Freedom High School
Senior Issue
The Freedom Forum
Volume 51 Issue 8
The Freedom Forum Freedom High School Bethlehem Area School District 3149 Chester Avenue Bethlehem PA, 18020 (610) 867-5843 www.fhsforum.com Co-Editor-in-Chiefs
IN THIS ISSUE
Analisa Jeffries Juliana Maffea News Editors
Student Body and Class Officers………..………….4
Isabella Scipioni Riley Sweitzer
Senior Life…………………………………………..…….9
Editorials Editor Rachel Black Pates’ Post Editor
Senior Quotes………………………….……………..10/11
Hayley Guzzo Entertainment Editor Carson Swick
Retirements……………………………………………17/18
Center Spread Editor
Gabrielle Rader Sports Editor
Farewell Freedom..………………………………………19
TJ Schaeffer Web Editor Gabrielle Rader Adviser
Writers for this issue: Sabr ina Abdou, Yaideliz Alicea, Der ek Bast, Josh Benak, Tijir bleam, Zak Boncher, Kirsten Boyle, Ashley Calderon, Janelle Diaz, Natalie Durham, Jeff Frank, Jorand Guerrero, Hayley Guzzo, Analisa Jeffries, Matison Piripavel, Gabrielle Rader, Jalen Stewart, Carson Swick, and Ivan Troche
Karla Erdman Principal Mr. Michael LaPorta
Superintendent
A cap is in place of a photo for students who did not have a photo taken for the yearbook through Christmas City.
Dr. Joseph Roy
Editorial statement and correction policy, please go to www.fhsforum.com/about.html Senior photos by: Christmas City Studios Any photo that is not directly credited is from Creative Commons licensing via Bing search engine. Cover photo: Flickr Follow us on Twitter, send us an email, and visit our website! @fhsforum—#fhsforum fhsforum@gmail.com—www.fhsforum.com 2
The Freedom Forum Staff
Photo: Mr. Brandon Libro
Co-Editor-in-Chief Analisa Jeffries will be attending Moravian to continue her studies and major in accounting. She plans to get her CPA. She has a love for numbers, and she is very passionate about solving numerical problems. During her high school career, Jeffries has been involved in the newspaper for four years, and her senior year she was the Co-Editor-in-Chief. Jeffries was a volunteer at American on Wheels, and she dedicated her time there helping others. She can thank Mrs. Lauren Ackerman for being an essential part in how she turned out today. Mrs. Ackerman has supported her and influenced her to do her best when it comes to school. Jeffries’ favorite quote that she would like to share with everyone is: “Don’t let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.” - Babe Ruth.
Rachel Black
TJ Schaeffer
Co-Editor-in-Chief Juliana Maffea will be attending Penn State Lehigh Valley to continue her education and major in communications. She has a love for journalism and working with other people. During high school, she has been involved in the school newspaper for four years, and her senior year she was the Co-Editor-in-Chief. Maffea was a Mini-THON member who was invested in helping children with cancer. She can thank Mr. David Kleist for being a major part in shaping who she was in high school. He supported her work, and he offered constructive criticism in a way that made her grow as a person. Maffea’s favorite quote that she would like to share with everyone is: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. - Wayne Gretzky”- Michael Scott.
Rachel Black, Editorial Editor, was heavily involved in Freedom High School during her four years. She plans on continuing her education at The University of Pittsburgh, majoring in Environmental Studies. Black was involved in Student Council for four years and held the position of Senior Class President. Her proudest achievements as class president were organizing and leading the student walkout on March 14, 2018 and starting the tradition of Advocacy Week at FHS. Black enjoyed volunteering for the Special Olympics of Pennsylvania and being a member of National Honor Society. She was also involved in Mini-THON and a co-captain of the Scholastic Scrimmage team. Earlier in her high school career, she participated in Future Business Leaders America and Varsity Softball. Through all of her accomplishments, Black thanks Mrs. Erdman and Mrs. Chiafulio for all of the time and effort they put into developing her as a writer and a leader. Black’s advice to incoming freshman is “find the thing you love to do, and do it well!”
T.J. Schaeffer, Sports Editor, has been a member of the Freedom Forum for all four years that he has been at Freedom. Schaeffer has also participated in BASD mini-THON, FBLA, Tennis, and has also been a writer for Bethlehem Township Observer. After graduation, Schaeffer plans to attend a four year school to dual major in journalism and statistics. His most memorable high school moment was participating in Mini -THON. Throughout high school, he loved seeing his friends everyday as well as learning new things in the classroom. Schaeffer would like to owe his success to Mr. Kolb for pushing him to be the best as well as Mrs. Erdman who has helped him develop as a writer. Schaeffer’s favorite quote throughout high school is, “It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood,” said by the one and only Pierre Morgan.
Hayley Guzzo
Hayley Guzzo, Pates’ Post Editor, has been involved with The Freedom Forum since freshman year of high school. Since then, she has served as the Entertainment Editor as well as the Pates’ Post editor, writing about trends that influence Freedom’s student body. Aside from her involvement in The Freedom Forum, Guzzo will also miss Friday night football games with her friends. She attributes her many successes to her Creative Writing teacher, Ms. Amy O’Connor, who inspired Guzzo to embrace her potential. Guzzo will be doing just that when she attends Northampton County Community College in the fall. She hopes to continue her education even further by transferring to Bloomsburg University. The Freedom Forum | 3
Rachel Black President
Linda Mao Vice President
Lena Shepulski Secretary
Saajan Patel President 4
Isabella Pompa Vice President
Cassandra Murphy Treasurer
Hailey Miller Historian
Kira Hoerres Treasurer
Gisselle Lopez Secretary
All photos were submitted by Freedom Seniors to a Facebook Group.
The Freedom Forum | 5
Evan Amatore Evan Amatore plans on going to college to get a Culinary Major. While attending Freedom, he was involved in Rifle team and NHS. His favorite teacher at Freedom is Mr. Kolb, Amatore says the thing that people will remember the most about the senior class is their transition from immature kids to mature young adults. A quote he would like to share is “Don’t change yourself for society. Be yourself. Be weird. Do what you want to do. It’s your life. ”
Morgan Ashton
Morgan Ashton plans to go to college and major in marketing. Morgan was involved in Cheerleading, BASD Mini-THON, and Young Life. Her best memory at Freedom was cheering on the track at all of the football games on Friday nights, especially the Freedom vs Liberty games. The teacher who influenced her the most was Mr. Bloszinsky. She learned a lot about the business field, and he influenced her to pursue marketing. People in other classes will remember this class and how much school spirit they had!
Sean Boyer plans on attending Temple University next year. He was involved with a variety of clubs and activities at Freedom including BASD Mini-THON as the Corporate Fundraising Captain, Treasurer for FBLA, the president of Engineering Club, a member of the drumline in 9th and 10th grade, and also a member of the National Honor Society. Boyer would like to be remembered by the quote, “Sean. The other white meat.” Ryan Brown will be attending RIT for Mechanical Engineering. Brown was involved in Engineering Club, Science Olympiad, Mini-THON, Math Team, National Honor Society, and History Club. Mr. Young was the most influential teacher in Brown’s high school career because he makes each day in his class fun and exciting. His senior quote is “Apparently I'm volatile, selfobsessed, and don't play well with others." - Iron Man.
Jagjot Singh Bhullar
Lydia Burnett plans to attend college next year. During high school, she was a part of the cross country team, the Math Team, Science Olympiad, and Poetry Out Loud. Burnett’s favorite memory was during her sophomore year at her first Science Olympiad. She and her friend were messing around in the bleachers when they unexpectedly won first place. Her friend took her shoes to be funny, so while accepting her award, she had to walk on stage in her socks.
Tijir Bleam
Tijir Bleam plans to attend Kutztown University this upcoming fall. He played on the football team for all 4 years at Freedom. His favorite memories here were the football games. One teacher who impacted Tijir was Mr. Harakal because he says he learned more from him in one class than a full semester with other teachers. Bleam’s advice to underclassmen is, “Everything happens for a reason.” Bleam believes that one thing people will remember about his class is how they could come together in time of need.
Heavily involved in many school activities, such as band, choir, Les Chanteurs, and the Travel and French clubs, Morgan Cahill plans to attend George Mason University to study environmental science. The teachers most influential to him were Mr. Baltz and Mr. Kolb, because, in Cahill’s words, “they taught me to do what I love, and to have fun doing it.” She believes that the senior class of 2018 will be remembered for their vital spirit.
Adam Boyer
Adam Boyer was Captain of the Cross Country team, Co-founder of the Engineering club, BASD Mini-THON, Young Americans Foundation, and Track and Field. With many accomplishments in his high school career, he plans to attend Bucknell University for Chemical Engineering after high school. Even with a bright future ahead, he will miss all his friends and teachers, such as Mr. Young, once he moves on. He believes that what people will remember most from the seniors in their ability to get things done. His senior quote is “No” said by Rosa Parks.
Jagjot Singh Bhullar plans to attend Northampton Community College after high school. Throughout his high school years, he has found several influential teachers who have helped him to grow as a student and as a person. Whether it be taking Creating Apps class with Mr. Dennis or being a part of Pen and Ink, every moment made its mark. He is unsure of what people will remember most about the senior class due to everything he has seen throughout the years as a student.
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Sean Boyer
Ryan Brown
Lydia Burnett
Morgan Cahill
Shannon Callaghan was a member Shannon of FHSTC, choir, band, orchestra, and the debate team. She plans to attend James Madison University. Callaghan will always remember finding her place in the musical organizations and coming out of her shell. Ms. Wescoe had the biggest impact on her life because she helped her to fully understand herself and decide what she wants to do. She values the quote, “You know I’ve realized that I’m probably just perfect and it’s everybody else around me that’s got issues.” -Scott Disick.
Callaghan
Cesar Corvera
Laura Davison
Sapphire Heimbach
Cesar Corvera has been involved in Orchestra, Celtic ensemble, Co-ed cheerleading, and Pit orchestra. After high school, Corvera plans to go to college for occupational therapy. The most influential teacher to him was Mr. Nabavian because he pushed him to do his best. He says that people will remember him by how many people he could say hi to by first and last name. For his senior quote he says “Give people a chance. You can't say you dislike someone if you don't know them. Really, genuinely, know them.”
Sapphire Heimbach, after high school, plans on going into the workforce. The thing that Sapphire Heimbach will miss the most at Freedom, is coming to school and getting to see all of her friends that she is so close to. The most influential teacher to her was Ms. Chabot. And the thing she thinks her senior class will remember the most is finally finishing high school strong.
Laura Davison plans to attend Lehigh University this upcoming fall. She played in the band, Les Chanteurs, and the pit orchestra. She will miss seeing her friends and teachers all the time. One teacher who impacted her was Mrs. Chiafulio because she helped her choose her major and pushed her to do what she loved. Davison’s advice to underclassmen is, “Never give up on what you believe in.” Davison thinks people will remember how this class supported various movements they felt strongly about.
An avid and supportive member of Mitchell the Freedom High School theatre company, Mitchell Hendricks plans to attend Monmouth University to study political science before moving on to law school. He says that what he will miss most about Freedom is “the support that the student body tends to have for each other.” All of his teachers, not just one, have had a profound impact on his life, and have all played a part in making Hendricks who he is.
Hendricks
Colin Harms Colin Harms plans to attend Temple University this upcoming fall. He was in the ski club and played lacrosse all four years of high school. What Harms will miss the most about high school is his four best friends. One teacher that impacted him was Mr Baltz because he taught him many life lessons. Harms believes that one thing people will remember about his class is the friendships.
Vaughn Hayes
Vaughn Hayes plans to go to college and take a nursing program. She was involved in softball. Hayes’ favorite moment at Freedom was the BASD Mini-Thon because both rival schools come together to help a fight a horrible disease. She will also definitely miss the football games and the RIOT SQUAD! Her most influential teacher was Mr. Baltz because he showed students that you can have fun while learning. Hayes’ senior quote is “High School was nothing like High School Musical.”
Krystal Krystal Honohan will attend Kutztown University as a Communication Design major with a focus in Graphic Design, advertising art and illustration, and a possible minor in marketing. Honohan was art club president and in National Honor society. Honohan will miss Mrs. Direnzo, the art department, and art shows the most. “Sometimes I’ll start a sentence, and I don’t even know where it’s going. I just hope I find it along the way.”- Michael Scott.
Tim Healy is undecided where he will be going this fall. He was apart of Mini-Thon and played baseball all four years of high school. One teacher that impacted him was Mrs. Roscher because she taught him the importance of exploring new ideas and subjects. Healy’s advice for the underclassmen is, “How can you have any pudding if you don't eat yer meat!?” He believes that one thing people will remember about his class is how closely knit they were.
Sydney Hoover plans to go to college after she graduates Freedom. While she was here at Freedom she got involved in field hockey, the newspaper, THON, and ski club. One thing Hoover will miss the most at Freedom is Mr. Baltz's class. Mr. Baltz is also a teacher that was influential to her because he made every class fun but gave an education. Something she thinks people will remember most about the senior class is that their class was close and always made sure they would have fun.
Timothy Healy
Honohan
Sydney Hoover
The Freedom Forum |7
Morgan Johnson
Kerilyn Kipp Morgan Johnson plans on attending Wilkes University after she graduates high school. While she attended Freedom, she was a member of the GSA. The most influential teacher to Johnson was Mrs. Evans. Mrs. Evans helped her understand and see math in a different light after she struggled with it most of her life. She values the quote, “You will never live if you are looking for the meaning of life.” -Albert Camus.
Both a cheerleader and a member of the Freedom Forum, Keri Kipp plans on going to Kutztown University to major in Early Childhood Education and Special Education. Her favorite memory of Freedom High School was attending her junior prom, and getting to be with her senior friends for one last night. Always doing her best in all pursuits, with her senior quote, she says “I gave it a 110%.”
Maya Johnston was involved in the band, tennis, French club, travel club, and Pen and Ink. She plans on attending Florida Southern College to major in English Literature. Johnston’s favorite memory is the happiness of waking up to the tweets from Dr. Roy saying “school is closed.” She will miss these tweets.
Amanda Large plans to go to NCC for two years to get her cosmetology license then transfer to a four year college for business. Large was involved in Ski Club, Choir, Band, Track and Field, and GSA. She will miss her friends and the classes she was in, but she definitely will not miss the food. The person who influenced her the most was Mrs. Lee because she helped throughout the years. She is eternally grateful for her. Large’s senior quote is, “Bitterness keeps you from flying.”
Jarrett Joyner played for the football team at Freedom. He plans on going to Aviation school to become a pilot after high school. Joyner’s favorite memory is the Liberty vs Freedom football game. He will truly miss the way Freedom Family came together to support during the football games. Most of all he will miss the friendships that he created along the way.
Linda Mao will be attending Yale to continue her studies as an outstanding student. She was a member of both the Student Council and the National Honor Society. Mao says what she will miss most about Freedom High School are all the amazing friends she’s made, and the great memories they formed together. Mao believes that 2018’s senior class will be remembered “for our ability to get things done, our ambition, and our drive.”
Alyssa Kapcsos took part in Girls’ Tennis, band, and National Honor Society during her time here in high school. She plans to go to college after graduation. Some of Kapcsos’ favorite high school memories were ones spent playing tennis with her friends. She quoted, “Life can be hard, but that doesn’t mean take the easy path. Challenge yourself to be the best you can be and follow your own path.” She credits Mr. Kolb with being a great teacher by teaching life lessons as well as teaching the curriculum.
Gabriel Mazzella has been involved in Gabriel Pen and Ink, Art club, and National Honors Society. After graduating, Mazzella plans to attend Northampton Community College. He will miss going to ceramic class, where he could express himself through his artwork. The most influential teacher to him was Mrs. Ackerman. Mazzella shared the quote “If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward" -Martin Luther King Jr.
Maya Johnston
Jarrett Joyner
Alyssa Kapcsos
Caroline Kessler
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Caroline Kessler was involved in MiniTHON as Corporate Fundraising Captain, Chorale, Les Chanteurs, Track and Field, and National Honors Society. After she graduates high school she will go to Temple for Neuroscience. Something she will miss here at Freedom is not being able to see her friends in her classes. Someone who was influential to her is Mr. Ayre because she enjoyed his Project Lead the Way classes which is what actually made her want to go into Neuroscience.
Amanda Large
Linda Mao
Mazzella
Katherine Medina Katherine Medina plans to go to college, but is uncertain where she will be going. She has had many teachers in her high school career but the one that she will miss is Ms. Borger. She helped Medina with her school work her junior year after having her son. “It was a little less hectic once I got back to school. ” said Medina.
Antonio Weaver Congratulations, Antonio! We are so proud of you and how much you have grown into a handsome young man. Love you today and always, Mom, Dad, Austin, and Bella Timothy Healy “All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them!” - Walt Disney Tim, we are so proud of you! Love, Mom, Dad, Ryan, and Sarah Bethany Czuba
Colin Burnette
Your love of horses and zest for life will carry you far! We’re so proud of you and look forward to your continued success and happiness! Love, Mom and Dad
We are so proud of you! Your dedication and determination are an inspiration! Love, Mom and Dad
Congratulations to all seniors! Good luck in all your future endeavors. Photos submitted by parents of students
The Freedom Forum | 9
“Creativity separates you from everyone else.”
Kim Cooper
Evan Donello
Abigail Fee
“They call me Roots.”
“Don't you worry your pretty little mind, people throw rocks at things that shine”
“The sun will rise in the morning, the stars will shine at night, the rain will eventually come and the snow will fall. No matter how long it takes, things will come.”
Alexandra Gomes
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Yolimar Jimenez Rivera “She turned her CAN'TS into CANS & her DREAMS into PLANS.“
“If you change the way you look at things. The things you look at change.”
Jamielee Luciano
Cherish Moore “Never apologize for being you.”
Jomar Rodriguez “Don't give up.”
“Whatever you are, be a good one.”
Miguelina Schonten
Julia Roman
“No, my dad's name ISN'T Miguel... it's Juan.”
The Freedom Forum | 11
Carissa Norder will attend Kutztown University where she plans to major in special education. She was on the girls basketball team. Mr. Cleffi is a teacher she will always remember and appreciate. Some of Norder’s favorite moments at Freedom were Friday night football games and the girls basketball team winning districts. She will remember the senior class by their ability to come together at tough and become friends with one another. A quote she cherishes is “The storm doesn't last forever”.
Isaac Medina Isaac Medina was involved in wrestling for Freedom. He plans to attend Penn State Schuykill after high school. Medina is going to miss the fun and communicative people here at Freedom, but he will miss Mr. Parra the most.
Mark Mendez Mark Mendez is planning to attend Northampton Community college for radiography. His favorite teacher at Freedom is Mr. Weber, because “he pushed me to be a better person.” His quote to describe his life is, “Live life to the fullest, never let anyone talk down on you.” People will most remember him for always having a good time.
Shelby Millheim
Ashley Morales
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Shelby Millheim is planning to attend Marietta College where she will continue her playing career in Lacrosse. One of Millheim’s favorite parts of high school was Junior prom which she enjoyed because of the effort put into the venue chosen. She will always remember Mr. Baltz who encouraged her to take advanced classes and challenge herself. Millheim believes this senior class will be remembered by the close -knit friendships and that freedom family existed within our class. Ashley Morales was involved in BASD Mini-THON and National Honors Society. Morales plans to attend either Yale or Princeton to study International Relations/ Global Affairs and possibly head to law school afterwards. Morales believes that people will remember the class of 2018 as being motivated to do things bigger than themselves, from the local community, to the nation, to the world. “Justice will not be served until those who are unaffected are as outraged as those who are.” Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult
John Parkin plans to go to the University of Virginia Tech after high school. He was involved in engineering, Science Olympiad, and Travel Club. The most influential teacher in his high school career was Mrs. Roscher: “I would have to say Mrs. Roscher, as her teaching the two years of PLTW, along with her enthusiasm with the course, caused me to stay in the PLTW classes, and to keep on the path of engineering,” said Parkin.
Carol Perez plans on studying anthropology at NCC. While attending Freedom, she was involved in school activities such as step team and Aevidum. Perez’s favorite teacher at Freedom is Ms Maholick. Perez says “Even though she no longer works at freedom, she never failed to make me feel welcomed and cared for.” Her senior quote is “You got no jams” - Kim Namjoon.
Jonathon Potts plans to go to college. He will miss the atmosphere and being around his friends. His most influential teacher is Mr. Dunstan because he had his back and would have help him with any questions he had. He made him feel like he was more of a friend than a teacher. He will always be thankful and look up to him. He thinks his class will remember the athletes the most.
Carissa Norder
John Parkin
Carol Perez
Jonathon Potts
Kayleigh Prebosnyak Kayleigh Prebosnyak plans to attend Northampton Community College then Drexel University of Medicine after high school. She will remember the fundraisers and events that were held to cause awareness such as Mini Thon or the ALS walk the most about high school. She think the senior class will be remembered for trying to make a difference in the school.
Jassika Riad
Jassika Riad plans to attend Albright College and majoring in Biology on a Pre-Dental track. She was also involved with Girls lacrosse. Her favorite memory was going to districts her junior year with her lacrosse team. She will miss most Mr. Harakel’s cooking. Mr. Dunstan is a teacher that taught Riad valuable life lessons she won't forget. “I'm not great at the advice, can interest you in a sarcastic comment.” is one of Riad’s favorite quotes.
Vianka Rios Vianka Rios’ favorite memory here at Freedom was Rios’ first year at Freedom. Someone who was influential to Rios was Mrs. Dicarlo because she influenced Rios in bettering their spanish. Something Rios thinks people will remember about the senior class is prom and graduation.
Sean Sachdeva
Sean Sachdeva plans to attend college after high school. He plans to major in neurobiology and to eventually become a cardiologist. While in high school, Sachdeva was involved in ski club and NHS. One thing that he will miss the most is dedicating his time to help the community through school, with friends, and with teachers. Even though he has had many different teaches during high school, the one that he will miss the most is Mrs. Chiafulio.
Hailey Silfies was a girls Freedom High School basketball and volleyball player. She was a part of Mini-Thon and National Honors Society. She plans to continue her basketball career at the St. Francis College in Brooklyn, New York. Mr. Baltz is a teacher who impacted her life. Her favorite memories at Freedom were the football games. The friendships she built is something she thinks the senior class will be remembered by. David Smith will be attending Pittsburgh -Bradford University to play on the baseball team. He was involved not only with baseball, but also with co-ed cheerleading as well. His favorite part about Freedom was the football games and getting to be involved in the Riot Squad. The most influential teacher in his career was Mr. Wallaesa because he was just simply awesome. Smith’s advice to underclassmen is “your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life.”
David Smith
Jenna Souto plans to attend college after high school. She was apart of the Orchestra, Pit orchestra, National Honors Society, and tennis team. She will miss “going to miss performing in the orchestra concerts and going out for appetizers with my friends afterwards.” Her favorite teacher was, “Mr. Harakal because he made calculus fun and easy in addition to being a good person. He really cares about his students and has a great sense of humor.”
Jenna Souto
Madeline Sheffer Madeline Sheffer will attend the University of Pittsburgh to further her education in nursing. Sheffer played Softball and participated in Mini-THON during high school. She will miss yelling "GAME DAY" and being able to put her Freedom uniform on. The most influential teacher in Sheffer’s high school years was Mrs. Ackerman, because she pushed us to be the best in anything and everything we did. Sheffer’s senior quote is “A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor” Franklin D Roosevelt.
Hailey Silfies
Darin Stapinski Darin Stapinski is planning to go to college or going into a technical school. His favorite memory is going to gym. His quote to describe his life is “Live it day by day”. The person who has influenced him the most is his case worker. He thinks that the senior class will be remembered for “ the stuff that we did”.
Kayla Starace
Emily Shingara Emily Shingara will be going to college to study international business and business management. Shingara was involved in Band, Orchestra, Wind ensemble, and Softball during her high school years. She will miss Mr. Moran who always taught to the best of his ability and includes everyone. Shingara’s senior quote “Live as wild as you can for as long as you can” is in a song by Cody Johnson.
Kayla Starace plans to attend college after high school. She was involved in Freedom High School Theatre and BBQ Club. Starace praises Ms. Wescoe for shaping her to be the person that she is today. She believes Ms. Wescoe’s passion and dedication has inspired herself to become a teacher in the future. ““I wish there was a way to know you're in the good old days before you've actually left them.” -Andy Bernard, The Office. The Freedom Forum | 13
Alexa Summers Alexa Summers plans on going to college, While attending Freedom Alexa was involved in school activities such as Field Hockey, Basd Mini Thon, National Honors Society and Student Council. Alexa says she will miss the memories and friendships she made while playing field hockey. Her favorite teacher at Freedom is Mrs. Marmaros, Alexa thinks the thing that people will remember the most about the Senior class is their energy.
William Sweeney William Sweeney was involved in Cross Country, he was also involved in YAF, Track, and Scholastic Scrimmage. Sweeney plans on attending college after high school. One of Sweeney’s favorite teachers is Mrs. Roman, Sweeney also says he is going to miss the pep rallies the most.
Jordan Umstead
Jordan Umstead was involved in Varsity Cheerleading, Varsity Softball, and BASD Mini-THON. After graduation, she plans on attending college. She would like to acknowledge Mrs. Ackerman, as she was very friendly and got to know all her students. Jordan became very close with her and trusted her. She knew that Mrs. Ackerman was someone she could go to when she needed help. “We're adults,” “'When did that happen?", "How do we make it stop?" Meredith Grey.
Valerie plans on going to college next year, but has not decided yet. She was involved with BASD MiniThon and National Honors Society. She will miss going to MiniThon in the spring, watching the theater productions, working in the coffee shop, and going to the art shows. Valerie is thankful for Mrs. Ackerman because she has motivated her to express herself through the art of ceramics and has taught valuable life skills.
Valerie VanBoven
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Lisette Vasquez was part of the Step team and Track and Field. She plans to attend an art school in Philadelphia to major in animation and fine arts after high school. Her favorite teacher was Mrs. Evans, because she persuaded Lisette into pursuing a career in the arts. She believes what will be most remembered of the Seniors was the fact that they were all dysfunctional, but in a fun way.
Lisette Vasquez
Matthew Vera was a part of Tennis, Swimming, Football, Co ed Cheer, Theatre Company, Chorale, And Les Chanteurs throughout high school. He is looking to major in either Neuroscience or Biology. His passion for Science came from Mrs. Ayre, a teacher who loved everything she taught. He believes that what will be remembered of Seniors is their maturity.
Matthew Vera
Quoc Vo will go to NCC for two years and then transfer up to the University of Pittsburgh. He was involved in Track, Martial Arts, Engineering Club, PLTW, and Mini-Thon. His most influential teacher was Mr. Baltz because he was realistic in preparing his students for college. His advice to underclassmen is “your journey is just beginning, so live life to the best you can make it.”
Quoc Vo
Krystal’s self portrait was just one of her amazing pieces at the art show. Photo Submission: Krystal Honohan
Sabrina Abdou’s art work hangs on one of the boards Photo Submission: Sabrina Abdou
Luana had a table full of her pottery at the art show. Photo Submission: Luana Rebello
Peyton Boyle created a stacked piece inspired by her favorite show.
Sabrina’s sketch of a person was showcased at the art show. Photo Submission: Sabrina Abdou
Photo Submission: Peyton Boyle
Peyton Boyle sculpted an ice skate from clay. Photo Submission: Peyton Boyle
The Freedom Forum | 15
Isaiah Brown The most influential teacher to me has to be Ms. Wescoe. She has taught me so much about life whether it be about acting and theatre or academic knowledge such as English and History. She also so nice and caring and wise, I would not know what my life would be like without her.
Steven DeLuca All of them shaped me in different ways. This question is impossible to answer.
Colleen Kennedy
Bethany Czuba
My most influential teacher was Mr. Albright
Mr. Albright, Ms. Hujsa, Ms. Statile, Ms. Calvo
Gabrielle Moore
Alexa Marshall
Mrs. Direnzo is a great example, inspiring teacher, and really cares for her students. I wouldn’t be as passionate about art if it wasn’t for her.
Mrs. Fox because she was like a mother to me and always told me right from wrong.
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Andie Graney
Philip Turnbach
Mr. Baltz made learning fun, and I looked forward to going to his class. He kept it interesting while also being very informative.
My most influential teachers were Mrs. Safranek, Mr. Bloszinsky, and Mr. Tocci because they were very helpful.
Mr. Craig Weber Hayley Guzzo Pates’ Post Editor
Mr. Craig Weber has been a huge influence for students at Freedom. Not only can his positive energy brighten up anyone’s day, but he also is a huge help for those students who need extra help with their studies. His hard work has made students better themselves academically. Additionally, he helps out
with the Special Education program at Freedom. He has been a case manager for students as well, and has worked with over 32 students. Mr. Weber also helps out as a job trainer for those who may need an extra push. He has been apart of the Freedom Family for 18 years, and has enjoyed every minute of it. He loves his work, and enjoys seeing his students succeed.
Mr. Jeff Longacre Guidance counselor Jeff Longacre will retire after this year. Mr. Longacre began his career in juvenile corrections before making a career change. He was offered a position at Nitschmann Middle School, but ultimately chose to work at Freedom as a guidance counselor. To Longacre, working as a school counselor is very rewarding. He loves to help stu-
He is motivated for the future “Don’t let anybody bring you ahead, and hopes that his re- down,” says Mr. Weber. tirement from Freedom is only the beginning of his journey ahead. Mr. Weber wants to explore nature, as well as experience new things. He is ambitious and optimistic. He may be retiring from Freedom, but he still has hopes and dreams waiting for him after he departs. Mr. Weber would like to thank his wife, children, friends, and colleagues for the support he has gotten throughout his entire time at Freedom. dents in need and stop them from heading down the wrong path. On several occasions, Mr. Longacre encountered former students in public. Most of them had only positive comments for their previous guidance counselor. Counseling is not the only way that Mr. Longacre made a difference in his time at Freedom. He was an assistant wrestling coach, and he held the head coaching position for a short time. Mr. Longacre
also served as a strength coach for several other sports, including field hockey and basketball. Upon retiring, Mr. Longacre hopes to move to Florida with his wife. They are extensive travelers, having been to exotic destinations such as Rome. Soon, the couple hopes to vacation in Hawaii. The Longacres have two daughters, aged 30 and 26. Carson Swick Entertainment Editor
The top 10 colleges that the Class of 2018 will be attending.
1. Northampton Community College
9. University of Pittsburgh
2. Temple University
10. Westchester University of Pennsylvania
3. Kutztown University of Pennsylvania 4. Pennsylvania State University 5. East Stroudsburg University 6. Moravian College 7. Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania 8. Lehigh University
School logos from right to left: Temple, Kutztown, and Penn State Photos: Wikimedia
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Mr. Jim Kolesnik Gabrielle Rader Center Spread and Web Editor
After 11 memorable years at Freedom High School, Mr. Jim Kolesnik will be retiring this June. Mr. Kolesnik has not only impacted many, but has also helped many at Freedom High School. From working as a custodian to helping with maintenance on buses, Mr. Kolesnik is a jack of all trades. During his time here at Freedom he has enjoyed working with students and teachers. His favorite memories are coming
into Freedom and working with the STEPS Kids in the supply room and around the school. He enjoys his job at Freedom and has developed friendships over the years with many colleagues. Mr. Kolesnik is constantly on the run throughout the day, helping many throughout the school. Within his years at Freedom one teacher that has impacted him is Ms. Baylis. Ms. Baylis teaches Spanish and is the foreign language department chair. When he
Ms. Joan Pasternak Gabrielle Rader Center Spread and Web Editor
Excited for time to focus on her personal photography, Mrs. Joan Pasternak is retiring after 8 years at Freedom High School. Since 2000, Mrs. Pasternak has taught within the Bethlehem Area School District, 18 years of teaching at both Freedom and Liberty as well as East Hills for a couple of years. She has spent a total of 24 years teaching. Throughout the years she has taught photography, multimedia, and film-making classes. After retirement, she plans Photo: Carson Swick on visiting Sante Fe in Sep-
first started here, she took him under her wing and kept him here at Freedom which today he is extremely grateful for. After retirement, he plans to have some “me-time” which includes spending time with his wife, Mrs. Kolesnik who is also retiring this year. He plans to spend time with his six children and five grandchildren. In previous years, he did electrical work, but he wanted something with more to offer. He likes Freedom because many people here appreciate him for all the hard work he does, and he likes knowing that others value him. He feels
that the most important thing in life is “to give 110% to everything you do, because in the end a pat on the back is the best feeling.”
tember and plans on teaching classes at the banana factory. At the Banana Factory she will tutor students about photography. Photography is a major part of her life, and she is ecstatic to go back to professional photography since she has been doing it since she was 13. Mrs. Pasternak can not wait to be able to visit her daughter more often who lives in Cincinnati. This way she can spend more time with her since she lives so far. Mrs. Pasternak will definitely miss her students as well as the art shows Freedom High School puts on annually. The art show is one of her favorite
memories and her favorite time of the year because students get to show their hard work and efforts they put into their classes. She will also miss her current second block class because they have shown a lot of progression through their work over the course of the semester. The class is very fun for her, and she will miss the good times they have. Some advice she would give to a student is “Follow your dreams and work hard, you can achieve anything you put your mind to.”
Ms. Denice Peterson Carson Swick Entertainment Editor
After 17.5 years at Freedom High School, Mrs. Denice Peterson will retire at the close of this school year. During her tenure here, Mrs. Peterson worked long days as a security guard and a hall monitor. Many students know her as the helpful lady at the sign-out 18
desk. While her job was frustrating at times, she will take some valuable lessons with her. Ms. Peterson enjoyed coming to work each day to see the smiling faces of Freedom High School students. Upon retirement, Mrs. Peterson hopes to travel with her husband and 34-year-old son. She still sees her son as a
“little baby”, and she wants to cherish all the time they have together. The family plans to visit Florida this summer and San Francisco in the fall. Peterson is also a fan of going on cruises, and she hopes that her retirement will bring more than its share of them.
Karla Erdman Adviser
“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” -Winnie The Pooh For the past four years, the students at Freedom High School have been wrapped in a cocoon of learning and nurturing. Their safety and wellbeing is of utmost importance to them and to us. But after June 6, these kids–our kids– will have the door opened to new possibilities, great successes, and heart-wrenching challenges. I am confident that Rachel Black, Hayley Guzzo, Analisa Jeffries, Juliana Maffea, and
Juliana Maffea Analisa Jeffries Co-Editor-in-Chiefs
As we prepare to leave and pass on our jobs as Editor-inChiefs, we are sad to say goodbye. These have been the best and most wonderful years of our lives. We are glad that we could experience this, especially with the people who
T.J. Schaeffer will meet any demand, whether positive or negative, with courage, understanding, and collaboration. I know this because these seniors have been part of The Freedom Forum during their high school careers. This organization is more than just a school newspaper. It is a living, breathing cohort of people who encounter obstacles and rewards. The students work together, as well as with other students, faculty, administration, staff, parents, and the community to solve problems and to bring about awareness about school, community, and world issues. They want to be part of the conversation. They choose to
be leaders now and in the future. It is through their dedication to the studentrun newspaper organization that these young people have learned that it takes cooperation and compromise to complete worthwhile tasks. That, my friends, is all we could ever want for our children. The capacity to persevere in the middle of a storm and the ability to be humble when needed. So, as these young adults move on to the next phase of their lives, I say: Thank you. I am a better person for knowing you. I know you all will prosper beyond
surrounded us and helped us to get where we are. On the other hand we are hopeful for what the future holds, not only for us, but the entire senior class as well. During our time here, we have made plenty of friends. The memories we made with them will stick with us throughout our years after high school. We have also made a numerous amount of memories in these halls and classrooms, and we are grateful for the lessons we have learned. We have grown as students, friends, and human beings through out the short time we have spent at Freedom. When we first started our high school career, we never would have thought that we would end up in charge of such a wonderful organiza-
tion. Everyday, we are surrounded by uplifting people who are always ready to work. The students in this organization are ready to speak, and they are ready to have a voice. We are extremely grateful to have been given this opportunity to share our thoughts and ideas with some of the brightest students at Freedom High School. All freshmen starting on their first day know the old saying that high school will fly by or that it will be the best four years of their lives. It really did go so quickly, and it was some of the best times. The people we have met along our journey will be some of the most memorable. We wish everyone the best of luck in their future and their careers. We have been
the walls of Freedom High School. Remember that perseverance and humility provide the path toward success.
with these students for 4 years, and we have seen them grow. We know that our peers will do something amazing with their lives because of the education they received at Freedom. We also hope Good luck, seniors!
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