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
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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
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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