Broncos Untamed 2013-2014, Issue 1

ZACHARY HIGH SCHOOL

FALL 2013 ISSUE 1

Broncos ntamed

FEATURES 16 Horray for Mrs. Henry

18 A is for Awesome

Winning “Awesome” poem

19 One Nation Under God

See You at the Pole

SPORTS 4

Making Waves

The swim team in action

6 Stampede

Bronco Football

9

Tamed As a Team

10 Queens of the Court

Girls volleyball

12 No Fear, I’ll Cheer

Bronco Cheerleaders

14 It Starts With the Mind

Cross Country

ACADEMICS 26 Asking a Story

Foreign language’s TPRS

27 TESTING

ACT / SAT dates

SPOTLIGHT 21 Fresh Faces

New faculty and staff members

22 The American Dream

Meet the foreign exchange students

2 • Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013

FROM THE EDITOR Dear Zachary High, The new magazine is a drastic change from the old newspaper. Hoofprints has allowed the staff to learn from past mistakes to help the first edition of Broncos Untamed be the best it can be. Since Mr. Murray retired last year, Mrs. Moak has taken his place as adviser for the magazine staff. Along with myself, the staff consists of Katy Fernbaugh, Emily Johnson, Kelsey Olsen and Jacob McCall. Because the staff only includes five students, the magazine has been difficult to prepare. However, we have made it through the rigorous process of learning new techniques, crafting new articles, taking beautiful photography and creating new layouts. It has been a long journey, but we have learned many new things along the way. We hope you will enjoy our magazine as we have.

Until Next Time, Ellen Johnston Editor-in-Chief

Editor In Chief Ellen Johnston

Copy Editor

MISSION STATEMENT Broncos Untamed is a magazine produced by and for the students of Zachary High School. The Broncos Untamed staff strives to explore issues, interests and events relevant to the community of Zachary High School

Kelsey Olson

Photo Editor Katy Fernbaugh

Staff Writers Katy Fernbaugh Emily Johnson Jacob McCall

in a manner that is professional and unbiased. Opinions presented in this

Contributing Writer

magazine reflect only those of the magazine staff and not of Zachary

Tim Carr

High School or Zachary Community Schools.

Faculty Adviser Jennifer Moak

Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013 • 3

Cage Charlet flying through the water

MAKING

W

alking in the door after

WAVES because as a child, “thats all there was to

Network junkie.” The verse “I can do all

practice with papers

do.” When she went to school, all of the

things through Christ who strengthens

to grade and din-

sports teams we can join now were not

me. -Philippians 4:13” leads the way she

available to her. In addition, “everybody in

lives her life, perhaps helping her cope

my family swam” and meets were “fam-

with her extremely busy schedule.

ner to cook, Mrs. McGhee

is exhausted after a long day. For twenty-three years she has been teach-

ily deals.” Though challenges like lack of

ing and for the last eight coaching the

commitment and high school athletes

middle and high school swim teams.

not understanding the level of training

Not to mention, being the mother of

it takes to be successful impede some of

two wonderful kids. As much as she

the work she tries to do, she loves every

does, Coach McGhee loves it all, but

minute by the pool with her swimmers.

not quite equally. “Coaching is fun but

They “make me smile” and she “likes to

teaching is my passion.” In spite of the

see improvement in the athletes and

love she has for her professions, she

their confidence grow as they get bet-

considers her greatest accomplishment

ter.” Believe it or not, she does have a

to be raising “two great kids” and stay-

life outside of swim, school, and family.

proved to be very successful for the

ing married after thirty years. As busy

A passion for LSU and Saints football

Zachary High Swim Team. Throughout

as she is, Mrs. McGhee leaves nothing

dominates her free time, along with her

the season, Zachary swimmers competed

behind as a coach. She is well prepared

secret love for cooking and being a “Food

against teams like St. Josephs, Catholic

4 • Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013

STORY BY: KELSEY OLSON

PHOTOS BY: KELSEY OLSON DESIGN BY: KELSEY OLSON

T

he 2013 swim season

now become a major part of his life. Cage

cal part of his high school career, Cage

Charlet is one of the top swimmers on

unfortunately does not plan to keep up

the Zachary High swim team. In the 2013

with it in college. He aspires to be an

season he qualified to swim in the state

architect and feels that the two would

competition just a few meets in. This year

not mesh well. College swimming is

he is one of the captains of the swim team

“a completely different level than high

due to his outstanding effort, leadership,

school...swimmers spend as much as 4-5

and just all around encouragement of his

hours a day in the pool and more than

fellow teammates. Swimming may seem

likely spend time lifting weights…with

like a pretty relaxed sport; however, it’s a

me wanting to be an architect, the two

very rigorous sport that requires insane

schedules would certainly overlap…” he

amounts of dedication. He has swam year

said. Though he has not always swam,

round for the past few years though he

“...once I had started I knew I wanted to

is currently taking a break from the year

continue and better myself.” This convic-

round program at LSU. As Cage views

tion and his dedication has brought him

it, “If you really want to be successful

to the level he is at today.

when it comes to swimming, you have to be dedicated to getting all of the time

ROSTER

you can in the water… a few days off

“I knew I wanted to continue and better myself”

from swimming can really kill you…” This

Cage Charlet - 50 yard freestyle

dedication has been fulfilled as he has

Jon Kneisler - 200 yard freestyle

qualified for state not only in one, but

Leslie Triche - 100 yard backstroke

two events, the 100 yard freestyle race

Clay Franklin - 50 yard freestyle

and the 50 yard freestyle race.

Ashley Marler - 200 yard individual med-

ley

Though swimming takes up a

lot of time, Cage fills his spare time with

Kelsey Olson - 100 yard butterfly

many other diverse activities. An avid

Stephen Samuel - 100 yard butterfly

outdoorsman, Cage enjoys bow hunt-

Luke Troth - 50 yard freestyle

ing and fishing. Spending time with his

David Varnado - 100 yard breaststroke

friends as well as going to movies, doing

Sydney Walls - 50 yard freestyle

stunts, and “partying hard” are also high

Grace Williams - 50 yard freestyle

High, and Lutcher. Ultimately, these

on his list of hobbies. Foremost even to

Breanna Berthelot - 100 yard butterfly

swimmers’ goals were to improve their

swim, he focuses on school and keeping

Jack Dixon - 50 yard freestyle

individual times for swimming races and

his grades up. “There are many times I

Bryce’ Giannobile - 50 yard freestyle

hopefully to be able to swim in the state

have to spend long hours in the night

Phillip Howell - 100 yard freestyle

swim meet. For the first time since 2009,

to catch up on homework I couldn’t

Garrett Rushing - 200 yard freestyle

the Zachary High swim team had two

do because of swimming.” Though swim

Odom Stagg - 50 yard freestyle

individuals qualify for the state meet:

team is a lot of hard work and dedica-

Chris Williams - 200 yard freestyle

Cage Charlet and Clay Franklin. Because

tion interfering with his everyday life, the

Caleb Barton - 50 yard freestyle

there was at least one individual qualifi-

effort is worth it because of how much

Xavier Bonnette - 100 yard breaststroke

er, all of the team’s relays qualified to go

fun it can be. “Even though practices

Skyller Castello - 50 yard freestyle

to state. The whole team went to state

can be fun, meets by far beat everything

Aly Clement - 100 yard backstroke

on November 22.

else about swimming.” Cage really enjoys

Collin Dupy - 200 yard individual medley

A

the competitive aspect of meets; he

Ellen Manuel - 100 yard butterfly

enjoys competing with kids from all over

Schyler Meir - 200 yard individual medley

Louisiana. His absolute favorite memory

Hannah Partin - 200 yard freestyle

though, had nothing to do with meets.

Abby Robertson - 50 yard freestyle

“...my fondest memory was very recent...

Michael Sanford - 100 yard backstroke

Mrs. McGhee jumped into the pool for the

Ariel Swindle - 50 yard freestyle

first time in my entire high school career,”

Ann Marie Tynes - 100 yard breaststroke

he stated with a laugh.

Austin Wittig - 50 yard freestyle

Alex Yoes - 50 yard freestyle

n eighth grade boy enters the

gate leading to a practice pool. Carrying just goggles, he jumps into the water not knowing what to expect next. Here he is at swim team tryouts; something that seemed like fun and games but has

Although swim has been a criti-

Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013 • 5

Schedule Sept. 6: Byrd yellow Jackets Sept. 13: Northwest Raiders Sept. 20: East Feliciana Tigers Sept. 27: Scotlandville Hornets Oct. 4: Live Oak Eagles Oct. 11: Plaquemine Green Devils Oct.18: Central Wildcats Oct. 25: Walker Wildcats Nov.1: Denham Springs Yellow Jackets Nov. 8: Broadmoore Buccaneers

6 • Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013

Football Roster Offense QB: Keon Brown RB: Forrest Town HWR:Kentrell Fisher XWR: DQ Henry YWR:Chris Carrier ZWR:Bryson Dunn TE: Stanley Jackson LT: Zach Douglas LG: CJ Bell C: Caleb Wilkes RG: Terry Minor RT: Kellton Hollins Defense DE: Matthew Bowman NG: Jaylon Edwards DE:Brian Davis ILB: Avery NealI ILB:Payne Roshto

ILB:Ty’Wan Beardon R:Phillip Brooks CB:Quinton Townsel CB:P.J. Cannon FS: Stephen Babin Special Teams P: Nathan Lowry PK: Thomas McHugh HLDR: Nathan Lowery SNP: Chris Carrier PR: Chris Carrier KOR: Kentrell Fisher

BRONCO

STORY BY: JACOB MCCALL

STAMPEDE

A

fighter. A friend.

A survivor. A football player. When you think of senior Quinton Gibson, these are the words that come to mind. Quinton has spent his whole life with one dream: to play high school football. Now his dream has become a reality. Quinton had to struggle and fight to have his dream come true.

Quinton

was

born

with

clubfoot. Clubfoot is a congenital deformity in which the affected foot is rotated internally at the ankle; the foot points down and inward, and the soles of the feet face each other. Fifty percent of patients with clubfoot have bilateral clubfoot (both feet are affected). According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), approximately 1 in every 1,000 babies is born with clubfoot. Males are twice as likely to have the condition as females. Quinton lives with it every day. “It was hard because sometimes I would trip over my own feet but sometimes I don’t notice it and I just walk.”

As a child, Quinton loved

football and baseball. His favorite teams were the New Orleans Saints and the San Francisco Giants. He played

football team every day on the film

graduating from ZHS this year, Quinton

crew, and everybody, including Coach

looks forward to going to college.

Wiener, loved to have him there. “He is

“I am going to college and major in

an outstanding individual. His attitude

accounting.” Quinton is an all-around

and joy to be on this team is contagious,”

great person and a joy to be around

Coach Wiener said. Quinton’s hard work

whenever you near him. Quinton can

paid off. One family saw him and spoke

light up anybody’s day.

to doctors to get Quinton the surgery to correct his clubfeet. Before the surgery, Quinton had to lose 75 pounds. “The surgery was good and I am glad that I had it. I was nervous the day before when I went down there [hospital] but I just got over it.” The surgery was a complete success and for most of last year, students could see him roll around in his wheelchair. He was one step closer to his dream of playing high school football.

After the doctors cleared him

eight months after surgery, Quinton was at preseason workouts and an official player of the Zachary High School Broncos varsity football team. Quinton lived his dream of playing prep football.

“It feels good. I thought I wasn’t able to play because the doctor said the recovery would be long. Next visit, she said the recovery was faster than she thought.”

People saw Quinton on the football field

Quinton Gibson poses for a picture at the pep rally.

every Friday night, fulfilling his dream

One boy’s journey through adveristy to make it on the gridiron.

at

the

youth

park

and

eventually became a manager for the Broncos baseball team when he got to high school. Even though Quinton couldn’t play prep football, he was still a part of it. Quinton helped the

one game at a time.

What Quinton enjoyed most

about playing football was being with his teammates, “I enjoy being with my teammates and doing what I love.” His favorite memory so far this year came

“I enjoy being with my teammates and doing what I love”

after Zachary’s win over East Feliciana, “After the East Feliciana game, we were in the locker room dancing.” After

Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013 • 7

A player’s experience and brotherhood formed throughout a season

STORY BY: TIM CARR

TAMED AS A TEAM the master plan to defeat the opponent Playing football for the Broncos is an experience like no other. It makes memories that will never be forgotten. These memories are about working for a goal on a sweltering field. They are about times spent underneath sweat-drenched football pads. They are about all the emotional times spent with the Bronco football family, both good and bad.

These

memories

start

on

Sunday afternoons. When other Zachary students are relaxing in their homes, the Bronco football team meets in the athletic center to begin laying the groundwork mentally and physically for the next game. They push through the nits and pains delivered by their opponents the previous Friday nights. They have to prepare for greatness, no matter how they played in the past. They must ask themselves if they are up for the challenge of the future.

On Mondays, the coaches reveal 8 • Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013

that stands in their way. Every play is designed to succeed and the coaches have no doubt that their schemes will steam-roll the competition.

On Tuesday, the team does their

part and heads to the weight room to attack the weights so they can enforce their will on the opposition. Sometimes the constant repetition gets boring and tiring. Many want to quit, but in the Bronco football family, one person energizes the rest of the team, becoming the spark that reminds the team to step up and progress not regress. The entire team holds each other accountable to not skip reps and to get stronger. Each person on the team sharpens each other, as the proverb says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.”

On Thursdays, the team does

what many might call crazy, but truly the Broncos call it hard work and preparation; that is the Bronco way. The team walks into the Bronco Coral when there

is still dew on the grass. When it is still cold enough to see the strength of a breath, and our rivals are snug within their beds dreaming about the win against the Broncos, the Broncos are hard at work making sure they do not have even the smallest mistake.

On Fridays, the team wakes up

with the attitude of winning, the attitude of subjugating their opponent, the attitude of a BRONCO - the wild horse that is viscous and difficult or impossible to break.

The Bronco team members

know that in thirteen hours the time will come to put all their preparation to work. Walking down the hall in a dress shirt and tie allows the team members to swagger, just a bit, but when it’s time to truly dress in pads and a helmet, there is only one thing on the minds of the Broncos. That is domination.

Warming up on the field with

music brings the players to a whole new level. The team then gathers in the hel-

met and begins to rock back and forth, waiting anxiously to be released by the coaches. The team runs out onto the field through the cheerleaders behind the band, feeling the power of expectation. On the sidelines, the players begin to stare at their opponent to let them know that the Broncos are prepared and ready to take the victory. All the preparation and hype is over. The fans are standing behind the team; all attention is on the team.

Hundreds of people are encour-

aging the other team to win. Thoughts go through the minds of each football player as he waits to be called on the field. What will I do? How will I react?

What is going to happen next? No matter what happens, a memory will be made and the impression of this time will last forever.

Thomas McHugh kicks a field goal vs East Feliciana

“The team wakes up with the attitude of winning, the attitude of subjugating their opponent, the attitude of a BRONCO.”

ZHS player stumbles for yardage against EFHS

The kickoff team races down the field against East Feliciana.

Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013 • 9

DESIGN BY KATY FERNBAUGH

QUEENS OF THE COURT 2013-2014 Lady Bronco Volleyball Team

S

he lunges

out the match, Kaylan

upcoming games and tour-

onto the

Herbert stays as the main

naments. Kaylan is obli-

floor, knees

defense for their team.

gated to work even harder

striking the

“The day I became libero

than the rest as the core

floorboards

was one of my happiest

defensive team member.

hard, as her arms stretch

memories. I mean, to be

More running, more diving,

as far as possible for the

chosen is a great honor,”

more drive to win.

ball. Her capability to send

Kaylan said.

it flying upwards means

hopes to go on and play

either walking away from

with the rest of her team-

volleyball in college. To be

the game as victors or

mates, practices nearly

a part of a game that an

losers.

Kaylan, along

One day, she

every day all throughout

entire state will cheer on.

Kaylan Herbert is

7th period and more, doing

the key defensive player of

various exercises as prepa-

thing in the world,” Kaylan

the Zachary High School

ration for the upcoming

said. Her drive and deter-

volleyball team. While

games. Running, diving,

mination will take her far

other players are switched

jumping, ball work: these

no doubt, and cheer her on

out periodically through-

are key to being set for the

we will.

STORY BY EMILY JOHNSON DESIGN BY KATY FERNBAUGH

“It’s my favorite

PHOTOS BY EMILY JOHNSON

10 • Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013

Coach Gugich SPECIALTY: General

PROFESSIONAL CREDENTIALS: L.S.U.; certified to teach physical education CURRENTLY WORKING ON: Coaching Volleyball and Tennis; teaching Girl’s P.E. GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Getting the head coaching job at the young age of 25 GREATEST PASSION: Family PRIVATE PLEASURE: Playing tennis/ spending time with my family NOBODY KNOWS I’M: I have 50 pairs of tennis shoes.

I’VE NEVER BEEN ABLE TO: do a backflip I’D GIVE ANYTHING TO MEET: Nadal IF I COULD CHANGE ONE THING ABOUT MYSELF: I wouldn’t hold grudges.

FAVORITE QUOTE: “The quickest way to acquire self confidence is to do exactly what you are afraid to do.” -Author Unknown

Varsity

Delany Brady (12) Mariah Clayton (12) Kaylan Herbert (12) Ariel Johnson (12) Kaylynn Lawless (12) Biannca Pierre (12) Nila Rice (12) Chelsea Soileau (12) Brianna Square (12) Alexis Ventura (12) Tia Coleman (12) Nyka Martin (11) Keandra Williams (11) Dreona Clayton (10) Lauren Kinchen (10)

Freshman/jv Aldin Brady (10) Symone Jackson (10) Alea Jones (10) Kenedi Stephens (10) Alyssa Johnson (9) Ta’lor Barnes (9) Julia Coriel (9) Micheala McHugh (9) Katie Philips (9) Ashley Solieau (9) Ana Williams (9) Dreona Clayton (10) Courtney Johnson (10) Lauren Kinchen (10) Emma Chaney (9) Carlie Schenk (9)

2013-2014 Lady Bronco Volleyball Team

Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013 • 11

2014 Cheerleaders Seniors: Juniors: Sophomores: Freshmen: Dani Morse (Captain)

Lynsie LaValley

Skylar Shaw

McKenzie Sullivan

Taylor Matte

Ali White

Caitlin Halphen

Logan Guilbeau

KeAria Anderson

Cami White

Madison Neal

Karli Hall

Hannah Richards

Abbie Gayle

Ryleigh Carr

Kaycie LeBlanc

Mallory Bush

Tykeria Jackson

Victoria Jones

Taylee Corkern

Madison Monte

Paris Rogers

Kayla Davis

Raven Moore

DESIGN BY

Tamia Hartford

Kendall Boulton

Addison Murphy

Mandy Amond

KATY FERNBAUGH

Baylie Odom Shelby Waddell

Cocah profile

Name: Wendy Elbourne

Professional Credentials: Degree in Mathematics Currently Working on: Building a cheer team that is strong in ability, spirit, and leadership.

Greatest Accomplishments: Husband and two kids Greatest Passion: Teaching Private Pleasure: Reading Nobody knows I’m: a terrible singer!!

I’ve never been able to: do a back handspring I’d give anything to meet: Jennifer Aniston and Jon Bon Jovi If I could change 1 thing about myself: I would be taller.

Favorite Quote: The only time “success” comes before “work” is in the dictionary!

PHOTOS BY KATY FERNBAUGH

12 • Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013

NO FEAR, I’LL CHEER

STORY BY KATY FERNBAUGH

S

ince she was a blue-eyed,

most about cheerleading, Dani said, “I’m

LSU tiger cheerleaders, and Dani hopes

blonde hair little girl, Dani

very competitive. I’m a people person

to be one of the few.

Morse has had a sincere pas-

and I’ve done it my whole life, so I just

sion for cheerleading. She

like everything about it.” Dani is a base

a flyer so that I can try out for college

began all-star cheerleading

“This year I’m learning to be

when stunting and is an asset to the

cheer,” Dani said. “This year I think the

at the age of five. (For those who are

team as a strong tumbler.

hardest thing is being captain because

unfamiliar with cheerleading terms, all-

Since the age of five, Dani has

of having to deal with a lot of pressure.”

star cheerleading teams are not associ-

made plenty of memories and accom-

Not only does she juggle the challenges

ated with a sports team. They compete

plishments that have impacted her life

of being captain and learning to be a

against other all-star teams using tum-

and shaped who she is today. “One of

flyer, Dani also stays on top of her school

bling, dance, jumps, cheers, and stunting.)

my favorite cheer memories would be

work as well as working at Sammy’s Grill

When asked who inspired her to become

my freshman year when my team won

in Zachary.

a cheerleader, Dani said, “I looked up

state at my old school and my principal

to my older brother’s girlfriend who was

bought state rings for each of us,” Dani

mination has gotten her where she is

a cheerleader. I was a girly-girl so i just

said. “Another would be when I went to

today. Dani is a role model to many

wanted to be a cheerleader and be just

Worlds, ‘the Olympics of Cheerleading,’

young girls who dream of one day being

like Barbie.”

with my all-star team “Ace” and we placed

the high-school cheerleading captain.

12th in the world. We had so much fun!”

Cheerleading and the memories she’s

all-star cheer until the end of her fresh-

made will always be a big part of her life.

man year at Siegel High School. Dani

master flying. Flying is a requirement of

moved from Murfreesboro, Tennessee, to

an LSU cheerleader in order to do co-ed

Zachary, Louisiana her sophomore year

stunts which involve one man as a base

where she participated in competition

holding up a girl in one hand. She looks

and high school cheerleading.

to the LSU Cheerleaders in admiration.

Dani continued participating in

Now

Dani works hard at practice to

Dani is a senior and is the captain of the

They are key to the experience of

2013-2014 Zachary High School Varsity

Saturday night in Death Valley that so

cheerleading team.

many Louisianians cherish. Only a select

few get the chance to call themselves

When asked what she enjoys

Dani’s hard work and deter-

a

Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013 • 13

IT STARTS WITH THE MIND CROSS COUNTRY

Z

achary Cross Country Schedule 2013 Saturday, Sept. 7 - Relay Meet at West Feliciana Saturday, Sept. 14 Episcopal Round Table Run at Highland Road Park

By Ellen Johnston

Photos By: Isabella Vasquez

Saturday, Oct. 5 - St. Joseph’s Academy Meet at Highland Road Park Saturday, Oct. 12 - Catholic High Meet at Highland Road Park Saturday, Oct. 19 - Walker Inv. at Walker

Saturday, Sept. 21 - St. Paul’s Meet at Episcopal Retreat Center in Robert, LA. Saturday, Sept. 28 - Battlefield Race at Port Hudson

Saturday, Oct. 26 - Tom Nolan Memorial Inv. at Lafayette

Park

Monday, Nov. 11 Metro Meet at Highland Road

Tuesday, Nov. 19 - State Meet at Natchitoches

Coach Carlisle (left) and Fletcher (right) with their competing male runners at State.

14 • Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013

Coach Fletcher (left) and Coach Carlisle (right) with competeing State female runners for Zachary’s Cross Country team.

CROSS COUNTRY

Karah

9th Grade Brady Frank John Paul Thomas Gavin Nicholas Janie Aasha Kyla 10th Grade Kyle Dane William Dondrell Aanan Davis Brandon Lee William Christian Ciara Macie Rhagan Savannah Haley

Bennett Hotard Hardin Dunaway Ashford Beard O’Connor Henderson D’arensbourg Durbin Baker Heidke Fleming Henderson Hughes Washington Brinkhaus Woodfin Hafford Gibbs Howell Rider Higgins Sullivan

Landry

11th Grade Brice Jordan Trevor William Joseph Luke Martin Alex Randy Morgan Sean Sierra LaQuea ShaQuea Jennifer Tyler Madison

Ortego Kozar Humphrey Payne Starns Mondello Fontenot Qaddoorah Crosby Hubert Pedlar Johnson Schiele Shiele Brown Wade Weems

12th Grade Brent Zach Jacob Aisha Kenyetta Brynn Isabella

Callihan Ragsdale Knight Harbor Franklin Boone Vasquez

Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013 • 15

HORRAY FOR HENRY!

BY ELLEN JOHNSTON

H

ere she comes, they whisper together.

“Mrs. Henry!! Congratulations on your promotion!” “Thanks you guys!” she declares. “I’m loving my job so much! I wouldn’t change it for the world!”

For Zachary High, a new Assistant Principal of Instruction, or API, has been assigned. And for the majority of the school, the woman in charge could never be better! “I just love it!” Mrs. Erica Henry said in her cute purple top and professional, pressed black pants. Mrs. Erica Henry may have begun as an English teacher nearly 16 years ago, but she has come a long way. She climbed the ladder of success from teacher to counselor to test coordinator and Academic Dean then to her position as the API for Zachary High, still seeing herself as all five.

“I love being busy,” Mrs. Henry said, sitting in her new, private office. “I even have a pair of comfortable shoes behind the desk.” A pair of old, ragged, black and white OneStars sat beside her desk. “That is probably the worst part of my day: not being able to visit every class a day,” Mrs. Henry said. “There are so many things for me to do, but there are so many minutes in a day.” And she’s right, as everyone is well aware.

In her spare time, Mrs. Henry adores sipping her favorite smoothie, the strawberry yogurt delight, and eating homemade macaroni and cheese. She even enjoys taking long, luxurious bubble baths. She just loves spending time with her husband and young daughter. However, one day Mrs. Henry received

16 • Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013

a phone call from her husband, changing her month for the better. “Yes Honey, I will be home at 4 p.m. Yes I promise.” 30 minutes later… “Hey Honey, I’m sorry I’m late. I had some extra work I had to do. Wait, where are we going?”

Mr. Henry blindfolds Mrs. Henry, places her in the 2003 Trailblazer she drives to school every morning, and begins driving. After aimlessly guessing on where they are headed, Mrs. Henry gives in. After 30 minutes, they arrive. “You can take off your blindfold.” In front of her eyes, Mrs. Henry sees Carmax and a brand new Honda Accord.

“Now you can look like an administrator.”

Mrs. Henry’s duties consist of walking around campus during first and seventh hour (with a different route each day so teachers won’t expect her), answering hundreds of emails containing lesson plans from all the teachers, helping teachers introduce ideas to Mr. Watts, and much more. Since Mrs. Henry has so much to do, no wonder students can constantly hear an echo of clicking heels against the hard, linoleum floor during class. Zachary High School

has around 1,550 attending students, making her a busy bee every second of the day.

Mrs. Henry began ‘You’ve been caught being good’ for teachers. Emails are sent to teachers who won the award every week, telling the teacher what they did to earn the prize. Along with inspiring teachers, student athletes are rewarded as well.

Every Friday, Mrs. Henry wears a different jersey for a student.

“I wear it for an athlete who is doing well not only in his/her sport, but also doing well academically.” Although these two great ideas come to life are amazing, Mrs. Henry plans to bring Mrs. Henry with Madison Monte more to the table.

Mrs. Henry adores her job.

Staying busy, seeing all the students and staff each day, she loves her job just a bit more everyday.

“When I began as an English teacher, I wanted to become the API in 15 years. It did take me an extra year, but I made it! I love it!

Just love it!”

in the front office sporting her football sweater with style.

I love being busy,” Mrs. Henry said, sitting in her new, private office. “I even have a pair of comfortable shoes behind my desk.”

Mrs. Henry (right) with Ms. Ward (left) at a pep-rally, wearing a football jersey for her sports player of the week.

Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013 • 17

A IS FOR

AWESOME I

n a sleepy little town, nestled amongst the towering oaks there stands an awesome school with awesome teachers who teach awesome students.

It’s not your typical small town school where everyone knows everyone, rather there is a shared vision of greatness that floods the halls like the sweet smelling aromas from the Bronco Cafe’.

Today’s menu reads: 4 years of stick-to-it-tiveness 40 something Friday nights under the lights 20 pep rallies 6 EOC’s 1 Rube Goldberg project Sprinkle in a few all-nighters...

Mix it all together with countless attaboys and numerous pats on the back from teachers….

Garnish it with an unforgettable graduation and... you come out with awesome.

Awesome. It’s not a word we throw around flippantly, but we recognize that after 8 years of dominating the state, there is no other word for it.

We strive to be great, because our teachers expect it.

We excel in all areas, because we deserve it.

We make each day count, because WE are broncos, so just stop by this sleepy little town and you’ll see…

Awesome happens here every day! *Written by an anonymous Bronco.

18 • Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013

“See you at the pole will be tomorrow...don’t forget!” You might remember drowning these words out during first hour trying to stuff that last minute bite of breakfast in your mouth or gossip to your friend about what’s-his-name. However, to some people, it is a very significant date, and it had to be battled for. It is a day to freely stand around our nation’s flag to pray for our school and nation. People all around the world celebrate See You at the Pole, including the Dominican Republic, Canada, Germany and Hong Kong.

But what is the point, one might ask? I mean, can’t you pray for your school anytime you want? Technically, you can. School must not interfere with religion or rallies of scripture reading, and worship must not take place on school grounds save for this date. This right to practice religion on school grounds has been tested all throughout United States history. Many teachers and principals have challenged the public meeting of worship and reverence, only to have been fought back down with the right for “freedom of speech.” Some cases have even gone to appear before the Supreme Court.

“It’s important that students and teachers as well as others know about their right to participate in See You at the Pole events- a right affirmed by the US Supreme Court,” said John W. Whitehead, president of the Rutherford Institute, in a released statement.

So, even though you might not be super religious or even Christian, respect must tbe paid to this date. All throughout history, wars have been fought, and lives have been lost, all in the name of freedom of speech and religion. People have fought for this date, and have won. Admiration for those who stand before others to pray for you and your school demands respect and dignity.

See You at the Pole is a chance for students to praise their God for their education and to celebrate that freedom. Not many people have that choice.

Students follow along in Bibles that were given out.

STORY BY: EMILY JOHNSON DESIGN BY: KATY FERNBAUGH

PHOTOS BY JENNIFER MOAK Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013 • 19

Photo By: Emily Johnson

Photo By: Emily Johnson

Photo By: Katy Fernbaugh

Photo By: Ellen Johnston

FRESH  THOMAS ( HUNTER ) LANDRY Teacher, American History

 NATHAN MUNSELL Teacher, American History



JUTERH NMAH Junior Counselor



GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENTS

GREATEST PASSION

Fulfilling my dream of becoming a teacher when so many people told me that I was crazy.

Traveling the world

Completing college with a wife and daughter

Music

I am the first of my siblings Students and work to receive a master’s degree.

JAMES WALKER

Teacher, World History Coach, freshman football and freshman baseball

Graduate school at ULM

“Everyone is born ignorant, but you have to work hard to stay stupid.” Benjamin Franklin

20 • Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013

Working with young people every day.

FACES

STORY BY: BU STAFF

PRIVATE PLEASURE

NOBODY KNOWS I’M

I’VE NEVER BEEN ABLE TO

FAVORITE QUOTE

Snow Skiing!

A complete goof ball! ( I love to joke around and be silly.)

Do a cartwheel

“Be yourself...no one can tell you you’re doing it wrong!!!”

Music

A huge Celine Dion fan.

Go on a long camping trip in the woods alone.

“Everyone is born ignorant but you have to work hard to stay stupid.” - Ben Franklin

Sports (football and basketball)

Extremely goofy

Go on a vacation out of the country.

“Be the change you want to see in the world.” - Ghandi

Understand which came first: the chicken or the egg?

“Gentlemen, we will chase perfection, and we will chase it relentlessly, knowing all the while we can never attain it. But along the way, we shall catch excellence.” Vince Lombardi

Cooking!

A huge country music fan.

“I’ve never been able to understand which came first: the chicken or the egg?” - Mr. Walker

Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013 • 21

ZHS FOREIGN EXCHANGE STUDENTS Photo by:Jennifer Moak

1.

STORY BY:KELSEY OLSON A ten year old girl in Norway sits down on her bed to read a magazine not even able to imagine the life-altering impact it is going to have on her. In this magazine is an article about an amazing opportunity to travel and see America, not to mention being able to attend school at the same time. Though the goal seems unreachable, it has been branded into her mind forever.

DESIGN BY: KELSEY OLSON

22 • Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013

Jenny Roberts, now 17 years old, has finally accomplished her dream of coming to America. This shy young lady from Norway

THE AMERICAN

DREAM

now attends Zachary High with hopes to get a taste of America and experience new things.

“Everybody wants to come to America,” she said. This adventurous teen asked to come to the South so that “Everything would be different,” and because “I hate snow.” Compared to the United States, Norway had “like no people,” Jenny said. “I miss my friends and some of the food, but my mom sent me food so I’m good.”

In spite of what she misses, she really does not miss the place and is elated to be in the United States.

Getting here, however, was not an easy journey and it started the minute she became interested. Because the cost was so high, “I had to work five jobs starting when I was ten,” she said nonchalantly. The dedication required to get here was astronomical in her case. She did everything from working in an advertising agency, to working in a home for the elderly, to babysitting since the age of eight, but “that’s not a real job,” Jenny said. To this incredibly assiduous worker, the thought of coming to an American high school was “unreal, because I have been dreaming about it since I was ten.”

Jenny was ecstatic when she raised the money she needed to come.

In Norway, she finished high school and is in “college,” which in Norway is more of a secondary high school. There, they have no electives in high school, “Everyone must take the same classes,” Jenny said. Their college is an opportunity to start finding interests that will eventually lead to careers. Jenny wants to be a surgeon and has to go through two more years of high school and then onto “university” which is tantamount to American colleges. A desire to travel has always been prevalent in Jenny’s thoughts, but she never thought it would really work once she started a career, so this was her perfect opportunity. She could travel and study at the same time, making it easier on her and letting her have fun in the bargain.

So far, Jenny is having a blast in America. Though she misses her friends at home, “I love my new friends,” she said adamantly.

Jenny Roberts posing on pajama day

2.

STORY BY:ELLEN JOHNSTON She steps into the unfamiliar building.

Bright lights line the ceiling and new faces as far as the eye can see. This isn’t home she thinks as she walks to her first hour. So many differences. So much change. What have I gotten myself into...?

Meet Amandine Andrin. Just last March, she was living in Belgium, a country in Western Europe. She spoke fluent French and slight

Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013 • 23

German when necessary; she was taught English for four years at school, mastering the art of language so one day she could come to America. Although she officially graduated last year, she came to America to experience something new.

“Many people want to experience the ‘American Dream.’ I wanted to experience this as well and see why many people wanted to come here. It may have big differences, but I love it here,” Amandine said with a glimmer in her eye. “Here, there is much religion. Home, I was raised Catholic. However, I didn’t go to church much or practice much. It really wasn’t a big deal at home. Here, it is a very big deal.

Many people with strong beliefs are here. Big difference.”

Once Amandine discovered that she wanted to visit America for a year as a junior in highschool, she joined WEP (World Education Program). The program allows students to write about themselves and their life including family and friends. People in the desired country participating in the program pick the child they would like to house from the information given.

Amandine’s host family is in Zachary, Louisiana, allowing her to move to Louisiana to attend school. “So here I am.”

“I do miss my family and friends,” says the bright and brave 18 year-old. “I Skype with them once or twice a week, but without that, I would be so miserable without them. I don’t miss my city much though,” Amandine said.

If she could, Amandine would attend a college here in the United States, but there is a problem with that dream that couldn’t be avoided… “Too much money. No no,” she laughs.

“But if I could stay here for college, I would.”

She loves Zachary. The people are caring and considerate, so she feels welcome. “I may be on the other end of the Earth, but not much is different. People are the same no matter where they are from.”

24 • Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013

ing for the

drin smil madine An

A

3.

“

camera

Moving to another country is not that easy... what would I be without them?”

STORY BY: EMILY JOHNSON Imagine yourself sitting in your living

room, watching TV, when your family walks in, and tells you that your wildest dream is coming true. You jump up with excitement. “What? How? What?” you exclaim. “Yeah! But...you gotta leave and you won’t see us for many months! Bye!”

And just like that, your bags are packed, you are strapped in the car, and you are off.

Pedro Saddy experienced something like this.

He moved from Brazil to Louisiana because he wanted to be a professional soccer player. He found a firm called 2SV Sports Management, whose goal is to have soccer players travel to the United States for University to play soccer and study, a chance that you do not get in Brazil.

So he made it when he was 15, playing against players who were 17 years old and above. Big, beefy guys, who loom over him, daring him to approach. But Pedro has not let this phase him.

He has been playing for this firm for two and a half years now. At the beginning of the year, Pedro got a call from the firm telling him that he needed to travel to another state and take an English test to go to America. He took the test and passed, but he did not know that he was going to come to Louisiana, as he could have landed anywhere in the United States. Now, he lives in a town called Zachary. This probably sounds familiar.

Moving to another country is not that easy, keeping in mind about leaving many things behind: family, friends, hobbies and a native country. When he first got the instructions to go take a test, he refused immediately because he did not want to leave his family, crying at nights asking, “What would I be without them?” But this was his dream. This experience will help him

to grow as a better person, to be more openminded, to get to know another culture, and to get him closer to his dream.

4.

She did not come here on the back of a dragon, sword held high, either. Though that would be awesome, she came here through an organization called ICES, and in Finland it is called “Explorius.” She had to take a test on her English skills and fill out countless paperwork. It took about a year to get into the program, and then she had only three short days to say her goodbyes before she was shipped off to America. She stays with her “host family,” people who took her in and who she has become close to. Because Finland is so different than the United States, Louiisa has to become used to many diverse things.

“Weather in Finland is so much colder” Louiisa said. “Here it’s so hot all the time.”

Some other “weird” things we do here are celebrate Thanksgiving and Halloween.

Unfortunately, Louiisa has to return home soon to her family. She will be here for one school year, and will return home at the beginning of summer. “I will miss my host family very much,” Louiisa said.

Though coming to a new land or even a new school can seem scary and unnerving, Louiisa has proven it does not take a knight’s bravery to do it. She will be missed when she leaves, but we will remember her, and hope she learned enough to fill a storybook.

Louissa stops to pose for a picture on

STORY BY: EMILY JOHNSON

America Day.

Once upon a time, there was a girl living in a far off land. She was blonde, beautiful, and an engaging young woman. She dreamed of life in another land, where she would be happier.

One day, her wish came true, and she moved all the way to this mysterious place, where she learned new customs and a new way of life.

She was joyful with this new life.

Now, you may be thinking this is from a Grimm’s brother’s tale, but you would be incorrect. This story is very much true, and though she is indeed engaging and beautiful, she is no fairy tale. Her name is Louiisa Maki and her home is in Finland, a land undeniably far, far away.

Louiisa and Pedro in their character day costumes.

Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013 • 25

ASKING A STORY Foreig n La ng uage Department

Students use gestures to help get their point across without speaking English.

STORY BY KATY FERNBAUGH

Imagine yourself in a country. Nobody speaks your language. You can pick up a few words here and there, but you cannot understand most of what people are saying. You try your hardest, but you cannot comprehend any messages being conveyed to you.

This seems to be the case for the majority of high school foreign language students. Previously, foreign language classes were a monotonous cycle of textbook learning and testing. Students memorized vocabulary to pass the tests, but when it came down to putting those words into use, many students were at a loss for words, literally. Foreign language classes became more about making the grade than learning the language.

Before the 2013 school year, foreign language teachers attended a convention to try and learn new ways to further engage their students. At the convention, Mr. Blaine Ray presented his method of teaching.

He coined the term TPRS (Teaching Proficiency through Reading and Storytelling).

Class is made a little bit more entertaining by using props in their skits.

PHOTOS BY KATY FERNBAUGH DESIGN BY KATY FERNBAUGH

26 • Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013

“Mr. Ray came to the realization that his students’ enjoyment of the language was hindered by boring grammar activities found in textbooks, so he set out to make a change,” Mr. Rumfola said, a ZHS Spanish teacher who attended the convention at which Mr. Ray taught his system to various foreign language teachers. TPRS focuses less on vocabulary and commands and focuses more on telling stories as a class in the third person.

Rumfola said, “The focus of TPRS is fluency in the spoken language. Learning the target vocabulary structures by applying them in the correct context gives students a chance to acquire the language more naturally. This is constantly reinforced through the re-telling of stories, asking questions about the stories (both by the teacher and the students), extended reading activities, and classwide novel readings with student actors.”

The real goal of foreign language teachers is to have their students be able to communicate. It is one thing to know a few select phrases or vocabulary words, but you cannot have a true understanding with such a scarce amount of resources.

Through TPRS, students gain knowledge of how to not only speak the language, but to fully express themselves with confidence. Now, that student who was previously too scared to attempt to speak the language can speak with reassurance that they will be able to get their point across. With TPRS, students’ comprehension has improved as well as their overall enjoyment of the class with its various activities.

TEST DATES ACT 2013-2014 Test Date:

Registration Deadline:

September 21, 2013

LATE Registration Deadline

August 23,2013

Aug. 24-Sept. 6, 2013

September 27, 2013

Sept. 28- Oct.11, 2013

*December 14, 2013

November 8, 2013

November 9-22, 2013

February 8, 2013

January 10, 2014

January 11-24, 2014

*April 12, 2014

March 7, 2014

March 8, 2014

*June 14, 2014

May 9, 2014

October 26, 2013

May 10-23, 2014

ACT Fees: $36.50 $52.50 $23.00 $19.00

– No writing – Plus Writing – Late Registration – Test Imformation Release (TIR)

If you order TIF on one of the national test dates starred above, you will recieve a list of your answers, a copy of the multiple-choice test, answer key, and scoring intrusctions.

Test Center Code: 156380 High School Code: 193070 Visit www.actstudent.org to register

SAT 2013-2014 Test Date:

Registration Deadline

*October 5, 2013

November 2, 2013

December 7, 2013

LATE Registration Deadline

September 6, 2013

*January 25, 2014

September 20, 2013

October 3, 2013

October 18, 2013

November 8, 2013

November 22, 2013

December 27, 2013

January 10, 2014

March 8, 2014

February 7, 2014

February 21, 2014

*May 3, 2014

April 4, 2014

April 18, 2014

June 7, 2014

SAT FEES: $51.00 $27.50 Change $27.50 Late Registration $18.00 Question & Answer Service

May 9, 2014

May 23, 2014

*Question and Answer Service provides the test questions from the test, the correct answers, scoring instructions, and a form you can use to order a copy of your answer sheet, It is only offered on the test dates starred above.

Test Center Code: 19301 High School Code: 193070 Visit sat.collegeboard.org/register to register Broncos Untamed • Fall 2013 • 27