Spotlight October Issue

Spotlight

Volume 16 Issue 2 - October 17 - Andover Central High School

Facing Forward

Seniors face mounting pressure as application as application deadlines near

INSIDE:

STUCO needs student help

Fall trends and activities

Concussions in high school sports

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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National Meritt Four seniors are honored for their National Meritt Semifinalist status.

Photo by Maddie Spurlock

Falling into fall

10. Honor Societies New honor societies are added to school curriculum. Photo by Grant Hoofer

20. Concussions

Pumpkin patches and haunted houses are a staple in the fall season. Photo by Megan Weisser

Concussions are becoming a more prevelant issue, leading to concerns of CTE. Photo by Drew Weins

Check out online at ACHSspotline.org: Copy Editor

Production Staff

Maddie Spurlock Claire Monroe Sydney Sagehorn Colton Trowbridge

Kinsley Ochsner

Sage Edwards Clark Schoonover Grace Pool Kylie Roman Holly Shortt Jillian Primm Ashley Zellers

Alexandra Shumann

Webmaster

Sports Editor

Evan Byers

Austin Zellers

2 Table of Contents

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22. Brooklyn Strobel Junior is ranked number one libero in the metro area. Photo by Drew Weins

23. Boys Soccer

The boys soccer team has a near-perfect season with an 11-1 record. Photo by Jason Thompson

NHS Blood Drive / Gun control editorial / All-State choir contest

Editors in chief

Buisness Manager

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Photo Editor Holli Dreiling Brent Lane Huntor O’Connor

Grace Blackman

Photographers

Video and Aurasma

Jason Thompson Drew Wiens Megan Weisser

Al Genovese

Advisor Julie Calabro

On the cover: Photo Illustration by Grace Blackman and Sydney Sagehorn, Maddie Spurlock Visit page 12 for more Page by Holly Shortt

Calender 3

Page Kinsley Ochsner

Teachers support new scholarship Story Ashley Zellers Page Jillian Primm, Ashley Zellers

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ife after high school worries countless students every day, especially seniors, as graduation day inches closer. The administration recognized this stress and developed a solution, in the form of a scholarship.

“We got the idea from surrounding schools that offer it,” principal Cheryl Hochalter said.

The scholarship’s primary purpose is to promote college or military options for students. Teachers were asked to pledge a certain amount of money. Then, every Wednesday, teachers who contributed get to wear a college or military shirt of their choice.

“The minimum amount is five dollars, but teachers can give whatever they want,” Hochalter said.

The scholarship provides an excellent chance for a lucky student to save money on

college. The exact amount is solely based on what teachers choose to give, so there are no guarantees for a specific amount.

According to counselor Erin Eilert, the scholarship is already up to $1,140, and there is still more money to come. As for eligibility, the guidelines are currently undecided, but the counselors plan to make it as inclusive as possible. An official set of requirements will be available in the coming weeks.

“The goal is to make it fair for everyone, we want to open it up to as many seniors as possible,” Eilert said.

Semifinalists receieve gifts provided by the administration. Photos by Maddie Spurlock

Teachers participating in new scholarship wear their college gear to promote future college and military options for seniors. Photo by Drew Weins

National Merit Semifinalists Story Jillian Primm

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our seniors received exciting news on September 13, when they learned that they had not only achieved National Merit Semifinalist status, they had broken a school record. Kaitlyn Cowen, Alex Engels, Connor Sutton, and Amanda Perez, seniors broke the

4 News Briefs

previous record of three students by scoring exceptionally well on the 2016 PSAT, offered only once every year.

The honorees did not prepare for the test as much as one would assume.

“I took a practice test provided by the counselor the night before testing day, but nothing else too extreme,” senior Alex Engels said.

Kaitlyn Cowen, senior, took a different approach.

“I definitely tried to pay attention to classes more because there were lots of things

we learned in them on the PSAT. They [the counselors] gave us a book to study, but I didn’t use it too much,” Cowen said.

Although it varies by the school, many colleges and universities offer semifinalists and finalists different levels of scholarships for receiving the award.

“This doesn’t affect my decision of schools, but it gives me a greater chance of getting into my top choices,” senior Connor Sutton said.

For others, the National Merit Semifinalist title provides helpful insight in determining what their next year will look like.

StuCo searches for feedback Ideas, opinions help improve event quality Story Holli Dreiling, Kinsley Ochsner Page Kinsley Ochsner

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he main goal of the student council, also known as StuCo, is to be the voice of the student population. To be the voice, they must also take the ideas and thoughts of the school into consideration as well.

As the new year takes off, and their first major event past (homecoming), the group is ready to take on the rest of the school year.

“I think [this year] is going well. We have good leadership from Mya and Mitchell and the seniors that are there,” StuCo sponsor Adrienne Stenholm said.

The seniors have taken their positions seriously, and are working hard to keep the classroom in control.

“I’m really just there to make sure things are running as smoothly as they can. The students are doing most of the leading,” Stenholm said.

Student council operates based off of student demand and wants. With this said, they are open to and encourage student suggestions.

“If students have any ideas, they usually

come tell me in person, which is awesome,” Student Body President Mya Acosta said.

Opinions are valued greatly by all of Stuco and are taken into great consideration.

“I don’t have people bring new ideas to me terribly often, but I always love it when people do! I always try to take student input into consideration” Acosta said.

Pleasing the entire student body is the main goal for StuCo. “Everything StuCo does is for the student body, so we of course want to appeal to our students’ wants,” Acosta said.

Feedback helps StuCo improve the quality of events.

“We’re here to improve the school. We can do that if we know what needs to change, and feedback is a big part of that.”

The greatest reward for StuCo is seeing the student body enjoying the events they worked diligently on,” Student Body Vice President Mitchell Allison said.

“Everyone in StuCo has a love for volunteering and giving back to our school. To see the student body coming to and enjoying our events is more than enough of a reward,” Acosta said.

-Mya Acosta,

-Mitchell Allison,

Student Body President

Student Body Vice President

Do you appreciate both the positive and negative feeback students offer?

In addition to speaking to members, how can students give their ideas to Stuco?

"I love, love, love, hearing from students; their ideas, thoughts, feedback, whether it's god or bad. It's so helpful to hear from the students to better our events."

"We have a Stuco suggestion box they can use to put their suggestions in . Feedback is important so that Stuco knows what we're doing well, and what we need to change."

Meet the StuCo Class Presidents Blayne O'Connor, freshman "I decided to join Stuco this year to become more involved and put my leadership skills to good use. I love school and I just want to aid others and enjoy school fully.”

Grant Hoofer, sophomore “[My favorite event} is the blood drive because it helps people who are in need, and we don’t have to go to class.”

Lauren Wolf, junior “Being class president helps keep me more involved than I would have been as a rep. I’ve had to exercise lots of leadership and communication skills.”

Hunter O’Connor, senior “I have to make lots of sacrifices [to balance Stuco with other events]. I don’t get to go to certain activities and prioritize, but it can get tough with football and school.”

Photos Grace Blackman, Drew Wiens, Megan Weisser, Jason Thompson

News 5

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WHO ARE Story, page Maddie Spurlock

Despite being a nation founded on equality and freedoms of all citizens, the United States has struggled with racial unrest for centuries. While stepping stones such as the Civil War amendments and the signing of the Civil Rights Act into law have eased racial tensions, the main issue still prevails.

On February 26, 2012, 17-yearold Trayvon Martin was shot and killed by George Zimmerman, and following three weeks of trial, Zimmerman was acquitted of the murder of Martin, thus birthing the Black Lives Matter movement.

Since the death of Martin, twelve high-profile instances of unarmed black men and women being killed by officers have been reported according to ABC News.

The Black Lives Matter movement follows these cases as a means of protesting the killings as well as the verdict of the trial. However, according to BBC, an officer is given the benefit of the doubt

substantially more often than the victim, meaning officers are rarely charged, and when they are, their punishment is often shortened or changed. Thus, the BLM movement’s following has become increasingly more prominent.

Following the BLM protests in Ferguson, Missouri, a new movement arose. The All Lives Matter movement, and a the closely related Blue lives matter movement, were created in contradiction to BLM. The movement has generated stamina through social media posts, usually suggesting that BLM as a black power organization, and the movement was intended to include “all” lives rather than just “black” lives.

“When a white cop kills a black man, the Black Lives Matter movement is all over it,” sophomore Chelsea Hearson said.

“But when a black cop kills a white man, no one really cares.

Black lives aren’t the only lives that matter. It should be All Lives Matter.”

“Black Lives Matter is overblown

BLACK LIVES MATTER ALL LIVES MATTER BLUE LIVES MATTER

and misguided. They skew statistics and don’t really understand what they’re following,” senior Cade Schoenhofer said.

However, the Black Lives Matter movement has stated that they do not believe that only Black lives matter, rather they believe that black lives matter too.

“Once, I saw a tweet that said ‘All lives matter is similar to breaking a bone and going to the doctor and have them tell you that all of your bones matter,’” sophomore Emily Smith said.

“Yes, obviously all bones matter, but this specific one is broken and it needs to be fixed.”

However, the BLM movement was created to support the disproportional killing of unarmed black men by white officers.

Young black men are specifically the victim of the issue.

“I’ve had a discussion with my mother about what to do if I get pulled over,” senior Darryl Givens said. “She is a police officer, and she gave me cards that tell me exactly how to act on them. Not only for me, but for my friends,

too.”

“My parents told me to be cautious of what I do around officers and to never have an attitude,” junior Xavier Bell said.

“I feel like I wouldn’t be in any trouble with an officer, I don’t have an attitude so I trust them.”

After five years of BLM’s existence, some are still dissatisfied with the way in which the group protests. Whether it be taking a knee during the National Anthem or protesting in the streets, the discourse is alive and well no matter the alternative.

“Taking a knee is a really great way [for BLM] to protest,” Smith said. “You’re showing that you understand the oppression of black people in the United States without violence or the potential to become violent.”

“Taking a knee during the National Anthem isn’t a protest.

It’s more of a disrespect issue,” sophomore Grant Hoofer said.

“The National Anthem is not played for black or white people, it’s played for people overseas who risk their lives everyday.”

News

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Kickstart fall with a varity of activities Pumpkins, frights bring in the autumn season, chilly weather

Patches bring about tradition Page Claire Monroe, Story Kylie Roman

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ake up and smell the apple cider.

September 22nd marked the first official day of fall and with that comes the opening of pumpkin patches. Two of the biggest patches, Walter’s and Applejack, have new competition in the form of Marietta Farms.

Marietta farms quickly threw together their field, but made sure to include multiple different features. However, since it developed so fast, mixed emotions surround the business.

“I feel like a lot of people will go just to see what they have to offer. I’m not really sure what activities it has but I’m excited that there’s a pumpkin patch so close,” sophomore Cerah Handsaker said. “I think it will be great for the community and I can’t wait to go and make memories with all my friends.”

While it grabs attention, not everyone is as overjoyed by the idea of the so called patch.

“I feel like it’s not a pumpkin patch

because the pumpkins aren’t even coming out of the ground, they are just sitting on the ground. Does this mean Dillon’s becomes a pumpkin patch because they have pumpkins outside? It’s just not a pumpkin patch to me,” senior Craig Koch said.

In addition to Marietta farms, Walter’s and Applejack have booming business and are still a fan favorite.

“The [Walter’s] pumpkin patch is honestly really fun, there’s so much to do. There’s tons of games: you can jump on little trampolines, there’s lots of great food, and obviously you get to pick out a pumpkin. They have a humongous field of pumpkins for you to pick the perfect one, it’s the best,” senior Haley Lyon said.

Be sure to take part in a pumpkin patch and all the activities involved to make the most of the fall season before it’s too late.

Fresh scary scenes hit theaters Stories Colton Trowbridge

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ased off of the novel by Stephen King, It has been adapted to the screen three times. The newest version sees seven kids, who make up the “Losers Club,” trying to find the monster terrorizing their small town of Derry, Maine. The monster takes the form of Pennywise the Dancing Clown, and feeds on children. The movie follows the kids’ attempts to find the missing kids and kill the clown, all the while throwing in comedy and a classic 80s aesthetic. The film has grossed over $600,000,000 worldwide, and has set the record box office for R-rated horror films.

Lindsey Jackson, junior, picking out a pumpkin at AppleJack’s Pumpkin Patch.

PHOTO MEGAN WEISSER

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Thrill seekers found at haunted houses Story Sage Edwards

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ith the fall season finally here, the traditions and celebrations of Halloween commence.

One tradition that students have previously joined in on in the past is going to haunted houses.

“I went to one in fifth grade, it was called The Asylum. It was the scariest experience of my entire life,” senior Briana Copeland said.

Copeland has vivid memories about her time at the haunted house.

“When we were outside, it was quiet, so I knew something was going to jump out at me. But then we almost made it out and a guy jumped down in front of me and I just took off running,” Copeland said. “It was terrifying.”

One extremely popular local haunted house is Field of Screams, located on the northwest side of Wichita.

Zared Salome, junior, said “I’ve been to the

Field of Screams. This dude chased us with a chain saw at the end. It was pretty fun.”

Salome also described the one instance that scared him the most.

“They had this thing that you had to crawl through with something above you trying to grab you.”

Tori Hill, sophomore, has also been scared by the actors at Field of Screams.

“The most memorable thing that had happened was the guy that blended in with the wall, it was really creepy,” Hill said.

Audrey Bishop, freshman, said that she really enjoyed Field of Screams.

“There was a guy chasing us with chain saws that had real motors, so it sounded super real,” Bishop said. “I would definitely go back to the Field of Screams. It was a fun

Lindsey Jackson and Kodi Stockstill, juniors, comparing the pumpkins they picked out on their way home from the Apple Jack Pumpkin Patch. PHOTO MEGAN WEISSER

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rom director Darren Aronofsky, mother! has quickly become one of the most controversial films of the year. Following the struggle of a couple as they deal with the arrival of various strangers to their house and the trouble they bring. The film has seemingly split critics down the middle, with some calling it brilliant and others calling it confusing and nonsensical.

The film relies on deep psychological horror and delves deep into the human psyche.

The movie stars A-list actors such as Jennifer Lawrence and Javier Bardem in the lead roles; however, the artistic style of Aronofsky may turn some viewers off.

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he fourth film in the Conjuring series, Annabelle: Creation serves as the backstory for the famous haunted doll. The film follows the story of a doll-maker and his wife 12 years after the death of their daughter. The family welcomes a nun and several orphan girls into their house, where they become the fixation and target of the possessed Annabelle doll. The film reveals much of the unknown backstory of the haunted doll in attempt to better the three other films of the series. Unlike the artistic style of mother! and the retro humor of It, Annabelle: Creation follows the style and working of a pure modern horror film.

Feature 9

2 1 1) Sydney Rummery, Spanish teacher and association leader alongside Stephanie Garcia, Lights Lauren Wolf, junior’s,“vela” at Spanish Honors Society Inductions. There were 23 total inductees at the ceremony. Photo Darryl Givens 2) Allison Uhlenhop, junior, practices fake fighting during Thespian’s Club. Uhlenhop serves as social chair in the honors society. Photo Grant Hoofer

3) While giving blood at the National Honor Society Blood Drive, Katie Larson, senior, experienced some difficulties. “The nurse was unclamping the tube and he accidentally tugged on it, and that pulled the needle out of my arm. It didn’t hurt, but I looked down and saw a pool of blood. It was a little disturbing,” Larson said. Photo Jason Thompson

3 Honor Societies connect with community Story, Page Alexandra Schumann

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onor societies are a way to engage students in the community. Each group has different subject focus and values, but they all center around going above and beyond and to bring students together.

“Honor societies in general are kind of a prestigious thing where you find people who have common interests as you, and it’s a great thing to do for not only your future but also for the community,” senior Evan Byers said.

Volunteering, Spanish, theater, and music are some of the core values of societies within the school. As president of International Thespian Society, Maddy Miles, senior, greatly values the group.

10 Feature

“International Thespian Society means that you can just get out there and be yourself; whether it’s at conference or even just in our clubs that we have on Wednesdays. It’s an opportunity to go have fun and do different theater things.

It’s really important to be who you are in those quick little meetings,” Miles said.

Community outreach is one thing that the associations feel they could collectively could improve upon, and Tri-M Music Honor Society vice president Michael Giebler feels there could be more improvements within the society.

“I feel that Tri-M does a fair amount of work with the school, but I still want to increase the amount volunteer activities we do because last year we didn’t do as many and it was awkward when we

had to present at conference and we didn’t have a lot of things to talk about,” Giebler said.

A recent addition has been made to the honors society family at the school.

Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica, or the Spanish Honor Society, centers around the same cores as other associations but with a strong focus on Spanish culture and issues.

“As president, this is really important to me. Coming from Hispanic heritage, it’s very important to have and it shows diversity. We plan to donate supplies to Puerto Rico and Mexico, and help out local Spanish-speakers in the community.

Spanish Honor Society is great to have on top of all the other societies in our school,” junior Nicole Romero said.

Education a solution to low voter turnout Newest generation sees limited importance without major election year Page Holly Shortt Story Sydney Sagehorn

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hile this year’s election day is nowhere near as intense as last’s, elections are still taking place at a much smaller scale.

On November 7, Andover residents will have the opportunity to vote for city council and school board positions. Nationwide, young people are registering to vote at much lower rates than their generational predecessors. For some seniors, this will be their first opportunity to cast a ballot, but few are taking the opportunity.

Claire Rogers, senior, is one of the few that is. She registered to vote at the state fair on the band trip, and turns 18 on November 3, four days before election day.

“I like being involved in a community’s decisions, and I like being an active member of society,” Rogers said, “I think at a local level, you have more opportunity for actual change.”

Part of the reason many 18-yearold seniors have not registered to vote is due to a lack of education. Cassie Wefald, senior, sees value to voting but has not registered.

“I hadn’t heard about [local elections] until now...I didn’t think there was anything I needed to vote on since I turned 18,” Wefald said.

Local elections are an easy way to have everyone’s voices heard. Oftentimes, a low voter turnout for community positions results in victories being decided by as few as 5 votes.

America prides itself on democracy, and the easiest way to ensure protection of the freedoms we are granted is to become civically engaged by making a habit of voting. Since all seniors take a government class, registering to vote is the most impactful way of putting that knowledge to use. The class can also provide a space for an open dialogue on local politics.

“I think more young people should register to vote as soon as they turn 18, so it just seems more normal,” Rogers said.

[

Positions up for election on November 7th

]

School board member, mayor, special district officials, municipal officers, and county officials

[ Are you registered to vote? ] Yes: “I like being involved in a community’s decisions, and I like being an active member of society,” Rogers said, “I think at a local level, you have more opportunity for actual change.”

No: “I hadn’t heard about [local elections] until now...I didn’t think there was anything I needed to vote on since I turned 18.”

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Seniors face mounting pressure as applicat Story, page Sydney Sagehorn

It’s a topic that’s been in the back of everyone’s minds since freshman year, but has managed to weave its way into nearly every conversation with relatives, family friends, and neighbors: college. Since many application deadlines are fast approaching, seniors are forced to balance what’s most important to them in making some of their most difficult decisions.

For many, the prevailing factor is educational programs offered by specific schools. Omer Sheikh, senior, is searching specifically for a college with a neuroscience major.

“My top pick was Stanford, but they didn’t have a neuroscience program, so Vanderbilt went up on the list, as well as the University of Chicago because of their academic programs,” Sheikh said.

The cost of a college has almost the same amount of influence. Riley Baker, senior, is paying for college on her own.

[ ] “At 17, it’s kind of hard to determine what you want to do for the rest of your life,” Grace Flynn, senior

“Going to Butler is a much cheaper alternative than going right into a four-year university,” Baker said.

[ Top factors in choosing a college]

1

Academic programs “I picked Oklahoma State because they have a really good environmental science program with really good professors.”

Kristen Spackman, senior

12 Center Spread

3 2 Cost

“Going to Butler is a much cheaper alternative than going right into a four-year university.”

Riley Baker, senior

Josh Wagner, senior, is looking far beyond the next four years, citing job placement rates as one of his top considerations.

“At Kansas they have the Self program, and 100% of people in that program find a job afterwards, so that brought Kansas from no chance of going there to a higher chance if I can get into the program,” Wagner said.

Other factors, such as location and sports, play a role in choosing where to spend the next chapter of life. Grace Flynn, senior, noted her love for Kansas City as one of her main reasons for applying to Rockhurst University.

“I love Kansas City for a lot of things: the atmosphere, the sports... for me, being at Rockhurst would just feel like home,” Flynn said.

Ryann Stearns, senior, has committed to play basketball at the University of Texas at San Antonio.

Campus

“I love Kansas City for a lot of things: the atmosphere, the sports... for me, being at Rockhurst Grace would just Flynn, senior feel like home.”

Job placement

4

“At Kansas they have the Self

Program, and 100% of

people in that program

find a job afterwards.”

Josh Wagner, senior

[ ACT Natural ] Story Grace Pool

ion deadlines near “After I left my visit, I pretty much knew that that’s where I wanted to go,” she said.

However, it is not only the students’ own priorities that play a factor in decision making, but the opinions of their parents as well.

“I think their biggest concern is the distance from home,” Sheikh said, “I know they want me to stay a little closer but also they wouldn’t make me not go to a college farther away if it was worth it.”

For most students, choosing a college can be a major stressor, seeing as it is likely the highest caliber decision they’ve ever made.

“At 17, it’s kind of hard to determine what you want to do for the rest of your life,” Flynn said.

Regardless of the pressures they face, most seniors are able to envision a bright future for themselves, something that will drive them to succeed in whatever challenges they may face.

5

Ryann Stearns, senior

Sports “When I went on my visit, they [University of Texas at San Antonio] were very welcoming. They were a very good group of people and they made me feel at home.”

T

he ACT is the one daunting acronym that can put any upperclassman in a cold sweat. The standardized test is required for most college applications and has become a national phenomenon for measuring high school juniors’ and seniors’ intelligence.

There are several options of preparation and everyone has an individualized plan or different ways to study to practice for success.

“The two parts that you can actually prepare for are the English/Language Arts, which you can really study for and the prep really helps, and the math section which you can also practice for. Also, being in advanced math classes really helps prepare students because they cover all of the material,” ACT prep instructor Mark Fleske said, “The science and the reading you can still practice and prepare for, but you can’t really study for.”

Mark Fleske, ACT prep instructor Strategy: “Being in advanced math classes really helps prepare students because they cover all of the material,”

Lisa Stinson, counselor Importance: “The ACT is important because if you want to attend college, it’s the gateway for acceptance,”

Hanna Chastain, senior Superstition: “When I take the ACT, I wear a specific necklace, a locket, along with my favorite jewelry.”

Along with the preparation for the test, there are also things students can practice that prove to be helpful while taking the test.

“Practicing reading really helps a lot and helps students to finish faster; so you know when to skim, when to read the answers, and that really helps to get done in time,” Fleske said.

The ACT can be stressful no matter how prepared or unprepared a student may feel, so superstitions and repetition can bring comfort on the day of the test.

“When I take the ACT, I wear a specific necklace, a locket, along with my favorite jewelry. Whenever I get nervous, I run my hands over it and it kind of just calms me down and brings me comfort,” senior Hanna Chastain said.

Center Spread 13

Maddie Spurlock

Meet the Spotlight Editors and what autumn activities they enjoy

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all, the undeniably spookiest of seasons, is back and better than ever – skeletons and all. Horror movies and haunted houses are the most underrated limited edition fall festivity.

My absolute favorite family tradition in my household includes a weekend of fright.

We kick off the weekend with a trip to the

best rated haunted house in Wichita, this year it being Field of Screams. The following night, we host an annual Halloween party, in which everyone is required to wear the most extravagant and put-together costumes, and we conclude with a horror-flick binge session to set in all of the necessary fright. We have done it for as long as I can remember.

Claire Monroe

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y ideal fall afternoon would start out with a late lunch at Panera or Tanya’s Soup Kitchen or somewhere else with big bowls of soup and bread. I would have on a big big jacket or sweater or something warm and then maybe Sydni’s Pinegrove hat.

I would go downtown and get coffee at my favorite coffee shop, Reverie coffee roasters,

and I would have on either my playlist “big big leaves” or “nice candle” in the car (check out my Spotify @ clairemariemonroe).

I would then enjoy at least 5 cups of spice tea at Marg’s house. Finally, I would eat a whole family-sized bag of Lay’s pickle potato chips while Syd, Marg and I marathon the Goosebumps series on Netflix.

Sydney Sagehorn

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ere’s a little controversy: fall isn’t all that great. I mainly take issue with the weather. If your toes get cold in the morning, it’s game over for the rest of the day. You cannot have a good day with cold toes.

All grievances aside, fall has its merits.

Cartoon Network’s 2014 miniseries Over the

Colton Trowbridge

E

very year the weather starts to turn cold, sweaters make their way to the front of the closet, leaves turn color, and food portions get larger; this is Fall. Fall signals the resurgence of pumpkin pie and premature Christmas sweaters, both are staples of my life and both are just so good.

Possibly the best factor of Fall is the

14 Meet the Editors

weather. Cool weather brings out fashion, makes playing and watching sports easier, and creates the perfect atmosphere to stay inside under a blanket and binge your favorite show.

While some prefer the warmth of Summer or Spring, there is just something about Fall that pushes it over the edge.

Garden Wall is officially back in season. Its old-timey music, dusty mood, and darkly captivating plot is enough to understand why I give it a rewatch every year.

Other TV favorites of mine, Mr. Robot and Stranger Things are back this fall with third and second seasons respectively, and for that I am grateful.

It’s a Jungle out there..

Go gettem’ Jags!!!

Ads 15

Are valedictorians still outstanding?

Story Sydney Sagehorn Page Claire Monroe

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he class of 2018 currently has 17 Valedictorians. The class of 2017 had 18, and the class of 2016 had 12.

When so many people carry the same title, it is difficult to know what is special about them, given that the only requirement for Valedictorian status is earning all A’s throughout all four years. But now, not only is the title losing its prestige, the current system is victimizing some of the highest-achieving students. The most widely-used solution is weighted grades, and by implementing a system that weights grades, the school will allow its students to be viewed as top prospects in the eyes of some of America’s most prestigious colleges.

While it is true that most colleges unweight grades to compare applicants to each other, what they do not unweight is class rank. While the difference seems menial, it can have unintentional consequences. Some scholarships, for example, require an applicant to be in the top 10% of his or her graduating class to even be considered.

Instances such as these discourage students from taking Advanced Placement courses. If there’s a chance that a student could miss out on a scholarship offer because of their class rank, why risk a B in a more challenging class?

The Andover Central Spotlight is the official student newspaper of Andover Central High School and makes an effort to supply readers with unbiased stories and accurate detail. The Spotlight is a forum for student expression and not subject to prior review in accordance with the Kansas Student Publications Act. The staff is comprised of Andover Central High School newspaper students. Views expressed do not necessarily reflect upon the views of the faculty, students or community as a whole. Letters to the editor are appreciated. Please note that letters and messages are subject to editing for clarity or brevity. The editorial board reserves the right to reject a letter that is perceived as inappropriate.

16 Staff Editorial

With so many students with all A’s, a single B could be enough to knock a student out of the desired class percentage rank.

While most people view a weighted grade system favorably, there is still controversy surrounding how to implement one. Should honors and AP classes carry the same weight? Perhaps a student is more artistically gifted; should Ceramics 2 be weighted the same as AP Chemistry?

The simplest common denominator in this case would be to only weight AP courses. Since the goal of weighting grades is to put students in the best possible standing with colleges, it would make sense to put the weight on the classes specifically designed to mimic a college curriculum.

A system such as this wouldn’t discourage students from working as hard in AP classes as long as they understand that their grades would be unweighted when a college views their transcript.

The effects of a weighted grades system would not only shine a light on the students who achieved Valedictorian status through the hardest possible curriculum, but it would also give more students the confidence to challenge themselves with difficult classes, making Andover Central students appealing applicants for some schools that would be otherwise unattainable.

Should grades be weighted?

Y: 20 N: 3

20 Spotlight staff members think that grades in high school should be weighted.

3 Spotlightstaff members think that grades in high school should not be weighted.

Take a knee to take a stand NFL anthem controversy continues to divide Americans

Pro

Story Hunter O’Connor Page Maddie Spurlock

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ver since Colin Kaepernick took a knee during the National Anthem in protest of police brutality, the public has been divided on many fronts of the issue - spanning from the effectiveness of the protest to the disrespect of the flag. It has become such an issue that the President felt the need to comment on it, but that is not really surprising.

Those opposed to the protest echo cries to respect our flag as they try to show just how much of a patriot they are. But, as they ridicule the protestors for what they think to be disrespect to the flag, they offend the honor of their beloved flag more than the protestors ever could.

If the disrespect of the flag is really broken down between what the players have done, and what the general public does, we really start to see who is actually in the wrong. The players in the NFL are conducting completely legal protests, protected by the First Amendment. If there is something disrespectful about exercising a right that is awarded along with citizenship, then where do we draw the line?

Companies use the flag to sell alcohol and underwear, which is not only disrespectful, but also illegal. According to Flag Code-4 found at the Legal Information

Institute of Cornell Law School, the sale of the flag on clothing and use of the flag for advertising is prohibited. So, not only is the other side breaching their own morals, they are breaching the laws they swear to love.

This is not an issue over the flag or the anthem, the issue of this protest is racism and police brutality, something that has haunted our country since the abolition of slavery.

Treating these protests as an attention grab is just furthering the issue. Saying that the National Anthem is the wrong time begs the question of when is the right time. The object of the protests is to grab eyes and start a conversation, and the only way they can accomplish that is to maximize the publicity they receive.

Con

Story Brent Lane

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he current debate over the National Anthem is one of the most polarizing stories in not just politics, but sports as well. However, respecting veterans and the flag of the United States should be prioritized over protest.

Athletes should stand for the national anthem. They understand that they have a right to protest, but there are other times that would be just as effective.

The anthem is a time to respect the nation and its veterans that allows them to play football for a living.

Many members of the military feel disrespected by the players

kneeling. A CNN poll found that 49% of Americans think it’s wrong to kneel, compared to 43% that thing it’s right. All over social media you can find countless veterans complaining about kneeling and even disowning their long time favorite teams because of the disrespect.

The opposition regularly says that the players are using their first amendment right to protest peacefully. While this is true, there are plenty of opportunities to protest what they believe in at a time when we are not respecting our country. Several players may also be protesting Trump’s comments more than the issue at hand. All the country asks is that you know what you are protesting. If it is not about the flag or our country, then find another time.

Editorial cartoon by Owen Spurlock

Editorial 17

Page by Austin Zellers

VOLLEYBALL SOCCER FOOTBALL Record: 2-4 Record: 11-19 Record: 12-2 Jack Steiner, Photo Drew Wiens

Morgan Herrmann, Photo Will Rainey

Jadyn Vossen, Photo Maddy Miles

RESULTS

RESULTS

RESULTS

9/15 vs Abilene: 41-14 (W) 9/22 at Andover: 7-39 (L) 9/28 vs Pittsburg: 7-12 (L) 10/6 at Circle: 43-21 (W)

9/23 Newton Tournament: 1-5 9/26 Andover/Eisenhower Tri: 0-2 9/30 Andover Tournament: 2-3 10/3 Ark City Tri: 1-1

9/21 at Berean Academy: 5-1 (W) 9/26 at Goddard: 5-0 (W) 9/30 vs Trinity: 3-0 (W) 10/3 at Andover: 2-1 (W)

XC

TENNIS

GOLF

Brett Schoenhofer, Photo Cailan Steward

Samara Haenggi, Photo Grant Hoofer

Maddy Miles, Photo Drew Wiens

RESULTS

RESULTS

RESULTS

at Newton: Girls 6th Boys 5th at Trinity: Boys 2nd

18 Scoreboard

10/2 AVCTL Division 2: 2nd place 10/7 Regionals: 2nd place State: Jazzy Williams, Sydney Sagehorn, Jordyn Maddex, Liba Cermakova

9/21 Maize South Invitational 9/27 North Invitational 10/3 AVCTL Division 2 10/9 Regionals: 6th place

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Hard hitting

The impact of concussions in high school sports 20 Sports Feature

Players battle concussions, possibility of CTE Story Clark Schoonover Page Maddie Spurlock

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n the past few decades, a new medical condition in athletes has drawn attention.

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) is a build up of tau protein in the brain that blocks neuropathways and can lead to clinical conditions. It is found most commonly in former NFL players and has been traced in some amount in 99 percent of players that donate their brains to scientific research (CNN).

The development of CTE derives from repeated head trauma, and concussions fall under this category. They have become a normal aspect of sports today, but has our society downplayed their importance?

“I’ve gotten a concussion playing football and the main effects it had on me were headaches and difficulty concentrating. Although the symptoms were very uncomfortable, it’s not like I worry about getting another every day,” senior wide receiver Matthew Lyman said.

Although CTE has been most commonly found in football players, head trauma occurs in many sports. The concussion protocol use has evolved over the years and now all athletes in high school must complete a baseline concussion test.

“We were playing Maize South and their girl hit it really fast at my head. Over the next couple of weeks I struggled to stand for

extended periods of time. I was very sensitive to light and sound. I still get some headaches and get a little bit dizzy if I’m in a loud setting,” sophomore volleyball player Holly Dreiling said.

The most recent victim to CTE discovered was former New England Patriot Aaron Hernandez. After committing suicide while in prison, scientists discovered the build up of protein in his brain. Hernandez’s family later filed a lawsuit against the NFL and took the issue to court. This stance, that it is the NFL’s fault he got the condition, goes hand in hand with parents around America not letting their child play football because it is too dangerous.

“Parents that don’t let their kids play are just looking out for them. A person’s brain and their life needs to come first,” senior Nolan Crawford said.

Nationally, there has been a drastic decrease in child, especially below the age of 12, football teams. According to CBS Boton, concussion experts have been increasinglly more vocal in their opposition of junior football leagues. Dr. Bennet Omalu, the man who discovered CTE, recently called junior leagues a form of “child abuse.”

Strides have been made in CTE research since its discovery. This information has left a large impact on the eyes of parents and athletic associations. What used to be called “getting your bell rung” definitely holds more weight now.

Running back Stefan Anthemides, junior, collides heads with a player from Pittsburg. Photo by Drew Weins

Sports Feature 21

Strobel spikes competition Volleyball looks for leader in libero Story Brent Lane Page Colton Trowbridge

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unior libero Brooklyn Strobel has been playing competitive volleyball since she was nine. Her hard work and dedication to the sport paid off and allowed her to have many good times off the court with her coaches and teammates.

“Some of my favorite memories are the car rides to State, staying in the hotels, and and all the locker room pregame dance parties.” she said She has also found much success on the court this year, as the Wichita Eagle’s Taylor Eldridge ranked her the number one libero in the metro area. Strobel is very grateful for everything her peers have done for her.

“Being the number one libero is fun and all, but I don’t really see much to it.

I wouldn’t be the player I am without my teammates and coaches in both club and school season. I just go out there and give it my all all the time to hopefully compete and pull out a win for the team, but I am honored to be voted number one.” Strobel said.

Strobel has a positive outlook on the season and still believes the team could make noise in Substate and beyond.

“The team’s start isn’t how we wanted it to go. We have had our really good moments and our bad moments. At this point, it’s all

about preparing for Substate. Record doesn’t matter when you get to Substate. We have to put the regular season behind us and go into it with a lot of confidence.” Strobel said.

Strobel also plays club volleyball, which she says has been a big help in her volleyball career despite some stresses from balancing school and traveling.

“School volleyball is a lot easier to balance out with school than club is. During club season I am gone a lot in the winter and a lot of my teachers begin to get annoyed when I’m gone every Friday and Monday traveling to and from tournaments. It becomes stressful having to miss so much school and having to make up a lot of work but that’s what I signed up for so I have to deal with it.” she said.

Despite the stresses, club volleyball has been a huge positive in her career and life.

“Club ball plays a major factor in transferring to school season. I think it helps me really stick to the fundamentals and helps me also with my leadership skills.” Strobel said.

Strobel has lofty personal goals, including playing in college and potentially competing for the United States.

“My personal goals are getting first team all-league and first team all-metro again for the school. I would like to play division one college volleyball and possibly play for the US junior team then make it to the Olympics.”

“I wouldn’t be the player I am without my teammates and coaches in both club and school season” Brooklyn Strobel 22 Player Profile

Boys soccer continues historic season Lewallen, Fimreite pass school scoring records Story Hunter O’Connor Page Brent Lane

L

ast year, the boys’ soccer team finished the season with a win over Louisburg in the State 3rd place game, the team’s best finish ever. With 11 seniors returning to the roster, as well as underclassmen starters, expectations only increased from last year’s team. With momentum on their side, the Jags were poised for a hot start to the new season.

“I definitely think that last year’s state run gave us a lot of confidence coming into this season, I feel like it didn’t take us long to get back into our game,” senior defender Wil Ullman said.

The Jags also capitalized on opportunities to gather experience as a team over the summer, participating in team camps, as well as in a pre-season tournament. Pre-season matches against high-level competition such as Derby, Kapaun, and Bishop Carroll allowed the team to develop strategy for year, as well as helping players tap into chemistry they built last season.

“We have almost the same roster as last year so it’s easy for us to recognize the kind of play style each of us have and it makes it easier for us to communicate and play with each other,” senior midfielder Josh Patch said.

The team’s efforts paid off immediately as the Jags got off to the best start in school history, rattling off 11 wins in a row,

including big wins against Newton and pre-season opponent Derby. The boys scored 43 goals in their first 11 games, led by senior forward Jackson Lewallen, who tallied 12 goals in that span.

Lewallen credits the team’s work ethic with the offensive explosion, and he does not see an end in sight.

“Our team is very dedicated and is always willing to go the extra mile with getting better, with how the season has started, we’re seeing how good we are as well as how much better we could be,” Lewallen said.

The boys’ streak came to an end when they put their undefeated record on the line against also-undefeated Eisenhower.

The Jags fought to fend off their first defeat, but were downed two to one as the rain soaked the pitch. Following the loss, the team traveled to Maize South looking to bounce back. But, the team suffered a successive defeat, falling 3-2 to the Mavericks.

“We’re disappointed that the streak ended, we had our hopes high for the rest of the season, but we’re not going to let these two losses prevent us from going far into the postseason,” said senior midfielder Jacob Cromly.

The Jags look to regain winning form over the last three games of the season against Rose Hill, Ark City, and Salina Central. They still boast an impressive 12-2 record and will keep their sights set on the school’s’ first State title in the sport.

Senior Jackson Lewallen, forward, looks to get postioning against Trinity Academy. The Jaguars beat the Kngihts at home, 3-0.

Top Scorers Bryce Fimreite Senior Forward 12 goals, 11 assists

Jackson Lewallen Senior Forward 15 goals, 6 assists

Sports Feature 23

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Band, choir celebrate 50 years of Andover

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1. Braxton Smith, junior vocal chorus member, sings a solo ballod at the opening night of Greater Andover Days 2017. Photo by Drew Wiens 2. Playing the blues, alto sax section, Nick Reinhart, junior, Jake Addams, Michael Geibler, seniors, among anothers perform at the mini GAD concert.

Photo by Drew Weins 3. In the GAD parage, color guard captain Becca Drier, senior, leads her team and the band down Andover road to the song “Sweet Caroline.� Photo by Will Rainey.

4. Flautist Maria Garcia, junior, marches with the band. Photo by Will Rainey 5. At the one of many evening festivities, Liba Cermakova, senior exchange student and Amaya Harris, junior, ride the night away. Photo by Megan Weisser

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Photo Essay