creating a team from scratch students present research oin Chicago
The Booster Redux Pittsburg High School 1978 E. 4th Street Pittsburg, KS 66762 Vol. 98, Issue 2 www.boosterredux.com
Friday, May 19, 2017
Page 2D
staff editorial:
TROUBLE TAKING A TINKLE STUDENT REVIEWS DRUG TESTING PROCESS, EXPERIENCE
ADVOCATING FOR ACTION Staff demands accountability regarding Robertson’s hiring
W
would be our next principal.
principal’s questionable credentials
Robertson’s resignation five days later
on March 31, we were thrust into an
without acknowledging Brown’s support
international spotlight for instigating her
of her. With the exception of a press
resignation. Major news organizations,
release from the board on April 7, the
from Good Morning America to the New
mistake has not been addressed.
hen the Booster Redux
Page 3D
staff first published the story about the newly hired
York Times, kept the phones ringing for weeks. The HuffPost invited us to the White
Page 4D
this added pressure, we sit in silence
As champions of the truth, we want our leaders to know how we really feel. To merely label Robertson’s hiring as
writing — and rewriting — what we
a simple mistake would be false. What
have been too afraid to say.
happened was not an isolated error on
Superintendent Destry Brown
Brown’s part, but rather his repeated
supported hiring Amy Robertson despite
disregard for the truth and the board’s
our findings, and the USD 250 Board
lack of oversight.
of Education has failed to hold him accountable. When our research began on March 15, we invited Brown to meet with us
We trusted our district leaders to follow through, but that trust was broken. As students, we are taught to respect
later that day. We spent hours compiling
authority. When we disagree with adults,
evidence about her questionable
we choose to remain silent, assuming
educational background, evidence that
they are more knowledgeable than us.
Brown dismissed within minutes.
But if we had not questioned authority, people would not have known the truth. We did our job and need district
times he told us not to worry about her
officials to take responsibility, but the
credentials. Three times he assured us
matter has been swept under the rug.
there was nothing to see. Three times he was wrong. We hoped an adult would shoulder the responsibility of truly examining
Page 8D
what went wrong during Robertson’s Brown still will not be held accountable.
while researching Robertson. Three
freshman breaks 100 meter track record
hired a private consultant to investigate hiring process, but we are concerned
We met with Brown three times
keeping track of time
Since then, the Board of Education has
29 in the nation’s capital. published, all eyes are still on us. With
gifted education provides support
However, the board accepted
House Correspondents’ Dinner on April Nearly two months after our story was
serving the needs of all students
He kept reassuring us and stating she
We ask the board for transparency, something that should have been done from the start. Right now our administrators might
Robertson’s credentials. When the
be trying to save face, but people want
superintendent did not take charge, we
answers.
knew it was our duty as journalists to pursue the story. Our story published on March 31
As Bob Woodward, one of The Washington Post reporters of the Watergate scandal, said at the WHCA
and Brown was quick to dispute it. The
dinner, “Whatever the climate, whether
next day, The Morning Sun published
the media’s revered or reviled, we should
online a story headlined, “Brown refutes
and must persist.”
claims in school paper — Superintendent maintains new principal highly qualified, best candidate.”
This is why we continue to persist — even now.
2 news
www.boosterredux.com SECTION D
Friday, May 19, 2017
Creating a team from scratch Students present research in Chicago katie painter @_katie16katie The eyes of many scientists and professors were focused on four students from Pittsburg High School April 21-24. At the beginning of the year, science teacher James Foresman offered up the idea of forming a Students Modeling A Research Topic (SMART) team to his students. This team would be responsible for researching on a particular protein over the course of the year, and then traveling to Chicago in April to give a presentation of their research at the annual meeting held by the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB). “This is the second one we’ve had. I’ve attempted to have one for about four years now, but it’s student driven so if they want to get involved with it and put the work into it then I try to follow through,” Foresman said. “The first team we had went to Boston and this team went to Chicago to present their work.” This year’s team is comprised of seniors Zach Uttley, Kelsey Fuchs, Morgan Burns and Justin Blythe. “I heard about SMART team through Foresman in my molecular genetics class. It seemed really interesting and fun so I decided to join,” Burns said. The students have also been working Seniors Morgan Burns, Zach Uttley, Kelsey Fuchs and Justin Blythe stand with Jim Foresman, SMART team spon- with Dr. Irene Zegar, from the chemistry sor. This is the second team in four years Foresman has had present information at the conference. CONTRIBUT- department at PSU, to learn more about the ED PHOTO. topic. They met with her to discuss aspects
of the protein. “[Zegar] has been our mentor and, without her, nothing we’ve done would have been possible,” Burns said Once the students began working with Zegar, they honed in on a specific protein that they found interesting, and started working with her on telling the story. The protein they chose to model is called kinesin. “We have learned all about its structure and function, why it’s important, and how it plays a role in neurological diseases and cancer,” Burns said. They will be giving their presentation on kinesin alongside other high school students as well as professionals, graduate students and college students. “They will come around to different posters to ask questions, and it’s your chance to tell the story of your protein,” Foresman said. According to the students, participating in this program was a good learning experience. “This has given me a chance to learn about something I previously had no knowledge about and have an opportunity to share this knowledge with others. It also gave me a connection with Dr. Zegar, a science professor at the university,” Burns said. Uttley agrees that SMART team is a beneficial process to be a part of. “I would definitely recommend others to join SMART team in the future,” Uttley said. “It’s been a great opportunity to work with people outside of PHS and learn a lot.”
back in business Poetry contest winners Gifted, JAG to open store skyla wallace @skylawallace15 Gifted Education and JAG (Jobs of American Graduates) work to start the process of reopening The Pitt Stop for the beginning of next school year. Gifted resource advisor Mary Geier and JAG coordinator Jeremy Johnson are looking to bring The Pitt Stop back into business. The Pitt Stop will be a shop, located inside the lunchroom with hopes of using it to teach students about business and learn how to be active in the community. “My goal is to use [The Pitt Stop as an] experience for starting and running a business. [This is also] a teaching tool for students, by giving them a chance to make decisions and take responsibility for the outcomes of those decisions,” Johnson said. “I want it to be a lesson in what it means to be a responsible, thoughtful, and an engaged member of society.” Johnson and Geier are already starting the process of student involvement. The students are responsible for coming up with the business plan and presenting it with little help from either of the teachers. Freshman Mikayla Kitchen is one of the students who will be in charge of the strategy that will be used to open the shop. “I am going to be presenting the game plan to our administration and clearing up any questions or grey spots we might have,” Kitchen said. “Then I will present it to the board with a couple other students.” Johnson has conducted two meetings with gifted and JAG students to discuss how to approach the beginning of the process. In awareness of the nutritional guidelines, Johnson suggested bringing essential questions to administration before creating a business plan. After initial questions are answered by administration the students will make the proposal for a business plan. This will include a sample menu, financial plan, marketing strategy and pricing. Select students from the gifted and JAG program will present it to administration and district leadership to get the plan approved. Supplies would be the next step after approval to start constructing the physical business. As well as the students learning from the business aspect, The Pitt Stop will provide gifted and JAG funds to participate in other events. “Funds will go back into the business to buy supplies and pay employees,” Geier said. “Earnings will also pay for educational field study trips and possibly entering business or entrepreneurial competitions or attending conferences.” Freshman Kennedy Tomasi feels that the funds and educational benefits will help make the small business flourish. “[The Pitt Stop] will teach all of us how to manage time and money, along with important business skills,” Tomasi said. “I hope that The Pitt Stop will be successful and that everyone involved will work hard to make it that way.”
1st Place:
2nd Place:
3rd Place:
Translucent Edge
baton twirling therapy
Beautiful Tragedy
Brooklyn Hellwig
Megan Munger
Violet Norman
what am I doing here? am i a kind, gentle soul or is fire burning through my veins; lava rolling and tumbling through hillsides and valleys or more appropriately through arteries and capillaries
My face tear-stained, eyes tired, I’m thankful to be alone.
The world stopped when I met you I was instantly drawn to you like a moth to a light You were tragically beautiful I couldn’t look away Like a car crash you can’t stop watching Every word that spilled from your mouth was poetry Along with the smoke from your cigarette As you burned up your soul I wanted to save you
do I have purpose? am I here to spark a revolution? To make the world a little better? to just live, die, and fade away? My legacy waning like the moon ...but not as beautifully or gracefully as our satellite, of course i revolve like the moon i am reliable like the moon stuck here in this forever limbo, forced to make the same trek and do the same things and hope that tomorrow may bring change though the ship from purgatory sailed long ago Is this even real? limbs moving slow as molasses; synapses just not quite there... dissolving into nothing but dirt and worms and almost something
Dim lights above, silence, the only sound until I place the cold metal against polished wood better known for a bigger sport, ball, team. Worn out tan shoes, messy clothes reserved just for this, a playlist created with inspiration and little time erupting from the tiny speaker. Spin, high toss, intricate tricks with complex names roll off the thumb, shiny metal slices the air then slams down into my open palm, a numbing reminder of who I am as I step into the floor’s center, to heal, to get lost, to create.
My world revolved around you But I flew too close to the sun I tired to put together the pieces That were too broken to be fixed I only ended up being cut on your sharp edges You put up to defend yourself From the world that you believed to be so cruel You left me behind I let you disappear I tried to save you I thought I could save you You told me never to give up Why did you? Now you’re gone I expected the Earth to hold it’s breath But the world continues spinning
Goodbye to Dragon Faculty
Nick Atkins
Gene Hendrickson
Jon Bishop
Brannon Kidd
Eric Flaton
Deanna Miller
Jim Foresman
Sarah Wall
Kris Mengarelli
www.boosterredux.com SECTION D
Friday, May 19, 2017
opinion
trouble taking a tinkle Student reviews drug testing process, experience madison nagel @maddiebagel
“Madison, please go to the office.” At the beginning of second hour, I heard these terrifying words. I thought I had forgotten something at home and my mom was returning it to me. Boy, was I wrong. Every month, ten students who participate in extracurricular or cocurricular activities are picked at random to be drug tested by professionals from Urgent Care. In January, I was one of the lucky few. Familiarity with the process before I was randomly chosen would have made me feel so much more comfortable. Because I know that many students are involved in secondary activities, I am going to fill you in on what exactly happens if you get selected to pee in a cup. Let’s start from the very beginning. Any student who participates in secondary activities (and their parents) sign a form allowing their name to be in the lottery of drug testing at the beginning of the year. Now that you are contractually bound to agree with the drug testing policy, you wait and hope that your name is never selected. On the chance that it is, you can expect to miss anywhere from a few minutes of class time to a few hours. The testing is done through urine, so until you can fill a cup nearly halfway full with whiz, you’re stuck in the nurse’s office. Let’s be honest -- you can’t go on command. Speaking from experience, as soon as they tell you that you cannot return to class until you provide them with the necessary sample, it feels like every drop of urine has been sucked out of your body. Texting my mom, snapchatting my friends and twiddling my thumbs were the only things I could do, since I could not tinkle. Now that I am trying to work up a drop or two, I have so many questions. Who exactly is taking my pee? Where does my pee go after this? What do they do with my pee when they are done testing it? What are they looking for? By now, it’s the end of second hour. I would love nothing more than to be able to hand off a warm cup full of my urine to a stranger so they can test it and I can get on with my life. Some people were provided a water bottle to hydrate themselves with. I was provided a dixie cup. I refilled that tiny little dixie cup with the warm faucet water more times than I can remember. It ended up taking me almost two hours to
STOP! Before you read this, are you wearing your ID? A new policy regarding student IDs was implemented at the beginning of the school year, and so far it has proven to fall short of its intended purpose. In years past, we have received a school ID, which served as a library card. The new protocol ensured that all students wore the ID on a daily basis. According to the Pittsburg High School (PHS) handbook, “Students and staff members at PHS are required to wear their identification badges when deemed necessary. Disciplinary action may occur if proper identification is not visible.” Though the wording of the policy is vague in the handbook, it was made
Maddie Baden Journey Jaramillo Gina Mathew Trina Paul Kali Poenitske
Staff Meghan Baker Connor Balthazor Amanda Bourbina Sophie Graham Jorden Johnson Grace Kafka Alec Kangas Nicole Konopelko Madison Nagel Lexi Palmer Katie Painter Maddy Robison Patrick Sullivan Darius Tinsley Skyla Wallace Julie Wilson
Adviser Emily Smith
The Booster Redux Pittsburg High School Student Publications 1978 E. 4th St. Pittsburg, KS 66762
ART BY DAIN REILING complete the test. According to Principal Jon Bishop, only a few students have tested positive since implementation in 2013. If you find this hard to believe, you’re not alone. Things like exercise can help you sweat the drugs right out of your system. Seeing as it took up a chunk of my school day, I beg the question: is it worth it? I do not do drugs, whether I am tested or not. For a student like myself, this test was just a waste of time. You don’t need me to tell you that there are students who use drugs at PHS, because chances are you already knew that. These students are likely not involved in secondary activities,
where they would be tested. Even if students are involved, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, they are probably going to find a way to circumvent the system. Whether it be using drugs that the school doesn’t test for or switching their addiction to alcohol, drug testing does not change students’ beliefs about drug use. Not to mention that, according to Bishop, each test costs $25. When that is multiplied by 10 students at the very least, for a normal 10 months, we can expect to spend $2,500 just on random drug testing. If we are going to be spending money on drug testing, we should at least aim for accuracy. And in case you were wondering, my test came back negative.
ble for administrators or student groups to gauge the losing. It’s losing the political battle and losing the free impact words have on students and to censor speakers speech battle.” on that basis. And colleges have no duty to do so. Yiannopoulos’ rhetoric has no purpose besides being Colleges have become a breeding ground for lib- divisive or inflammatory. eral intolerance in the name of tolerance. Liberalism His words don’t seek to inform. If college campuses is meant to encourage tolerance and acceptance, but bring speakers for students to listen to and learn from, refusing to hearing the thoughts and views of oth- Yiannopoulos is not speaking to educate any audience, ers defeats the basic he’s doing it to elicit a negative tenets of it. reaction or to stir up violence or Commentator Van protest. Jones weighed in on It can be hard to distinguish the subject by saybetween speech that is merely ing, “I want you to inflammatory and speech that has be deeply aggrieved the potential to educate students. and offended and I admit, college students have upset, and then to been overeager in their pursuit to learn how to speak protect certain marginalized groups, back,” to students and have thus imposed censorship. at the University of However, I also acknowledge that Chicago. speakers like Yiannopoulos are simDisagreement and ply making remarks to provoke a -TRINA PAUL debate encourage reaction. real progress; refusal Political correctness is nearly to refute arguments always detrimental in educational does not. institutions. Yet speakers that spew Political correctness has also become a tool used by hatred and do it to purposely offend should not be certain groups to target or taunt liberals. encouraged on college campuses. The line between When Milo Yiannopoulos, a controversial alt-right offensive and acceptable speech can be blurry. So (you know, people who are often considered neo-Na- before labelling college students overly sensitive or zis) media personality, was driven off the campus of “snowflakes,” consider the speaker or the rhetoric stuBerkeley due to protests, Yiannopoulos remarked, “it’s dents were rallying against. [protests are] happening because the left knows it’s Quite simply, political correctness is complicated.
“
Disagreement and debate encourage real progress; refusal to refute arguments does not. ot.
”
ID’s lose their identity: madison nagel @maddiebagel
Editors-in-Chief
Lily Black
Student reflects on the state of First Amendment rights on college campuses Political correctness. It is the inability to hear ideas or thoughts different than those of the listener’s. And recently, it has proliferated to the institutions in America that are responsible for educating students. Articles such as “The Coddling of the American Mind” and “The Dangerous Safety of College” have illustrated this increasing infringement of First Amendment rights on college campuses. While colleges are responsible for educating students by allowing them to gain exposure to a multitude of perspectives, many are not doing their duty. In March, six professors from Wellesley College attempted to ban speakers whose words would cause “distress” or “harm” after Laura Kipnis, a controversial feminist, was invited to speak. Laura Kipnis’ ideas and beliefs should be heard by students who disagree and should instigate a debate on both sides. Students should be able to disagree with Kipnis’ beliefs about student-professor relationships but should be willing to listen to her before they make judgements. At Middlebury college, Charles Murray, a social scientist and writer who created race-based theories of intelligence, was invited to speak and was welcomed with hundreds of protesters, most willing to express their disgust but not willing to let Murray to speak. Protecting certain students from speech that might be considered offensive is an exhaustive task. It’s impossi-
Booster Redux staff and policy
Design Editor
pondering political correctness trina paul @trpaul98
3
clear that IDs must be worn visibly on the student, not in their backpack or on a purse. It is my understanding that the goal of IDs was that if there were to be an emergency, students and faculty could be identified. While many teachers did not strictly enforce the policy, there was one who did -- French teacher Chris Colyer. Colyer was denounced by many people for standing firmly with the protocol throughout the hallways. After being called names by students, she stopped enforcing the policy. A handful of my teachers used to take time away from the instructional period to check for IDs. However, this has ceased to happen for months, and I cannot say I blame them for stopping. They need backing from one another and administration in order to be suc-
ID policy enforcement called into question
cessful in carrying through with the policy. Looking through the halls of PHS now, most students will not be wearing any ID -- and many of those who are wearing an ID may not even be manifesting their own name and picture. After noticing enforcement being lifted, I began my own experiments. First, I wore the activity pass of someone of the opposite gender as my ID last semester. Two teachers noticed -- one laughed and the other asked me to change it. I went back to my own ID for a few weeks, then I continued with my experiment. Since then, no teachers or administration have noticed. One day, I randomly chose two of my classes. I simply looked around the room and counted how many students
were wearing their IDs. Out of 30 students total, only three were wearing their ID. Administration needs to take this new rule seriously and follow through if they expect the students to comply. The IDs serve no day-to-day purpose, but rather satisfy the theoretical cause if an emergency happens; and I believe this is why many students stopped wearing them. The rebellions against IDs continued after teachers and administration stopped checking for IDs and overall, the protocol has increasingly become lax as the year has progressed. If the IDs could be used for attendance, to pay for lunch or any daily purpose at all, I believe that students would be more apt to wear them. When they stop enforcing the rules, we stop following the rules.
PHS Student Publications Department and newspaper class produce The Booster Redux. Please call us with comments at 620-235-3200. The Booster Redux’s purpose is to inform, educate, enlighten and entertain readers fairly and accurately in an open forum. Opinions expressed in editorials or opinion columns do not necessarily reflect views of all members on the Booster staff. Digital photos have not been altered to manipulate reality. Photo illustrations are labeled to reflect any technical alternations. Anonymity may be given in the following cases: the information is unable to be presented another way, the information warrants anonymity, the source’s privacy and/or reputation requires protection and the source must be protected from damages. A student or faculty member death during the coverage period will be covered with a short obituary. The Booster Redux is a member of Journalism Education Association, National Scholastic Press Association, Kansas Scholastic Press and International Quill and Scroll. The Booster Redux encourages letters from students, teachers and community members under 300 words and signed with a valid signature only. The Booster Redux reserves the right to edit contributions if they are libelous, obscene and for length. Any grammatical errors at the fault of the writer will be printed. Corrections of errors printed at the fault of the Booster staff will appear in the appropriate section of the next issue.
4 feature
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SECTION D
Student RESULTS at stat
ANDREW ORTOLANI BY MORGAN NOE
MCKENNA SHAW BY MADDY ROBISON
jester
ANDREW RIACHI BY MORGAN NOE
band
Forensics
Seussical:
National Qualifiers: Policy Debate Ensemble/Chorus Isaiah Harris & Cooper Director of Show Johnson Greg Shaw Walt Sours & Leyton Marler Leading Actress Congressional Senate McKenna Shaw Nicole Konopelko Choreography/Staging Congressional House Maggie & Molly Stephens Haley Garzone Costumes US Extemp Todd & Phillip HoollwfverGina Mathew Holthus Austin Edwards Sound Foreign Extemp Miranda Madden, Elizabeth Emeral McCauley Brown and Jason Huffman Original Oratory Hannah Casper & Haylee Valley Addams Family: Stage Crew Leading Actor Andrew Ortolani Leading Actress McKenna Shaw Scenic Design Greg Shaw and Chuck Boyles
ASPIN DURBIN BY MORGAN NOE
State Results
journalism State Results
State Results
Brass Solo Kiel O’Neil
Yearbook Layout 1st place- Grace Palmer
Saxophone Solo Brittney Bramblett
Advertising Honorable Mention- Grace Palmer
Flute Solo Kristen Geiger Alexandrine Perkins Clarinet Solo Izabelle Lunday
Student Life Photography 1st place- Maddy Emerson Academic Photography 2nd place- Maddy Emerson
Violin Solo Andres Munguia
Academic Photography Honorable Mention- Aspin Durbin
Ensemble Brass Choir Percussion Quartet
Dramatic Interp 5th Place- Justice Lankford 6th Place- McKenna Shaw Humorous Interp Semi-finalist - Cassie HurtMcLarty Informative 3rd Place- Meghan Hess US Extemp 5th Place- Haley Garzone 3rd Place- Austin Edwards Original Oratory Semifinalist- Hannah Casper Duo Acting semifinalists- Mikayla Kitchen & Kylee Eidson
Flute Trio Saxophone Quartet
Wiseman’s Discount Tire 2002 S Rouse St, Pittsburg, KS 66762 620) 231-2871
2400 N Broadway St, Pittsburg, KS (620) 231-3000 66762
Unique Metals Fabrication 101 West 29th Street G, Pittsburg, KS 66762 (620) 232-9797
2888 Rotary Terrace, Pittsburg, KS 66762 (620) 232-3060
4078 Parkview Dr, Frontenac, KS 66763 (620) 231-5291
Town and Country Animal Hospital 1030 US-69 Frontenac, KS 66763 (620) 231-5340
SECTION D
feature
Friday May 19, 2017
www.boosterredux.com
5
te, national COMPETITIONS
DANIEL BELL BY AMANDA BOURBINA
SAM KIRBY BY CALYSTO ROSS
JAYDEN HAMMOND BY KENNEDY TOMASI
LYDIA WINTERS BY MALAYNA BROWN
choir
tsa
archery
HOSA
State Qualifiers
State Results
State & Nat’l Results
State Results
Tenor/Bass Solo Andrew Ortolani Matthew Buck
Humanoid Robotics 1st - Aidan Harries, Jakob Cupp, Sam Kirby and Jordi Cordero
Treble Solo Cassie Hurt-McLarty Elizabeth Graham
System Control 4th - Jakob Cupp, Aidan Harries, and Sam Kirby
Ensmble Women’s Men Girls Glee
Debating Technological Issues 1st - Brooklyn Hellwig and Emeral McCauley 4th - Madison Nagel and Evie Shawn On Demand Video 1st - Andrea McCloskey, Kallie McGuire, Brooklyn Hellwig and Evie Shawn Extemporaneous Speech 3rd - Cooper Johnson 5th - Madison Nagel Essays on Technology 2nd - Andrea McCloskey 4th - Cooper Johnson Prepared Presentation 2nd - Madison Nagel
State Archery 2nd place boys - Kolton Darrow - 284/300 2nd place girls - Jazmin Havens - 276/300 8th boys - Corbin Russell 272/300 9th boys - Blake Simons 270/300 10th girls - Tatum vonWinklepleck - 263/300 NAT’L QUALIFIERS Kolton Darrow Jazmin Havens Corbin Russell Blake Simons Skylur von Winklepleck Tatum von Winklepleck Ethan Tomasi Nick Sandberg Shai Morgan Chase Johnson Crispin VonWinklepleck Bailey Julian
Researched Persuasive Writing and Speaking 1st Place - Morgan Burns Medical Innovation 1st Place - Morgan Burns and Zach Uttley Prepared Speaking 1st Place - Zach Uttley Creative Problem Solving 2nd Place - Caleb Blansett, Reece Willis, and Paul Worsley Forensic Medicine 3rd Place - Justin Blythe and Kelsey Fuchs Medical Law and Ethics 2nd Place - Megan Loudermilk Public Service Announcement 3rd Place - Trisha Patel, Trina Paul, Lydia Winters and Madelene Taylor
CO2 Dragsters 5th- Aidan Harries
Medical Photography 2nd Place - Rachel Ruiz
Technology Bowl Written 5th - Andrew Riachi
Job Seeking Skills 3rd Place - Abby Wilson Nutrition Knowledge Test 1st Place - Lydia Winters Physical Therapy 1st Place - Reece Willis
Tri Fitness 24/7 2609 N Broadway St, Suite A Pittsburg, KS 66762 620-404-5155
105 E 5th St, Pittsburg, KS 66762 (620) 232-7464
200 E Centennial Dr Ste 8, Pittsburg, KS 66762 (620)-231-2530
565 E 510th Ave, Pittsburg, KS 66762 (620) 231-4144
315 W 3rd St, Pittsburg, KS 66762 (620) 231-2230
610 E Jefferson St, Pittsburg, KS 66762 620-235-2254
6 in-depth
Friday, May 19, 2017
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SECTION D
serving the needs of students Gifted education provides support NICOLE KONOPELKO @nicolekonopelko n the early stages of her life, junior Meghan Hess knew she was different from the rest of the crowd. Her classes gave her the “bare minimum.” Meanwhile, she searched for a different kind of challenge. “I wanted to be exposed to more enriching activities,” Hess said. After meeting state guidelines, Hess joined the gifted program and found her desired challenge. “I was presented with logic puzzles to test my abilities and really push me into a rapid pace of learning,” Hess said. Despite the gifted program’s importance, its goals are often misunderstood. “There aren’t a lot of people who know what it really means to be gifted,” said Ashley Beason-Manes, Lawrence South Middle School (LSMS) gifted facilitator. “It’s too often thought of as an elitism or golden ticket, but gifted students have very specific needs just like kids on the other end of the special education spectrum.” Beason-Manes received her doctorate degree in gifted education from the University of Arkansas.
I
“Gifted education’s significance is often questioned...” One of these misunderstandings is gifted students’ needs. “Gifted education’s significance is often questioned,” Beason-Manes said. “[However], it’s pretty clear that highly intelligent kids have their own set of challenges that should be served.” Gifted facilitator Mary Geier frequently observes internal pressure in her classroom. “Many gifted students are harder on themselves than anyone else would ever be,” Geier said. To help students cope with such challenges, a team constituting Geier, the student, the student’s parents, an administrator and a classroom teacher is formed. Together, the team writes an Individual Education Plan (IEP). The IEP includes the student’s emotional needs, annual goals, postsecondary goals and a prescribed number of annual meetings. Upon planning lessons and enrichment activities, Geier examines IEPs. “Everything we do in the gifted program is based on the child’s IEP,” Geier said. For example, six students with IEP interests in technology were separated into two groups. The groups followed a set of criteria to complete two technologyrelated projects. The computer programming of two students placed third and the civil engineering team of four students placed fifth. “It was a really good experience for the students to meet their goals,” Geier said.
Outside of the classroom, students strive to achieve their personal IEP goals. Sophomore Amber Dial follows her IEP goal of getting into her first choice of college. “To do this, I try hard in all of my classes,” Dial said. “I work hard to maintain the grades I do.” “Being gifted doesn’t automatically entitle you to a scholarship…” Many believe gifted students have additional leeway in college admissions. “There’s a common misconception that there are scholarships or internships out there for gifted kids, but there aren’t. They’re there for everyone,” Geier said. “Being gifted doesn’t automatically entitle you to a scholarship.” Rather than supplying extra admission advantages, the gifted program provides students with a mentor who offers guidance during the application process. “Because they are good at so many things, students often don’t know what field to go into,” Geier said. “I am here to guide them and help them make a good choice of college.” Different facilitators choose to do this in various ways. Galena High School (GHS) gifted facilitator Marcia Smith revises her students’ college essays outside of the classroom.
“Technology is the world we live in,” Smith said. “We spend several hours on weekends communicating back and forth where I’m reading their work and sending back edits.” In addition to application guidance, Geier administers standardized practice tests. “A lot of students are so perfectionistic that they will triple check their work and wind up not being able to complete the ACT,” Geier said. “Practice prepares them for that time limit.” Despite this guidance, gifted students have to fulfill the same responsibilities as any student to receive an academic opportunity. “Admissions officers don’t just say ‘Oh, that student is gifted, so they get in,’” Geier said. “You have to have the test score, you have to have the community involvement and you have to have the extracurriculars.” “There are a lot of successful students who aren’t in the program…” Misinterpretations are also observed by gifted students themselves. Dial witnesses false labelling of students who are not in the gifted program as “less intelligent.” “There are so many students who aren’t in the gifted program, but that doesn’t mean they’re not smart or gifted,” Dial
said. For students such as sophomore Leyton Marler, inclusion in the gifted program is not necessary. “I’ve never been in the program and I’ve achieved my goals,” Marler said. “I’m sure it has its perks and benefits, but there are a lot of successful students who aren’t [in the program].” Marler does not need the gifted program due to his satisfaction with standard programs. “If a child’s needs are being met because they’re taking advanced classes, they’re involved in activities, the curriculum is of high rigor and they don’t need gifted services for any social or emotional needs, then they don’t need an IEP,” Geier said. Unlike Marler, freshman Kennedy Tomasi yearns for more rigor and social interaction. “The gifted program supplies me with opportunities to do things that challenge me,” Tomasi said. “I get to be around like-minded people and I’m not bored like I am at other times.” Beason-Manes recognizes this difference among gifted and nongifted students — gifted students have special needs outside of what regular schooling can offer. “There’s a lot of research concluding that gifted students have unique social and emotional
ART BY DAIN REILING needs that come with a high level of intellect,” Beason-Manes said. “Hopefully gifted programming addresses those needs and gives them a home base where they can feel well-served.”
“We’re constantly trying to find ways to do more with less…” Nevertheless, Hess believes many do not see a need for further support of the gifted program. “Now that we have more autonomy, I feel like we get overlooked,” Hess said. Kansas’s financing for gifted education has proven Hess’s concerns to be valid. “We’re underfunded in special education, and that makes it very challenging,” said Greg Kubler, associate director of Southeast Kansas (SEK) Interlocal Special Education Services. “Federal dollars have never been where they should be based on legislation and we’re constantly trying to find ways to do more with less.” Students hope to see more support for the program that has carried them through their years of secondary education. “The gifted program has helped me discover who I am as well as help mold me into the person I am today,” FSHS senior Natalie Adams-Menendez said. “I definitely would have been lost without it.”
With 23 departing seniors and 25 incoming freshmen, the Pittsburg High School (PHS) gifted program has a current total of 63 students. “The number of students in the program has stayed steady,” gifted facilitator Mary Geier said. When planning activities, Geier places importance on IEPs (Individualized Education Plans), written documents speci-
fying the student’s needs in special education. “No two IEPs out of the 63 that I have look the same because each child has their own goal. The activities we do rest on those goals,” Geier said. Because she has an IEP goal of working at a faster pace, freshman Jordan Akins takes an online class during her gifted class period. “It has really freed up my schedule,”
Akins said. “I wouldn’t have been able to do that without the gifted class.” The time a student allots toward the gifted program is also determined by their IEP. “Each child has their own goal documented in their IEP that they help me decide upon,” Geier. “The amount of time they spend in the gifted classroom is based upon their needs, their preference and the amount of time they have available.”
Classified as 3A, Galena High School (GHS) has a total of 11 identified gifted students. While this number is smaller than usual, GHS gifted facilitator Marcia Smith believes it paves an easier path to connecting with her students. “Forming relationships is a big deal. With the amount of students
I have, I always get to speak with them on an individual basis,” Smith said. College preparation is the main focus of the gifted program. Students are required to take standardized practice tests, explore careers and apply for scholarships. “The program prepares you for college and takes away the stress of
applying,” said GHS gifted junior Taylor Smith. Because there is no gifted class on the master matrix schedule, students meet once a week during their class time. “It’s a pullout program,” Smith said. “Even though we have to meet, it’s more of a revolving door because of students’ difficult schedules.”
Due to its increased size of 158 identified gifted students, the 6A school of Lawrence Free State High School (FSHS) has two gifted facilitators. “Our large program is only as strong as its two facilitators,” said Janice Fullerton, FSHS gifted facilitator. Underclassmen spend their time in the gifted program adapting to high school. The students construct a four-year plan mapping out their prerequisites and
achievements. “Our job is to help them adjust to the school,” Fullerton said. For upperclassmen, the gifted program prioritizes college preparation. Juniors take a section of the ACT, SAT or PSAT every day. Seniors follow a curriculum requiring them to write four sample essays, fill out the Common Application, make an academic resume, get teacher recommendations and search for scholarships.
“The focus on transferring education to what you want to do after high school has been important to me,” FSHS gifted junior Ting Ting Shi said. Like PHS, FSHS does not require students to be enrolled in the gifted class period. “For students who aren’t in the class, we’re kind of ‘whatever you need’,” Fullerton said. “We will do anything it takes to meet our students’ needs.”
In depth 7 Student Publication seniors say final goodbyes SECTION D
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Meghan Baker Newspaper 3 years
Malayna Brown Photojournalism 1 year
Heather Montanelli Photojournalism 1 and a half years
Friday, May 19, 2017
Caitlyn Burdick Yearbook 4 years
Taylor Muff Yearbook 1 year
MEGHAN BAKER During the summer going into my sophomore year, I was e-mailing Mrs. Ulbrich to enroll. She gave me an abundance of classes to choose from and one of them was newspaper. I randomly picked it and I do not regret it at all. My first day of sophomore year, I was kind of new. I went to elementary school at George Nettles and then moved in sixth grade, so when I moved back I knew people. When I walked into newspaper, I didn’t really know anybody. I sat in the corner and excluded myself. I was as shy as it can get. That year we went to Washington D.C. for the national journalism convention. I was celebrating my 16th birthday there. It was while we were in D.C. that I came out of my shell and started talking to people. Newspaper has been one of the best classes I have taken. Even though I was stressed about it most of the time, it taught me a lot of lessons. First off, it taught me that it’s okay to not be shy and talk. It has also taught me that it’s okay to have different views than other people. Lastly, it has taught me to be a better writer and that you can still write a story if you do not have a lot to work with. I will miss all of the memories made in room 604. Thank you Smith and all of my fellow nerds for making these past three years memorable.
MALAYNA BROWN I have only been in photojournalism for a year but without this class I would never have been as involved in school activities as I am now. Before being in photo journalism, I always had to have a friend with me when I went to any school events because I was too shy to go alone, but with a camera in my hand I have an excuse to be alone. I started going to more basketball games, fund raisers, and class trips which has forced me to talk and interact with people that I usually wouldn’t have. Photojournalism have also taught me other helpful life skills such as time management and meeting deadlines (most of the time). The thing that I really love about this class is that it is a very relaxed environment and a safe space for a lot of people. Nice notes and the random parties are also pretty great. I have really enjoyed being in photojournalism and I wish I would have joined sooner.
CAITLYN BURDICK I was kind of pressured into joining Student Pub when I was a freshman by one of the upperclassmen. I never thought I would have stuck it out all four years but I am glad I did. My time in Student Pub has been some of the best, stressful, and fun times I have had. I remember walking to class with Brooklyn, Logan, Noah, and Elijah not knowing what to expect but we all grew closer as our time in room 604 is coming to an end and I could not be more grateful for the friendships I have made. This class has taught me how to work through things while being stressed out, how to work with a deadline, and how to get things done while other people are depending on you to do so. I am thankful for the time and energy Smith has put into all of us. She is someone that I can always talk to about anything. I am forever grateful that upperclassmen pressured me into taking this class because it has been one of the many great things during high school for me. I always knew walking in to 604 if I was having a bad day it would be turned around because of the people and because of Smith!
ASPIN DURBIN Well.. It’s time for my senior goodbye. Being in photojournalism all four years has not only taken up most of my time in high school but turns out I will continue it for the next few years too. During our eighth grade tour I remember you handing me a newspaper and I told myself I wanted to be in your class. When it came to freshman year I was extremely nervous and decided to message you asking to be in your class. I wrote my text message over and over and had my mom proof-read it about 5 times (or more) before sending it, not exaggerating. I came in two weeks before school officially started with all of the newspaper kids and Miranda taught me how to use a camera, we would look over my photos and
Apsin Durbin Photojournalism 4 years
Trina Paul Newspaper 3 years
Elijah Harris Yearbook 4 years
Brooklyn Rhue Yearbook 4 years
you said that you were really impressed about how well I was doing. Something I have never told you… you might already know this.. But one time I was working on my photos in 312 and lost track of time, it was a Saturday and I thought the volleyball game was still going but it wasn’t. Long story short.. I set off the alarms and called 911 to tell them what happened. They let me go home so I could avoid the embarrassment. I don’t know if you knew about it, if you did you never said anything. But I am really going to miss you! Most of my laughs were caused by Student Pub and I wouldn’t change anything about the time that I put into it. I am truly grateful for everything you have taught me, thank you for everything Smith! I am going to miss you!!
ELIJAH HARRIS Now that we are getting close to the end, I look back on the things that mean the most to me and publications is high on that list. When I came in to yearbook as a freshman I had no idea what to expect but at the end it became another home to me. I had great mentors like Mrs. Smith to help me further understand yearbook and just high school in general. With Brooklyn, Logan, Caitlyn, and Noah we grew into the systems of publications and became leaders. Yearbook didn’t just teach me how to design a spread, it taught me how to be a responsible person and taught me life skills like meeting a deadline. I was always excited to come to class because I knew that it would always put me in a good mood. Each year we became a family and even though yearbook could be stressful at times we always had a great time with each other. I’ll miss being a part of Pittsburg High School Publications. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without yearbook. Thank you Mrs. Smith for everything.
LOGAN LORD Four years ago I was talked into enrolling in yearbook and I had no clue what I was getting myself into. Over the course of high school I have learned many great life lessons through the Student Pub program. I’ve learned how to manage my time, how to meet deadlines, and most importantly how to be accountable. Through hard work and dedication Elijah, Brooklyn, Caitlyn, Noah and I have put out three awesome books and I can’t wait to see how this year’s book turns out. Being in this program has been an experience I will never forget. I’ve met so many great, hardworking people that I may not have had the chance to interact with otherwise. I’m going to miss playing nine square, along with Carmen’s cookies and Elijah’s music playlists. Most importantly I’m going to miss my classmates along with Mrs. Smith who have made my senior year so special and who made third hour everyday so much fun.
HEATHER MONTANELLI Honestly, I never asked to be in photojournalism. I was put into it the second semester of my junior year as a fill in and since then I continued to take the class. The reasons I continued was because I met many people, I got to watch the pictures I had taken be put into the newspaper and yearbook, and I got to watch people in Student Pub succeed in things they enjoyed. Photojournalism taught me how to take photos of different things with different angles and many more great things. I learned that I enjoy taking pictures of basketball and people acting like themselves like there is no camera around them. Taking it got me out of my comfort zone and got me out there a bit. I really appreciate Smith for being so great and pushing all of us to do our best. Her pushing got me to continue the class after junior year and to continue outside of high school. Adios.
TAYLOR MUFF Without the encouragement of the majority of my friends, I never would’ve considered joining the yearbook staff. My only regret about becoming a member of an extremely close knit and hard working group of people is that I didn’t do it sooner. Mrs. Smith encouraged me to join all four years of high school and I decided to give it a go my senior year and I cannot thank her
Logan Lord Yearbook 4 years
Noah Vaugn Yearbook 4 years
enough to have let me become apart of her program that she has built. Now that I’ve experienced how much fun and rewarding being on staff is, I encourage everyone that has any desire to write, research, or design to join as soon as possible. Not only has the Student Publications room given me a place to eat lunch and hang out with some of my closest friends, it’s a place where I’m becoming comfortable with being uncomfortable. I’ve been able to meet new people and learn more about how great our school and all the people in it really are. As a senior, being a part of Pittsburg High’s Student Publications has really completed my ‘high school experience’. So, as a newly proclaimed “yerd”, I can easily say that joining a program as great as this one has been one of the best decisions I’ve made.
TRINA PAUL When I first joined newspaper, I did so reluctantly. However, as I reflect on my time in newspaper nearly three years later, I could not be happier that I joined. I’ve grown as a writer and as a person. I will be eternally grateful for all the stressful, thrilling, and proud moments I’ve had in room 604. I’ve watched as we’ve rushed to finish newspapers, declared our love in nice notes, and wrote stories that challenged the actions of our superiors. Being a member of the Booster Redux has been a truly amazing experience. Nearly three years ago, I never would have imagined that my time in newspaper would have been as exciting and fulfilling as it has been. Smith and all the current and previous members I’ve been on staff with have been integral in making newspaper an experience I’ll never forget. And I can’t thank them enough for it.
BROOKLYN RHUE When we visited the high school my eighth grade year and toured the classes I would have never thought that room 312/604 would be my lifeline for four years. Throughout these past four years I have made countless memories and friends. I’ve got to experienced things that I think most people would be jealous of like playing really awkward games that were so weird you just had to laugh at, to traveling with this class to learn new skills and tricks to yearbook. I got to take this journey through publication with four of my closest friends, Caitlyn, Logan, Elijah and Noah. We all walked into room 312 that first day of high school together and we will all walk out together come the last day of school. Mrs. Smith also known as Smith, Smitty, and my favorite Mom is such a blessing. I don’t know what I would have done without her, she always has the best advice and even though she doesn’t think she’s a great teacher I think we can all agree that she is. She pushes us to do our best in everything we are involved in and even though we might not like her advice at the time it always turns out in our favor. I’ve made so many memory that I will never forget, so I would like to say thank you to my publication family.
NOAH VAUGN Coming into high school as a freshman I didn’t really know what to expect. I was enrolled in Yearbook, which was something that was a little out of my comfort zone, but I decided that I might as well try something new. Now as a senior, I look back on the decision that I made as an 8th grader and realize that it was one of the best decisions that I could have made. I have made so many great memories and learned so much in my four years of being on the Yearbook staff. Not only did Yearbook provide me with so many new relationships and memories, but it also provided me a place at PHS that felt like home. Room 604 has been a place that us seniors feel comfortable enough to go to at any point throughout the day knowing that Mrs. Smith will welcome us with open arms. Although I don’t look forward to leaving my fellow yerds behind, I do look forward to coming back and reminiscing on all of the good times that we had, whether they were in room 312, or room 604. Thank you Mrs. Smith for everything that you have done for us seniors that past four years.
8 sports
Friday, May 19, 2017
fully committed: CONNOR BALTHAZOR
SECTION D
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Senior athletes sign on for college sports
PATRICK SULLIVAN
@connor71999
@P_Sullivan15
PHOTOS BY OLIVIA REDD AND SHANNON O’HARE
CAITLYN BURDICK SOFTBALL Senior Caitlyn Burdick has made the decision to continue playing softball at the collegiate level with Labette County Community College. One of her main reasons for choosing Labette County was its proximity to home. “[I chose Labette] because it is close to home,” Burdick said. “It was difficult choosing between two of the colleges that I wanted to go to but I chose Labette because it’s closer.” Community college’s only offer two years of eligibility for athletes, so Burdick plans to be even closer to home after a stint at Labette. “[My plan is to go to] Pitt State [after] because it would be cool to play for a home field in front of people that I know and so my friends and family can come watch,” Burdick said.
JAYDEN HAMMOND TRACK
CONNOR SOUTHARD track
Senior Jayden Hammond will be continuing her track career at MidAmerica Nazarene University after committing to participate in triple jump. While she will be committing for athletics, academics had a great deal of influence on her decision. “The nursing program really stood out to me because I will have the opportunity to work in major hospitals,” Hammond said. “That was a big factor in choosing MNU.” Another part of MNU that convinced Hammond to commit was the atmosphere of the campus. “I really liked the small campus size and the friendliness of the professors, students and the track coaches.” Hammond said. While choosing a college is a nerve wracking experience for some, Hammond’s decision was made easier after a tour of the campus. “The decision to choose a school actually wasn’t too difficult for me,” Hammond said. “After I toured the school I knew that MNU was the place that I wanted to spend the next 4 years and was ecstatic when I received the offer.”
Senior Connar Southard has recently signed his letter of intent to compete in running events for Pittsburg State University track team. Southard, the state champion in the 800 meter race in 2016, will participate in primarily the 800 meter as well as the 400 meter. “I will be competing in the 800 for the most part but will switch between that and the 400,” Southard said. One of his main reasons for signing with PSU was the team he would be a part of. “I know and get along with most of the guys on the team,” Southard said. Not only was enjoying his future teammates a major factor, the allure of competing close to home was also important to his decision. “I wanted to be close so my family can watch,” Southard said. Southard’s family was also helpful in making his decision. “My parents helped with the decision.” Southard said. Southard will leave PHS with the school record in the 800 meter.
wes jameson Wrestling
joe tallie Wrestling For senior Joseph Tallie, signing to wrestle at Baker University was a choice made for a number of reasons. “It’s the best education you can get in Kansas and I had to take advantage of the opportunity,” Tallie said. Tallie wants to study business administration while attending Baker University. “I want to be my own boss,” Tallie said. Another benefit to signing to Baker is that Tallie has family on both sides that live in the area. Tallie recognizes the magnitude of his choice to attend college at Baker. “It’s the most important decision I’ve ever made,” Tallie said. ” and “I’m excited for what’s next,” Tallie said.
For Pittsburg High School senior Wes Jameson, signing with Colorado State University-Pueblo was the clear choice. Jameson will be wrestling for the “Wolfies” next year as he attends the university. He also reflected on his decision on his choice of CSU-Pueblo. “The atmosphere, people and way it felt like home when I arrived. The mountains were absolutely beautiful and I fell in love with them,” Jameson said. CSU-Pueblo is located in South Central Colorado amidst the Rocky Mountains. Jameson expressed confidence in choosing the University upon visiting the campus. “I just knew it was the place for me,” Jameson said.
keeping track of time Freshman breaks 100 meter school record Journey Jaramillo @Journey Butcher s she cleared her head and focused on succeeding, freshman Faith Turner set her mind on beating anyone she could. April 14, at the Pitt State stadium, Faith broke the school record in the 100 meter dash of 12 seconds by 0.04 seconds. “I was not expecting to do as well as I did because it was supposed to be a big meet and I’ve never ran in that big of a meet,” Faith said. “I always try to achieve my goals and be the best I can be. I ran my hardest and that’s all I could do.” According to Kansas-Sports.com, Faith has the second fastest 100 meter time in the state at 11.96, as well as the 16th best time in the 200 at 26.05. Faith’s previous time was 12.5 seconds, which is the record at the middle school, held by her. Aiming to match the previous record of 12 seconds flat, she was ecstatic to narrowly surpass the mark. “I was so happy when I found out I broke the record. My mom and I started jumping and flipping out,” Faith said. “I was hoping that I broke the record and got my goal.” Faith’s mother, Andrea Holtzman, was standing near the finish line when she crossed it. Holtzman believes as long as Faith was having fun, that is all that mattered. “I could see her big infectious smile, so I knew she was enjoying herself and honestly that is the most important thing to me,” Holtzman said. “The bro-
A
ken records are just extra blessings and joys for me.” Faith describes her support system including her family, teammates and coaches as “amazing.” “I have overall support from [many people,]” Faith said. “I think it’s a huge help knowing I have people who are there for me to lift me up and cheer me on.” Faith’s sister, senior Daeshia Turner, is one of her biggest supporters. Daeshia participates in the same race as Turner and feels it is one of the best things for them both. “Our bond is probably stronger than most because we are closer in age and I can push her and she pushes me. She’s a motivation,” Daeshia said. “We ride up to the meets together and we have this ritual that we take a mean pic so hopefully our opponents see it and become intimidated, but that’s all in good fun.” Track coach Gary Ausemus was surprised to see a freshman, such as Faith, break a record this early in the season. “We knew she would be approaching our long-standing school record by a great athlete,” Ausemus said. “She is a gifted athlete who works hard and really wants to be the best.” From here on, Faith has decided to try just as hard because of her passion for the sport. “I want to stay on this path and make a future in track. I love the sport and would love to continue,” Faith said. “It gives me a challenge because track is based off of hard work, at least to me.”
PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY HAZEL HARPER. & JORDAN HAWKINS
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OU BOND IS PROBABLY STRONGER THAN OUR MOST BECAUSE WE ARE CLOSER IN AGE AND I CAN PUSH HER AND SHE PUSHES ME. -DAESHIA TURNER