2018 Spotlight Issue 1

Andover Central High School

Vol. 17. Issue 1. September 18th

Freshman Fears Ditching Plastic Straws

Sports switch to 5A

02 TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

03 05 08 14

NEWS

California fires spark conversation: Record-breaking summer turns wildfire season into year-long issue

FEATURE

Freshman fright: Underclassmen battle fears caused by high school transition

PROFILE

Ruby Mary Maderafont: An insight into the life of Andover Central’s most extraordinary

STAFF EDITORIAL

Mental health recognized as a substantial issue within society: Is anyone making the move to raise awareness?

16 19

SPORTS DOUBLE Spring is out: Award winning coaching leads softball to state championship

SPORTS FEATURE

Jags compete as 5A this season: Athletic Director comments on new changes

A LETTER FROM THE EDITORS

W

elcome back, Jags! We are so excited to share with you all the first issue of the Spotlight for the year. Our staff gained 10 new members. so production was chaotic while they took on their first assignments, but we are proud of them for their hard work. On pages 10-11, you will see our center spread about the plastic straw controversy. We felt that it was important to share, especially since it is a topic that just recently gained attention. As you read through, we hope you enjoy this issue as much as we enjoyed making it!

Kinsley Ochsner, EIC

Alexandra Schumann, EIC

SPOTLIGHT STAFF EDITORS-IN-CHIEF

SPORTS EDITOR

WEBMASTER

VIDEO

Ashley Zellers Jillian Primm

Rachel Stefanek Cortnie Golden

ASSISTANT EDITOR

PRODUCTION STAFF

BUSINESS MANAGER

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Alexandra Schumann Kinsley Ochsner Gracie Pool

COPY EDITORS Ashley Zellers Jillian Primm

Ryan Austin

Ally Harris Blayne O’Connor Tori Carter Jackson Ward Kyle Kohman

Jillian Primm

PHOTO EDITORS Grace Blackman Megan Weisser

Grant Davis Jaden Lyon Malia Flores

Cover illustration Cortnie Golden Page design Alexandra Schumann, Kinsley Ochsner

03 NEWS

CALIFORNIA FIRES SPARK CONVERSATION Record-breaking summer turns wildfire season into year-long issue Story, page design Alexandra Schumann

A

s the summer weather begins to shift to the cooler temperatures of autumn throughout the country, things in California are just heating up. The wildfires over the past year have been the most destructive in the state’s history.

“It’s crazy over there. A lot of people are being hurt and a lot of buildings are being burnt down. It’s truly devastating,” senior Cade McGill said.

While most fires are easily cultivated due to the dry climate, wildfires originate primarily from man-made causes, such as car emission sparks and power lines.

“We need to be more aware of how we’re affecting our environment, because a lot of the times we get caught up in our own day and we never think about how we’re affecting the ground that we stand on and the air that we breathe,” senior Noelle Schumann said.

Evacuations from towns have reached new territories, and Schumann’s old hometown is a part of the list. The Carr Fire is the eigth largest wildfire in California’s history,. It struck in Redding Californa, and it has burned over 220,000 acres.

“We had always been afraid of fires hitting Redding while we lived there, and occasionally people around us would get evacuated but we never really did, and it just finally happened. I saw pictures of a recreation and exploration center that I used to really enjoy going to totally in flames. It was just a cherished childhood memory that has kind of been tainted now,” she said.

The containment of the fires is a tedious process due to the dry and harsh climate.

“It concerns me with how the atmosphere is doing and where the weather is going because it’s a big shift in drought and how dry it is there and it doesn’t sit well with me that it’s the worst it’s ever been,” Schumann said.

While devastating, the wildfires have raised a national concern of climate change and human-nature interaction.

“I honestly think that this is a pretty eye-opening experience for a lot of people on the topic of climate change, and I really think there needs to be a lot more serious precautions taken for further fire prevention in that region,” senior Austin Jordan said.

CURRENT HOTSPOTS Active and contained fires as of September 13.

Active Contained

SIZZLIN’ STATISTICS (2018 season)

84%

8

Of wildfires started by humans Civilian deaths

629,000 Acres burned

4,732 Total Fires

$2.835 billion

In damages

04 NEWS

COMMUNITY PREPARES FOR RENOVATIONS Administrators, students give insight on expectations for construction Story Blayne O’Connor Page design Ally Harris

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enovation began at the school in January. Last year, the bond approved to allowed construction on the building. Improvements include, added classrooms, new sports facilities, and additions to the band program. Administration and students were pleased with the results and looked forward to the finished product.

“I was most excited for the turf baseball and softball fields because we were able to hold regionals at home,” sophomore Ali Hickerson said.

According to assistant principal and athletic director

Doug Carr, construction is moving on schedule and the problems with the parking lot should be gone within the next six months.

The new football stadium is scheduled to be completed by August.

“I am so excited to play on the new field because it is going to be so cool,” freshman Dillon Savage said.

Another addition will be for the band program.

An orchestra room will be built and will allow for a new orchestra program.

“I’m really excited for the orchestra room, however I feel like it is not going to be done by the time I graduate because it is going to take a backseat

Construction constricted the flow of traffic in the parking lot resulting in fewer parking spaces. There is now only one entrance and two exits, causing a slower flow and a longer wait in the morning. The road that connects the middle and high school has been closed, forcing middle school students to walk from the high school if older siblings drive.

A crane breaks ground at the front of the school. This is the site of where the addition to the English hall will be. New exit doors will be available in the classrooms to improve safety and functionality. This construction should be completed in the coming months. Photos Megan Weisser

to the sports fields,” junior Liz Snyder said.

With said addition to the band area, the parking lot in back will be smaller as the new room will protrude into the current lot.

To make up for this loss, parking lots are being added around the football field. Parking spaces are used during tennis, football, softball, baseball, track, and soccer games.

The expansion of the building caused a shift in the normal school routine.

Problems have risen, such as the gym ceiling leaking. This caused the volleyball team to practice in the auxiliary gym.

Administrators hoped that the sacrifices made will be

repaid when all is done.

“The construction should result in a more functional school that is able to benefit the students, staff, and community,” Carr said.

05 FEATURE

FRESHMAN FRIGHT

Underclassmen battle fears caused by high school transition Story Blayne O’Connor Page design Kinsley Ochsner

T

he move from middle to high school is a large transition in our small town.

While moving up presents endless new possibilities, incoming freshmen are filled with nerves regardless.

“I was very scared that I would be beat up by the upperclassmen and that did not turn out to be the case so I’m very thankful for that,” freshman, Cole Newsom said.

Fear of upperclassmen is a common theme throughout new and past freshmen.

“I was frightened by all the seniors because they were bigger than me and I thought they would bully me,” sophomore, Lukas Rivera said.

Fear of older students is only the beginning of freshmen anxieties, getting lost was another issue.

Many freshmen look forward to competition in athletics and the wide range of new activities available in high school, but feared how they would perform.

“I played football and all the older kids were a lot bigger than me so I was scared of them,” sophomore, Josh Kice said.

Age difference and experience between classes caused younger students to worry.

“In my first varsity game as a freshman, I feared letting down my team. I was competing against girls who were older and more experienced than me,” sophomore, Ally Harris said.

Some fears were instilled by adults.

“I was told not to talk to seniors,” freshman, Janie Warrington said.

Others were told stereotypes, such as ones seen in movies.

“I was told that people will be pushing us into lockers,” freshman, Emma Scates said.

Despite the multitude of worries that freshmen carry, excitement was still present.

“My brother is at this school, so I was excited to be here with him,” freshman, Madelyn Cunningham said.

Freshmen fears varied throughout the classes. A majority chose fear of upperclassmen as their biggest worry. Fear and anxiety were defeated by excitement. As each year passed, students realized that their fears were not reality. Instead, they chose to appreciate the time they had left with upperclassmen.

Bryce Naipohn, freshman “I was scared of finding a parking spot.”

Aubryn Strickland, senior “I remember that I was afraid of getting lost because the high school was so much larger than the middle school. Plus, the classes were organized by subject rather than by grade level.”

Madelyn Cunningham, freshman

Photos Jaden Lyon

“I was afraid of upperclassmen. I thought they would be rude because we’re younger.”

What was/is your biggest fear as a freshman?

Upperclassmen:

43%

Homework:

29%

Other:

15%

Getting Lost:

13%

Twitter poll, 84 votes

06 FEATURE

WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE...

Allison Craig English

Patrick Kennedy English

Lacey Woods FACS

Sohail Jouya Speech/Debate

Q:Where did you go to college?

A: I graduated from KU

Q: Where did you go to college?

A: I went to college at Wichita State, where I got a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree.

Q: Where did you go to college?

A: I completed a lot of dual credit classes in high school at Pratt Community College.

Then I attended Pratt Community College for one year and went to Kansas State University for the last three.

Q: Where did you go to college?

A: I went to a small liberal arts school in a suburb of Kansas City, but I’m especially happy to arrogantly mention (not really) that I attended Oxford University where I studied Politics, Philosophy, & Economics (PP&E). I played rugby there...it was awesome.

Q: Who is your celebrity look alike?

A: I have no idea what my celebrity I look like but ideally it would be Blake Lively!

Q: What is your favorite color?

A: My favorite color is blue because reminds me of the ocean.

Q: Are you a dog person or a cat person?

A: I am a dog mom to a white mini poodle named Buddy.

Q: What did you want to do when you were younger?

A: From the time I was in kindergarten I knew I wanted to be a teacher, just like my mom.

Q: Who is your celebrity look alike?

A: I don’t think I have a celebrity lookalike, but my friends tell me I kind of look like James Spader on The Blacklist.

Q: Do you have any pets?

A: I do have a dog, she’s a German Shorthaired Pointer, and her name is Daisy,

Q: Who is your favorite superhero?

A: My family loves the Incredibles! They’re all my favorite because it’s a whole family each with their own special power(s).

Q: Do you have any secret passions?

A: I don’t really think it’s a secret, but I have a passion for writing. I’ve published two books so far and continue to write in my spare time. I’m also a fanatic for movies and spend way too much time watching stuff on Netflix and Hulu.

Q: If you could spend a day with one celebrity who would it be?

A: If I could spend a day with one celebrity I would choose Joanna Gaines. I love Fixer Upper and her family seems really sweet! She also has a hand in something of almost every area I teach.

Aren Coppoc PE/Health

lake and skiing, wake boarding, and riding the jet ski.

Q: Where did you go to college?

A: I went to Sterling College.

Q: What is your favorite outdoor activity?

A: I really enjoy going to the

Q: What’s your favorite season?

A: My favorite season is fall because it is also football season.

Q: What are your favorite songs?

A: I’m not sure if I have a favourite song, but I lately I just can’t stop listening to Travis Scott’s new album.

Q: If you could live in any time period where would you go/ live?

A: I’d probably want to live in the future, the past seems like it would have a lot of tripwires that would end poorly. It’d be dope to live in the ‘60’s but with all that revolutionary spirit, I don’t know how well it’d end.

Q: What was your first ever job?

A: The town that I grew up in had a community college so I worked in the bookstore at the college. I stocked the shelves with all the textbooks and apparel that we had.

07 FEATURE Jaguars welcome 10 new teachers, administration members to the halls Stories Tori Carter Page Design Kinsley Ochsner

Amanda Grier Assistant Principal

Sarah Leivan Math

Lori Spraque Ceramics

Q:Where did you go to college?

A: Wichita State University

Q: Where did you go to college?

A: Wichita State University

Q: Who is your celebrity look alike?

A: No idea!

Q: What do you teach here?

A: Algebra 1 and Geometry

Q: Where did you go to college?

A: I went to Fort Hays for my Bachelor of Fine Arts and then WSU for my Master’s Degree.

Q: What’s your favorite place that you’ve gone?

A: It’s a toss-up between Hawaii and Bonaire (a small island near Aruba) or really anywhere with good SCUBA Diving.

Q: Do you play an instrument?

A: Flute & Piccolo Q: What’s your favorite sport?

A: Swimming Q: Do you have any strange things you do for good luck?

A: I tend to use the number 5 alot. I guess that’s my lucky number. Other than that not really

Q: What’s your favorite candy?

A: Reeses Peanut Butter Cups or Kit Kats Q: What TV show/movie character do you relate to the most?

A: Lorelai Gilmore from Gilmore Girls Q: What cheers you up?

A: Reading a great book, watching a favorite movie, or cleaning Q: Are you a morning person or a night person?

A: Probably night, but I’m trying to retrain myself to be a morning person.

Q: What are some of your hobbies?

A: Watching my daughters’ soccer and basketball games, running and yard work. Anything outside!

Q: What is one thing you would rate 10/10?

A: The faculty and staff! I have not ever worked in such a welcoming and accommodating environment. Teachers from all over the building have made a special trip to my room, which is totally out of the way, just to check on me and see if things are going well. Every staff member is helpful and willing to lift each other up, and that makes a huge difference in student attitude.

Barbara White Special Education Q: Where did you go to college?

A: I have gone to four colleges.

I graduated for Crum’s Beauty College, Butler Community College with an associates of general studies, Wichita State University with a bachelors in marketing and a minor in management, and I will graduate from Pittsburg State University in May with a masters in Secondary Special Education.

Q: What is one thing you are excited about in 2018?

A: Starting my new career her at ACHS Q: How can someone earn a gold star from you?

A: Work hard and turn in their work on time.

Q: What are you most grateful for today?

A: I am grateful to have a family who loves and supports me.

Photos Grace Blackman and Megan Weisser

Theresa Meier School Psychologist Q: Where did you go to college?

A: I went to college at WSU. I got my bachelors, masters and my school psych specialist all at WSU.

Q: What do you do here at the school?

A: I help kids succeed in the classroom behaviorally and academically.

Q: What are your hobbies?

A: I like to run, read, and spend time at the lake.

Bryan Kirk Band Q: Where did you go to college?

A: I have degrees from Friends University and Kansas State University.

Q: What instruments do you play?

A: My primary instruments are saxophone and clarinet. I play others, but only for teaching purposes.

Q: Who is your hero?

A: Jesus!

08 STUDENT PROFILE

RUBY MARY MADERAFONT: STEALS THE SHOW Confidence, involvement, outgoing personality characterize junior

Story, page design Ashley Zellers dence about me, but I’ve got some quirky sides too,” Maderafont said. uby Maderafont, a name Life outside of school is just well known. It’s hard to as full and interesting as time miss her eclectic and spent in school. authentic personality, unique “I’m pretty much an open style, endless consistent inbook as to what my interests volvement in school activities,. are, I love anime. You can tell “I’ve been in the district since by the random jackets I wear, I was five, so kindergarten, and and the random Japanese It’s awesome to still be here in things. I also love art, anything my junior year,” Maderafont said. from art history, to symbolism, Ruby’s involvement is cause and all that jazz. I love music, for a memorable high school jazz, speaking of jazz [pointing career. She is bound to leave an to her musical themed susimprint. penders], as for artists, I really “My most memorable molove the Beatles,” Maderafont ments of high school so far are said. probably the Academy Awards, Ruby is confident she has a where I sang All Star, by Smashbright future. mouth, but in an opera style.

“In my future, I obviously want Another one would probably be to be really really happy, that’s getting runner up in Scholar’s the main goal. In order to be Bowl. It’s kind of hard being happy I feel like I want to do the only sophomore on a team something that has to do with full of seniors at state, but we the fine arts, I may be good at did really good. Lastly, I fondly math, but that doesn’t mean remember all theatre and band I want to go into a career that performances,” she said. has to do with a lot of math.

Ruby is most well known I just want to do something for her outgoing attitude. She that’s intellectually stimulating, makes everyone smile, and while still having the creative brings excitement to all things. capacity to appreciate art, “I’d say I’m very fabulous, all maybe like an art historian or day, every day. Even when I’m something,” Maderfont said. not, I’m still fabulous. Also, I’m a bit of a nerd. I have a confi-

R

“Hi, I’m Ruby Mary Maderafont, and I’m a fierce queen.”

Ruby Maderafont

photo by Rachel Stefanek

09 ADS

Visit our NEW LOCATION at Central and Greenwich

HOMECOMING IS HERE!

10 CENTER SPREAD

A ‘SUCKY’ SEATUATION Plastic straws threaten sea life, strawless movement spreads Stories Alexandra Schumann Page design Kinsley Ochsner

O

ne viral video has the power to kick start a movement. Over the summer, an 8-minute clip of a young sea turtle with a plastic straw lodged in its nose stirred a controversy regarding the effects of plastic straws and ocean pollution. While the amount of plastic in a single-use straw may seem insignificant to the condition of the ocean’s ecosystem, recent research has caused many individuals and companies to think otherwise and encourage a world-wide ban.

The United States alone uses 500 million single-use straws a day. The website For a Strawless Ocean estimates that there will be more plastic than fish by the year 2050. Without starting a conversation, the hypothetical could become a reality.

The reason straws are receiving so much attention is due to the nature of their structure and disposal. Single-use plastic straws are among the top 10 occuring types of plastic during beach clean-ups. The small design of the straw

makes slipping out of trash and into the ocean much more likely. If plastic straws make it into the ocean, they do not break down, but rather into smaller pieces.

These micro-plastics become much easier for marine life to ingest. According to the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences for the United States of America, 71% of seabirds and 30% of turtles have been found with plastic in their stomachs.

A marine animal’s chance of survival is halved once micro-plastics are ingested.

These statistics have motivated many to skip the straw in restaurants. While replacing these contraptions with more environmentally conscious options, such as metal or paper straws, arguments against the total annihilation of plastic straws have come up. Those who have suffered a stroke or other disabilities rely on the flexibility of plastic straws to drink fluids. A solution to this issue is providing plastic upon request.

Though getting rid of plastic straws will not be the ultimate solution for ocean pollution, the ongoing movement will start conversations that will move towards more environmental change.

11 CENTER SPREAD

What’s the big deal, anyway?

+1,000,000

sea and marine life killed each year

Where do straws go?

Most straws go to landfills because they are too lightweight to be sorted in recycling facilities, even though they are recyclable

30%

Average amount of recyclable plastics that end up in landfills

If placed end to end, the amount of straws used daily could circle the earth over

2.5 times Source: strawlessocean.org

THE FINAL STRAW

D

espite the seemingly spontaneous attention the plastic straw movement has received, big-name companies are already taking action against plastic. McDonald’s, American Airlines, Starbucks, and the entire city of Seattle have begun phasing out plastic utensils for more environmentally-friendly options.

Starbucks, in particular,

Starbucks offers strawless lid option for environmenally conscious customers

plans to phase out the use of plastic straws by the year 2020.

“Starbucks has straws and plastic cups. I like the idea, but I think if they’re going to get rid of plastic straws, we should get rid of plastic in general. I think it impacts our environment in a good way and it’s a good start,” senior Lindsey Jackson said.

The franchise has already introduced a recyclable “sippy

cup” style lid in hopes to reduce the amount of plastic that makes it into the ocean.

Kennedy, a barista from a local Starbucks, felt the company’s efforts will encourage others to join.

“At some point if enough businesses get to doing it, people will just have reusable straws is my guess, and it would become a normal thing at that point,” he said.

While the controversy still stands on the legitimacy of Starbucks’ efforts, it is a step in the direction to possible change.

“It’s definitely worth it. I think in any regard, just switching out plastic is so beneficial to the planet in general with pollution--in terms of everything: cups, lids, straws. If we can just reuse them I say why not,” Kennedy said.

12 FEATURE

JUULING PHENOMENON CONTINUES IN HIGH SCHOOLS Items once bought to appear “cool” leave students addicted to nicotine Story Grace Pool Page design Jillian Primm

J

uuling: a fad that has quickly swept through the country, has become very popular with teens due to easy access and easy use. The e-cigarettes are very simple to conceal and recharge in a laptop port. Considering a small amount of high school students can purchase a Juul and the pods- the legal age is 18, many legal individuals will sell them to younger students and it has even reached younger children in the middle schools and even elementary schools.

The pull and excitement for Juuling lies in the thought that it offers a “safer alternative” to smoking, but one pod, filled

with nicotine and is a water vapor, actually contains the same amount of nicotine as a pack of cigarettes. Depending on how many pods an individual goes through, the effects can be more harmful than smoking.

“I think a lot of people try it just to see what it’s like, but then they actually end up getting addicted. They think it makes them look cool and don’t even think about the long term affects,” junior Liz Snyder said.

Another issue with the juul’s sleek design is the ability to carry it in school and other public places easily. Like secondhand smoking, juuling can affect others as well as the “juuler”.

“It’s difficult for teachers because it’s so easily hidden. Us as teachers notice peo-

ple talking about it, but we don’t actually notice it in class. This makes it so much more difficult to control as a teacher,” social studies teacher Nicole Kallenbach said.

As awareness has grown with the dangers and consequences of smoking, companies and individuals are rapidly coming up with alternatives. However, all of the research found with smoking has not yet been conducted with vaping and juuling.

In light of this, no one is truly able to prove that these products are healthier.

“I really think a lot of people buy it as a joke, like because of all of the memes and attention it’s getting on Twitter. They think it’s funny, when in reality they’re getting addicted and can’t control themselves,” Snyder said.

In what ways does the Juul e-cigarette create negative side effects for various parts of the body?

Mouth: Nicotine reduces the amount of blood that can flow through the veins. Without consistent blood flow, the gums do not revieve proper nutrients necessary to survive, choking tissues from the mouth to the blood, causing “death of the gums.” Dry mouth and bad breath are other effects.

Poisoning Risk: Swallowing liquid nicotine can result in almost immediate death. According to the FDA, there was a 1,500% increase in children under 6 years old poisoned by nicotine in various e-cigarette products. The different forms of glycolin juuls are, propylene or vegetable (and tobacco smoke) are toxic cancer causing ingredients.

Immune System: Juuling can damage hundreds of key immune genes, harming the immune system even more than other types of smoking. Various types of white blood cells are hindering by the pod flavor enhancing chemicals.

Creating low function of the nasal cavity, the product can eventually impair lung immune fuctions.

Brain: Nicotine releases positive endorphins into the brain, causing lengthy chemical changes and potential addiction. Other affects include light-headedness, dizziness, or tremors. Nicotine easily leads to other addictions, like smoking cigarettes or smoking marijuana. It can also permanately reduce impulse control, causing lasting issues like paying attention and thinking, as well as mood disorders.

Heart: The heart rate and blood pressure increase immensely, making the heart work much harder to get blood flowing and oxygen to the proper cells. Long term effects can lead to a higher risk of a heart attack or stroke. The breaking down of blood vessel lining can also lead to artery disease.

Lungs: Nicotine can cause rapid, shallow breathing, permanent lung damage, which leads to a significantly higher risk of lung disease and cancer. Many juuls have been found to contain diacetyl, a flavoring additive linked to lung cancer. *Info courtesy CDC.gov

13 ADS

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14 STAFF EDITORIAL

SOCIETY NEEDS TO RECOGNIZE, DO MORE, FOR MENTAL ILLNESS Teens should work to raise awareness Story Ashley Zellers Page design Jillian Primm

M

ental illness. Society tries its best to recognize it, provide help for it, inform people about it, but many efforts lay a band aid over the real and multiplying effects of mental illness.

Nearly everything that fills people’s daily lives affects their mental health.

All tangible things started with an idea, from a person, with varying emotions, thoughts, personalities, and most importantly, mental stability.

Commonly, fault comes from human instability, and very often, unrecognized mental illness. It is hard to pinpoint such small inconsistencies because the majority of people only know mental illness in its most intense form such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, etc. They are most recognizable because of their intensity.

It is not those disorders that cause the most destruction. It is the small spurts of depression that happen to everyone, it is the anxiety that is unapparent but sends people over the edge. It is the eating disorders that change peoples lives.

Society has attempted to deal with mental health issues for a very long time, it could not be ignored as population grew. Early on no one knew what exactly to do about it. In severe cases, people were locked up in asylums, subjected to lives of isolation, given no sympathy.

All over the world cultures viewed mental illness as a form of religious

punishment or demonic possession. In ancient Egyptian, Indian, Greek, and Roman writings, mental illness was categorized as a religious or personal problem. This ultimately turned people against those struggling, and created the taboo that modern society is working to dispell today.

The most eye opening aspect of current mental health issues are the statistics regarding those who are struggling and neglected. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that one in five Americans has experienced issues with mental health; and one in ten youth have suffered a major bout of depression. At least a fifth of all prisoners in the United States have a mental illness of some kind, and between 25 and 40 percent of mentally ill people will be incarcerated at some point in their lives Awareness can be raised, people can read about it, sympathize, try to help. But no amount of that makes up for the pure struggle that comes with life with a mental illness. An imbalance of the mind, creates an imbalance in every aspect of life.

Sympathy will not fix it. A big change must happen to heal such a big wound. It has to be an environmental change, a change in the whole attitude of society. That task is incredibly large. The culture has to change and must start with generation it is affecting most.

Therefore teens must take action, and get past the idea that they are too young to make a difference.

Anyone can make a difference.

Mental health in America People who experience suicidal thoughts

1 in 5 adults encompass a mental health condition

56% of people do not recieve medical assistance 8.2%

5.9%

In 5 years, the depression in youth has increased

9.6

MILLION

7.7%

Percent of students have no access to mental health assistance *Data courtesy of Mental Health America

Spotlight Staff Poll Is mental health currently recognized enough in our school?

YES : 12 NO : 0 *12 Spotlight staff members polled

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.

SPORTS GIVE SENSE OF BELONGING

SENIOR INVOLVEMENT DWINDLES

15 PRO/CON

Upperclassmen join teams, open new Activities, experimentation takes doors for socialization and relationships precedence over athletics Story, page design Gracie Pool

I

ndividuals are categorized by their interests, activities, or involvement in the school or community. In today’s society, sports are a big factor throughout American and Midwestern culture. Many parents push their children to play youth sports, believing it induces socialization, exercise, and teaches values of hard work and discipline.

At some point along the way, kids begin to develop their own ideas, opinions, and interests that can cause them to invest more or less time in a sport, or none at all. When children and teens specialize, they tend to put more time and effort in to one aspect of a certain sport.

This helps teens to progress quicker and faster, making them more talented once they reach a higher level of play, such as high school or club sports.

The fact that many children and teens specialize in one sport early can turn away newcomers from certain activities if they start later in their life.

Individuals will almost inevitably

have a sport they enjoy more than the other. However, trying a new sport can be one of the most rewarding and fun experiences possible.

The best thing about joining a new sport is the satisfaction of making so many new friends and memories through practices, bus rides, and team dinners. Developing relationships with teammates and coaches, especially through adversity can be very rewarding and they can actually turn out to be the strongest of friendships. Learning a new skill and putting in hard work day after day not only pushes your body physically, but mentally. One of the biggest reasons teens quit sports is because of lack of enjoyment or essentially becoming “burnt out”. After so much time and effort invested in certain sports, as well as pressure from parents and coaches, it becomes easy for teenagers to feel as if it would be more beneficial to just quit. Trying a new sport combats this, and opens new doors.

Story Alexandra Schumann

T

here is no question in the amount of benefits that come with participating in activities through all years of high school. Athletics, in particular, prove to be one of the most common modes of school involvement. The sense of teamwork and belonging entices many to participate.

However, some negatives arise in staying in a sport solely for being a senior. The controversy of doing sports as a senior lies in the intention itself.

As a senior, graduation approaches at an alarming rate, and time is something that should be savored and dedicated to things that matter to the individual. Jobs, college applications, and living out the last year of high school become a priority as time runs out. A common reason many stay with a sport is that they’ve done it for their entire high

school career so they might as well “stick it out.” Passions change, and receiving an end-of-year award recognizing participation is not worth spending a season loathing going to practice everyday when that time could be dedicated somewhere else.

Lastly, high school serves as a time to try new things such as fine arts, clubs and other activities. Many activities exist that have nothing to do with athletics and provide the same sense of belonging and purpose.

If the passion no longer lies within a sport, making time for other activities will reduce stress and provide a sense of freedom. Getting out of one’s comfort zone and trying something new might just stimulate a new passion that will continue to benefit beyond graduation.

The most popular reason why teens quit sports are among the following. When athletes become “burnt out”, the enjoyment and fun that was once found in sports disappears. This is the main reason teens quit sports, but injuries and health issues are also a major factor in why students quit. Athletes that constantly play the same sports can even suffer from overuse injuries. Also, as a high school student, sports take up large amounts of time that could go

16 SPORTS FEATURE

Spring is OUT Stories Kyle Kohman, Jackson Ward Page design by Ryan Austin

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ver the course of their season the girls softball team, lead by head coach Rita Frakes, was able to climb their way to a State Championship.

The team entered the playoffs as a seventh seed.

“I knew when we played well, we could be pretty good and I knew no one was looking at us, which I always think is great. So I just told the girls we have absolutely nothing to lose,” Frakes said.

Brooklyn Stroble, senior team member, agreed with Coach Frakes.

“I think our mentality was that we have nothing to lose and everything to gain here. So as long as we go play hard and compete well then we should have a chance to play in it [championship game],” Stroble said.

The team gained momentum through the playoff games and was able to win to the final game.

“I just really never saw a break in that confidence or that mentality. It was just like we’re going and we’re not stopping,” Frakes said.

When the team took gold, Coach Frakes thought the win came from the team as a whole and was pleased with the performance.

“I think we were just above average everywhere,” Frakes said, “Instead of having a super star we had a lot of shining stars. You know, it just goes to show you that you can have all the talent in the world and win nothing, but heart will win out every time. I just think we had the most heart. That’s what I believe.”

The girls mentality in the final game also was given a boost.

AWARD-WINNING COACHING LEADS SOFTBALL TO STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

“Definitely we were a lot sharper.

We didn’t let the little things get by us that would usually slip by,” Stroble said.

After completing the season, the coaching staff was awarded High School National Coaching Staff of the Year. Coach Frakes reveived numerous other awards as well.

“For me, the best thing was that my staff was recognized. I would trade a coach of the year for a coaching staff of the year because you can’t do it without your staff and I feel like I have a great staff, so for me it was fun telling my staff and seeing the smiles on their faces knowing that they got some kudos too,” Frakes said.

2018 Spring Results Baseball: Regional Champions, State 3rd Place

Boys Golf: State Champions 4A Keegan Ellington, Individual Title

Boys Tennis: Reilly/Thompson, Regional Champions

Girls Soccer: Final record, 6-6-1

Girls Swimming: Claire Krueger, State Finals Competitor

Softball: State Champions 4A, NFCA National Coaching Staff of The Year

Above: Craig Koch, former senior, competes in tennis regionals in May. Photo Will Rainey Right: Lauren Wolf, senior, and Jordyn Maddex, former senior, share a high-five during a softball game against Ark City. Photo Maddy Miles

Fall is IN 1

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17 SPORTS FEATURE

FALL SPORTS ENTER MIDDLE OF SEASON, UNDERCLASSMAN STEP UP TO TAKE PLACE OF SENIORS Story Kyle Kohman, Jackson Ward

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s fall approaches and school starts again, the beginning of a new sports season is also just around the corner. All the teams hope to have promising seasons and are off to a great start.

Boys head soccer coach Steven Huskey is pleased with the team’s performance so far.

“Good start to the year, three wins and one tie a quarter of our season gone by and we are undefeated. We thought we would be good even though we have a lot of new players, they are still meshing as a team. I think we will only improve as the season goes on,” Huskey said.

The team lost 11 seniors last season and are in need of underclassmen to step up.

“I think those younger guys are wanting to earn their time on the field and the older guys are keeping them on track. I think

3

that mix of younger guys and older guys has worked out pretty well so far,” Davis Joseph, senior goalie, said.

Despite the new players the team still looks strong on the defensive end.

“I think defensively we were solid we gave up three goals in four games so on average that’s less than a goal a game,” Joseph said.

In addition to the soccer team’s hot start, head football coach Tom Audley is excited for the season.

“One thing is we’ve practiced pretty well. We’re probably ahead where we’ve been in the past as far as putting stuff in, executing it. I’m real happy with how our kids are working,” Audley said.

The team hopes to improve overall and make progress the rest of the season.

“I think it’s still going to take a while to get us to the best that we can play,” Audley said, “but it’s a good start.”

1. Hannah Lee, sophomore, competes in a Tennis match at Collegiate September 6th. The Jags have competed in six tennis meets to this point in the season. Photo Kaylen Johnson 2. Brett Schoenhofer, sophomore, runs towards the finish line at the 4-mile Creek meet September 1st.

3. Jack Benedict, junior, takes a long stride before a kick in a match against Trinity. The Jagaurs won the match 3-2.

Photo Rachel Stephanek 4. The football team runs out just before the start of the game against Eisenhower September 7th. The Jags fell 14-21 in the game. Photo Keenan Randolph

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18 ADS

19 SPORTS FEATURE

SCOREBOARD Bishop Carroll

Football Wichita Heights

Kapaun Mt Carmel

1-1 9/7 @ Eisienhower (L) (14-21)

Cross Country 9/8 @ Emporia

JAGS COMPETE AS 5A THIS SEASON Story by Ryan Austin Page design by Kyle Kohman

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s the 2018-19 school year and fall sports season begins, the Jaguars have new competition to scope out across most sports. The school’s enrollment counts are likely to enter the 5A range, which will mean changes for players and coaches.

Talks of this change circulated school for months, without official word to confirm any changes.

Athletic Director Doug Carr explained the change and its effect.

“What happened is with the change in classification system, the largest 4 5A schools moved up to 6A. Then what happens is the next 8 largest 4As moved up to 5A. We have consistently been, in the last 5 years, one of the largest 4A schools.

My belief is, because of that, we will be one of the top eight 4As to move up to 5A,” Carr said.

There are two classification systems, and in the case of the Jags, the school will likely continue to compete 4A in football, and move to 5A for all other sports.

“Football is classified differently because there are only 32 teams in each class. All of the other sports have 36 teams,” Carr said.

Carr also explained the two main aspects of a move up to 5A. “We will face the 5A schools. The bigger thing is how they are going to seed

for the 4 and 5A schools. 5A, last year, did this where they actually seed them instead of having a district football playoff or an assigned regional in basketball you will go into a pool and they will seed; in football, a 1 through 16 west and 1 through 16 east. You will not play a district game or a regional game,” he said.

A noticeable change in competition lies ahead in 5A as well, as the 5A class includes a large number of private schools.

“With 5A you will face more private schools. There are more private schools in 5A than in 6 or 4. You will face Kapaun, Carroll, St. James Academy, and others, “ Carr said.

The final count will be determined on September 20th, and classifications will take effect.

Until that point, all competitions are open-entry events, so classes do not apply.

“None of the sports that are affected have been decided yet. For example, our cross country team will find out if they are 5A or 4A. I’m guessing it will be 5A. So this year, our cross country kids instead of going to Wamego to compete 4A, will go to Rimrock in Lawrence to compete 5A. All games and meets to this point have been open entry, including 5A and 6A schools,” Carr said.

Coaches and student athletes will have their work cut out for them as they learn about their new competition to compete this year.

Monty Christo-7th Katelyn Hedger-11th

Boys Soccer

5-0-1 9/13 vs. Winfield (W)(6-0)

Girls Golf

9/11 @ Sierra Hills Hailey Barbour/Maura Flahive- Top 15

Volleyball

12-7 9/11 vs.

Eisienhower/Maize South (W,L)

20 CALENDAR

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER EVENTS 18

22

2

5 29

September 17-23

September 24-30

October 1-7

17: Girls’ JV Golf @ Augusta Country Club Girls’ JV Tennis @ ACHS

24: No School Girls’ JV Golf @ Valley Center Course

1: JV/Freshman Football @ Maize South Girls’ Varsity Tennis @ Andover HS

18: Boys’ Soccer vs Maize Volleyball @ Maize South High School

25: Girls’ Varsity Tennis @ Augusta HS Volleyball @ Andover High School

19: Tri-M Inductions 6:30 in Auditorium

27: Boys’ Soccer vs Andover Jazz Band/Choir Performance @ GAD

2: Boys’ Soccer @ Ark City High School Volleyball @ Goddard High School Girls’ Varsity Golf League @ AHS

20: Girls’ Varsity Tennis @ Crestview Girls’ Varsity Golf @ Auburn Hills Boys’ Soccer @ McPherson HS Varsity Football @ District Stadium 22: Cross Country Invitational @ Rimrock

4: Boys’ Soccer vs Goddard

28: Homecoming Crowning Varsity Football vs Maize South

5: Choir KMEA All-State Workshop @ WSU Varsity Football @ Great Bend HS

29: Marching Band @ GAD Parade Fall Homecoming @ ACHS Commons

6: Cross Country vs Circle @ Trinity Band Marching Festival @ K-State

18: Kate Paulsen, sophomore, sets the ball in a match against Valley Center. Photo by Malia Flores 22: Monte Cristo, senior, competes in a cross country meet at Augusta.

Photo by Malia Flores 29: Marching band members perform at the State Fair. Photo by Travis Moxley 2: Davis Joseph, senior, waves after being introduced at the match against Pittsburg. Photo by Rachel Stefanek 5: Kyren Parrott recieves the ball during the football game at Augusta. Photo by Grant Davis Page Design Jillian Primm