June Issue (Graduation)

INKLINGS

June 22, 2017

Vol. 88, Issue 10

Graphic by Melanie Lust '19

STAPLES HIGH SCHOOL | 70 North Ave., Westport, Connecticut 06880

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News | June 22, 2017

D’Amico and Palmer tackle first year in administrative roles

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s their first year comes to a close, Westport School District Superintendent Dr. Colleen Palmer and Staples High School Principal James D’Amico are satisfied with the state of the school system.

Coming from 12 years of prior superintendent experience with Weston Public Schools, Palmer believes that the culture of the Westport School District is like nothing she’s ever seen in terms of the academically dedicated students and welcoming community.

“Ever y time you move

to a new district, it’s a huge learning curve,” Palmer said. “Everytime I turn around, there’s something amazing that our students or our teachers or our staff will be doing, and I’m still learning, but I really love Westport Public Schools. The students really take time to share their thoughts and ideas, and I really appreciate that.”

The D’Amico-Palmer partnership has grown strong as they have worked hand in hand on many district-wide related situations. Their professional relationship began two years ago, when Palmer began her superintendent position, as D’Amico had already worked in the Westport district for a number of years. This enabled Palmer to interview D’Amico for his current position at Staples.

“When he was interested in the position, I was thrilled,” Palmer said.

“I look at the attributes he brings to the table. He has a compassionate heart and he puts students first. I think he’s earned a well-deserved vacation this year; he’s going to come back next year and hit the ground running with all of his experience from this year.”

Before becoming the principal of Staples, D’Amico was a teacher

at Staples, served as the social studies department chair and in 2014, became the Director of Secondary Education.

This year, D’Amico was faced with difficult decisions and situations, such as the controversial meme page, the addition of the transgender bathrooms and requesting the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) to speak to sophomores and juniors regarding the Truth About Hate.

“Partially as a result of the meme page, and other things that happened, I was excited to bring the ADL in to do that assembly with the sophomores and juniors; they helped us out a lot with a really engaging speaker,” D’Amico said.

“I was proud of that because I think that’s something we can do more of at Staples, bring the community together as much as possible.”

Students in the district appreciate the new superintendent and principal who are dealing with certain situations and facilitating conversations about what some consider to be sensitive and controversial topics.

“I think that they

CAR KARAOKE WITH JAMES D'AMICO Scan the QR code below to watch D'Amico sing karaoke in a car with Max Appell '18 and Zach Horowitz '19.

inklingsnews.com | STAPLES HIGH SCHOOL

are doing a great job, actually, addressing some situations, especially contrasting the way some of last year’s situations were handled,” Brooke Githens ’19 said.

Palmer and D’Amico will look to immerse themselves further in the district’s affairs as the years go on, side by side, with the student’s best interests on their radar at all times, listening and learning.

“My biggest accomplishment is that everyone feels that it was a very good year at Staples,” D’Amico said. “I hope that people feel like things have stabilized a little bit, knowing that they’re going to have the same person for a couple of years and that he cares.”

Photos by Zoe Barnett ’19 and Graphics by Melanie Lust ’19

Zach Horowitz ’19 & Lili Romann ’19

News | June 22, 2017

Academic integrity violations prompt review of tutoring practices Claire Dinshaw ’17 & Molly Liebergall ’17

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n early May, English teachers Brian Tippy and Samantha Ginzberg dealt with two separate incidents of cheating as a result of the same tutor rewriting two students’ papers. The incidents have prompted a discussion regarding the ethics of tutoring.

“When I took a look at what the tutor had done and saw the timestamps,” Ginzberg said, addressing the incident that occurred in her class, “the tutor had gone into the paper while the student was in school, while the student was not on the document.

That’s where it crossed over the line.”

Although Tippy declined to speak specifically about the incident in his class, he said he has dealt with four occurrences over the past few years where a parent or tutor was inappropriately involved in the completion of an assignment, and he believes these two most recent incidents are simply symptoms of a larger problem of tutor overreach at Staples.

According to the student handbook, inappropriately using the services of another person, such as a tutor is considered cheating.

Consequences for cheating range from grade changes to

Gra ph

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receiving a zero to being forced to redo are not required to give the assignment, according to Principal their tutors their passwords.

James D’Amico. “Those decisions “Students do not need to share are really in the hands of the teacher their login information with us,” and their department chair,” he said. Billings said. “But most students Both Trey Billings, co-president of understand how helpful it is for Freudigman & Billings (F&B), a tutoring their tutor to come to their session company, and Jay Mudholkar ’17, the 2019- prepared and are happy to share 2017 president of Top Hat Tutors, a student information with us about how run tutoring company, emphasized they are doing in their classes.” that they work to ensure students Although D’Amico have ownership of their own work. said that Staples has “What we’ve done, it is very similar to no short term what kids would do by talking with each plans to change other about these ideas, talking to their any policies parents, which I know goes on a ton,” in response to Billings said. “Except some of the people the two recent incidents, on staff have degrees in writing or have he did ask tutors to reflect. more skill in helping kids think through “Think about the these tasks than perhaps parents would.” decision that you’re making Mudholkar echoed this stance, saying when you are working with he has never heard of a case where a tutor a student,” D’Amico said. “You are working for Top Hat Tutors crossed any helping them, but the work is theirs.” ethical boundary when helping a student.

Tippy believes the inappropriate use However, Ginzberg, who of tutors is tied is a tutor herself, does believe to an inaccurate “Think about the the tutor in question took perception of advantage of her student. the purpose of decision that you’re school “I truly believe that this work. tutor instilled a trust within “ A t making when you that student,” Ginzberg some point, we are working with said, “and then that student have to remember is like ‘Okay this person is that the point of a student. You are getting paid; this person is writing an essay a professional in the field.’” helping them, but the is to learn how Bridget Mulloy ’19 feels to write an essay, work is theirs.” that there are times tutors not to produce an put students in an essay,” Tippy said.

-James D'Amico, uncomfortable position.

“Students would “I know when I rather have an ‘A’ Staples principal went to F&B for midterm essay turned in than review, the tutor there asked me for my write a really great B+ essay themselves, username and password for Schoology and I think that’s a crazy system.” and HomeAccess so we could go Billings said that many of his over test units that I didn't score clients do have some expectations of well on,” Mulloy said. “I didn't grades improving. However, Billings feel comfortable writing it believes that the frequent use of tutors down, so I just typed it into is tied, not to grade expectations, the computer and logged but to a lack of teacher availability. out after the session.”

“Here AP teachers are too busy B i l l i n g s tutoring,” Billings said. “Stamford High responded to School [and] West Hill actually have Mulloy, saying money in the budget to pay people to come s t u d e n t s in to do extra AP prep for the students in

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that school.”

Rachel Seidman ’17 added, “With the very competitive environment at Staples, I don't think there's anything wrong with getting help from tutors when you're not receiving the attention you need from teachers.” Julie Heller, the English department chair at Staples High School, countered this claim, saying that all teachers at Staples are available for 45 minutes either before or after school.

“That time specifically is meant to provide students the opportunity to meet with their teachers as needed,” Heller said.

Students also noted that there is a prejudice in the Staples community against seeking outside help from tutors.

“I think there is a stigma attached to it. If you go to a tutor, that it is almost receiving a kind of boost that other kids don't,” Mulloy said. “Some people think it's unfair, especially since not everyone can afford to go to $100 tutoring sessions.”

Billings responded to some of the prejudice against F&B, saying he wants people to know the company’s focus is students’ education.

“I think my biggest concern is that people understand that our goal is to help kids learn, that that’s fundamentally what we are trying to accomplish,” Billings said. “We want to see students understand material better.”

Grave of Horace Staples, school founder, undergoing restoration efforts Melanie Lust ’19 Fundraising efforts to restore the severely vandalized grave of school founder Horace Staples are now underway, spearheaded by Jeanne Stevens of the social studies department.

The damage affected the tombstones of Horace Staples’ first and second wives, his son, his daughter and an obelisk bearing the family name. Every family tombstone located in the Greens Farms Lower Cemetery near the Sherwood Island area was broken in half in an act of vandalism.

“We’re going to try to raise the money as soon as we can," Stevens said. Repairing all graves will cost $10,000, according to Artista Studios and Monument Works, a restoration company in Bridgeport. On May 30, Stevens sent an email to the school asking for donations to a fund set up by Mari Carroll, Secretary for Purchasing and Student Activities at Staples.

Stevens first became aware of the graves' conditions last January while conducting research for Founder's Day, a celebration of Horace Staples and his contributions to Staples High School and the Westport community.

"As I was looking around and trying to piece together [the research], I came across these pictures," she said, referring to an image of Staples' wife's

crumbling tombstone. "I thought, 'Oh my goodness, hopefully it doesn’t look like that.' So I went there, and was just shocked at what a terrible state it’s in, for somebody who was the town’s philanthropist."

Strewn along the freshly dug earth, where restorers have already begun their search for each piece of every tombstone, are fragments of the Staples family graves. Next to a leaning obelisk lies a piece engraved with the word "Horace," directly beside a grave reading "Marye" (Staples' second wife) that seems to have been cracked directly in half.

Peter Jennings, Greens Farms Church Historian and longest-serving board member of the Westport Historical Society, says every graveyard deals with vandalism at some point. Many other graves in the cemetery currently need to be righted and fixed as part of continual maintenance procedures.

Jennings is working on organizing volunteers to assist with this in late June.

"We’re planning [a] cemetery 'Work Day ' jointly by Greens Farms Church and the Westport Historical Society," Jennings said. "I’ll give a short talk about the history of Westport Cemeteries, and the GFC lower one, and then a workshop on headstone repair before beginning."

As of now, the church board of the

cemetery has approved Stevens' request for Artista to begin restoration, and the project will commence as soon as money is raised.

"They have to be put back together by professionals," Stevens said. "There are people in the state, really all over, that do professional historic tombstone repairs, and Artista is well-known in this whole area and [has] repaired many historic sites."

Next, the graves undergo a series of transformations: shipping, cleaning, drying, gluing, and more—a costly process that students like Peter Clanton '18 believe to be worth it.

"I think that it is imperative to preserve Horace Staples' grave," Clanton said.

"He founded Staples High School, which gave Westport residents a high quality public education program in a time where public education and quality often did not correlate. It is our duty to honor his gift to the community by preserving his grave."

Stevens agreed, adding that it is crucial not to let local history fade.

Ultimately, restoring

the gravesite is a project of love for her, and she is willing to overcome most obstacles.

"This is somebody who was really important to our town,” she said. It’s important that we not just honor them by fixing up this situation, but also to connect ourselves with the past.”

GRAVE FOUND VANDALIZED Horace Staples (above) founded Staples High School in 1884. His grave (below) is located in the Greens Farms Lower Cemetery.

Painting by Samuel Brown Photo by Melanie Lust ’19

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News | June 22, 2017

inklingsnews.com | STAPLES HIGH SCHOOL

News | June 22, 2017

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Proposed budget allows increased paternity leave

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Amelia Brown ’18 & Anay Simunovic ’18

resident Donald Trump’s proposed budget, “America First,” formally requested to Congress on Tuesday, May 23, includes a new entitlement of six weeks of paid leave for mothers and fathers, according to National Public Radio (NPR).

The current law for parental leave is defined in the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), which allows 12 weeks of unpaid leave for any new parent. The Westport Education Association’s website states, “Usually a teacher ends up with about six weeks of paid time (if she gives birth while school is in session) and six

weeks unpaid.” Under current policy, there is no paid parental leave for the spouse.

“I think it’s unfortunate that in this modern culture, families have to make that decision between family care and income,” Robert Papp, a math teacher whose wife just gave birth to a son, said.

Because of this trade off, many teachers whose spouse gave birth choose to take off only about one week, using days off other than those given with FMLA so that the leave is paid.

“I have a young family, so we’re not in the position to lose 12 weeks pay,” CJ Shamas, a gym teacher whose wife, gym teacher Kelly Shamas, is expecting in June, said. “So my understanding of what you could do is take your five emergency days in

DADS OF STAPLES (From left to right) Robert Papp, C.J. Shamas and Dominick Messina take on the responsibilities of parenting.

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1 am ’ Grah t a yC hic b Grap

conju nc t ion with your [two] personal days.”

Papp and Shamas both stressed that a problem occurs if there is another emergency that requires time off. These days would then be unpaid. Therefore, both are in favor of increasing the time parents can feasibly take off to be with a new child.

According to Superintendent Dr. Colleen Palmer, who, alongside the department head, oversees the temporary replacement of teachers, “The spirit of the law is something to embrace; that parents can be with a newborn or a child entering the family.”

Howe ve r, according to the Center for Public Education,

teachers are one of the biggest factors in student success, so granting long periods of leave is controversial.

“We try to be as compassionate and supportive to our teachers while we try to balance the instructional needs of our students,” Palmer said, noting the benefits of having a consistent teacher throughout the course.

Trump’s plan still has to go through Congressional approval before it actually gets made into law. Both Democrats and Republicans in Congress are looking to make changes to the allocation of funds in the proposed budget.

That being said, a primary concern within the Westport Public School District is the “financial impact of paying both the employee and the substitute teacher,” Palmer said.

In regards to paid paternity leave, “I think as a society we have to decide. Is [paternity leave] something we value; is that something we’d pay for?” Papp asked.

Photos contributed by Robert Papp, C.J. Shamas and Dominick Messina

inklingsnews.com | STAPLES HIGH SCHOOL

Opinions | June 22 , 2017

opinions

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Inklings Editors-in-Chief

Amelia Brown & Anay Simunovic

Managing Editors

Max Appell & Ian Bernstein

Creative Director

Melanie Lust

Associate Managing Editors

Izzy Blansfield & Alex Reiner

Web Managing Editors

Megan Doyle & Tori Lubin

Breaking News Managing Editors

Emma Greenberg & Julia Rosier

Assistant Public Relations Manager

Cate Casparius

Assistant Creative Directors Charlie Colasurdo & Ellie Kravetz

Business Director Brett Franklin

Assistant Business Managers Caroline Donahue, Ben Klau, Joshua Paul, & Emily Stone

Graphic by Melanie Lust ’19

News Editors

Jack Beck & Zach Horowitz Sophie Driscoll & Dan Harizman

Inklings

Opinions Editors

Izzy Connors & Alexandra Sprouls Kaya Leitner & Layla Wofsy

EDITORIAL

Features Editors

Bailey Blaikie & Lili Romann Jonathan Kaner & Liv Ronca

Arts Editors

Allie D’Angelo & Olivia Foster Audrey Bernstein & Anna Rhoads

Sports Editors

Jack Caldwell & Erin Lynch Jackson Daignault & Amanda Kaplowitz

Web News Editors

Nicole Dienst & Adam Wenkoff

Web Opinions Editors

Kaela Dockray & Arin Garland

Web Features Editors

Nicky Brown & Sasha Narang

Web Arts Editors

Molly Mahoney & Maddie Phelps

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taples High School is a stressful environment. Whether it be keeping up a certain GPA or making a certain sports team, many students experience the pressure to “succeed” at one thing or another. That being said, we hope that you will be able to look back on these past four years and learn from your shortcomings as well as your achievements. We hope that you will be able to look back on these past four years with a fondness for the establishment that has transformed you into the young adults that you have become. But ultimately, your memories of high school will depend on your perspective.

As an editorial board, we decided that the transformative process from freshmen to senior year would be best represented through the creation of a reversal poem where the poem being read one way holds one meaning and then when read in reverse holds another meaning.

When you read the following poem beginning to end, it reflects the pessimistic mindset many may have felt coming into high school as freshmen.

However, when you read the poem from the end to the beginning, it represents how a positive outlook can alter one’s preconceived notions about the high school experience.

May you always strive to maintain a positive perspective.

Web Sports Editors

Elliot Kaufman & Ben Pearl

Advisors

Mary Elizabeth Fulco, Joseph DelGobbo, Matthew Bohn & Brian Solomon Crown Finalist for Inklingsnews.com from Columbia Scholastic Press Association 2015 Silver Crown Award for Newspaper from Columbia Scholastic Press Association 2014 Pacemaker from National Scholastic Press Association 2013 All the opinions, news and features in this paper are those of Staples High School students. Inklings, a curricular and extracurricular publication, has a circulation of 1,800 and is uncensored.

All letters to the editor must be signed. The editorial board reserves the right not to publish letters and to edit all submissions as it sees fit. The editorial board determines all editorial opinions, which are authored faithfully by the Editors-in-Chief.

Inklings reserves the right to not publish advertisements that promote products that could be harmful to student health. The paper is a member of the Columbia Scholastic Press Association and the National Scholastic Press Association and supports the Student Press Law Center.

70 North Ave. Westport, CT 06880 Phone: (203) 341-1994 Inklingsweb@gmail.com Decisions of Inklings and Westport Public Schools are made without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, disability or any other discriminating basis prohibited by local, state or federal law.

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inklingsnews.com | STAPLES HIGH SCHOOL

The Power of Perspective School is nothing but stress and it is not true that high school memories are meaningful It might come as a surprise but “You are more than your GPA” is a lie, and “Only good grades will make you happy” So in the future, we will tell our children that we had good times but we made our fair share of mistakes Our loved ones will see that We had our priorities straight because grades are more important than friends We tell you this: Best friends keep in touch But this will not be true in our era This is a lazy generation Our parents told us Twenty years from now technology will consume us We do not concede that we will be doctors, and athletes and entrepreneurs In the future our friendships won’t survive college No longer can it be said that We care about our peers It is evident that We are tired and burnt out and blatantly immature It is foolish to presume that We are ready for college

While we all may experience frustration, a positive outlook can reverse it.

(Reread this poem from the bottom to the top.)

Modeled after Jonathan Reed’s “The Lost Generation.” Our editorial board voted unanimously in favor of this opinion.

Opinions | June 22, 2017

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Letters to the Editor T

o Melanie Lust ’19, I know that one is not supposed to comment about a book unless one has read the book. I want to be upfront: I have not read “13 Reasons Why,” nor have I seen the television show of the same name. However, I have read the article on the front page of Inklings, and the article has brought several ideas about high school journalism to my attention which I wish to share with the Inklings staff.

First of all, I feel that Melanie Lust deserves special recognition for researching a most controversial topic and for handling, exceptionally well, both sides of the argument. Having a sophomore take on the challenge of a front page story is noteworthy in itself. Even more exceptional is the fact that this reporter

took a topic of censorship, a topic that resounds throughout American history.

Removing books from the Bedford Middle School Library and from Bedford and Coleytown’s English book rooms seems insensible. Can anyone explain to me why a book should be taken off the shelves of a school without having conversations with the students reading the book?

As a teacher of over forty years, I am of the opinion that it is within the school classrooms that important issues concerning teenage welfare should be discussed. Who better than a certified teacher to lead discussions about controversial topics? Where better for students to learn about topics that some parents are most afraid to discuss with their children? It may be just to say that

Superintendent Palmer stands behind her belief that “We just want parents to understand what their students are watching and give them resources so they can have thoughtful conversation with their students.” I have always felt the great conversations can begin in a school classroom, and that parents have a responsibility to read the books that their children are reading. In that way, parents and administrators as well as students can come to intelligent, educated conclusions. To pull a book from a middle school library is unlawful if the act is in violation of the 1982 Supreme Court ruling in BOE v Pico. Bravo, Melanie to have done your research well.

One must protect our school libraries and our centers of education

where information on all topics can be made available to all citizens, students, parents and academicians. I was so impressed that Melanie not only wrote an excellent article and defended her points thoroughly, but also , she made the attention-grabbing graphic that accompanies her article. If this is an example of the caliber of student one finds at Staples High School, if this article is an example of the search for truth exhibited though the Inklings staff, then I would conclude that the future of journalism at Staples High School is in fine hands.

Sincerly, John Fulco Retired English teacher

For the first time in almost a decade, Staples High School, in Westport, Connecticut, ran a course titled Women in History. The course ran because 16 students wanted to take it. As they learned about the many roles and perceptions of women in U.S. history, they began to consider their experiences. Motivated by International Women’s Day, Women’s History month, and their experiences discussing feminism and sexism at school, the students decided to create an interactive exhibit outside the cafeteria. In response to the many reactions to the 3 phases of “the feminism wall,” the students submit an open letter to their community.

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ear Members of the Staples Community, It was shocking, I know.

No warning. Red paper, black paint.

Complete the statement.

Feminism is… smeared on the wall.

But listen. From our perspective, we were creating a space for opposing opinions, expecting to reveal the complexities and stigmas surrounding a broad movement. We were not looking for a particular response; in fact, we hoped that leaving answers anonymous would lead to visible juxtaposition, contrasting ideas side-by-side. However, things played out differently than planned.

Phase one. Feminism is. To demonstrate, we stuck our own post-its to the wall: Feminism is… intersectional; not just for women; empowering; relevant; something I thought I didn’t need.

We watched as people began to notice the sign, some smiling, most confused, and some angry. When the period ended, we all walked away, not realizing that the wall could not be left alone. While many people followed with valuable insights across a spectrum of perspectives, others behaved differently: Feminism is… for fags; retarded; gay as f*** (around 7 times); a waste of paper; cancer (around 5 times); autistic (3 times); go back to the kitchen.

Someone even squirted moisturizer on the banner, an uncomfortable suggestion.

Phase two. Feminism isn’t. Several students, using their spare time to mass produce hateful and mocking post-its in pursuit of defacing the wall, eventually went so far as to claim it “property of the Staples meme group.”

All of this happened despite the fact that the wall was in a heavily trafficked public space - outside the cafeteria - with ourselves and administration regularly monitoring it.

People told us that we were stupid for doing this again. People pleaded for us to try something else. But we left it up— on purpose. We wanted that exhibit up, we wanted people to think, we wanted people to be uncomfortable. To be confronted with feminism and it’s varying reactions. That was the point. We left it up.

Phase three. While we were hanging the new banner, we were surrounded by students. The number of people kept multiplying. We were bombarded by voices: “Hold the banner up so I can read it!”

If feminism is the theory of political, economic, & social

equality of the sexes, then why…”

“Then why what?!?!?”

“Where are the little papers??”

“It’s not interactive anymore,” we countered.

“I’ll just get my own paper then.”

We kept trying to hang our exhibit as the crowd - mainly boys - desperately shouted their feelings on the issue, trying to speak louder than that one, big word.

The most common question we were asked during this process was, “What did you expect?”—a subtle denigration of our hard work—as if the resulting and extreme disrespect, vandalism, and disorder were inevitable.

Clearly, we should have tried something else, presented our ideas in a way that wouldn’t create a hostile environment. But we didn’t.

To those who genuinely participated in our galleries: thank you. We don’t care if you are feminist or not; we value your opinions. Thank you for offering your ideas, thoughts, and quotes.

To the administrators, teachers, and coaches who took the time to come into our class and discuss the many issues surrounding the installation and the condition of all students at Staples: we thank you for your time, insight, candor, and support.

To the many teachers who have had open conversations in your classes: thank you. When the wall became a target of hatred, you gave people a safe outlet for further conversation.

To those who supported our exhibits but never participated: we wish you had.

To those who participated in the vandalism, the hatred, the bullying: reflect. If there is one question we want the answer to, it’s simply this: why did you react this way? People recognized that their behavior was shameful; they said that they were doing it “just to be funny.”

Is that the justification for reckless apathy?

Do you think that we were asking for it? Do you think that it’s our fault that other people responded inappropriately? Don’t you think we should address the real problem here?

We didn’t create a hostile environment. We exposed what already existed at Staples. And from this experience, we began to ask ourselves an important question: are males and females equally supported in the community?

So, even if you aren’t a feminist, that’s okay. We thank you for taking the time

to read this and, really, we just want to know, are you ready to have a respectful conversation about gender equality?

When you are ready...

• we would like to see gender equality studies taught at elementary and middle schools; • we would like to see Staples become a more inclusive environment of different perspectives

and

ideas across the spectrum;

• we would like to see students, parents, teachers, administrators— everyone—involved and engaged in conversations about real life issues in and out of the classroom.

We need to see a change.

Sincerely, The Creators of the Feminism Wall

inklingsnews.com | STAPLES HIGH SCHOOL

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Opinions | June 22 , 2017

High school is about the people engaging through lively lectures and class demonstrations, changing my view of my Westport education from an obligation to an opportunity. Since then I have had countless incredible teachers, from the person who lit a table on fire to teach me hen I think back on high school, chemistry to the individual who read my much of what I remember is college essay upwards of five times until it the late nights, the countless was perfect to the seven Inklings advisers assignments and the stress. However, I who dedicated hours of their own time to also remember laughing through those help me grow as a person and a student. late nights, meeting new people tackling Then there are my fellow students and assignments and making lifelong friends. Some I have quite literally scarred, memories despite the stress. and others I The truth is, I truly enjoyed have known I truly enjoyed high high school, in small part because s i n c e school, in small part elementary I took classes I found interesting and discovered the powerful middle because l I took classes and effects of caffeine and Advil school, before it was too late. But, for the when we I found interesting. most part, I enjoyed high school p a s s e d because of the people I shared it F r i d a y with, teachers and fellow students. afternoons eating pizza and talking.

For me, it all started with my middle A few have even become the topic of school science teacher, who made science my college essays and supplementals

Claire Dinshaw ’17

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because they have shown me the value of memories made outside the classroom.

There are also those I have learned from. Those who I have worked alongside, presenting group projects, studying at the library, complaining about Donald Trump, attending occasional Board of Education meetings, writing editorials and copy-editing pages. These people encouraged me to own my identity as a feminist; they tried to get me to learn the ukulele; they showed me that, according to APStyle, ‘e-mail’ is spelled ‘email;’ they made study sessions

enjoyable; they taught me everything I know about collaboration and compromise.

Most of school is individualized.

When you take a test or write an essay, it is just you and the page. I am not naturally extroverted, and I’ve never been particularly good at talking to new people or making new friends. As a result, it would have been very easy for me to tune out those around me and focus solely on myself, on my own success.

But it is the people I have met, some best friends others teachers, deskmates or school a c q u a i nt a n c e s , who have made me enjoy every sleepdeprived day.

Photo by Ellie Kravetz ’18

I learned to reroute my ambitions Fritz Schemel ’17 Starting in second grade, I had a set plan. I was going to be an NBA player. I mean, my two years of Westport Rec basketball experience would clearly put me in a position to make the pros.

Coupled with my killer jump shot, I was a definite first round lottery pick.

It took me a couple years to realize my skinny physique and scant athleticism probably wouldn’t result in a professional career.

So, starting in sixth grade, I had a new set plan. In high school, I was going to be a varsity basketball player, and then I would work out a career in the real world once I got to college. I had been on travel and AAU teams, and I figured I could progress enough to eventually, one day, play on the Staples varsity team.

It took me the span of 15 seconds, after I was told I would not be able to take my talents to the freshman basketball team, to realize that plan wasn’t going to work out either. Still in love with basketball and sports in general, I figured the next best way to involve myself with sports was to write about t h e m .

S o , starting in ninth grade, I had yet anot her set plan.

I was going to join Ink lings ’19 and be ust L ie a sports lan e M by journalist. I had hic p a always liked writing and Gr getting the chance to write about sports seemed like the signature “do what you love and you’ll never work a day” kind of career for me.

inklingsnews.com | STAPLES HIGH SCHOOL

It took me a year to slowly realize that I was actually way more into news and politics.

So, for the past year, I have had a different plan. Fueled by the modern political climate, I’ve been obsessed with politics and public service, and have been inspired by the often untapped potential for good in politics. That’s my current “set” plan.

I’ve always thought of myself as a planner, someone who will chart the course of his life and every event in it to the minute. I’m ridiculed for being a “narc” (in the teenage colloquial sense) by my friends who claim having an incredibly well updated Google Calendar is excessive, especially when paired with my hyper-specific to-do list broken down by hour on my computer.

But these

taught me that having a predestined course isn’t how to live life. Keeping an open mind to all possible solutions, options and paths is the only way to avoid complacency.

I’m sure I’ll never abandon my organized, structured way of life. But what I will do, especially when entering the uncertainty of college, is open my mind to all possible paths and all types of people.

Having a goal is admirable, but having a pre-destined path to that outcome is foolish.

i n s t a n c e s

throughout my life, when things didn’t go according to plan, have

Photo by Ellie Kravetz ’18

Opinions | June 22, 2017

The unknown is waiting Failures fueled my love Kit Epstein ’17

I

have something to admit. After a long four years of barrelling through endless schoolwork, stressing about the college process and finally committing to a school that I love—I am scared. I am scared beyond belief.

I once thought that as soon as I chose where I would spend the next four years, all of my anxiety would magically disappear. I imagined myself riding the second semester senior wave, not caring about a thing and dying to start off at a new school in the fall.

So, when I didn’t feel that sense of relief by May 1, I got kind of worried.

I thought to myself, Why am I not as thrilled as everybody else?

Why does the thought of leaving home make me feel so frightened?

A couple of weeks ago, I decided to bring up this worry to one of my teachers. She turned to me and said, “Kit, you’ve got to shift your perspective. Take it in stride.”

Something clicked.

I can admit that I’m scared. I can accept the fact that, in three months, for the first time in my life, I won’t have my parents to fall back

on. I’ll most likely feel pretty damn anxious and uncomfortable in the beginning, but you know what? That’s ok.

It’s okay to be uneasy. It’s okay to wonder if you made the right decision. It’s okay to not know what the future will hold.

From now on, I’m going to accept my discomfort towards going off to college.

No, I’m not sure that I’ll have the most incredible four years of my life. I’m not sure that I won’t have days where I’ll wonder why I even bothered. But, what I do know is that I’m ready to take that risk.

Saying goodbye to Staples m e a n s taking a huge leap into the unknown. I can do this.

Photo by Ellie Kravetz ’18

Journalism taught me to embrace indecision, I think?

Becky Hoving ’17

for criticism Izzy Ullmann ’17

It’s Friday morning, and all of last month’s hard work is finally in my hands: 24 pages, all color, all mine.

Within seconds, my nirvana is shattered.

“How did the front page story get cut off? Why are the images on centerspread so blurry?”

The pages that were once considered my masterpiece of a newspaper are now all flawed. Every comment and critique rings in my head, turning the words into a blurry mess while I blink back tears. I shrug and act like it doesn’t weigh heavy on me.

However, the entire day I feel the weight of all 90 Inklings writers whom I let down.

When I see my journalism adviser, Ms. Fulco, she congratulates me on my first paper. I nervously spit up words apologizing for as many errors I can think of. The cut off story on the front page, the blurry images and the misplaced pullquote, until she stops me.

“I know it’s hard to do, because trust me I struggle with it,” she said. “But you need to learn to develop a thick skin as a leader. Making mistakes is part of the process.”

That piece of advice has been ringing in my head ever since.

As the managing editor for Inklings, I could not be more thankful for developing a thick skin for criticism.

As time went on, I started to look at criticism in a different light. Instead of an error that marked my failure as a journalist, it was a mark of how I could improve for the next paper. I learned to love circling errors with a red pen on the paper the day of printing or having conversations about how layouts could have been executed in a more appealing way.

The criticism I’ve gained as managing editor taught me to look deeper. It made me push my editors to have a stronger attention for detail and encourage writers to conduct more interviews to prevent bias in stories.

My failures, ranging from misplaced commas to inaccurate sources, motivated me to succeed for the next issue. I am now paradoxically inspired by my flaws and believe that not only as a leader, but as a human being, analyzing the criticism that we get is an essential virtue. There are some lessons in high school that are definitely overrated, but learning to accept criticism is one I wouldn’t trade for anything.

Photo by Ellie Kravetz ’18

Photo by Ellie Kravetz ’18 Graphic by Melanie Lust ’19

Life is filled with choices. There’s just one problem: I’m awful at making them.

There were four different versions to this column, and even now, as you’re reading these words, I’m probably whispering to someone about how I wonder if I should have written a fifth.

My desk is hidden under pro-con charts, my Google Docs are marked with “Option 1” and “Option 2.” My recent messages display the same copy-pasted explanation of how I just “can’t decide” what to ______ (wear, write about, eat for breakfast). You get the picture.

I guess that’s why journalism always appealed to me: I didn’t have to choose.

I could be an advocate for transgender rights, a music critic, an investigator of Staples’ cheating policy, a bus seat-belt expert (okay that’s not a thing, but I feel like I deserve the title).

Better yet, I could explore different sides of issues without pledging my allegiance to one perspective— understanding how decisions regarding gender neutral bathrooms might offend conservative students, listening as female students expressed concerns regarding the feminist movement.

I would rush to my friends to gush about the athlete I just interviewed, the performance I attended, the artist I just photographed.

And when a subject exhausted me, there was always something new to cover. I wandered through an abandoned mansion to discover a rich history cloaked by mahogany doors.

I found classmates who use musical synthesizers to layer melodies, art teachers who weave life lessons into drawing assignments and

strangers who, after an hour and a half long interview, aren’t strangers anymore.

Journalism has allowed me to keep my options open, and along the way, it’s taught me about myself.

Indecision used to agonize me, and I would scold myself for making things harder than they needed to be.

But the truth is, despite all of the wasted paper I’ve used comparing options, I’m grateful for my indecisiveness.

So maybe I can’t decide what I want my senior column to be about or what I want to wear tomorrow. We waste time in high school trying to label ourselves, packaging our interests into sales pitches. What we should be doing is experimenting with our options and embracing uncertainty.

Life is full of choices, which is exactly why I shouldn’t have to make any, at least, not right now. My mind is plagued with indecision, and I think I’m finally okay with it. Wait, no I’m not. No, yes I am.

9

inklingsnews.com | STAPLES HIGH SCHOOL

10

Opinions | June 22, 2017

Life truths gained from roof Levitt Molly Liebergall ’17

N

ow what?” I asked Margaux.

“Now, we climb.”

I stood there—mouth slightly agape—staring up at a tangle of steel beams that extended from floor to canopy, then back at Margaux, then back at the beams. It was approximately 10:15 p.m. on a Saturday, and we stood on the stage of the Levitt Pavilion, our town’s local outdoor performance venue.

Sporting the devious smile of a girl who takes pleasure in actively ignoring “No Trespassing” signs, Margaux wasted no time showing me the ropes of civil disobedience. She led me to the back left corner of the stage, where we would use three interconnected support beams as a makeshift ladder. She went first, placing one foot after the other in the crook of each diagonal bar. After five or so rungs, she stepped onto the roof and turned to see how I would handle my first climb, my first of many climbs.

Since then, I have returned to that spot several times for the same reason Margaux decided to bring me there in the first place: the perspective.

From the

“

roof of the Levitt, there lies a panoramic view of the Saugatuck River, which curves around a bend and out of sight, hugging a strip of downtown Westport that feels so much larger than it looks from

above. The water reflects a church, a few Unlike Fairfield County’s various houses, several restaurants and a cluster hotspots, ranging from Ferris Acres of trees in perfect symmetry with the Creamery to Compo Beach, our Levitt shoreline, resulting in remains untainted the appearance of an by popularity, Unlike Fairfield County’s upside down world, untarnished by various hotspots, ranging mindless chatter a rippling distortion of what lies above. and Instagram from Ferris Acres O c c a s i o n a l l y, likes. I do not headlights drift go there to be Creamery to Compo between buildings, trendy; I go there Beach, our Levitt remains to remind myself or planes fly overhead, or that although untainted by popularity, youthful shouts some obstacles echo across the in my life may untarnished by mindless water, but we appear ominous— chatter and Instagram choose not to like the buildings disrupt the of downtown likes. pl a c id it y, Westport and how and instead they loom over sit quietly within the darkness. pedestrians—taking a step back (or a few The roof—our roof—is steps up) reveals that they are not nearly a secret, a pact kept with as daunting as they may initially appear.

Margaux, with me, with the Since my first climb with Margaux, few other stragglers we have I’ve noticed that most of my classmates encountered on various have not had the opportunity to see nights.

During Westport from a different angle—both the daytime, it literally and figuratively—and instead remains hidden get too caught up in excess academic in plain sight stress and standard high school drama. from tens of The roof’s elevated perspective is one thousands of of the things that enables me to remain concertgoers, grounded, above the entrapment of a only exposed singular outlook. It reminds me that the by nightfall buildings of downtown are just a small to those few part of a vast landscape, and it reminds who know me of what really matters: the new heights w h e r e I will reach in the future, and the people to look. who will be there to climb with me.

Photo by Ellie Kravetz ’18

I know why the caged bird cannot think Jackie Sussman ’17 Who is John Galt? Most students encountered don’t know — that’s exactly the problem.

Within Ayn Rand’s “Atlas Shrugged,” John Galt is a man who loves his life. John Galt is a man who values his mind and the products of his effort. And, most importantly, John Galt is the man who asked this question: “Good? By what standard?”

I wish I could solely write this opinion on how reading “Atlas Shrugged” changed my worldview. But my message is too pertinent to leave unsaid. And my message is this: the culture of academia today is morally defective.

Since adolescence, we students are told to damn life as guilt, to damn the depravity of our own desires, to damn our own existence as I’ve and

innately evil and in need of saving.

These values are imposed upon us and presumed to be true, but no one ever stopped to ask or teach: what is morality?

By what standard

are these v a l u e s m o r a l ?

We do not live in a totalitarian society in which education is used as a tool to inculcate within students the orthodoxy of the state. We live in the United States, a country founded on the axiom that individuals are inherently free to pursue life, liberty and happiness. Ergo the purpose of education in any free society is to teach students to think for themselves by showing them how to question their biases and surroundings.

Rand observed: “Contradictions do not exist.

Whenever you think you are facing a contradiction, check your premises. You will find that one of them is wrong.”

Accordingly, if the purpose of education is to teach students how — and not what — to think, how can it be that I have been told

by collegiate professors to dismiss Rand as a crazy alt-right propagandist and instead favor Marx?

It cannot be. The objective of education has morphed into that of an authoritarian society in which one set of viewpoints is accepted, and the other rejected. What is produced from such an education are naive birds trapped inside the cage of ignorance and incapacity, unable to think of how to escape. True thinking thus occurs when one’s guiding assumptions are challenged, not indiscriminately strengthened.

As we high school seniors turn into college freshman, I advise everyone to ask the above John Galt question and challenge their own preconceptions.

Discover your own code of values, your own morality.

And remember what Rand said: “Your life belongs to you and the good is to live it.”

Photo by Ellie Kravetz ’18 Graphic by Melanie Lust ’17

inklingsnews.com | STAPLES HIGH SCHOOL

Opinions | June 22, 2017

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How Inklings became my safe haven Renee Weisz ’17

I

t was a Friday afternoon in April of my freshman year and the familiar ping of a Facebook notification sounded from my phone on the kitchen table. I lazily reached over to view the message, not thinking much about what it could display, and to my surprise I saw across my screen the name of a girl I vaguely knew on my Builders Beyond Borders team.

“Congratulations on your new position Renée!!” it read, and at first I thought she had the wrong girl. “What position?” I thought, and then I remembered my journalism teacher’s words, telling us to expect some exciting news when the new Inklings staff roles were released. I had almost blindly applied to the Arts and Entertainment section after encouragement from my Intro to Journalism teacher. The position, and Inklings, became my new lifestyle.

That night I couldn’t sleep. I lay awake suffering from a semi-panic attack, my nerves reeling before my opening Players One Act Festival performance the next day and my head spinning from the long list of requirements and responsibilities I had just read through for my new position.

I was terrified for my new role, for the changes to come and for the hours I would

spend learning this unknown program, Indesign. Little did I know how Inklings would guide my next three years at Staples for the better.

Fast forward to my time as an editor and you could often find me surrounded by desktops in room 2033 until hours as late as 8:45 p.m., spending more time obsessing over a headline than I would getting ready in the morning.

D u r i n g my time at Staples, that room transformed into a safe haven,

whether during lunch to escape the clutter of the cafeteria, or after school when my co-editor and I would aggressively type in copy edits on a December night, sharing a cup of hot cocoa and racing to be the first section done. I would look forward to every other month when my staff gathered on the bridge eating a late-night sushi dinner and laughing as Ms. Fulco compla i ned about the missing cheese dood les,

Photo & graphic by Melanie Lust ’19

distracting us from editing a graphic on Photoshop.

As an individual writer, my perspective has become more worldly. I can access the stories and ideas of different members in my community, now layered with a third dimension as I carry others’ perspectives within my own. As an editor, I learned to be delicate with the work of others, enhancing their creations while maintaining their voice. Through these different facets of my Inklings role, I’ve learned to listen, collaborate and foster camaraderie with my staff as well as the greater community.

Inklings is a reprieve from the grueling school day and petty friend problems that I can push away as I therapeutically resize photos and play around with spot colors to accentuate a page. Inklings is a chance to speak to state government officials about momentous education reform bills, to learn insider police department information on the legal consequences of drug distribution, to privately watch the library’s newest robots perform Tai Chi. Inklings is the opportunity to attend junior prom as a sophomore for free (my date was the Inklings camera, of course) and to treat myself to a five-course hearty Rothbard Ale and Larder meal (my deepest apologies if we go broke from my reviews, I promise a whole Inklings staff dinner on me if that occurs). Thank you, Inklings for four unforgettable years.

inklingsnews.com | STAPLES HIGH SCHOOL

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Senior list | June 22, 2017

Congratulations to the class of 2

Marnie Adelkopf Virginia Tech University

Harrison Brady St. Joseph’s University

Zakeer Ahmad University of Pennsylvania

Arianna Brekke The University of Texas at Austin

Ethan Dahlke Azusa Pacific University

Kenneth Brill Elon University

Lily Dane Loyola University Maryland

Matteo Broccolo Syracuse University

Benjamin Davis Union College

Megan Brown Union College

Lauren Davis Skidmore College

Hannah Bukzin Cornell University

Katelyn DeAgro Robert Morris University

Ethan Burger University of Vermont

James Allot Boston University Isabelle Amlicke Cornell University Sasha Arellano University of Delaware Isabelle Baildon University of Maryland Richard Bang Boston College Colleen Bannon Lafayette College Sarah Barnett Dartmouth College Rebecca Barr Pennsylvania State University Fabian Becerra Housatonic Community College of Bridgeport Julia Beck University of South Carolina Wesley Beeler The College of Wooster

Olivia Busk George Washington University Fleur Byrne University of Wisconsin Madison Augustus Cardello Providence College Benjamin Casparius University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill Carly Chaskin University of Miami

Emir Beg Purdue University

Lauren Chasnow University of Wisconsin Madison

Nicholas Benjamin Tulane University

Matthew Chernok Hobart College

Caleb Berger Manhattanville College

Timothy Chiang Tufts University

Gavin Berger Ithaca College

Robert Ciamei University of New Haven

Noah Berger Indiana University Bloomington

Marta Clanton University of Michigan

Erik Berlin Bucknell University Joshua Berman Emory University Gillian Birk Trinity College Joseph Blaikie Drexel University Cooper Boardman Syracuse University Grace Bolandian University of Miami Meredith Bonington American University Jacob Bonn Syracuse University

Luca Cocito University of Pennsylvania Aine Collins Gap Year Ashley Constantino Bentley University Katherine Coogan University of Notre Dame John Corde University of Miami Richard Costello Bryant University Emma Curci Fairfield University Quincy Cuthbertson Drexel University Mikayla Czizik New York University

inklingsnews.com | STAPLES HIGH SCHOOL

Eric D’Addario California Polytechnic State University

William Feinstein Michigan State University

Mackenzie Healy Connecticut College

Lindsey Felner University of Wisconsin Madison

Thomas Heisler United States Air Force Academy

Kyle Fenstermacher California Polytechnic State University

Alice Hickson Tufts University

Adam Feuer Elon University

Megan Hines University of Rhode Island

Ryan Fitton University of Connecticut

Maria Hodge Pennsylvania State University

Eli Debenham Southern Connecticut State University

Conner Frank Ithaca College

Gabriel Holm University of Chicago

Shane Fries New York University

Dylan Horowitz University of Michigan

Ashton Dedona University of Delaware

Paul Friezo Tulane University

Logan Horowitz Cornell University

Catherine Delaurentis Fordham University

Angus Fuori University of Rochester

Rebecca Hoving Scripps College

Jonathan Demeter University of Michigan

Samantha Gebicki University of Wisconsin Madison

Anders Hovstadius Purdue University

Chloe Deveney College of Charleston Dylan Diamond University of Pennsylvania Mikayla DiDonato College of Charleston Claire Dinshaw Stanford University Justin Djuve Pennsylvania State University Alyssa Domenico Pratt Institute John Donovan Gap Year American University of Rome Zachary Edelman University of Texas at Austin

Trevor Gehb Loyola Marymount University Virginia Gerig Davidson College

Evan Hruskar Lehigh University Colin Hunter Butler University William Hutchison Colorado College

Elizabeth Gikas Washington University in St. Louis

Alexander Ialeggio Wake Forest University

Taylor Githens University of Richmond

Kellie Iannacone Villanova University

Katelyn Gladstone University of South Carolina

Jordan Joachim-James Fordham University

Dylan Gleicher Yale University

Katharine Johnson The University of Notre Dame

Kathryn Goff Gap Year University of Kansas

George Kane Santa Clara University

Eliza Goldberg Cornell University

Samuel Kantor University of Rochester

Katherine Griffin Elon University

Julie Kaplan University of Michigan

Katherine Epstein Trinity College

Victoria Haber University of Colorado Boulder

Max Kaplan George Washington University

Sophie Epstein Lehigh University

William Hallgarten Cornell University

Sydney Kaplan Syracuse University

Julia Ethier University of Texas at Austin

Jane Handa College of William and Mary

Matthew Kashetta James Madison University

William Fabian University of Massachusetts Amherst

Ben Harizman University of Texas at Austin

Mathew Fair Providence College

Brandon Harrington The University of Massachusetts Amherst

Kyle Ehrlich Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Evan Feder Carnegie Mellon University

Adam Katz Duke University Caroline Keenan University of Delaware Nicole Kiker John Hopkins University

2017

Senior list | June 22, 2017

13

The names and post-graduation plans shown below were provided with permission by students and/or parents who wished to be included in this list. Calls, messages and emails were sent to all seniors for the chance to respond. If a graduated senior is not included and would like to be added to the online version, email inklingsweb@gmail.com.

Zachary Kornbluth Northwestern University Joshua Kravetz Indiana University Claudia Lagnese University of South Carolina Remy Laifer Northwestern University Shelby Lake Colgate University Emma Landon University of Hartford Lauren Laporta New York University

Margot Mather University of Southern California Isabella Mattera University of Michigan Vanessa Mauricio Dartmouth College Mary McGee Rhode Island School of Design Grace McGinley Stanford University Colin McKechnie Ithaca College

Mitchell Payne Bryant University

Brianna Rotella Michigan State University

Justin Pecoriello University of Massachusetts Amherst

Stephen Rowland Wake Forest University

Lulu Stracher University of Texas at Austin

Zoe Samuels Middlebury College

Jason Streiter Syracuse University

Jamie Santarella Miami University of Ohio

Israel Strouse University of New Hampshire

Tia Pogue Middlebury College

Alice Sadarian University of California Berkeley

Jacquelyn Sussman University of Pennsylvania

Hope Penwell University of St. Andrews Ulyana Piterbarg Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Daniel McVaney Pennsylvania State University

Sean Porio New York University

Frederick Schemel University of Notre Dame

Edwin Lawrence College of Charleston

Claire Meehan University of St. Andrews

Elliott Poulley Texas Christian University

Emily Schussheim Yale University

Jacob Leaf Northwestern University

Phoebe Mendelson College of Charleston

Gregory Preiser University of Pennsylvania

Gabriel Leitner University of Miami

Zoe Mezoff University of California Los Angeles

Ivy Prince Bucknell University

Justin Seideman Southern Methodist University

Jesse Levinson Colgate University Sera Levy University of Hartford Molly Liebergall University of Wisconsin Madison Natalie Lieberson Union College Colette Lippman Emerson College Ryan Liu University of Rhode Island Noah Lomnitz Vanderbilt University Claire Lonergan University of Southern California Terry Lust University of Chicago Dia Mahesh Northeastern University Madison Malin Bryn Mawr College Sydney Malkin University of Michigan Cayne Mandell Syracuse University Avery Marks Syracuse University Brendan Massoud Harvard University

Abigail Miller Purdue University Kelly Moran University of Notre Dame Jake Moskovitz Gap Year Santa Clara University Thomas Moy Washington University in St. Louis Jay Mudholkar University of Pennsylvania Thomas Nealon New York University Sarah Neckritz University of Michigan Jackson Norman Syracuse University James O’Brien Cornell University William O’Halloran Indiana University Chandler O’Reardon Bard College Katherine Orlin Duke University

Rory Steele Durham University

Olivia Rubin University of Colorado Boulder

Bryan Penwell Southern Methodist University

Hallie Lavin Gettysburg College

Sophia Leitner University of Michigan

Lauren Stack Pennsylvania State University

Audrey Putman Mount Holyoke College Cole Quinn CIP Berkshire College Faiza Qureshi University of San Diego

Rachel Seideman Southern Methodist University Shaina Selvaraju University of Connecticut Jesse Semel University of Colorado Boulder

Rebecca Rawiszer University of Southern California

Elianne Shapiro Princeton University

Daniel Reid College of Charleston

Lydia Shaw Yale University

Bryce Reiner University of Texas at Austin

Justine Shikowitz Villanova University

Matthew Reiser New York University

Benjamin Shmaruk Lafayette College

Jerrett Rende University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill

Katherine Simpson Mount Holyoke College

Elizabeth Rhoads George Washington University Graziana Ricciardella University of South Carolina - Beaufort Bailey Rizza University of Michigan

Victoria Orlin James Madison University

Benjamin Rosoff Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Alexandra Orseck University of Miami

Julian Ross Wesleyan University

Sara Parower University of Wisconsin Madison

Zachary Ross Lehigh University Charlotte Rossi Fordham University

Peter Taets University of Delaware Dominique Teixeira Fordham University Riley Thrush Wells Berklee College of Music Claire Tiefenthaler James Madison University Francesca Truitt College of William & Mary Sarah Tsacoyannis Syracuse University Isabella Ullman Emory University Andrew Vester Duke University Katherine Weinschenk University of Virginia Drew Weisburg Northwestern University Lila Weiser New York University Ryan Weisgerber Washington State University Renée Weisz Duke University

Channing Smith University of Wisconsin Madison

Nicole Welch University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill

Kait Smithson Stonehill College

Margaret West University of Arizona

Alexandra Spadacenta University of Maryland College Park

Alexis Wetmore University of Delaware

Phoebe Spear Massachusetts Institute of Technology Eric Spector Northwestern University Andrew Speed Indiana University

Brooke Wruble Bowdoin College Jonathan Wu High Point University Christina Yu Bucknell University Tia Zajec Bucknell University Sara Zurmuehle Bucknell University

inklingsnews.com | STAPLES HIGH SCHOOL

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Advertisement | June 22, 2017

inklingsnews.com | STAPLES HIGH SCHOOL

Features | June 22, 2017

taples High School valedictorian, Emily Schussheim ’17, carries passion for her interests as a student, cellist and creative writer as she looks to continue the next chapter of her life at Yale University.

“Emily is the kind of person who is passionate about everything she does,” Julie Kaplan ‘17, a close friend of Schussheim’s said. “Whether it be in physics or even in her literature class, she truly cares about the material she learns and has a fun time doing so.”

With a 4.64 grade point average, a rigorous schedule of 12 AP’s and 10 Honors classes in her four years at Staples High School, Schussheim still finds time to actively pursue her passions.

She is the principal cellist of the Staples symphonic and chamber orchestra, the co president of the Tri-M music honors society and an attendee of summer writing programs such as the Iowa Young Writer’s Studio and the Kenyon Review Young Writer’s Workshop.

When discussing her rigorous schedule, Schussheim notes that, “I’ve never taken a class just because I wanted it to be an AP and make my GPA higher.

I genuinely wanted to take these classes.”

However, Schussheim admits that it things in new interesting ways.” hasn’t always been smooth sailing. “There Papp said. “She was always very were definitely periods where I felt like I interactive in class and had a lot was doing too much of one thing while to contribute, especially on non making a sacrifice over another and I math related topics. She brought a wasn’t happy about it,” Schussheim said. lot of interesting perspective from She added that it was difficult for her other topics to our math class.” to learn how to balance all of her activities.

Additionally Nicole Kiker “I think what a part ’17, a friend of of high school was S c hu s s h e i m’s , for me was learning said, “Emily I’ve never taken a class just will find a thing what I wanted and what I wanted to and just get so because I wanted it to be value and balance,” into it. Most an AP and make my GPA Schussheim people will have said. “It’s been higher. I genuinely wanted maybe one thing a learning but, Emily will to take these classes. experience for have like six.” me wanting to Some of these -Emily Schussheim ’17 do so much and interests include: having to deal humanities, with it because it’s p h y s i c s , taught me what I value and what English, urban education reform I need to be a happy human while also and illegal advocacy. Schussheim letting me have all these opportunities.” plans on continuing cello and A key factor for Schussheim’s pursuing humanities, physics and success is her exceptional passion an education studies program and intellectual curiosity. during her time at Yale, yet According to Robert Papp, Emily’s she is going into her freshman pre calculus honors and multivariable year of college undecided. In calculus teacher, Emily was “always the far future, post-graduation, pushing the thinking within the Schussheim can see herself doing group forward and looking to solve illegal or frontline advocacy.

something new out of nothing. I mean that’s the big thing with me going into programming. I’ll be creating Owner of his own website, flutist, something out of nothing for my president of the math honor society, whole life, breathing new life into Olympiad national finalist and tutor, old hardware, just as one does with Christopher Scherban ’17 is the 2017 a wind instrument,” Scherban said.

Staples High School salutatorian. “And when in the right mood, oh Being awarded salutatorian was where it takes me. It’s like an escape.”

When not focusing on the initially a surprise to Scherban. After his sophomore year of putting in lots flute, Scherban spends his free time of effort and competing with Everett tutoring, teaching coding and working Sussman ’15, the valedictorian of 2015 on his website, mycompace.com.

Scherban created mycompace. and leading actor in Players, he ended with a 4.5 grade point average with the com in August with the idea to create a site for technical reaction, “is that good assistance with or anything?” Scherban the target audience was still unsure how He’s always there for me of elderly people.

Staples worked at the time but was told and our conversations are The website allows users to ask for shortly after that he always super fun. technical help and was in the running for get paired up with the spot, “and it kind

-Cece Hong ’18 an assistant, who of just happened.” lives in the similar Scherban ’17 region, to come excels both in and the problem. out of the classroom as he fix Additionally, Scherban devotes himself to his extracurriculars. Scherban has been pursued his interest in computer playing the f lute since the fifth grade programming as a camp counselor and has worked his way to become at the national computer camp, the assistant principal f lutist for the which was the first computer camp in Greater Bridgeport Youth Orchestra. the world. He also taught himself a “It’s nice to create sound, to make class on machine learning by Stanford

University just by watching videos. major with computing, a politics Scherban said that his experience major and an economics major.”

O t h e r creating his website than his many and his discovery of ach ievements his love for coding and high GPA, helped him decide S c he r b a n’s that he will major f r i e n d s in computer science describe him with a concentration as unexpected in artificial and unique. intelligence, machine “He can learning and come off as human computing awkward at when he attends first and kind Georgia Institute of playful and of Technology jokes around in the fall. a lot,” Cece H o w e v e r, Hong ’18, one deciding the of Scherban’s direction of his close friends, major was not always said. “But he’s a straight path for one of the Scherban. “Last year, nicest people I wanted to be a HE’S EVERYWHERE I know. He’s math major. The year Throughout his highschool always there before, I wanted to career, Christopher Scherban for me and our be an accountant. ’17 played the flute, owned a conversations Before that, I wanted website and was president of are always to be a chemistry the Math Honors Society. super fun.” major, and even Hong added, “He does before that I wanted to go into the military because of their things in a ‘Chris’ way so much really good engineering corps,” Scherban that it’s kind of unmistakably ’17 said. “I even wanted to be a physics him, which I think is awesome.”

Izzy Blansfield ’18

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HITTING THE BOOKS Emily Schussheim ’17 achieved a 4.64 grade point average throughout her highschool career. Schussheim also plays the cello.

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Features

Schussheim, Scherban top class of 2017

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Sacrificing summer sun, students attend summer school Izzy Connors ’18

While many will spend their days lounging by the pool under the sweltering sun, some students will be spending part of their summer sitting in the air-conditioned classroom.

Although ‘summer school’ has often been stigmatized in the past as a punitive place for slacker students, it now has a new reputation as Staples students volunteer to attend summer courses through Westport Continuing Education (WCE).

WCE is a program that offers a variety of academic and nonacademic courses to members of the community aged pre-k to adult. From ceramics and pottery to American Government and Advanced Placement courses, WCE offers many class options.

Aly Sivinski ’20 is one of the many students who has decided to sacrifice part of her summer for academic enrichment.

As a self proclaimed science fanatic, Sivinski is taking the six-week chemistry course offered by WCE this summer that meets Mondays through Fridays

from 8 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. so that she challenge yourself” is more important as can, “take A.P. Biology as a sophomore “it’s benefitting me more in the long run and not double up on classes.” with taking higher level classes.” Besides, William Jones, the teacher of the she adds, “it ends at 12:15” so Sivinski is course along with Dominick Messina, confident that she is not sacrificing her said the course is beneficial to entire summer to participate in the course.

Like Sivinski, Victoria Cao ’19 is students who want to “get a science taking the six-week physics course credit out of the way if they this summer so that want to take more science she will have more classes or get ahead in space in her junior the science program year schedule. She if they want to take acknowledges that more A.P. or elective many teenagers “see courses in science.”

This is not enough summer school as having of an incentive for a negative connotation some to give up days [due to] stereotypes we’ve spent under the seen across the media.” sun at the beach. To However Cao said, “the Calum Gordon ’19, large majority of people summer school is not I have talked to are doing appealing “because it to get ahead and some summer isn’t meant to are even doing it for fun.” be spent learning; it’s In fact, Jones notes meant to be having fun.” that although his course For Sivinski, however, is essentially the A-level “the desire to learn and to Graphic by Henry Koskoff ’19 Chemistry course, “many & Charlie Colasurdo ’18

of the students who opt to take the class are pretty high-powered science students.” The courses tailor themselves to students who can succeed in a rigorous course, with “a small class size of about 10-20 students, a fast moving pace, frequent quizzes and tests and a new concept covered every day,” according to Nicolina Pugliese, who teaches the Algebra 2 six-week summer course.

While the concept of quizzes and homework over the summer might make some people squirm, others, like Cao and Sivinski, associate learning with enjoyment and look forward to challenging themselves. “I think that it really comes from personal drive or interest. I’m really excited to go to summer school and see my friends, but for people who dislike school over the summer, they should take that well earned break,”Cao said. “I love science, so this isn’t a sacrifice at all for me.”

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Graphic by Carly Mori ’18

16 Features | June 22 , 2017

Seniors prioritize over prom

Alexa Moro ’18

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Graphics by Tomasso Scotti ’20

his year’s prom will be held on June 3, and will overlap with Governor’s Ball (Gov Ball), a popular weekend-long music festival held on Randall’s Island, New York. There is a split between students on which event they will attend; some feel that prom is an important end-of-highschool event, while others would prefer to attend the concert.

“All my friends are going to prom and [I] really wanted to enjoy one last dance with them,” Brian MacCordy ’17 said. “I would feel a lot of regret if I went to Gov Ball rather than prom, seeing as it’s my last high school dance.”

Although it may be an important sentimental event to some students, others weigh the total cost of prom compared to Gov Ball as a big factor.

“I went to Counties and Red and Whites and I decided it’s not worth the money because it ends up being so expensive,” Kate Backman ’17 said.

Gov Ball tickets start at $105 for one day general admission, which is much cheaper than the usual cost of prom after factoring in the money spent on prom tickets, an outfit, hair,

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makeup and other aspects of the dance.

Some parents have taken the cost into consideration and are supportive of their children missing their prom. “[My parents are] actually pretty happy because they know it’s what I wanna do, and also like, I guess it’s essentially cheaper but I don’t think they really care that much,” Backman said.

Many students also viewed the cost of prom as a con that outweighed the sentimentality of the event. “I went to Counties and Red and Whites and realized I was spending all this money just to get to the afterparty, so I figured, go to a music festival instead,” Joey Dougherty ’17 said.

For MacCordy, however, the cost is worth it. He acknowledges the good memories that prom will bring, and how unique the opportunity is. “It’s another opportunity to create some memories with the people you spent high school with before we all eventually go our separate ways” MacCordy said.

Graphic by Kendall Kowalsky ’19

& Charlie Colasurdo ’18

Features | June 22, 2017

Hines serves as first ever class speaker

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Becky Hoving ’17

lessons outside the classroom in high school, and I wanted to share that with my graduating everal years ago, then social studies peers and the community,” she said. teacher James D’Amico had a Hines noted that her speech focuses proposal: get rid of valedictorian. on such lessons, and she candidly “Mr. Dodig thought I was nuts,” dictates the fallacies in what she D’Amico said. Fast forward to Staples describes as Staples’ high, sometimes High School’s 130th graduation ceremony. unrealistic, academic standards.

A speech from the valedictorian will “I talk about the small acts of still take place, however Megan Hines kindness that help make the days at school ’17 will also be addressing the student easier (people just smiling or saying ‘hi’ body as Staples’ first ever class speaker. in the hall, people that offer you gum or “At graduation, it’s good to have a a snack, people that go out of their way to speech from the valedictorian, I mean support you)” she said. “I want students they are, in one way of thinking, the top to maybe think back on the people who student,” D’Amico said. helped them get “But there are so many through the days other stories, and so and also how I want students to maybe many other kids that they may have think back on the people could represent other helped others.” parts of the senior class.”

H i n e s ’ who helped them get With this in speech was through the days and also selected mind, D’Amico put out together a committee many how they may have helped of of a freshman, a submissions, and others sophomore, a junior, D’Amico hopes it an administrator and

-Megan Hines ’17 further humanizes himself to review the graduation s u b m i s s i o n s c eremony for the address. experience Students who submitted had no GPA by pairing it with the valedictorian, requirements. All that D’Amico and the Emily Schussheim ’17’s, speech. committee required for eligibility was that “The group that would be in the the speaker showed “evidence of active running for valedictorian, as incredible citizenship, promoting social justice, as they all are, represents a pretty small and/or exhibiting social responsibility slice, about 4 percent of the senior within the local community or area class,” D’Amico said. “But there’s 96 communities.” Also, he/she must have percent of the class where that’s not “exhibited ethical and responsible necessarily their goal or maybe they behavior during” his/her years at Staples, haven’t hit their stride yet. I think it according to an email sent out in mid-May. would be great if they felt like they Hines, who is the president of Kool had someone speaking for them as well.” to Be Kind and is extremely involved Hines echoed this sentiment, in Staples Players, having participated stating that she hopes her words serve in 10 shows throughout her four years as a reality check for the community. at Staples, noted that the absence “I really want students to take away of a GPA requirement is what most the fact that they and other people are intrigued her about the opportunity. more than their course load, the schools “I’ve learned a lot of valuable they got into or their GPA,” she said.

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Photo by Ellie Kravetz ’18 & Graphic Charlie Colasurdo ’18

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Arts | June 22, 2017

Arts

Graduates continue to carve artistic paths toward college

Jam out to this summer's best music festivals Cate Casparius ’19

After the final school bell of the year rings, students will rush off to their fun summer plans, which may include attending a music festival where they can eat delicious food, soak up the sun and listen to great schools don’t use the common Adam Wenkoff ’18 music. Here’s a guide to app [...] so I had to sign up to & Emma Rojas ’18 the best festivals to check each separately,” he said. “They out this summer. don’t require or depend on test This year’s scores and essays as much as Summerfest in Milwaukee academic colleges do so that is currently one of the was easier. The only thing that hile many graduating longest running music matters when applying is seniors are going to festivals in the world and [having] a strong portfolio.” college to study subjects will run from June 28-July McGee also had to like business, computer science or 2 and again on July 4-9. submit a portfolio, psychology, some of them have chosen Some performers include which she said to study art. Sebastian Avila ’17, Flume, Luke Bryan, the was “a lot of Sophia Livecchi ’17, Mary McGee ’17 Chainsmokers, Red Hot work but also and Matteo Broccolo ’17 are students Chili Peppers, Zac Brown fun.”

Otherwise, who have chosen to continue to study Band and Pink. she said that art after they graduate.

Later in the summer, her admissions As of now, Avila will be studying Panorama runs from July process was very at Otis College of Art and Design 28-30 and will be held similar to most in Los Angeles after taking a gap at Randall’s Island Park, students’. semester this fall to work and travel.

NYC. This location is an The process “I’m excited to work on things that I urban park, located right for Broccolo was love and be inspired by new people,” of East Harlem, and can especially different Avila said. be reached by ferry or because he had McGee will be attending the by driving over Robert to apply to the Rhode Island School of Design this F. Kennedy Bridge. university and to fall. She is currently undecided about Headliners include Frank the arts college. “I what she will study but said that she is Ocean, Nine Inch Nails was required to “most likely going to do some type of and Tame Impala. do two different fine art.”

James Bjorkman ’18 applications: Livecchi will be attending has attended Panorama one to the main and really enjoyed the Skidmore College where she is school, and then experience.

“Last year I considering minoring in art. She said to the art college had a really good time. within the she is “excited for the environment The setup/stages were university. I had of people that all have passions for amazing [and] the artists to do the general creativity in every kind of shape and like Kendrick Lamar application to form.” and Anderson Paak Syracuse, then Additionally, Broccolo will were awesome live so I ART STUDENTS Matteo Broccolo '17 (left) will be attending also submit a be studying Industrial Design at Syracuse University next school year and Mary McGee '17 thought why not have that portfolio with 10Syracuse University’s College of great experience again,” (right) will be attending the Rhode Island School of Design.

12 pieces and Visual and Performing Arts, where he Bjorkman said.

Photos by Ellie Kravetz ’18 a couple small is “looking forward to new classes and Another popular supplemental essays learning new techniques.” festival is Lollapalooza class. After taking that class, I was about the art.”

For these art schools and in Grant Park Chicago, inspired to do more, and I became more All of these students have shown programs, the application process Illinois. Like all of the dedication for art during and more excited about art and design,” was different than for most other others, it has a great line up Broccolo said. their time at Staples. schools. and amazing food stands.

Avila took every single drawing They have taken many According to Avila, The festival will feature of the 30 art classes class that Staples offered as well as AP his application process artists such as Lorde, Studio Art, Oil Painting, Digital Media, that Staples has to was easier in some Migos and Wiz Khalifa. offer, which they Animation and Sculpting. “I especially ways, but harder Lolla’s food aspect of the said has helped fuel liked Advanced Drawing for the figure in others. festival calls itself Chow studies we got to do and oil painting their passion for the “Most art Town. According to the because I’m an ‘oil-boy’,” Avila said. subject. website, it “offers the most During her time at Staples, Livecchi “I was really delicious festival food, took Watercolor 1, Advanced Watercolor, inspired to start drinks and sweets from Mural Painting, Drawing 1, Advanced doing more art the Windy City’s favorite Drawing, Drawing honors and AP Studio from freshman restaurants.” The festival Art. She especially liked AP Studio Art. “I year in my was able to express myself however I want will run from August 3-6. design to and I was able to focus in on materials I Ella Sunshine ’19 a n d actually wanted to use,” she said. moved from Chicago a few tech The Staples art department has a years ago and commented successful history of sending graduates on on the event. “I think to art colleges. In the past years, students it’s going to be super fun have gone to study industrial, furniture, and I love going back to advising and service design, according Chicago and seeing old to Camille Eskell, the AP Studio Art and friends,” Sunshine said.

Advanced Drawing teacher. She added, She is specifically looking “It’s very interesting to see how they forward to seeing Chance, branch out with their talents from here.”

Lorde and Lil Uzi up on Eskell thinks that Staples graduates stage. are very well prepared for art courses The Afropunk Festival at their colleges. “Sometimes, they will finish off the summer are ahead of the class because we have on Saturday, August 26 covered some of that stuff already,” and Sunday, August 27 at Eskell said.

McGee agreed, saying that she Brooklyn’s Commodore “definitely” thinks Staples prepared her Barry Park, NY. The very well for her admissions process into festival has an inexpensive the Rhode Island School of Design. “Ms. entry fee of $55 compared Eskell is an amazing teacher, and the art to other festival tickets. program at Staples is really good,” she said.

This festival celebrates Even though they are sad to see their multicultural arts by students go, the art teachers at Staples are hosting “groundbreaking glad to see the lasting impact that high icons and emerging school art has on these students. talents,” as mentioned on “It is gratifying to know that the arts the official festival site. were an influential part of a student’s high The New York Times ART STUDENTS Sophia Livecchi ’17 (left) will be attending school experience," Tracy Wright, one of Skidmore College, and Sebastian Avila '17 (right) will be described this event as art teachers at Staples, said. "Especially attending Otis College of Art and Design in Los Angeles. “the most multicultural when a student chooses to pursue their festival in the US.” passion with a career in art.”

Graphic by Carly Mori ’18

Graphics by Angela Ji ’19

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Arts | June 22, 2017

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Gorillaz’ album, ‘Humanz’ parties through Doomsday Christoph Russi ’17

a little shocking—especially so in tracks such as ‘Saturnz Barz,’ featuring the introduction of upcoming reggae prince Popcaan’s delicately shifted vernacular.

But, it’s important to keep in mind that

one of Gorillaz’ most praised trademarks is that they expose their already broad fan base to new and underheard styles of music. I can personally attest to the magic of a new Gorillaz studio album.

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he original intent of Gorillaz’ fifth main album was for it to be a work of dystopian fiction.

Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett imagined a future in which doom had finally been declared for the American experiment, and the only reasonable response was to hold a party for the end of the world—a joyous and somber resignation to the 21st century. And so, after a seven-year hiatus, the Gorillaz got together once again to create a musical tribute to modern anxiety.

Despite the political relevance of its themes, ‘Humanz’ is fixated on the future. It’s thick with science-fiction and space-age murmurings. To stay in line with the album’s cosmic feel, Albarn decided to ditch acoustics in favor of synthesized beats and harmonies. To those familiar with the band’s discography, the new sounds injected into Gorillaz’ patented minor-key pop might feel

Graphic by Cat Graham ’19

When I first listened to Plastic Beach back in 2010, I didn’t think much of it. But it grew and grew on me and is now one of my all-time favorite albums. I’m tempted to say that history has repeated itself in terms of my perception of ‘Humanz.’

In the face of some great and imminent destruction, the running theme of keeping your eyes firmly fixated on a brighter future is demonstrated in ‘Humanz’ extensive list of features—including both wellknown and lesser-known musicians such as Vince Staples, Danny Brown, Kelela, Benjamin Clementine, Grace Jones and De La Soul. As a result, ‘Humanz’ almost feels like a playlist with each song acting as an exploration of how its protagonist manages within the setting of the album.

In an interview, Albarn revealed that each contributor was asked the very same question: “Imagine a night where everything that you believed in was turned on its head. How would you feel?” No matter what the response, each contribution had to be delivered with “pain, joy and urgency”—and what results is the ultimate dance-party eulogy to our contemporary fears.

Some tracks in particular that are worth listening to include: ‘Saturnz Barz,’ ‘Submission,’ ‘Busted and Blue,’ ‘She’s My Collar,’ ‘Hallelujah Money,’ ‘The Apprentice’ and ‘Out Of Body.’

Players gears up for summer show ‘Working’ Fritz Schemel ’17 For most students, summer break will mean work, vacation, camp or academic programs. But for Staples Players, summer is no break as they will be rehearsing for “Working,” which they will perform July 20-23.

“The show is about an ensemble of workers, and we watch these people as they spend their day doing their jobs,” Remy Laifer ’17, Players co-president, said. “They say what they’re doing and they say what they wish they could’ve been doing and what’s impacted them to do what they are doing.”

Laifer is a member of the cast but will also be assisting in directing the production, which will entail helping younger cast members with their songs and monologues.

Jacob Leaf ’17 will also be an assistant director, as well as a cast member. He echoed Laifer on the meaning and substance of the show.

“It’s comprised of vignettes and monologues, small scenes and songs to represent working America,” Leaf said. “It gives a voice to people in everyday jobs.”

The music in the show was written by famous

names, including James Taylor and Stephen Schwartz, the playwright for the broadway musical “Wicked.”

Rehearsals for the summer show are similar to those throughout the school year, however, the schedule is condensed to fit the shorter amount of time.

“It’s not that different except we have rehearsals early in the morning for longer,” Leaf said. “The entire process is shrunk down because we rehearse five days a week for longer and everyone can be there.”

Rehearsing in the summer also creates a tighter bond amongst the cast.

“Every time I’ve done the summer show it’s been such a blast,” Zoe Samuels ’17, who has been a cast member in past summer shows, said. “Rehearsals are usually just in the morningtime and it’s not stressful. You get closer than you usually would be because you have free time after the rehearsals to hang out.”

For graduating seniors of Staples, “Working” will be their final Players performance, which carries a special significance.

“The last show is going to be pretty difficult,” Laifer said. “It’s going to be a tear-jerker, but it’s going to be fun.”

Graphic by Ben Roland ’19

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Arts | June 22, 2017

Congrats to the Class of 2017!

Love, F&B

inklingsnews.com | STAPLES HIGH SCHOOL

HGG

Sports | June 22, 2017

Katelyn DeAgro ’17

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laying three sports has become somewhat of a rarity at Staples.

This is due to demands on time, a requirement for further specialization and an increased school workload. Nicole Welch ’17, Bryan Penwell ’17 and Elle Fair ’19 have managed to be three-sport athletes and balance their school and social life. For these particular athletes, this balancing act has been consistent throughout their lives as athletes.

“I’ve grown up playing multiple sports

greater advantages than their single sport counterparts.

Multi-sport athletes tend to have more longev it y i n t he i r s p or t s , l i m it e d i nju r ie s from overuse, less burnout and greater cross sport skills.

“I always enjoye d sp or t s g r o w i n g u p ,” Penwel l said.

“F o r some o f them, they helped me stay in shape for a sport I was more focused on.”

However, t he benefits that Duffek m e n t i o n s a r e oftentimes out of reach for students at Staples because with the a d d e d t i me c on s t r a i nt s comes added stress.

“Playing three sports takes up a lot of time, and on top of that having no breaks in between,” Gray said.” It adds a layer of fatigue that makes it difficult to focus on school.”

“I have a sport every season so it keeps me busy and keeps me to a schedule,” Fair said. “It’s also great to meet different girls in every sport. I have created so many friendships I probably wouldn’t have if I didn’t play three sports.”

TRIPLE THREATS

Photo by Ellie Kravetz ’18

Graphics by Trevor Williams ‘18

a season, so it’s basically second nature for me to constantly be playing a sport,” Welch, a student who participates in soccer, track and sailing, said.

However for some, this kind of commitment is impossible to manage, and so they are often left making a choice between sports.

Brian Gray ’18, who had previously been a three-sport athlete, decided to sacrifice one of his sports as he moves into his senior year in order to make school and college more of a priority.

“Considering that next year is my senior year and I will be taking harder classes, I have decided to not continue as a three sport athlete,” Gray said.

“The first semester of senior year is pretty important and I would like to be able to focus more on academics.”

Gray was not alone in deciding to sacrifice a sport, and Fair can understand why.

“There really is never a break,” Fair said.

“So it means a lot of sacrifices between social life and spending time with family have to be made. It can also be a lot of dedication, and commitment [...]. So, it can get overwhelming and tiresome at points.”

However, if one can manage time between sports and school, Jaimie Duffek, a Next College Student Athlete (NCSA) Head Recruiting Coach and writer for the USA Today, says that multisport athletes enjoy

Nicole Welch ’17 (left) particpated in soccer, track and sailing. She was also the captain of the Staples sailing team. Elle Fair ’19 (right)was a three sport athlete as a freshman, playing field hockey, lacrosse and basketball. Fair started at point guard last year, running the offense.

Photo contributed by Shelley Burger

Seniors say goodbye to athletics for collegiate academic pursuits Alexa Moro ’18

is hard enough transitioning to college without having the added pressures associated with playing a sport. And With a variety of sports, playing some believed playing sports would fields, workout equipment and physical just make the transition harder. trainers, Staples’ sports programs is “I’m not sure if I want to play compared, by some, to programs at a in college yet,” Sara Powerer ’17 collegiate level. However, only a handful said, who plays varsity lacrosse at of students make the commitment to Staples. “I think [my college] has continue their talents at the college a club team but there are so many level. Only 12 out of over 488 students things I want to do in college, in the graduating class will continue to like join a sorority, participate in play a varsity sport at their school student government and join clubs.” next year. The rest L i k e “High school sports will say goodbye Backus, an to formal varsity education create a different type and spor ts forever. college “I wou ld ’ve experience was of bond with your liked to continue more important teammates, and I’ll in college, but to Powerer than the huge time sticking with definitely miss that in commitment a sport. “So, would be hard t o basically I want college.” m a n a g e ,” Sam to continue to be -Tripp Backus ’17 on a team and Gebicki ’17, varsity lacrosse player, play lacrosse, said, “especially but I just don’t if it conflicted with my schoolwork.” want it to take up the majority of Many students felt that playing a my time in college,” Powerer said. sport might even restrict the quality of However, the decision to not education they could receive. “I did want pursue sports in college was a tough to play in college and only got recruited one. Backus nostalgically recalls the by some smaller schools, but I decided positive memories that high school not to because I could have gotten sports gave him. “High school sports better education somewhere else,” Tripp create a different type of bond with Backus ’17, varsity baseball player said. your teammates,” Backus said, “and These students also admitted that it I’ll definitely miss that in college.”

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Sports

Three sport athletes weigh pros and cons of playing multiple sports

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Sports | June 22, 2017

Bannon and Casparius accept athlete of the year awards

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Becca Rawiszer ’17

ach year, a senior male and female athlete of the year are chosen by the varsity coaches’ nominees. Among the many talented athletes in the Staples community, Ben Casparius ’17, varsity baseball captain, and Colleen Bannon ’17, varsity lacrosse and field hockey captain, were chosen as athletes of the year.

Casparius said he has loved baseball since he was a little kid, and it has been a time he’s shared with great people. “Baseball has taught me to strive for something,” Casparius said.

“It’s a humbling game that requires endless amounts of work, and it’s something I’ve dreamed of playing at the college and professional level.”

Casparius feels honored to be chosen and recognized for his hard work. He believes that he was chosen due to the success the Staples baseball team has had during his past four years, being a captain in his junior and senior year, along with the improvements in his stats.

“My goals for the rest of the season would be to win an FCIAC and state championship,” Casparius said. He also talked about his goal of winning the Connecticut Baseball Gatorade Player of the Year, which he won as of May 30. The baseball team has had a successful season so far, having clinched the FCIAC and state playoffs and have the opportunity to be a top three seed leading into the playoffs. Casparius is excited for the rest of the season and to reach his goals.

Along with Casparius, Bannon

Photos by Ellie Kravetz ’18

feels honored to be chosen as one of the athletes of the year.

“I think I was chosen for [athlete of the year] because of how successful my field hockey and lacrosse seasons have been individually as well as collectively as a team,” Bannon said. She gives all the credit for the success she’s had to her parents, teammates and coaches and is honored to be chosen among so many amazing athletes in her grade.

Bannon’s favorite part about the sports she plays at Staples are her teammates. She explains that her team for both field hockey and lacrosse is comprised of basically the same girls and she says they are the most amazing people she has ever met.

“They have made all the hard work, wins and losses the most amazing of times,” Bannon said. She said that they always have her back on and off the field. She believes that the team has been doing great so far, being that they had an undefeated regular season and were co-state champions which has never been done before.

“She was chosen because of her standout performances where her effort and dedication to winning was infectious to all around her,” Ian Tapsall, Staples field hockey coach said. Tapsall explained that with Bannon on the field, they always have a chance of winning.

“Our goal for the rest of the season is to make it as far as we can in the postseason,” Bannon said. “And to really have fun and enjoy the moment since it’s all coming to an end.”

ATHLETES OF THE YEAR Colleen Bannon ’17 and Ben Casparius ’17 accept the athlete of the year award, which was voted on by coaches. Bannon will continue her lacrosse career at Lafayette University in the fall. Bannon was the lacrosse and field hockey captain her senior year. Casparius will be playing baseball at the University of North Carolina next spring.

Casparius was a captain as both a junior and senior at Staples, playing shortstop and pitcher.

Casparius recently broke the Staples hit record with 113 hits.

Top 4 sports moments of the year Dec. 3:

Shane Rabacs ’17

Oct. 13: Staples field hockey came into their matchup against Darien with an undefeated record. But after an early goal by Darien, it wasn’t looking good for the Wreckers. A goal by Gabriela Vega ’18 with 17 minutes left evened the score to 1-1. After a missed shot, Vega got the rebound and found the back of the open net. The teams played to a draw, and Staples kept their undefeated record. “I think this play really brought up the team’s confidence and my personal confidence because it really pushed us into a positive mindset and reassured us that we really can beat them,” Vega said. “I just happened to be the one that was in the right place at the right time.”

Boys’ cross country finished off a record-setting season with an appearance at the Nike Cross Nationals, where only the top two teams from each region qualify. The team also had an undefeated record and took home FCIAC, State Class LL, State Open, and New England Regional Championships.

“Competing there was an awesome experience. It was a huge deal to make it, so we were really excited. Nike payed for everything and really tried to make it a great experience,” Zak Ahmad ’17 said. “Being around all the top teams and individuals in the country was really cool and you could feel how elite it was.”

May 3: Ben Casparius ’17 pitched a no hitter vs. Stamford. Casparius had 13 strikeouts and just two walks in Staples’ 18-0 win. It took him 89 pitches to reach this achievement. This was the second no hitter for Staples in three years, Ryan Fitton ’17 pitched the most recent one in 2015. Casparius also went 3-5 at the plate with two home runs and five RBIs. “It ranks pretty high up there [in my career],” he told WWPT 90.3 FM, “Maybe even the best.” The win pushed the Wreckers to 8-3 in the FCIAC.

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Photos by Ellie Kravetz ’18

Nov. 17: Dylan Curran ’20, team manager, suited up for the freshmen football team’s final game of the season versus Greenwich as an honorary captain.

He was able to get in for a play, too. Right before halftime, Curran got the handoff from quarterback Jake Thaw ’20, and ran to the right. He found a hole, cut back and ran untouched into the endzone.

He was mobbed by his teammates as they chanted “Dylan! Dylan! Dylan!”

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Advertisement | June 22, 2017

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Dear Inklings seniors,

In a year that showed us just how damaging “fake news” can be, and in which attacks on the media have become commonplace, you courageously, defiantly and passionately demonstrated that journalism is not only alive, but plays an essential role in our democracy.

Your pursuit of facts and your adherence to righteousness deflected any “alternative facts” set in your path, upholding the integrity of Inklings and proving time and again that truth matters, hard work pays off and writing really can be fun.

This year, we were fortunate to

Advisers’ Letter | June 22, 2017

have many tried and true student leaders. Through the many layouts, late nights, text messages, phone calls and meetings, you proved yourselves to be loyal, unwavering and tireless. There just might be a future president (or two, or three, or 10) among you.

You demonstrated professionalism and were praised for the thoroughness of your coverage, bestowed top awards from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association and the National Scholastic Press Association, and you were even quoted in The New York Times. (Not too shabby.)

You were artists of all kinds—painters, graphic artists, photographers, cartoonists.

You were critics—movie reviewers, fashion trend watchers, sports enthusiasts (Shout out to you, “Wise Guys”) and foodies (Piroshky, Piroshky!).

You were humorists who kept us busy with your love for satire and your hatred of library rules, and activists fighting for what you believed to be right, even if it meant fighting for another person’s freedom to hold an opinion that differed from your own.

You had a bit of rebelliousness (What up, back table?), but you never failed to uphold the high standards for ethics and morality demanded of all Inklings reporters.

As you move on to bigger and

greater endeavors, remember Inklings will always be here for you, and keep in mind the words once written by our very own Kit Epstein: “Life is all about making yourself uncomfortable.

Put yourself in situations where you can put up a fight and share how you truly feel.”

Seniors, it’s been an honor and a privilege to be your advisers.

Editors-in-Chief Claire Dinshaw Fritz Schemel

Business Manager Katelyn DeAgro

Paper Arts Editor Aston Dedona

Creative Director Eliza Goldberg

Paper Sports Editor Sydney Kaplan

Public Relations Directors Becca Rawiszer Lauren Stack

Web Opinions Editor Jesse Levinson

With love and gratitude, Mary Elizabeth Fulco Joseph DelGobbo Matthew Bohn Brian Solomon

Inklings’ Seniors

Creative Chief Channing Smith Paper Managing Editors Becky Hoving Izzy Ullmann Web Managing Editors Cooper Boardman Molly Liebergall Whips Jackie Sussman Andrew Vester Breaking News Editors Kit Epstein Renée Weis

Web Arts Editor Ivy Prince

Paper News Editors Alice Hickson Lulu Stracher Frenchy Truitt

Web Sports Editor Brendan Massoud

Paper Opinions Editor Colette Lippman

Sports Blog Editor Ari McCoy

Paper Features Editors Margot Mather Alex Spadacenta

Staff Writers Megan Brown Phoebe Mendelson Thomas Nealon Christoph Russi Shaina Selvaraju Jason Streiter

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