Inklings December 2019 Issue

inklingsnews Dec. 20, 2019

Staples High School

Join the discussion.

Volume 88, Issue 3

POST-COMPETITION ANTICIPATION The Staples We The People team waits for competition scores as they take a lunch break at Central Connecticut State University.

Staples team takes home historic state win Rebecca Kanfer ’21 Sports Editor

T

he Staples We the People class, taught by social studies teacher Suzanne Kammerman, took home first place at the state championship for the first time ever on Dec. 16 at Central Connecticut State University.

Their first place result guarantees them a spot at the national competition this spring in Washington, D.C. “Winning the state competition was the most gratifying moment of the whole process,” Violet Cooper ’21 said. “To see all our hard work accumulate and be able to celebrate was exhilarating.”

The We the People class combines an intensive AP class with preparation for and involvement in state and national We The People competitions throughout the year.

At states, Staples scored a total of 980 points compared to the second place school, Greenwich, with a score of 952 points, and the third place school, Trumbull, which scored 946 points.

Trumbull High School has defended the Connecticut title for the past eight years whereas Staples has placed second for the past three, earning them a wild card spot at nationals. However, the team does not have to worry about wild card decisions this year due to the first place finish.

The team made a few changes in their preparation this year as compared to past years, factoring into their success.

“This year we were able to spend more time practicing for questioning, including

a dress rehearsal we did the Thursday before the competition,” Kammerman said. “This allowed [the students] to better strategize how they were going to prep for the remaining few days.”

Along with the competitions throughout the school year, the class still maintains the intense and competitive environment that an AP course encompasses. Still, most of the curriculum is built around these competitions.

“At the beginning of the year the class is separated into six units of three to four people, each focused on a different topic,” Lucy Belknap ’21 said. “Each unit is then given three questions to focus on. The research process began in October when [each unit] started doing general research on the three questions.”

After heavily researching the group’s focus questions, students write

Graphic by Lia Chen ’20

four-minute responses. During the competition, each group gives an answer to one of the three questions, followed by verbal questioning from the judges.

The material the students learn from their regular units is helpful in supporting the foundation for the work the students will then be doing in preparation for the spring national competition.

“We’ve split time pretty evenly this year between the competition work and the normal government curriculum,” Tadeo Messenger ’20 said.

Many students feel very committed to the class as a result of the time commitment and effort that is put in every week.

“I have never felt so invested in a class before, and I can tell that a lot of my classmates feel the same way,” Belknap said. “It has been an incredible experience so far.”

FIRST VICTORY (RIGHT) The Staples team won with a score of 980 points, surpassing Greenwich’s 952 and Trumbull’s 946 to win the state title. (LEFT) Dylan Goodman ’21, a member of the We The People class, brought cakes for her and her classmates on Wednesday, Dec. 18 to celebrate the victory.

CELEBRATORY BANNER (RIGHT) Social studies teacher Cathy Schager hung up a banner outside of the We The People room to celebrate the win.

70 North Ave., Westport, Connecticut, 06880

inklingsnews.com

2 News

Dec. 20, 2019

Inside the Issue Opinions

8

Banning violent video games justified

Dana Perelberg ’20

Features

New adventures found at semester schools

12

Katie Simons ’22

Arts

16

Predictions circulate upon release of ‘Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker’

Staples High School

Community shares concerns regarding 504 plan overuse affluent areas like Westport, some claim it is easier and more common for a student Staff Writer to be diagnosed with learning disabilities.

According to Guidance Director William Plunkett, roughly 19% of Staples students have a 504 plan, which stands in contrast to the 1.5% of students nationwide with 504 plans, as stated by Education Week.

Similarly, some students admit to t is not out of the ordinary for a stu- having suspicions about how easily 504 dent in Westport to have multiple tu- plans are being granted to their peers. tors, the newest Macbook and a col“I’ve known my friend for years and lege counselor; many believe that tools like she’s never had trouble in any classes,” an these pave a path of academic success. But anonymous Staples junior said, “yet she there is controversy surrounding whether applied for extra time because she wanted students are misusing 504 plans as anoth- better grades and was able to get it.” er tool to get However, better grades. all “When we have families whose students not A 504 students with are getting Bs, and think they’re failing [...] plan is based 504s abuse the it’s because they’re comparing themselves system. Gia on Section 504 of the to Westport.”

Antonelli ’21 Rehabilitation - Victoria Capozzi, guidance counselor has a 504 plan Act of 1973: due to her an act that protects discrimination based airborne allergy to peanuts. Antonelli’s on disability within federal agencies and/ plan alerts her teachers to make the or programs recieving federal funding. classroom a peanut–free environment in Section 504, in particular, explicitly grants order to avoid a potentially fatal situation. personalized accommodations to students “Although I’ve never had an with disabilities in order to ensure their incident at school, I feel a lot academic success. A student’s 504 plan safer knowing my teachers can potentially include a wide variety are given a heads up about of modifications, including extra time. my allergy,” Antonelli said.

Guidance counselor Victoria Capozzi All students seeking a 504 believes some students are taking plan are called to a meeting advantage of this law in order to keep up in the company of their with Westport’s academic environment. parents, their vice “When we have families whose principal, one or students are getting Bs, and think they’re failing, or don’t think they are meeting up to the par of peers, it’s because they’re comparing themselves to Westport,” Capozzi said.

In order to get a 504 plan, a student must be assessed by a medical doctor or psychologist either inside or outside of school to first receive a diagnosis.

However, in

Grace Livecchi ’21

I

more of their teachers, a school nurse and a school psychologist. A variety of components are considered, including the student’s current academic performance and health, as well as their behavior both at home and at school. Capozzi stated that when a meeting is held about a student, they are almost always given a 504 plan.

Feven Alemu-Renzulli ’21, however, is one of the few students who has been denied a 504 plan, despite being diagnosed with ADHD and having English as her second language.

“One of the big factors that they look at is your academic performance, and if your academic performance does not reflect your struggle, you probably won’t get [a 504 plan],” Alemu-Renzulli said.

When analyzing if a student’s transcript mirrors their academic struggle, Capozzi says she is told to view grades in comparison to the national average, rather than that of Westport.

Capozzi states the goal of a 504 plan is not to give students an advantage, but to give aid to students who are at a lower advantage due to their disability.

“That is why we hold a 504 meeting,” Capozzi said, “to determine if a disability is negatively i mpac t i ng learning.”

Allie D’Angelo ’20

Sports

18

Ski teams race onto Southington slopes

Photo dramatization by Chloe Murray ’22

Maya Reiner ’21

19%

Proportion of Staples students with 504 plans

Staples High School • inklingsnews.com

Infographic by Karina Murray ’22 & Lia Chen ’20

1.5%

Proportion of students nationwide with 504 plans

Dec. 20, 2019

Staples High School

News

Board of Education launches superintendent search Natalie Bandura ’22 News Editor

W

estport’s superintendent hiring committee, which is currently comprised of the Board of Education (BOE), is in the early stages of its application process. The BOE is scheduled to name Westport’s new permanent superintendent on March 18.

The selected candidate will take on the responsibilities of current Interim Superintendent Dr. David Abbey on July 1.

The BOE hired the search firm JE Consulting, led by the corporation’s principal owner Dr. Joseph Erardi, to head the application process, which will be open from Jan. 1 to Feb. 21 and will search for candidates from 12,000 communities across the US, according to Westport News.

Erardi was also the search consultant for the selection of Principal Stafford W Thomas Jr. and has previously conducted 19 superintendent searches in other districts.

One of Erardi’s principal responsibilities as a search consultant is to gather town feedback through community meetings, staff meetings, and student meetings that will be held after Jan. 1 and a survey sent out to all Westport parents, students and staff.

The hiring committee will review the feedback before the initiation of the candidate interview process.

“There will be questions asked to each candidate around what the spots are that this community feels are most important,” Erardi said during a community input session on Nov. 25 in the Staples library.

“I think of equal if not greater importance are the character traits that the hiring committee will look to really vet out and understand before offering the job.”

Trammi Nguyen, a Westport parent and attendee at the Nov. 25 meeting, was one of several residents at the meeting who expressed dissatisfaction with the previous selection process

that had chosen Dr. Colleen Palmer service and some Boards of Education as Westport’s superintendent. have paid lip service to affect education,” “I’m here to listen and to see what Selverstlne said. “But I suspect that their the process is and what the thinking is heart was not really in it, and so my message with the superintendent search because I to the BOE as they have a search committee think that’s very important, particularly is [that] they really need to be serious given the chaos that we had in the past few about this because it’s that important.” years,” Nguyen said, citing the closing of At the end of the input session, Erardi Coleytown Middle School and the leaked asked the attendees what they believed lack of confidence in central office as constitutes a good superintendent choice. evidence of administrative disorganization.

“I think first and foremost is honesty Nguyen added that some changes she and integrity. And then working well would like to see in the school district are with others is really important too,” a decrease in the amount of standardized PTA Co-President Netta Levy said, testing being proctored to students explaining that the PTA’s role in the and smoother transitions between process is to inform town members about elementary, middle and high school. the ways in which they can partake in BOE Chair Candice Savin expressed the selection process. “We’re just getting her confidence with JE Consulting, the community involved by publicizing which she believes performed well during these meetings for community members.”

Staples’ principal search and emphasized After the input session’s conclusion, a forwardErardi came “The Board will be looking for a candidate out of the lo ok i n g who is a good fit for Westport and will mindset. experience “Every not settle for anything less than the right with several year, every takeaways candidate.” district is in that he plans - BOE Chair Candice Savin to a different bring position than forth to the it was in the past, and so our needs are Board of Education. different now than they were several years “I thought it was a rich discussion,” ago,” Savin said. “We are looking to the Erardi said. “The community is looking future as we select our new superintendent, for a strong instructional leader, someone focused on our needs going forward.” who understands the importance of Robert Selverstone, a psychologist in school climate and culture, and somebody private practice and former BOE member, who is transparent and always looking also attended the Nov. 25 meeting. out for what’s right for children.”

Selverstone came to Staples as a guidance Savin agrees that what the town needs counselor in 1968, and served as the is a superintendent who is enterprising human relations director for the school and always has the best interests of system for four years. He was in charge the schools and its students in mind. of developing curriculum and training “Some attributes I am looking for teachers in affect education, which are a progressive and forward-thinking focuses on integrating the emotional approach to education, a good manager, life of students and teachers with the and someone who has student success and cognitive curriculum. At the community well-being at the center of all decisioninput session, Selverstone advocated for making,” Savin said. “The Board will be investing more money in teacher training looking for a candidate who is a good to bring back the focus on affect education. fit for Westport and will not settle for “Some superintendents have paid lip anything less than the right candidate.”

SUPERINTENDENT HISTORY Infographic by Lys Goldman ’21

1999-2016

2016-2019 2019-present

Expected to start in 2020

Local briefs Molly Gold ‘21 News Editor

DEC. 23 Winter Break - JAN.1 Students will have their last day of school on Friday, Dec. 20 and will return on Jan. 2. During the break, Christmas, Chanukkah, New Year’s Eve and Kwanzaa will occur. Students will be out of school for a total of 12 days.

DEC. 31

Landon served as superintendent for 17 years. One important development that took place during Landon’s career in Westport was the discovery of mold in Kings Highway School in 2007 and its remediation.

JAN. 12

Photo contributed by Hearst Connecticut Media

DR. COLLEEN PALMER Palmer’s three-year tenure was marked by federal investigations into Coleytown Middle School for racial and sexual discrimination and the closing of Coleytown Middle School due to mold.

Photo by Emma Dantas ’21

Photo by Lys Goldman ’21

Judy Moody and Stink

The Westport Country Playhouse is putting on a production of “Judy Moody and Stink” at 1 p.m. The play is based on popular children’s series “Judy Moody” by Megan Jo McDonald.

Midterms

Staples students will have two full-length review days on Jan. 13 and Jan. 16 as well as shortened midterm days on Jan. 2223. The tests will span over the course of two weeks, broken up

by Martin Luther King weekend.

DR. DAVID ABBEY After Palmer’s retirement, Abbey was hired as an Interim Superintendent, with plans to keep the position for about one school year as the Board of Education searches for a permanent replacement.

First Light Festival

The Westport Museum for History and Culture is hosting the second annual First Light Festival.

The festival will take place from 4:00-10:00 p.m. at 25 Avery Place.

Activities include face painting, star gazing, henna tattoos and horse-drawn carriage rides. Buttons are $10 online, but can be purchased for $15 at the door.

JAN. 13-22

DR. ELLIOTT LANDON

3

TO BE SELECTED The Board of Education is currently in the early stages of its application process, searching for the next Superintendent of Westport Public Schools.

Graphic by Lia Chen ’20

JAN. 19

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration

From 3:00-4:00 p.m., members of the Westport community will join keynote speaker Carol Anderson at the Westport Library. Anderson is a professor of African American Studies at Emory University and author of the New York Times bestseller, “White Rage.”

inklingsnews.com • Staples High School

4 News

Dec. 20, 2019

Staples High School

New schedule app, Saturn replaces iStaples Carly Kaplowitz ’21 Features Editor

Graphic courtesy of Westport Public Schools

CMS Principal placed on leave following arrest Poppy Livingstone ’21 Creative Director

Coleytown Middle School (CMS) Principal Kris Szabo was placed on administrative leave on Wednesday, Dec. 4, following her arrest for allegedly slapping a man during a parking dispute.

Szabo was charged with second-degree breach of peace and was released on a $500 bond.

She appeared in state Superior Court in Waterbury on Dec. 11.

During the hearing, Szabo’s attorney, John McDonald, said that his client never struck the man and that the alleged victim would attest to that.

Szabo was placed on leave pending a review of the incident to be conducted outside of school according to a mass email sent by Bedford Middle School (BMS) Principal Adam Rosen.

“Please know that the safety of our students remains our top priority as we address any concerns in our school,” Rosen said.

The email was sent to the parents and guardians of Bedford and Coleytown students on the morning of Dec. 4.

Karyn Morgan, former assistant principal of Staples High School, is serving as temporary CMS principal in Szabo’s place.

“My responsibilities align with Ms. Szabo’s and supporting the administrative staff at Bedford,” Morgan said. “The morale is and continues to be high at Bedford. Teachers and staff at Bedford are spirited and resilient and focused on students and ensuring that the high quality of education is not disrupted.”

Szabo was hired as principal of CMS in 2004.

She is currently the Principal on Special Assignment at BMS following the merge of the two schools.

This merge took place due to an abundance of mold located in the school at the beginning of the 2018-2019 school year.

Szabo’s next hearing is scheduled for Dec. 30.

Scan the QR code above for the most recent Inklings coverage as this story continues to develop.

the change until they were redirected to download the new application when they tried to enter iStaples.

“I opened up iStaples

S

aturn, a new schedule app for Staples students, has replaced iStaples as of Tuesday, Dec. 3.

Saturn allows students to have more privacy and features an improved user interface.

Like iStaples, the application displays a timer counting down how much time is left in your class, a list of students in your classes and a search tool to look up the schedules of other teachers and students.

However, Saturn also features a percentage of how much of the school day is left, a calendar on top and the ability to conceal your schedule from other students.

“Although there are some good things and bad things about Saturn,” Hailey Nusbaum ’20 said, “I am excited for the change.”

Although there have been improvements, Saturn still displays students’ first quarter classes, for example, gym classes, that were supposed to be updated when the quarter changed, and Saturn no longer displays the daily after school Staples sports schedule.

When logging into Saturn, Staples students’ schedule information was immediately transferred from the previous iStaples app, eliminating the need for manual input.

The switch left many Staples students confused because they weren’t aware of

to see what I had next period, and it told me to download Saturn,” Emmy Bassler ’21 said. “I was not expecting to see this notification—it caught me off guard.” iStaples was released to students May 31, 2016 by creators Dylan Diamond ’17 and Dylan Gliecher ’17. Saturn was developed by Diamond and Max Baron.

The new application is currently being managed by Rishabh Mandayam ’21 and Max Pace ’20, who helped bring about the switch between apps.

“There were multiple versions of iStaples in different schools such as Greenwich and Darien and it was very difficult to maintain all of them,” Mandayam said. “Saturn allowed all of these apps to integrate into one seamless version.”

For the future, Mandayam and Pace are open to considering and implementing feedback received from Staples students in order to help the application be the best it can be.

Photo by Lys Goldman ’21 SATURN REPLACES iSTAPLES Students who opened iStaples on Tuesday, Dec. 3 were redirected to Saturn, a new schedule app giving students more privacy and new features like improved user interface.

No ban or punishment for playing violent video games Annabelle Iannone ’21 Web News Editor Staples’ Collaborative Team discussed the harm of violent video games in school at a meeting early this year as staff members have seen a significant increase in the students’ usage of these games.

Collaborative Team, however, does not want to issue a ban or punishment for playing these games because they don’t believe that will be an effective solution.

Guidance counselor Thomas Brown, who is a member of Collaborative Team, first brought up this topic.

“We want to implore students to think about what they are doing in this school setting,” Brown said.

Brown believes that students’ sense of safety during the school day is altered when they watch their peers play these games, due to the profoundly realistic graphics found in contemporary video games.

There have been numerous instances over the past few years, according to Brown, where students have reported a n o t h e r s t udent buying guns on their computer in school.

However, it was l a t e r

determined that the reported student was actually playing a video game where the character was buying guns in the game.

This can cause surrounding students to be fearful, while those who play these games may not even be aware of their impact on surrounding peers and staff members.

Students play these games for many different reasons.

“It’s a way for those certain kids to blow off steam and maybe make them more productive throughout the day,” Jack Lyme ’20 said. “Granted they’re playing at an appropriate time.”

The internet contract in the Staples Student Handbook, signed by all students at the beginning of the year, states what students should and should not be using their devices for.

“I will not use games or other electronic resources that have objectionable content or that engage me in an inappropriate simulated activity,” the handbook states.

Collaborative Team hopes to expand this conversation within the school community to initiate change and increase s t u d e n t s ’ awareness of their actions.

“I think we’d be missing the point if we were to ban violent video games if

Photo embellishment by Poppy Livingstone ’21

Staples High School • inklingsnews.com

we were trying to have a healthier school climate,” Eduardo Andrade ’21 said.

According to Brown, possible ways to confront the issue, as discussed in Collaborative Team, include using more clear verbiage in the handbook and opening up the conversation during Connections periods.

“We want this to be a community decision,” Brown said. “We want the students to be on board with it.”

Allowing students to have their own ideas on the issue may lead them to make their own choice to avoid violent games while in school, according to Brown.

The hope is that these discussions make an impact on students and grow the Staples community into a safer environment for everyone.

“This isn’t the administration or the teachers trying to impose our will and prevent you from doing the things you want to do, it’s just [us] saying there’s a place and a time for things,” Brown said. “You don’t curse at the dinner table with your grandma, you don’t play violent video games in school.”

Graphic by Adam Greenlee ’20

Staples High School

Dec. 20, 2019

News

5

Rotante and Sclafani hired to support students Emily Stone ’20 Business Director

T

eenTalk Counselor (TTC) Melissa Rotante, and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) Abigail Sclafani, started working at Staples High School on Dec. 9. Rotante and Sclafani will work to provide a safe space for students and help kids manage mental health, family problems and social issues.

“My top priority in this role is to be

another source of support for students who may be struggling with substance abuse or possibly at risk of substance abuse,” Sclafani said. “I am looking to [...] promote healthy behaviors and choices and provide intervention services for those who may be struggling.”

One of Rotante and Sclafani’s goals is to make sure all students are aware of the aid that can be provided by the new staff.

“My position is very unique,” Rotante said. “Not a lot of schools have this [position], but it’s really needed.

I’ve only been here for three days and there have already been many kids that have seeked out my help.”

Based on the goals that Rotante and Sclafani outlined, Claudia Fernandez ’20 is optimistic that they will exceed the

performances of past school counselors.

“In theory, I think the idea of an outreach counselor would be helpful,” Fernandez ’20 said. “However I think in practice, they haven’t been used as much as a resource by the community as a whole because most people are reluctant to reach out.”

Despite Fernandez’s thoughts on how counselors have been used in the past, Ali Feder ’20 believes that outreach counselors are an asset to the student body.

“It feels nice to see a counselor i n that office again,” Feder said. “It was weird when there was an absence of help and just a dark room for so long. It’s really nice to have an energy back again and seeing people laughing in their office.”

To speak on her motivations and work ethic, Rotante draws her encouragement

from Brene Brown, a famed social worker in Rotante’s field. Rotante shared a quote from Brown that discusses the importance of trust and how connections can be created through genuine interaction rather than larger insincere gestures.

“Brene Brown is a pioneer in the social work field whose work on vulnerability, love and belonging have impacted me both personally and professionally,” Rotante said. “I hope to offer a therapeutic space at Staples where students feel valued, cared for and their voices heard.”

DOOR STICKERS A sunflower, heart and note, along with a few other informational tidbits, are taped on the door of TeenTalk Counselor Melissa Rotante’s office across from the cafeteria.

Scan the QR code above to listen to a podcast featuring the new hires.

Photos by Lys Goldman ’21

Infographic by Poppy Livingstone ’21

Staples High School • inklingsnews.com

opinions Inklings News

6

inklingsnews

Dec. 20, 2019

STAPLES HIGH SCHOOL’S STUDENT NEWSPAPER

Graphic by Poppy Livingstone ’21

www.inklingsnews.com inklingsnews@westportps.org (203) 341-1499 or (203) 341- 5192

Editors-in-Chief

Audrey Bernstein & Allie D’Angelo

Managing Editors

Kaela Dockray & Dana Perelberg

Web Managing Editors Sophie Casey & Eddie Kiev

Business Directors

Caroline Donohue & Emily Stone

Creative Director Poppy Livingstone

Associate Managing Editors Lia Chen & Siri Kanter

Social Media Director

Claire Redmer & Emma Van Riper

Assistant Creative Directors Roxy Augeri, Brooke Dembin, & Adam Greenlee Eliza Barr & Olivia Valante

Broadcast Directors Lily Kane & Serena Ye

Assistant Business Manager Theresa Vandis, Brooke Dembin & Margot Stack

News Editors

Natalie Bandura & Molly Gold Lys Goldman & Andreas Lolis

Opinions Editors

Samantha Felner & Abby Fleming Abbie Goldstein & Chelsea Strober

Features Editors

Fine line divides student autonomy, protection

E

arlier this quarter, the Staples Collaborative Team discussed the presence of violent video games in our school setting. Students and staff discussed a rise in video game engagement, especially during free periods.

Although the administration is not currently looking to move forward with an official video game ban, the Collaborative Team’s dialogue has spurred discussion surrounding a broader essential question: to what extent should the administration impose restrictions to promote our safety and wellbeing?

The Editorial Board acknowledges that violent video games can be used as a stress-relieving outlet for some students. However, they may also contribute to student stress and anxiety as violence has manifested itself in the news and schools across the nation.

Lucy Arrow & Remy Teltser Reilly Caldwell & Carly Kaplowitz

Arts Editors

Katie Simons & Tallula Stvan Tierney Kugel & Evi Tarshis

Sports Editors

Madison Andrews & Jackson Lev Jack Dennison & Rebecca Kanfer

Web News Editors

Annabelle Iannone & Rachel Suggs

Web Opinions Editors

Betti Kobak & Anastasia Thumser

Web Features Editors

Lauren Hassell & Marlo von der Ahe

Web Arts Editors

Julia Kasabian & Giselle Oldani

Web Sports Editors

Alex Massoud & Lexie Moskovit

National Arts Blog Manager

Moreover, video games have induced discomfort in the school community. In the past, students have misinterpreted the buying of a weapon in a video game as a legitimate purchase.

While violent video games may spur these sentiments of uncertainty or angst, this does not necessarily call for an official ban. A fine line exists; if the administration were to ban violent video games, this could lead to increased limitations restricting student choice and freedom.

Student autonomy is a fundamental pillar of our education, as it prepares us for life after high school where

decisions are unmonitored; we must strive to preserve this independence.

Despite this, restriction is understandable and necessary in some cases; for instance, certain websites promoting hateful and explicit content are already blocked within the school.

Limitations such as this are productive, as they ensure student protection from dangerous content that is inappropriate for the school environment.

A clear set of guidelines is essential when determining whether to ban material.

At the beginning of the year, all students sign a document acknowledging that they have read the student handbook, thus agreeing to the following: “I will not use games or other electronic resources that have objectionable content or that engage me in an inappropriate simulated activity.”

The handbook policy restricts the material students can engage with. In most cases, we must avoid limiting student access, and instead focus on educating students about the proper settings for violent games, shows and movies. This empowers growth rather than simply banning the content.

If the administration were to ban violent video games, this would open the door to their ability to ban shows, movies, novels and other sources of entertainment deemed “violent.”

Forms of entertainment including access to social media platforms and websites such as Netflix, for example, should not be restricted, as they pose no harm and could benefit a student’s life.

Learning how to effectively manage time in school is a part of growing up.

Also, these platforms can promote ease and enjoyment in the competitive environment fostered at Staples.

Furthermore, we should never lose access to materials that promote our

understanding of the world around us and illustrate different perspectives and opinions. We appreciate the school library’s rich and diverse collection of texts deemed potentially controversial due to their content.

In 2017, the novel “13 Reasons Why” was removed for review from middle school English book rooms and the Bedford Middle School library. This decision restricted fundamental access to information, shielding students from real societal crises. We must ensure that accessibility is prioritized in order to receive a full education.

Confronting violent video games specifically is nuanced; we are not certain what action should be taken, if any. The Editorial Board acknowledges that during class, teachers have the right to place restrictions on content unrelated to the lesson, including websites, games and social media. If video games produce discomfort and anxiety among students, then the administration should consider educating students about their harmful effects.

Nonetheless, we trust that our Staples administration will continue to protect students’ fundamental freedoms. We hope we can continue to take pride in our school’s willingness to promote independence and exploration, both characteristics that will truly cultivate an empathetic, happy and healthy student body.

The editorial board voted unanimously in favor of this editorial.

Scan this QR code to visit the Inklings News website.

Maya Reiner

Advisers Editorials and letters to the editor All opinions in this paper are those of Staples High School students. The editorial board determines editorial opinions which are authored by the editors-in-chief. Send signed letters to inklingsnews@westportps.org. Submissions will not be edited prior to publication.

Advertising Inklings News reserves the right to not publish advertisements that promote products that could be harmful to student health.

Memberships Inklings News is a member of the Columbia Scholastic Press Association and the National Scholastic Press Association and supports the Student Press Law Center.

Distribution Inklings News, a curricular and extracurricular publication, has a circulation of 1,800 and is uncensored.

Inklings News is uncensored, unedited by administration and does not allow for prior review. Inklings News serves as an open forum for the public and welcomes letters to the editor and other submissions. The decisions of Inklings News 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.

[inklinations]

LENI LEMCKE ‘22 “I don’t think so, because students should be able to use the internet however they want as long as it is not harming others.”

Staples High School • inklingsnews.com

SHOULD THE ADMINISTRATION HAVE THE ABILITY TO CENSOR STUDENTS ?

DEVAN PATEL ’23 “No, because self expression is a student’s right that the school should not interfere with.”

SARAH CORNECK ’21 “Yes, because technically they are in charge of us in school and they have the right to tell us what we can and can’t do.”

Inklings News

Opinions

Dec. 20, 2019

7

The Artichoke Inklings Satire *

*

Counties is not the time for twinning Eliza Barr ‘21 Assistant Creative Director

S

Graphic by Adam Greenlee ’20

he couldn’t believe it.

It was her dress.

Someone else was wearing her counties dress.

The moment she saw it from across the room, she felt her stomach drop—it was the same dark green Charmeuse satin dress with Alençon lace in the back, and it had the exact same slit at the right knee. She wanted to die.

“This can’t be happening” she thought to herself. First she panicked, and then nausea set in. She had to grab the banister to keep from fainting and toppling off her four-inch heels.

Over her dead body would she let someone have the exact same dress. Over. Her. Dead. Body.

How could this have happened?

She had, after all, posted in the counties dress Facebook group five months earlier. Her territory had been claimed when she’d posted that mirror selfie, publicizing to the entire junior girl population. Hadn’t everyone seen it?

She whipped out her phone and furiously opened Facebook. Her counties date stood anxiously near her, unsure of why she’d gone so rigid and snappy.

She went through hundreds of pictures, looking at so many photos of girls in dresses from Winged Monkey that her eyes went blurry.

She eyed the girl across the room again, zeroing in on her identical quarter inch straps. She must not have consulted or posted in the Facebook group. How rude! How outrageous! Didn’t she know that Facebook existed for one thing only nowadays —posting your counties dress.

It just wasn’t fair. She had been good all year. She had never used plastic straws and had always parked her Jeep in the designated junior spots, and this was how the universe repaid her?

Counties was ruined. It was the first dance she’d ever been to, but she knew she’d never show her face at another one ever again.

“Thanks for nothing, Facebook,” she muttered as she turned toward the door.

But before she could make her dramatic exit, her friend Alice spotted her and waved.

“Girl! You look good!” her friend squealed in her unique red, lace-up halter dress. “We still on to wear our matching senior day shirts tomorrow?”

“Absolutely,” she said stifling a sniffle. “I would never miss a chance to twin with you and the other junior girls.”

Early decision deadlines promote unhealthy practices in the college process Roxy Augeri ’20 Assistant Creative Director

The whispers always start in November.

As a senior, there seems to be no way to escape it.

The only thing anyone seems to be talking about is who is applying to college and where they are going.

The idea of early decision seems like a good one. As a senior, if you know your dream school, there seems to be no better way to show your commitment than to put in your deposit early.

However, Staples students need

to be conscious of the bias that admissions counselors harbor when applying under this earlier deadline.

I can see the appeal of early decision.

The acceptance rate increases when applying in the early decision pool, showing clear bias towards those candidates.

In 2018, Harvard University boasted a 3.5% overall acceptance rate, making it extremely difficult to get in through the regular decision pool.

However, the early decision pool admits 21.1%, a whopping seven times more likelihood of acceptance according to Ivy Coach, an online college consultant.

But there is a

more immoral motivation that drives admissions counselors to pressure students into applying early decision: profits. When one applies early decision to a school, the applicant is ultimately declaring their ability to pay the full sticker price to attend the university. So, it is in the college’s favor to accept more of these early

decision students because the college then knows the student will be paying in full.

In a wealthy town like Westport, these early decision deadlines may seem like the norm. A lot of families can afford to make the decision to commit to a school and do not need to wait to find out what kind of financial aid is available to them. Even so, it’s important that seniors at Staples understand that while many factors influence an admissions counselors decisions, a major factor—finances—is out of the student’s control.

It’s vital that students take this into account when deciding BINDING EARLY when and where they are applying.

DECISION DEADLINE Not allowing the pressure the colleges provide to apply on this deadline sway their decision making is vital. Everyone’s experience applying to college is unique, and early decision isn’t the only path to acceptance into your dream school.

Graphic by Roxy Augeri ’20

inklingsnews.com • Staples High School

8 Opinions

Dec. 20, 2019

Inklings News

Banning violent video games justified Dana Perelberg ’20 Managing Editor

W

hen a

child’s parents sign them up for school, they consent to the removal of certain rights.

Freedom of speech becomes limited, and actions that may have been acceptable in other environments are no longer tolerated.

Staples has already placed the Google setting “safe search” on all student accounts and has banned websites that they deem inappropriate. Recently, Collaborative Team brought up the issue of students playing violent video games in school. Although the administration is not presently planning on a ban, I think it is within the school’s jurisdiction and best interest to ban these video games.

The widespread use of violent video games is not the primary reason for violence in schools, but they can harm students’ well being in other ways. Many video games allow students to buy weapons for their avatar, and may look extremely realistic. In the past, this has caused other students to fear that a student playing a video game may be buying real weaponry.

Furthermore, according to two studies reported by The American Psychological Association’s Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, college students that played violent video games exhibited more aggressive behavior and had lower grades.

Violent video games have also

Graphic by Rachel Varsano ’21

been shown to have immediate effects on empathy. As a study conducted by the Fuller Youth Institute shows, students who play violent video games take 450% longer to respond to a person in need than a person playing non-violent video games. In schools, like Staples, that value empathy and trustworthy relationships, violent video games can drive a wedge between students and hurt school climate.

In addition, the school already blocks certain webpages they view as inappropriate due to violent or hateful messages.

Blocking these pages for their content while not blocking video games that could contain triggering elements such as blood and war could give students and parents the wrong impression as it inadvertently condones the violence in these games.

However, the school would have to be careful about which games they block and have strict criteria for what deems a game ‘violent.’

If students feel like games are being banned a r b i t r a r i l y, they won’t understand why the ban needed to be i mplemente d in the first place.

Remy Teltser ’21 Features Editor

To mark the true commencement of our 14th year of summer, my friends and I took a train out of Greens Farms all the way to Harlem 125th.

We walked across the Triborough Bridge and scanned our Governors Ball bracelets, entering the nirvana of festivals. Between Eminem, Russ, Billie Eilish, Travis Scott, Quinn XCII and Lil Uzi, Gov Ball was a musical oasis that hit everyone’s various music niches.

For an entire weekend, we enjoyed the music, socialized and ate an ungodly amount of ramen burgers. The first week of June became an awaited tradition.

This year, however, via a press release on Nov. 25, the Governors Ball announced their implementation of an age policy: only people aged 18 years or older, with the exception of underage festivalgoers attending with someone who is at least 21, will be allowed to attend. They cited the age restrictions as improving “the quality of the festival experience,” according to the Governors Ball website.

Improving the “quality of the festival experience” is in reference to the chaos of last year’s GovBall. That was when a predicted weather storm caused the Sunday-scheduled lineup to be pushed back until evening. The rain didn’t start until around 10 p.m. and everyone had to evacuate the grounds (the Sunday headliners, the Strokes and SZA, were

also tragically canceled). This day was disastrous and the late-night evacuation caused chaos and panic.

I understand the GovBall’s concern. If there is potential for chaos, keeping people safe is a fair objective. But it is unfair to blame the level of mayhem during last year’s evacuation on the youth. The GovBall administrators are more to blame as they should have canceled Sunday all-together and provided refunds.

Furthermore, GovBall’s delusion that if they require all minors to be chaperoned than they will be kept in line is laughable. The truth is that teenagers will still find a way to go unchaperoned. Given the requirement for a chaperone to be 21, teens will merely have their most mature-looking friend buy a Fake ID that will identify them as 21, and then serve as the “chaperone” for two other underaged friends.

If the Governors Ball is worried about safety or order, there are other precautions, besides adding age restrictions, that they should take. For example, Rolling Loud, an October music festival at Citi Field, set a strict policy where all bags had to be small and clear. The festival commenced orderly and kids my age had fun and were safe.

Lollapalooza, an annual four-day summer music festival in Chicago, has an “in-case of evacuation” writeup for all attendees that explains how to act during weather emergencies and safe places to go. Lollapalooza also has pole markers, buttons attached to light posts that people can push if they need immediate help, soberside tents, and sexual harassment resources around the festivle to help keep festival-goers safe at all times.

GovBall should take notes.

Staples High School • inklingsnews.com

Infographic by Poppy Livingstone ’21

Governors Ball age policy counterproductive

Photo by Graham Wood ’20

Vaping seminar proves ineffective Maria Krug ’22 Staff Writer

“You vape?” says one student.

“You don’t?” replies the other.

This has become a normal interaction b e t w e e n students in high schools across the country, including Staples. This “trend” has become so common that it’s hard to spend at least one day in school without hearing about Juuling or vaping.

As a high schooler, I have seen this epidemic grow more and more throughout my two years. Staples has made some attempts to help students that vape to quit, but are they effective? The most recent attempt, a vaping awareness seminar given by Tricia Dahl on Thursday, Dec 5, failed to grasp students’ attention.

The presentation began with Dahl contradicting herself. “I am not here to lecture. Lecturing is not the way to get information across,” Dahl said.

But that was exactly what she did.

The 35-minute long seminar was filled with numerous facts and statistics about what e-cigarettes are, what the big deal behind nicotine is, the difference between certain vaping devices and much more.

The main point Dahl was trying to get across to us throughout the presentation was that she wasn’t there to make people quit. She claimed the market is targeted towards students, so she would give us the information and we could make our own decisions.

I have heard those exact words various amounts of times throughout high school either in health classes or just from teachers in general. Personally, I don’t believe it has any effect on students at this point and a different approach is needed.

I do agree that vaping has gotten out of hand. But giving us the same information that we have already been provided isn’t going to make someone quit. Teens get bored very easily, wso having someone stand up and talk for half an hour isn’t the best way to grab our attention.

After the presentation, teachers were instructed to do a follow up on the seminar during the Connections period on Tuesday. During the period, most teachers asked for students’ feedback and their thoughts. I think that the Connections period was more effective than the actual presentation due to the fact that it is easier to have a discussion in small groups.

Having 10 to 12 kids talk about vaping is much more beneficial than having them sit through a long presentation with only facts. The Connections period allowed me to understand different students’ points of view on vaping, and how they also believed that the presentation restated facts they already knew.

Staples could also provide first-hand stories about vaping. Students would be much more engaged if they had someone close in age explain to them the downsides of vaping in a more personal way.

Also, it would be beneficial for Staples to provide an interactive activity students could take part in that would demonstrate the effects of vaping.

Overall, I believe that the seminar was not beneficial. A different alternative should be provided by the Staples community.

features Inklings News

Dec. 20, 2019

9

Seniors embark on new journey upon early graduation

22

lthough June marks the end of the class of 2020’s high school experience, some select seniors choose to graduate early and embark on new journeys. Mallory Legg ’20 and Etoile Blaquiere ’20 have both chosen to graduate at the end of the first semester to gain new experiences before going to college.

After graduating in late January, Legg plans on spending a month in Tanzania educating children.

“I want to learn more about myself through [this experience] and sort of broaden my horizons because I’ve been [...] stuck in communities where it’s super normal and upper class,” Legg said. “I want to rid myself of the biases that I was born into. You can find out a lot about yourself when you do those things. You can gain a lot of confidence from that as well.”

Legg hopes this experience will help prepare her to serve in the Peace Corps after majoring in social anthropology in college.

“After college, I’ve always thought of myself going into the Peace Corps,” Legg said. “I feel as though having no prior experience [...] wouldn’t necessarily be smart to send myself into another country for two years without having experienced it before. I definitely want to do that, especially as a precursor to my major.”

Legg additionally hopes to spend time with family in Utah before attending the University of Saint Andrews in Scotland.

“My dad is commuting from Utah to home every weekend because he got a job out there and wants me to graduate before

on who you are as a person and your personality and how you depend on people.”

Similar to Legg, Blaquiere plans on graduating after midterm exams to go to school in Australia.

According to Blaquiere, students in Australia take exams in October and receive their test results in November before starting school in February.

“I tried to graduate with my class in Australia and they graduated a month ago,” Blaquiere said.

Blaquiere decided to graduate early

l la Al pert ’

A

Editor-in-Chief

we move again,” Legg said. “I love to ski and Utah is the best place in the nation for skiing so definitely being out there for the winter is going to be a good outlet for me.”

Legg believes that her past experience will help her make a smooth transition from graduating early to attending college.

“Choosing to separate yourself from the people that you’ve been around for the past four years is hard for a lot of people,” Legg said, “and with my upbringing, having moved so many times, I’m super used to that and I really like that, separating myself sometimes, so I think it depends

Photo

by E

Allie D’Angelo ’20

EARLY GRADUATES Some seniors, like Mallory Legg ’20, have decided to graduate from Staples a semester early in order to start new adventures outside of Westport.

during her junior year. According to Blaquiere, the decision to graduate early must be made well ahead of time.

“If you’re thinking of graduating early, it’s unfortunately a decision you have to make early in your academic career,” Blaquiere said. You have to give up a lot, and really think about your decision. [...] Knowing I do give up graduation has been a difficult decision but I know it’s best for my academic progress.”

Blaquiere is currently deciding between attending Sydney University or Australian National University both in Australia. Prior to leaving in February, Blaquiere will intern for a real estate business. “[When I graduate,] I have to fill up my day a lot,” Blaquiere said.

“Knowing you’ll have lunch and seeing people is taken for granted.”

Director of Guidance William Plunkett noted the handful of reasons students decide to graduate early.

“Sometimes students have specific plans in mind that they would like to accomplish or things they would like to do,” Plunkett said. “Whether it’s academic or related to their interests or they’re from another part of the world [...], sometimes international semester schedules make more sense for them to leave.”

Plunkett additionally noted that the decision to graduate early requires thought and consideration for its impact in the long run.

“Think through the decision,” Plunkett said. “Try to look past the immediate time frame and make sure that it’s something that in the long run it’s going to be beneficial.”

Christmas tree lighting ignites night sky in preparation for holiday season Chris Tatusko ’22 Staff Writer

As temperatures start to drop, Christmas spirit and holiday cheer are only rising. Christmas trees and holiday lights shine bright and are seen glittering through windows of homes around Westport.

To celebrate the Christmas season, Town Hall hosted a tree lighting Dec. 5. Children and families all watched in anticipation of Christmas Eve, which was

only 19 days away when the tree was first lit.

The Staples Orphenians choir under the direction of Luke Rosenberg sang popular Christmas songs in front of a small crowd with First Selectman Jim Marpe in attendance.

“I really hope that the crowd enjoyed it,” Ryan Porio ’22, an Orphenians member, said.

When the Orphenians finished their performance, Marpe addressed the crowd with a speech about how generous the Westport community is and a reminder to give back to those less fortunate than ourselves.

“Another thing that makes Westport special is its commitment to giving and supporting those less fortunate than we are,” Marpe said as reported by Westport News.

After Marpe finished his speech, the crowd chanted “three, two, one” and the town of Westport glowed as the tree lit up in a burst of light. But the lighting was only the beginning of the festivities that the town had planned for the event.

Once the tree was lit, the crowd continued the celebration across the street at the Westport Museum for History and Culture, where their director of programs and education Nicole Carptenter

provided hot chocolate donated by Starbucks. There were little tables set up inside the historical society for visitors to sit and relax, while there was also a popcorn machine for them to enjoy.

Although the Christmas tree lighting has been a tradition in Westport for many years, there was not a big turn out from local residents. Still, there were families there who have never missed the annual lighting.

“My family always goes to the tree lighting,” Maya Brodows ’20 said. “Even though we don’t celebrate Christmas it really makes us feel connected with the community.”

Photos by Emily Desser ’22

ORPHENIANS PERFORMANCE AT TREE LIGHTING Staples Orphenians choir sing three songs to get the crowd excited for the holiday season. Their repertoire included holiday hits such as “Deck the Halls,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and “Winter’s Night.” After their performance, the tree was lit.

inklingsnews.com • Staples High School

10 Features

ld most u o w l o o h c s t n e r “Going to a diffe more d n a g in n e p o e likely be ey real-world.”

-Kate Coyne ’21

Dec. 20,

Wilbur Cross P Like at Staples, PE L O O H SC G orts games and S SHOWIN up crowds at sp ng CHEERLEADER pi am in rt pa a huge cheerleaders play r team. d to root for thei te ci ex getting them

W D N A S E L P A T S

Staples and Wilbur Cross: Different academic experiences she

Francesca Lewis, Editor-in-Chief of Wilbur Cross’ The Proclamation, messaged t with her to interview students from both Cross and Staples. The two writers wo

Francesca Lewis ’20 Editor-in-Chief of The Proclamation

Claire Redmer ’21 Social Media Director

Y

STAPLES SCHOOL SPIRIT As a Homecoming tradition, senior girls wear customized t-shirts that display their senior names. Other senior traditions include motorcade and a school wide pep rally celebrating all fall sports teams.

Staples High School • inklingsnews.com

ou walk through the metal detectors in the morning, half asleep and make your way to class. Someone shouts, ‘It smells like burnt tamales,’ from up the stairs as you push your way through the crowd to get to first period. You try washing your hands in the bathroom and search for a functioning sink. Luckily, someone points you in the right direction.

This is a typical morning for kids who attend Wilbur Cross High School, a public school located in New Haven.

“The environment at Cross is like a maze. It’s chaotic. You never know what you’ll see or hear,” Stephanie Acosta Colon, a senior at Cross, said.

“It’s like a Christmas family reunion.”

The experience is very different than Staples, which is just 30 miles from Wilbur Cross.

“It’s reassuring to know when I

walk in that I’m getting one of the best high school educations available,” Max Pace ’20 said. “I know I have to put in a lot of work, but ultimately what Staples gives in return is worth the effort.”

Attending various public schools across the state yields a completely different result, based on the quality of the school’s education and the opportunities it provides. Rob Shamberg, a social studies teacher who teaches both economics and government, feels that our unequal school system is flawed.

“Public schools are one of those foundational items that will get us to success,” Shamberg said. “If there’s this unequal distribution of good schools, then it seems broken.”

Since the quality of each school varies greatly, Cross students feel that they aren’t necessarily set up for success. Mai Vasquez ’20 feels that her school can’t provide adequately for the materials needed for learning.

“We’re broke and the school can’t afford things that we need,” Vasquez said. “[Other schools] could provide for new equipment, new books, probably more field trips for the whole school. They probably have more activities than we do.”

Westport gives Staples immense funding to support high quality teachers, a number of extracurriculars and a vast

Features

, 2019

11

to ace for students Cross offers a pl ur ilb W at ry ra lib Like Staples, the .

ARY (TOP LEFT ) with their friends BR t LI d a higher ou SS O ng ha CR d R an s es WILBU pr more funding an m ve co ha les de , ay ts m s en le nm ap sig gh St d driven as Stap study, work on as OM LEFT ) Althou as motivated an g TT in O (B be S m ES fro CC ts en R SU t stop Cross stud MOTIVATED FO oss, that doesn’ Cr ur ilb place where W an th ranking st studying; it’s a ju an th e or m r e. ario Kart and ry is fo students to thriv e in events like M at Staples, the libra ip At ic ) rt M pa O TT as l O el (B RY as w STAPLES LIBRA ith their friends, and hang out w er th ga n s. ca er ts studen the library off Friday Fun Days Karaoke during

S S O R C R U B L I W

ed light on life lessons, importance of well-rounded education

the Inklings Instagram to collaborate on this article. Claire Redmer ’21 worked orked together to write a piece sharing experiences at their respective schools. array of resources. However, Shamberg said that funds are not everything when it comes to public schools.

“You get a really good public school [because of] the culture,” Shamberg said. “At Staples, we have a very strong academic culture. [Westport] parents value education. They see [their kids] doing well in high school as a clear line to success.

That’s not always shared elsewhere.”

The idea that funding isn’t the only factor when it comes to a school’s success is clear at Wilbur Cross as well. While they do not have the same resources as Staples, what is lacking in funds is made up for in the valuable life lessons students can receive.

“You learn new cultures, new languages, new stuff every day,” Acosta Colon said.

In addition to learning about people and cultures at Cross, the students who attend this school are taught important lessons about interaction and maturity. Fights and arguments are not uncommon, and are a part of school that students have to deal with.

“Here, if you bump into someone they’ll have a whole fit,” Vasquez said, “while probably over there if you do bump into someone you just apologize and you’re done.”

Adding on to Vasquez’s thoughts on behavior across schools, Acosta Colon says that the culture and student

body at Cross are generally not mature.

This forces students to learn how to deal with sometimes difficult people.

“Most of the people here are not mature,” Colon said. “It helps you learn how to be more patient.

You have to be the bigger person.”

With the diversity and representation of multiple communities, Cross seems to showcase a more accurate view of the world for its student body.

“Going to a different school would most likely be eye-opening and more real-world because of the bubble of Staples,” Kate Coyne ’21 said.

While there are disparities across Connecticut public high schools, there seems to be no present solutions.

Shamberg acknowledged that balancing the strengths of both schools to create a more equal system is a challenging feat.

“It is something voters would have to do.

They would really have to want this policy.

It’s going to be a tough sell,” Shamberg said.

However, students from both Cross and Staples agree that schools should go beyond rankings. School is a place for exploring, connecting and above all, no matter how it is accomplished: learning.

“I believe that Staples has prepared me inside the classroom for my future,” Coyne said, “but there’s still a lot to learn and accomplish past high school.”

SCHOOL SPIRIT Both Wilbur Cross and Staples show school spirit through sports games, pep rallies and many other school functions. Although these schools have their differences, they both have school pride.

inklingsnews.com • Staples High School

12 Features

Staples High School

Dec. 20, 2019

New adventures found at semester schools Katie Simons ’22 Arts Editor

J

unior year is filled with essays, tests and ACT prep; however, for some students junior year can be filled with adventure and a new learning experience at a semester school.

Semester schools serve as a boarding school for one semester and tout having a strong focus on teaching students how they can affect the community around them.

There are typically fewer than 60 students, and teachers are called by their first name in an attempt to create a more intimate experience.

Currently, there are 11 different schools across the United States, the Bahamas, South America and South Africa. While these schools are meant to challenge students academically, they also serve to teach students to live sustainably while using the land around them.

Former Staples student, Myca Costello ’21, is currently at The Mountain School of Milton Academy, which is located on a rural farm in Vermont. At The Mountain School, students live in dorms with their teachers and their food is sourced from the school’s farm. Costello chose to attend the program because she wanted a change from the typical high school experience.

“I always felt like Staples had sometimes suck[ed] the joy out of learning,” Costello said. “I really wanted to experience something where I really enjoyed learning.”

At The Mountain School, Costello said she has enjoyed her junior year and looks forward to going to class each

school day. The class sizes are small, with Costello’s smallest class size being five and her largest consisting of 12 students.

“In such a big school like Staples, it’s hard to feel noticed sometimes, and here the vibe is just very familial, just like one big family,” Costello said.

Access to technology is limited so students focus on building a community.

The majority of the schools do not allow access to phones in the first few weeks, and when they do, access to WiFi is still often restricted to academic buildings.

While many students enjoy their time at semester schools, some find that coming back into the Westport school system can be extremely

challenging. Ella de Bruijn ’18 attended the Maine Coast Semester School when she was a junior at Staples. While she loved the experience, she found that Staples did not handle the process of her re-enrolling well.

“A lot of the feeder schools to the semester school network are private schools,” de Bruijn said. “Because Staples is a public school, I had to physically unenroll[...]which was just a major hassle and it quite honestly was not really supported by the school system,” de Bruijn added. “It was pure chaos.”

De Bruijn says she wouldn’t have changed the experience for the world, but feels that Westport schools need to be more open to students who attend semester

EXPLORING THE WORLD. Ella de Bruijn ’18 traveled to Maine to attend the Main Coast Semester School for her junior year, where she was able to learn in an environment different than Staples.

Photo contributed by Ella de Bruijn ’18

schools. She believes that the school makes the process of unenrolling complicated and treats it as a nuisance to the school.

However, according to the school, the process of enrolling is the same as it would be at any other public school in Fairfield County.

“If [a student] is enrolling at another institution, they’re required to withdraw from Staples,” William Plunkett, director of guidance, said. “You can’t be dual enrolled.”

Additionally, students may be limited in taking AP courses since AP courses are not provided at all semester schools. Once the students return to Staples, the course work they have done will be evaluated by a department head to see if the student is able to enroll in an AP course for the second semester.

“It’s not always possible to align everything with our curriculum. [...] It depends on the course and it’s something that would be reviewed by one of our department heads,” Plunkett said. “What we have a responsibility to do is determine what credit is being awarded and how that credit is going to satisfy or not our graduate requirement.”

De Brujin believes that AP students who are interested in attending a semester school should enroll for the second semester.

According to Plunkett, if they enroll in the second semester, the student then has the choice to self study the course, which would give them the opportunity to take the AP exam; however, Plunkett believes the challenge of self studying is something the student will have to take into mind.

Overall, students who attend semester schools seem to enjoy the time they get to spend away from technology and getting to know their peers in a way they believe they cannot do in Westport.

“It kind of feels like summer camp,” Costello said. “It’s pretty cool.”

Volunteering clubs give back during the holiday season Opinions Editor It’s that time of year again. All things holiday-related like gifts, trees, decorations, treats and lights fill everyone’s mind. Here at Staples, many students are working to give back to those in need for the holidays. The Project Morry, Al’s Angels, SHS Homes With Hope and the Staples Key Club are just a few of the many clubs working hard to give back to those less fortunate during the holiday season.

The Al’s Angels club at Staples works with founder Al DiGuido and his organization in order to help children and families who are battling cancer, rare blood diseases, natural disasters and severe financial hardship.

According to the president of the club, Savannah Shaefer ’21, the holidays are always their busiest time of the year.

This year, the club members will be participating in meal assemblies, gift wrapping and their annual toy drive.

“My favorite event by far is the meal assembly,” Shaefer said. “Every December a bunch of the club members drive to a giant warehouse and, with hundreds of other volunteers, begin assembling holiday meals into thousands of boxes. We always form teams and create assembly lines of students who all work together. The energy is amazing, and everyone’s so happy to be helping.”

The Project Morry club, run by Lauren Spheeris ’21, Lexie Moskovit ’21 and Sydney Newman ’21, works year-round to help underprivileged

STAPLES KEY CLUB (LEFT TO RIGHT) Kate Enquist ’20 and Nicole Caiati ’20, members of Key Club leadership, talk to the club members about volunteering to wrap gifts at Barnes and Noble on Christmas Eve for the Tails organization.

Photo by Carson Kranz ’21

HOMES WITH HOPE Staples Homes With Hope hosted a bakesale in hopes to raise enough money to buy holiday gifts and necessities for families in need.

students. For the holiday season, they will be collecting school supplies and donating them to the Project Morry Foundation, a foundation that works to empower young people from underresourced communities and expand their learning and development opportunities.

“Our members will bring in their extra school supplies so that those who may not be able to afford it will be set for the new coming year,” Newman said.

New to Staples this year, the SHS Homes With Hope club works with the Homes with Hope organization to support them and their goal of ending homelessness in Fairfield County.

“Homes with Hope club is new this year so we are really excited to kick off the holiday season by bringing items to those in need,” Jillian Levin ’21 said.

The club is planning to raise money for those in need through bake sales.

“With the money we raise, we will then purchase gift cards for the families in supportive housing to buy basic necessities for themselves,” Levin said.

The Staples Key Club is an internationally represented community service club that thrives on giving back to the community. The club works to eliminate the negative connotation surrounding community service by making their approach to community service fun for everyone involved.

Every year during the holiday season, the Key Club partners with TAILS and participates in gift wrapping at Barnes and Nobles.

“Although not all of us are expert gift wrappers,” Nicole Caiati, co-president of the club, said, “it’s always enriching to give back to others and offer extra helping hands, especially during the holiday season.”

Photos by Reilly Caldwell ’20 and Carly Kaplowitz ’21

Chelsea Strober ’21

SHOEBOX PROJECT Like Homes With Hope, the Shoebox Project had a bake sale in the cafeteria to collect enough money to have a giftwrapping get together. Members of the club were can create shoeboxes filled with gifts.

inklingsnews.com • Staples High School

13 Features

Dec. 20, 2019

Staples High School

The SoNo Collection showcases festive holiday decorations Carson Kranz ’21

T

Staff Writer

he brand new SoNo Collection brings unique holiday decorations for its first year. While there are some interactive displays, such as fake Christmas trees that play holiday music, there are also signature mall elements like places to meet Santa and thousands of twinklings lights scattered throughout the mall.

Photos by Audrey Bernstein ’20 & Carson Kranz ’21

HOLIDAY SHOPPING AT BATH AND BODYWORKS Bath and Body Works showcases their signature holiday candles front and center with Christmas trees and neatly wrapped candle sets ready to be given as holiday presents.

NORDSTROM DECORATIONS From Christmas trees to hanging garland, Nordstrom is decked out with holiday decorations and bright lights that illuminate the store.

WRAP AROUND LIGHTS Throughot the mall, garland with sparkling lights wrap around each floor. Below are open spaces with lounges so people can relax and enjoy the lights.

MEETING SANTA Like most malls, the SoNo Collection has an area, near LUSH, where Santa takes pictures with kids and asks them what they want for Christmas.

Staples High School • inklingsnews.com

MUSICAL CHRISTMAS TREES At the entrance of the SoNo Collection there are fake Christmas trees set up with a button that plays Christmas music anyone can press.

This is a great way for kids to get excited for holidays as it plays music like “Rudolph the Rednosed Reindeer” and “Jingle Bells.”

arts Inklings News

14

Dec 20, 2019

Graphic by Brooke Dembin ’22

Top songs of 2019 leave long-lasting impact Chloe Murray ‘22 Staff Writer

A

s 2019 comes to an end, it seems fitting to reminisce on the wide variety of songs and artists that this year brought. From Lil Nas X to Lizzo, 2019 has certainly uncovered some major artists. And 2019 surfaced a plethora of memorable songs such as “Senorita” by Shawn Mendes and Camilla Cabello and “7 Rings” by Arianna Grande. So, without further adieu, here are the 2019 music trends in a nutshell.

Starting with a superfan favorite, Billie Eilish had a hugely successful year. Although Eilish came into prominence in 2017, she truly blew up this year with her hit album “When We

This lip-syncing, singing and All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?” media platform With this album came her hit single dancing social fuel the success of these “Bad Guy.” The popularity of this song helped might have been surprising due to the songs, along with many others.

The app has become a social media eerie, unorthodox nature of the lyrics and platform that’s both melody. However, Many of this year’s songs will an excellent source the change was of entertainment largely embraced by be remembered for years to and a perfect way to society as it reached come, and 2019 can therefore procrastinate. However, number two on be deemed a successful year critics point out that the Billboard the availability of the Pop charts and regarding music. app’s commenting remained there for nine consecutive weeks. feature has enabled users to lampoon One song overruled this huge others, adding a negative aspect to hit. “Old Town Road” by Lil Nas X the platform’s generally positive aura.

Hits from more predictable artists was number one on the Billboard Pop Charts for 19 consecutive weeks, which such as Ariana Grande, Ed Sheeran, Justin is the longest a song has ever remained Beiber and Shawn Mendes continued number one in Billboard history. to impress listeners, and their ability to Moreover, “Ransom” by Lil Tecca, perpetually provide for fans throughout “Good as Hell” by Lizzo and “Lalala” this decade proves their timelessness.

Country and rap also made

by Y2k and nnbo$s all saw major success this year, too. These songs major breakthroughs this year, as have a notable commonality: TikTok. country songs started to play on

Staples High School • inklingsnews.com

popular stations and hip-hop songs became more listened to than ever.

Music undoubtedly plays an integral part of today’s culture, and 2019 has contributed a lot. Many of this year’s songs will be remembered for years to come, and 2019 can therefore be deemed a successful year regarding music.

Scan the QR code to listen to a top songs of 2019 playlist.

123456 123456

Staples High School

Arts

Dec 20, 2019

15

Graphic by Roxy Augeri ’20

Gift guide: Top 2019 holiday gifts D

12345 12345 112 234345 5 112 2345345 345345 6 112 23453451212 2345123456 Chris Tatusko ’22 Staff Writer

on’t know what to get your friends and family for the holidays? Consider these six gift ideas.

A Customized Blanket

What is one thing all adults love? Kids faces, especially on a comfy and cozy blanket. Many websites allow users to choose any photos or designs they enjoy and paste them onto a blanket. With the price being just under $30, a customizable blanket is sure to please any relative.

Super Plush Robe

Ever ring the doorbell only to see your family standing on the other side wearing only boxers? Well, fear no more. This year, give your parents a super comfortable robe to lounge around the house in. It’s only $25, and you will be just as thankful as your parents for the gift.

College Apparel

To prove you’ve always listened when adults discuss “the good old days,” buy some college apparel for them. Whether it be a sweatshirt, sweatpants or a good old fashioned car sticker, any adult will be happy to receive an item endorsed by their alma mater. And if you know an adult who didn’t go to college, try for a big name

Smiley Face Pancake Pan

Any adult who loves family meals would be more than happy to receive a smiley face pancake pan. With this pan from Amazon, the pancake maker allows for pancakes with seven different face styles. As a bonus, this will encourage the adults in your life to make more pancakes for you, which is always nice.

Lorem ipsum

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit, sed diam nonummy nibh euismod tincidunt ut

Google Home Mini

The Google Home Mini is a great gift for the office or the home. The device is connected to the internet and responds to voice commands after the user activates it by saying “Hey Google.” You can ask anything, from “Play ‘Hotel California’” to a question like “What’s the weather forecast?”

AirPods by Apple

They are unique because unlike other Bluetooth headphones, they can connect to your iPhone instantly. The battery life for AirPods is up to five hours. You can track them as well via Find My iPhone if you misplace them. They also come with a charging case. Get ready to listen to your favorite music, YouTube videos or Netflix shows or movies.

‘Frozen II’ lacks impact of original film Betti Kobak ’22

Web Opinions Editor After six years of letting the audience soak in the iconic film “Frozen,” Disney excited viewers once again with the announcement of releasing “Frozen II.” The new movie opened in theaters on Nov. 22, 2019. People of all ages rushed to get their tickets and fill seats in theaters around the world. As one of those individuals, I had high hopes, but the movie was ultimately a disappointment.

In the sequel, Elsa (Idina Menzel) and Anna (Kristen Bell) embark on a new journey to a faraway enchanted forest. Kristoff (Jonathon Groff), Sven and Olaf (Josh Gad), join Elsa and Anna as they set off to resolve an issue in the forest that if not fixed, could eventually lead to the demise of Arendelle, the kingdom where Elsa and A n n a rule.

From the start, I had trouble following the plot. Events continue to occur s i mu l t a n e o u s l y

while I kept questioning what had happened the scene before. Each scene is discombobulated and chaotic without providing an explanation of what is occurring. After a puzzling 1 hour and 45 minutes, I thought, “If I cannot understand this, I doubt Frozen’s younger viewers will.”

The music in the original is exceptional, so I was expecting to hear songs with similar gusto to “Let it Go” and “Love is an Open Door.” However, I was disappointed with the song choices due to the lack of bold lyrics and originality.

The music left no impression on me and I did not find myself humming or wanting to listen to the songs after the film.

“Show Yourself,” sung by Idina Menzel, is at least an attempt to match the iconic song, “Let it Go,” but ultimately the song does not live up to the original.

The introduction of the individuals who lived in the enchanted forest is a new, yet uneventful addition to the movie. The new characters have no real impact on the storyline and do not contribute much.

That said, there is one character who never fails to disappoint: the wisecracking snowman, Olaf. Olaf continues to have a bubbly and hilarious personality, who turns any dark situation into a positive one.

Whenever I found myself laughing, it was always

when Olaf was speaking his mind.

I am sure that if I hadn’t seen the first movie, I would have enjoyed the second.

However, it simply cannot compare.

Graphics by Poppy Livingstone ‘21

Staples High School • inklingsnews.com

16 Arts

Dec 20, 2019

Predictions circulate upon release of ‘Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker’

different sagas between from when it started and now,” Cusa said. “My brothers brought me into it when I was Editor-in-Chief a kid and I’ve enjoyed it since then.”

Balidemaj also hopes the movie or over 40 years, viewers watched Luke Skywalker fight hand in will help the franchise come full hand with Princess Leia, Han Solo, circle and feature characters and Chewbacca and a variety of other fan fa- settings from the original trilogy.

“I am hoping to see a large role vorite characters against the Empire. Since “Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope’s” of original characters and original release in 1977, characters came and went planets,” Balidemaj said. “I would with the passing years, eventually leading love them to visit Tatooine. I think to the saga’s most recent main plot and that would be very powerful as it’s characters. Now, decades later, another been incorporated in the prequels and door closes in the Star Wars franchise. originals [...] I want them to revisit For one last time, fans of the beloved the original themes and everything.”

Gross additionally hopes Star Wars franchise can watch both old and movie will answer new characters unite to defeat the Empire the final surrounding specific in “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” predictions of the First Order. on Dec. 20. As the saga comes to a close, characters “I want to find students and staff anticipate its release “[I like] the whole history and out who Snoke was, and I guess I just as they reminisce how there’s different sagas want to see where on the franchise’s between from when it started all of the characters impact on their lives. end up,” Gross said.

Ben Gross ’20, and now,” Balidemaj a fan since the first - Topher Cusa ’23 a d d i t i o n a l l y grade, hopes the final movie will successfully conclude the saga. hopes for the film to develop the “I’m hoping to see something that current protagonists of the saga, really makes me feel excited for Star Wars both in the Empire and Rebellion.

“I hope we’ll see more into Rey’s again,” Gross said. “I feel like the last movie didn’t really make me do that.” identity and her larger role in the force Similarly, Aurelia Balidemaj ’20 holds and see a nicer role of Kylo,” Balidemaj high expectations for the concluding said. “A part of me thinks Rey and Kylo film and hopes it will answer questions will work together to fight a larger force left unanswered in previous movies. [and] I think it’s going to be Palpatine.”

Samir Mott ’22 noted the importance “In the new movies, we’re exploring a different side of the of the Star Wars saga throughout Mott began force that hasn’t been explored his childhood. As watching spinoff television in the previous ones,” Balidemaj by said. “There’s new capabilities that shows, his interest for Star Wars has throughout the years. we’re seeing as viewers and this continued “Star Wars impacted my life by could be something unforeseen.”

Topher Cusa ’23 noted his giving me a nice little world to view enjoyment of the multiple sagas within interesting characters and an interesting the franchise ever since his brothers environment to look at stories,” Mott said.

Balidemaj noted the upsetting first introduced him to the films. Cusa additionally noted nature of the franchise coming to a close.

“It’s tough to see everything from his hope for the final film to introduce my childhood end,” Balidemaj said.

Gross agreed with Balidemaj and a new saga for future remains skeptical of the story ending m o v i e s . given the saga’s large presence in his life.

“I’ve watched it for most of “[I like] the whole life,” Gross said. “I’m not really sure history and about how I feel that it’s ending, I how there’s guess I won’t know until I see it.”

Allie D’Angelo ’20

F

Graphics by Adam Greenlee ’20 and Poppy Livingstone

Staples High School • inklingsnews.com

Inklings News

sports Inklings News

Dec, 20, 2019

17

Schussheim joins squash with six years experience Karina Murray ’22 Staff Writer

A

s the small ball rickashays off of the white wall, far out of her opponent’s reach, Rebecca Schussheim ’23 adds yet another match to her long list of victories.

Formerly a tennis player, Schussheim started playing squash in fourth grade when her cousin introduced it to her. She fell in love with it immediately.

“I really like how it’s fast paced but also requires strategy,” Schussheim said.

“It’s almost like chess because you have to kind of think about a few shots before and after of what you’re gonna play.”

Before trying out for the Staples team this year, being one of the four freshmen to make varsity, Schussheim played on the Bedford Middle School squash team which practiced once a week and had a game roughly once a month.

While she enjoyed the middle school team, she is excited for the increased intensity Staples provides and for the opportunity to compete for a more committed team.

“I’m really excited to get to know all the girls on the team,” she said. “I’m also excited to play matches against better players from

other schools because I’ve only had that experience in individual tournaments so far, never in a team environment.”

Before and during her middle school years, Schussheim also applied to individual tournaments monthly.

These tournaments brought her many successes, placing first in several of them.

Schussheim’s hard work and positive attitude has already impressed the head Staples girls squash coach, Deborah Greenberg.

“She seems like a bright, happy, very motivated and very hard working young lady,” Greenberg said. “Anyone who wants to work hard and improve their game is my kind of player.”

Schussheim has an impressive rating of 3.6 out of 6 on the US Squash website, ranking 125th nationally for her age division.

A beginner, like many Staples students when they join the team, might be a 2, while a professional might be a 5.

Schussheim is ranked highest nationally out of everybody on the Staples team.

Many teammates are excited to see what Schussheim can bring to the team and its success this upcoming season.

“She’s really good and she’s a really nice player,” teammate Jenna Hartman ’22 said. “I think it helps our team because she’s one of the strongest players that will carry the rest of the people new to the team.”

Squash games are played up to 11 points and matches are best out of five. The games are very active, which Schussheim enjoys.

“It’s really fun to go from sitting in a classroom to running around,” Schussheim said.

While Schussheim has made huge accomplishments on the court, squash has also helped her off of the court.

“Like all sports, it helps with team building and having good sportsmanship, working together as a team and thinking about things logically and having tact,” she said. “It helps you with other circumstances you find yourself in in real life.”

The lessons that Schussheim has learned from squash have translated significantly into her real life.

“It’s taught me the valuable lesson that if you’re frustrated with how you’re playing or losing the match, to be composed and not get so angry with yourself,” Schussheim said. “[It has helped me] by clearing my mind before every point, like a new start in order to not let things get to my head.”

Photo by Molly Gold ’21

TAKING A TURN FROM TENNIS Formerly a tennis player, Schussheim started playing squash in fourth grade when her cousin introduced it to her.

Boys’ basketball hones in on upcoming season Alex Massoud ’20 Web Sports Editor After a year of highs and lows, with some crushing losses and key victories, the boys’ basketball team is looking to put together a great season. The team finished 10-12 overall last year, going 7-9 in FCIAC, and ultimately qualified for the CIAC state tournament. Despite losing in the second round of the playoffs, the season was not without bright spots. In their first year of playing in a new division, the Wreckers introduced themselves triumphantly with a 18-point win over West Hartford’s Hall High School in the first round of the state tournament.

However, the team has bigger aspirations than one state playoff win.

“Last year was fun, but we feel confident we can work on and improve from last season,” captain Jake Thaw ’20 said.

Undoubtedly, the Wrecker lineup will be very different than last year. Having lost seniors Lefty Pendarakis ’19, Dylan Ward ’19 and Dylan Honig ’19, much of last year’s production is gone.

This void will need to be filled with increased playing time from this year’s seniors, led by Thaw, Benny Feuer ’20, Teddy Dienst ’20 and A.J. Konstanty ’20. Coach Colin Devine believes this year may prove to be different than previous ones under his coaching, where the team has seen limited recent success, especially in FCIAC play.

“We’re striving to play deeper into March this year and get ourselves in a position where we can play on quarterfinal Saturday,” Devine said.

The Wreckers’ schedule has difficult matchups throughout the season with games against tough opponents outside of the FCIAC, including against Joel Barlow to open their season, along with games against perennial FCIAC powerhouses Danbury and Trinity Catholic.

Nonetheless, the Wreckers will try to excel this season, backed by their collective experience. ”We have something we didn’t have last year: playoff experience,” Benny Feuer ’20 said. “We have now all been through an entire season together.”

REBOUNDING FROM PREVIOUS SEASON Captain Jake Thaw ’20, Teddy Dienst ’20 and Benny Feuer ’20 hope to lead this year’s team after going 10-12 overall last season. Their 7-9 score in the FCIAC qualified them for the CIAC state tournement. The team hopes to go further than last year after losing in the second round of the playoffs

Photos by Andreas Lolis ’21

Staples High School • inklingsnews.com

18 Sports

Dec. 20, 2019

Staples High School

Ski teams race onto Southington slopes

SUNSET AT SOUTHINGTON The Staples boys’ and girls’ 2018-2019 ski team celebrate and smile after a sucessful ski season at Mount Southington. They look to conquer the slopes again this season. Their 2019-2020 season begins on Jan 6th and their first race is on Jan 10th.

DOWN THE SLOPES Hayley Buckman ’21 HEADS UP Girls’ ski team members continue skis the slalom during a meet at Mount their senior day tradition of holding head Southington. posters of their senior teammates.

PREPARE FOR TAKEOFF The team prepares to ride the ski lift to the peak of Mount Southington.

A

Maya Reiner ‘21

National Arts Blog Manager

Gra ph

ic b yR

ox y

Au ge ri

’20

&M

oll

yG

old

’21

s the snow days start to roll in for the students, the Staples’ Ski Team commences. This team is different than most, given that the team has to travel to Southington, Connecticut to practice and compete. Both the boys’ and girls’ teams love the atmosphere and camaraderie. Whether it is the long bus rides coming back from the snowy mountain, or skiing together on the mountain, the team looks forward to each winter.

The boys’ and girls’ teams have a lot of talent returning, and on the girls side, there are also an abundance of freshmen coming in.

“What I am extremely excited about is that I’ve heard that we have over 20 freshman girls trying out this year, which is amazing,” Head Ski Coach and Special Education Teacher Rebecca AndersonFurlong said. “We have some really strong talent returning and I am excited to see what the field looks like this year.”

Prior to the actual commencement of

the season, the team took a trip to Vermont as a way to bond with each other, practice skiing and condition throughout the week.

“I’m really excited for the team bonding this year, especially on the ski trip to Vermont,” captain Zoe Julien ’20 said. “I can’t wait to spend a whole day skiing with my team.”

In addition to the trip, the team had captain’s practice Monday through Thursday, until Dec. 5. After, dryland conditioning began with their coach on Dec. 16. The conditioning consists of various running, leg and core strengthening exercises, which are all beneficial to exceeding in the sport. “[Preseason] It is a good way to get to know the team and the coaches before we go to the mountain,” captain Cailtin Germishuys ’20 said.

“It’s great because we not only physically prepared for the season, but we

Staples High School • inklingsnews.com

can learn more about what it takes to do well when we compete.”

All of this hard work will hopefully lead to their goal at the end of the season: beating the combined team of Fairfield.

“One of my goals, which is probably a common goal throughout the team, is to beat Fairfield this year because we’ve always placed right under them in States and FCIACS,” Germishuys said. “I hope we can build a strong team that not only does well this year, but can carry on once we leave.”

Similar to the girls team, the boys’ team is looking to improve their state standings, given that much of their talent is coming back for the upcoming season.

“Last year, the boys team finished third in the state,” captain Ben Howard ’20 said. “With a lot of our varsity racers returning this season, I think we have a great chance to improve this year and compete for the top spot.”

SMILES IN THE SNOW Captain Ben Howard ’20 prepares to compete in a race down the Thunderbolt trail.

The captains have a strong belief that the team can really step up this season and place very high in the State tournament.

“As a team, we certainly are going for the win at States this year,” captain Emerson Anvari ’20 said. “We’ve come close recently but haven’t quite stepped up to number one. It’s about time we put ourselves on top of the podium.”

On top of having goals of placement this season, both teams adore the team bonding that comes with the sport.

“I love the atmosphere of the team,” Howard said. “We are always having fun on the bus to the mountain and on the slope, and there is never a dull time with the boys on the team. It’s a great mix of all people and all grade levels, so it’s a unique team.”

Hours upon hours, the team is spending time together, whether that is on the long bus rides or skiing on the mountain.

“Ski team has a unique set of characteristics, including the size, coed nature and overall inclusive vibes the team offers,” Anvari said. “Let’s be real. Who doesn’t want to get on snow with your friends after school?”

Staples High School

Advertisements

Dec. 20, 2019

19

www.connectprep.com Empowering Students to Unleash their True POTENTIAL Westport’s Premier Academic, Test, and College Prep Consultants ● D ​ o you want the best GPA, ACT, SAT, and AP scores? ● Need to raise your grades to open the door to your top ranked college? ● Need an Executive Function Coach to help with study skills and other learning challenges?

LET US HELP YOU REACH YOUR GOALS!

Find Out More At:​ w ​ ww.connectprep.com​ ​TEL: 914-288-5718 Mention this Ad for a ​FREE​ consultation and tutoring session!

A journey of 1,000 miles begins with the first step, so let’s take this step together!

inklingsnews wants your work.

Email any art, photos and articles to be featured in the newspaper or online.

Submit to: inklingsnews@westportps.org

inklingsnews.com • Staples High School

20 Sports

Dec. 20, 2019

Staples High School

Wreckers enjoy successful decade in sports Photos from Staples High School Yearbooks

Lily Kane ’20 Broadcast Director

FCIAC Titles State Titles Boys’ Golf Boys’ Soccer Boys’ Volleyball

Boys’ Golf

Baseball Boys’ Tennis Field Hockey Football Football Boys’ Indoor Track Boys’ Indoor Track Boys’ Outdoor Track Boys’ Indoor Track Boys’ Indoor Track Boys’ Outdoor Track Boys’ Volleyball Girls’ Outdoor Track Boys’ Volleyball Girls’ Cross Country Boys’ Tennis Girls’ Soccer Boys’ Tennis Boys’ Volleyball Girls’ Indoor Track No State Titles Girls’ Outdoor Track Boys’ Tennis Boys’ Cross Country Field Hockey Girls’ Golf Boys’ Cross Country Boys’ Tennis Boys’ Tennis Girls’ Tennis Boys’ Cross Country Field Hockey Boys’ Tennis Boys’ Tennis

Boys’ Cross Country Boys’ Tennis Girls’ Tennis Boys’ Volleyball

Field Hockey Boys’ Tennis Girls’ Tennis Boys’ Volleyball

Baseball Girls’ Tennis Field Hockey Girls’ Soccer

Baseball Boys’ Tennis Girls’ Tennis Boys’ Volleyball Field Hockey

Staples High School • inklingsnews.com