’s concerning.” iiiiiThe streaming wars have dominated the entertainment industry in recent years, changing how consumers access digital content. Streaming services have become a preferred medium for audiences seeking instant-access to an unlimited supply of entertainment. Behind the scenes, however, lies the monopolization and competition between streaming companies that continues to influence how consumers seek entertainment.
DEVIL’S ADVOCATE | 27
Fueled by her artistic passion, senior Olivia Bullock shares her work and aspirations to change the world. By JANELLE TENGCO, Staff Writer
P A ItheN T I N G WORLD
iiiiiIn an art classroom at Stanton College Preparatory School, the strong scent of acrylic paint permeates the room as colorful pigments are smeared across papers. The room is filled with chatter and excitement and, in one corner, senior Olivia Bullock crafts an intricately designed piece to submit for her International Baccalaureate (IB) art portfolio. Bullock is one of the many students pursuing their passion for art at Stanton, and her avid devotion to the subject is seen in her drive to establish her presence in the world of visual arts. iiiiiBullock’s passion for art emerged when she was in the midst of the IB program and furthering her interest in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). After being exposed to the works of artistic influencers, Bullock realized her creative talent and diverted her future plans for a career in art. She plans to take summer courses at the Savannah College of Art and Design to prepare herself for this endeavor. iiiii“In junior year, I focused heavily on STEM,” said Bullock. “As the year went on, it got harder to focus on just STEM. I realized [art] is what I wanted to do and now I’m focused on going to college for animation and 3D design.” iiiiiPrior to creating an art piece, Bullock undergoes a personal process which involves reflecting on her development as an artist and current state of mind. This process has helped her create a distinct style in her works and demonstrate her individuality instead of conforming to current artistic trends. iiiii“For my IB theme, it’s a very personal process about self-mediated help and how I can grow as a person,” said Bullock. “I’m constantly looking back at myself and thinking, ‘How are you doing right now? [What] do you want to do in the future? [What] did you do in the past?’ I use all of those three aspects of myself to pick an emotion that is
photo obtained by Carrie Santa-Lucia
Finding inspiration through her personal reflections, Bullock’s work is an extension of her own experiences.
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relevant to me at the time and portray it in a past, present, or future sense.” iiiiiFor Bullock, the most crucial part of her pieces is the insight she gains as she looks back onto her previous works. Creating these compositions enables her to establish a connection with them and foster an expressive outlet for her emotions. iiiii “It depends on the theme I’m working on, but it’s how it makes me feel once I finish it,” said
photo obtained by Carrie Santa-Lucia
Bullock’s work seeks to provide insight into the stigma surrounding mental health and its impact on students. Bullock. “It’s a revelation and an accomplishment of something that I identified about myself. I like being able to illustrate it because talking to people is hard and art is the way I can visually express [my emotions].” iiiiiIn her pieces, Bullock aims to convey a message or theme that resonates with her viewers. Her portrayal of these themes and messages have developed as she progresses in her art career at Stanton. With this emerging maturity, she has to accommodate her growing audience and the higher expectations for her work. iiiii“I focus on myself personally, but I also have messages about issues with mental health and the stigma surrounding it, especially in a classroom environment,” said Bullock. “It often seems like students are lagging behind when, really, they’re putting up with difficulties, whether it be depression or anxiety.” iiiii These themes and messages that Bullock conveys are a mirror of her own life. Though she wants her works to appeal to her viewers, she views art as an expressive channel to unveil the
personal aspects and challenges she faces. iiiii“The challenges I face personally with mental illness [have] influenced my themes,” said Bullock. “It makes me want to present it in a way that everyone can understand.” iiiiiBullock is encouraged by her IB art teacher, Mrs. Carrie Santa-Lucia, who holds high expectations for her students’ works and the development they experience when creating their pieces. This can include exploring different mediums to use rather than resorting to an accustomed production process. Mrs. Santa-Lucia has observed Bullock’s growth and witnessed her experimental and bold styles. iiiii“She has grown a lot more confident,” said Mrs. Santa-Lucia. “She’s not afraid to learn something new. She’s not afraid of a challenge, and I love to see that in art students because a lot of times we do things that we are good at and we stop there. She’ll take on new media processes and topics just to see what she can do with them.” iiiiiRegardless of her minimal experience in the subject, Bullock leaves a lasting impression on her viewers and teachers alike. Her strengths and bold, individualistic style are acknowledged by Mrs. Santa-Lucia as she seeks to visually differentiate herself. iiiii“She definitely has her own artistic voice and she knows what motivates her,” said Mrs. Santa-Lucia. “She pulls a lot from her own personal experiences, and it’s interesting to see her think through ideas and produce work because she’s not afraid to put herself out there.” iiiiiChoosing to pursue an art career instead of one associated with STEM, Bullock’s unfaltering devotion to her artistic passion is shown in her works. Her expressive take on mental health and her journey to self-discovery have helped to ensure her future in art remains a colorful one.
photo by Katie Stevens
Bullock aspires to improve her artistic talents by attending a summer program.
VOL. XXXVI, NO. 3
The Nerd Herd
By CAROLINE ROBBINS, Art Director
m iI C c sS CcOo M
The Mane Event
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By EDEN KERSHNER, Staff Artist
VOL. XXXVI, NO. 3