The Panther 2022-23 Issue 5: The Love Issue

THE LOVE ISSUE

CONT

TEACHING WHILE PREGNANT

The job of a teacher is one that many underestimate. From making lesson plans, grading papers, overseeing a group of students, providing mentorship and more, being a teacher is a rewarding, yet tasking job. Teachers help grow and nurture the minds of future generations but aside from the students in their classrooms, some teachers simultaneously grow and nurture something else—a baby. The experience of teaching while pregnant is one many do not know, though their experiences shed light onto the power and strength of women.

news briefs LOCaL NaTIONaL

A group of Florida International University students walked out of class on Feb. 23 in protest of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ recent policy targeting LGBTQ and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion issues. Students marched from FIU’s main campus to the surrounding streets, banging on drums and chanting, while holding signs along the way. Students chanted slogans like “DeSantis go away!” and “We say trans!”

NEWS

FEATURE: FDA EASES RESTRICTIONS

On Jan. 27, the FDA proposed new guideline standards that ease blood donation restrictions for gay and bisexual men who can pose a higher risk of HIV according to HIV.gov.

Air fryer company, Cos3ori, has recalled more than two million air fryers sold in the United States, Canada and Mexico due to their wire connections that can overheat and pose a fire risk. This recall was announced on Feb. 23, by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, urging consumers to stop using this product immediately. These air fryers were among the top sellers and were sold between June 2018 and December 2022 in Best Buy, Target and Home Depot along with other online retailers.

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Teen-toparent Relationship

As one grows up, parents and guardians typically give their kids the dreaded “uncomfortable” talks during their pre-adolescent stage of life: the “birds and the bees talk.” However, as kids grow older and become newly

INTERNATIONAL

SPORTS

For the Love of the Game

Although large sports tournaments are important examples of the power of unity within sports, small scale demonstrations hold just as much significance. When thinking of these small scale displays, one exhibit usually comes to mind: a pickup game.

Following floods on Feb. 22, hundreds of residents in the regions of Brazil’s Sao Paulo state scrambled to find water and daily supplies after mudslides cut off their communities and left nearly 50 people dead. Government and private aid groups were trying to provide necessities, but the logistics of reaching the isolated towns created difficulties. According to Sao Paulo’s state government, close to 1,730 people have been displaced and 1,810 were left homeless.

Being a Lesbian in High School

I have always known there is something different about me. The realization first struck me in fifth grade on my way back from a field trip; my friends were making a list of the cutest guys in our grade, and I realized that I just did not get it.

FDA Proposes New Guidelines For Blood

“This is something that all starts with unprotected sex, orally or another [way]. They are obviously transmitting more diseases than when they are protected,” MPSH senior and president of HOSA Rebecca Montero said.

The United States began blocking blood donations from gay and bisexual men during the 1980s AIDS epidemic to prevent the spread of HIV through the blood supply.

In the proposed guidelines, those who are on oral medications to prevent HIV infection such as Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) or Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) will also be delayed from donating blood. This is because data demonstrates that the use of PrEP and PEP may be a factor in the delayed results of HIV by licensed screening tests for blood donations, potentially causing false negative results.

Prior to 2015, gay men could not donate blood at all. Beginning that year, they became eligible to donate only if they had not had sex with a man in one year. In April of that year, the policy was updated to reduce the period of one year to only three months.

“It [the changes] is definitely a step in the right direction. I mean whenever you can treat everybody more equally, right? [The current guidelines] are not hurting the people that couldn’t donate blood; they are hurting the people that need to receive blood. There might not be enough blood on hand because certain people can’t donate. We have the ability to test the blood. So to single out that group, I think it is just, it’s about time that they re-look at that policy,” MPSH English teacher and sponsor of Gay-StraightAlliance Club Daniel Hurst said.

Advocacy groups and medical organizations have urged the FDA to lift and change these donation restrictions due to the blood supply shortage in the United States and the discrimination that comes with the practice.

“I do think it’s outdated because it is discriminating against a certain group of people. Now, I understand that the [FDA]is a regulated organization. It is not like they can just say, ‘Okay, let’s get rid of this rule.’ But it is about time because this policy has been in place for as long as I know and I think they are missing out on an opportunity to get more blood if they just take a different look at how they qualify people,” Hurst said.

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Brooke Wilensky a.stuzin.panther@gmail.com

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Bone Marrow Babies Advancements Try to Recreate Male Sperm

A recent study shows the possibility of making a baby completely artificially by using stem cells located in bone marrow and turning it into immature sperm. These treatments are not only a way to

cells or tissues in the body). In this case, [bone marrow] cells are put in a location so that they are automatically turned into endometrial cells,” reproductive endocrinologist, infertility specialist and board certified obstetrician gynecologist Dr. Armando Hernandez-Rey said.

The mice model uses mice with the Hoxa11 gene defect, meaning that they are unable to carry a pregnancy or have defective endometrial development, and therefore are unable to conceive. This gene is only found in multipotent stem cells in the bone marrow and uterine decidual stromal cells. After the mice received bone marrow transplants, they were able to conceive with a normal endometrial lining and carry their pregnancy to term, according to News-Medical.

Other treatments to solve infertility, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), are not an option for everyone attempting to have a biological baby. IVF may not be effective for a woman who has received cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation, or a man with testicular cancer. In this case, bone marrow treatment opens up new opportunities for a couple to reproduce biologically.

in which he removed a small disk of tissue from his shoulder, and then, after reprogramming, his skin cells transformed into stem cells. Scientists tested this with mice by transplanting the stem cells into the testicles of a mouse, and they discovered that they were able to turn the stem cells into functional gametes. This is significant now that more recent trends have shown couples beginning to have children later on, when it is much more difficult to conceive. If this practice advances further, it could mean struggling couples or individuals could reprogram existing cells to transform into the sperm or egg cells they need.

“By [age] 35, fertility decreases tremendously. Since women are having kids later on, they’re experiencing more issues getting pregnant,” Miami Palmetto Senior High biology teacher Nicole Swanson said. “[Bone marrow stem cells are able to heal the body] because these stem cells are undifferentiated cells;therefore, you are able to use your own stem cells to perform another cell’s function that may not be able to.”

have a baby without sperm from an actual male, but may also be a solution to infertility. This treatment will appeal to lesbian couples trying to have a fully biological baby. Simply put, the treatment focuses on growing fully synthetic embryos without actual sperm made entirely of stem cells in a petri dish. Yale University researchers reported that stem cells exit the bone marrow and travel to the uterus through the bloodstream to transform the uterine lining for implantation. A damaged inner lining of the uterus, or the endometrium, often results in infertility or a miscarriage. The experiments were conducted on mice who struggled with a damaged endometrium, and scientists had successful results.

“Bone marrow cells are called pluripotent cells, (which is a cell that is able to develop into many different types of

“[Therapies, such as chemotherapy or radiation,] Often, render somebody infertile because they destroy the cells that are there for reproduction: the egg and the sperm. If we can make an egg or sperm in the laboratory that originates from a stem cell, then that means we are using cells that belong to the patient, as opposed to a donor sperm or egg that is not biologically theirs,” Dr. Hernandez-Rey said. “If a patient who [has] had Leukemia since they were younger wants to use stem cell therapy, we will get some cells from their bone marrow, and then put them through an electric field and then after programming we are able to differentiate that cell into an egg or sperm.”

After scientists’ experiments with many solutions to infertility, such as pills, vitamins and major surgeries, many people are still unable to reproduce. In 2012, a technician at Stanford University performed a biopsy,

With this advancement, and as research on this subject progresses, studies about using stem cells in various ways are on the rise.

“Stem cells are useful for more things than we ever realized before, but using stem cells is able to help people generate different organs and tissues. This is taking stem cells from the bone marrow to help the uterus, and there is no donor involved, meaning this is autologous. That means there is no risk of getting a reaction or a rejection from the donor. So, if this were to become a solution to infertility, I would not see that being risky or bad or challenging, and not too big of a deal,” hematologist and oncologist Dr. Steve Fein said.

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DESIGN BY LUNA GARCIA

Hip-Hop’s story began 50 years ago in the Bronx, New York, where the first hip-hop beat was created at a dance party. Driven by turmoil, love, admiration and passion, hip-hop’s roots flourished beyond what the vinyl spinning DJs of the 70s would have expected.

In 1973, Clive Cambell, also known as DJ Kool Herc, was the first person on record to extend the drum loop of a song during a house party.

The drum loop in hip-hop gave birth to the genre.. Drum breaks and the beginning of DJing began in disenfranchised neighborhoods, typically populated with African American and Hispanic residents. The drum loop began a new culture and a way to interpret the old into the new, known as sampling.

Sampling is a technique commonly used by hip-hop producers, which allows for the producer to select parts of an old song and interject it into a new track. “Chopping,” or “slicing,” is the act of splitting up parts of a song and “flipping” is the rearrangement of parts. Soul, funk, disco, jazz and other genres of music are commonly sampled to search for different parts, but the drum loop was originally the coveted aspect of any track. Producers such as Madlib, The Alchemist, and most notably, J-Dilla became Maestros of sampling. Other musical figures, such as James Brown, such as James Brown, accidentally helped create the framework for hip-hop through their influences on rhythm and drum loops.

Kool Herc’s technique would eventually be called “Breakbeats.” In 1982, “The Message” , by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, became one of the first commercial rap songs, making rap mainstream. Three years before it, Sugarhill Gang created “Rapper’s Delight,” which was credited as rap’s first smash hit.

In the 1980s, the crack epidemic raged through America, disproportionately affecting African American neighborhoods in places such as New York, Los Angeles and Chicago. As a result, artists began speaking about their experiences, altering the subject matter within their music and continuing hip-hop as a vessel of expression as a reaction to the hardship.

With the start of the record label Def Jam in 1993, a monumental

part of hip-hop history began, as the label signed LL Cool J and the Beastie Boysand saw the growth of acts such as Rakim and Slick Rick.

A core aspect of hip-hop in the 1990s was the movement of G-Funk, pioneered by West Coast rappers and MCs [master of ceremonies] such as Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre. G-Funk’s sounds of bouncing drums, obscure guitars, bass, samples and loops highlighted the nature of regional hip-hop sounds.

Hip-hop in the pre-internet age was regional, and often highlighted where each rapper and producer originated. The East Coast with Jay-Z, Nas, Just Blaze, Diddy, Notorious B.I.G, and many, many more utilized different themes and sounds than that of acts in the West Coast and in the South.

The West Coast on the other hand, with the growth of Death Row records and acts such as Tupac Shakur, Ice Cube, Eazy-E and many others touched on topics unique to them and their region. But, the story of hip-hop is not mutually exclusive to each MC and act;many aspects of the lives of each rapper would cross paths.

Whether artistically or thematically, the lives of rappers were not as different as arguments and disagreements would make them seem. A lot of rappers had similar childhoods with many sharing stories surrounding abuse, violence and drug addiction within their tracks. Their shared experiences contributed to an eventual interconnected community no matter the region each rapper lived.

Hip-hop is the flower that bloomed from the concrete of the tumultuous lives of disenfranchised neighborhoods. It allowed for voices in communities usually left unheard to be at the forefront of mainstream culture.

Hip-Hop will not stop innovating at the 50 year mark but continue to grow and affect every corner of the globe.

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DESIGN

BY IVY LAGARTO

PHOTO BY MICHAEL ANGEE

Teen to Parent Relationship:

How to navigate teen sex lives

As one grows up, parents and guardians typically give their kids the dreaded “uncomfortable” talks during their preadolescent stage of life: the “birds and the bees talk.” However, as kids grow older and become newly independent teenagers, they learn that this freedom accompanies new responsibilities.

As a teenager, one begins to make their own decisions, which carry weights of trust and safety, but also open, honest parent-tochild relationships. One of these new decisions is sexual safety. Teenagers are typically told to stay away from being sexually active, but realistically, adults and parents must understand that not all teens will take that path.

If one does decide to be sexually active and safe, being honest with their parents is a responsibility that comes with it. For many, that is an uncomfortable conversation, and teens will attempt to avoid it; however, to achieve safety and a healthy relationship (with both a partner and a parent), telling the truth opens doors to good results.

“In regards to mental health, I think you need that support, and you need somebody that is nonjudgmental because you don’t get that from your friends. No matter how great your friends are, there’s always going to be some kind of judgment, and you also don’t know if they’re going to keep it private. Parents don’t usually share with your friends or with other kids, so it’s a privacy dynamic,” Miami Palmetto Senior High TRUST counselor Patricia Mills said.

Reversing the roles to give the “talk” to a parent is difficult, and approaching it can cause nervousness. However, by opening up, a parent can then give advice, provide resources and hold more trust in their kid,

creating a better relationship overall.

“It’s important for several reasons: One,

that can both be thrilling and frightening.

“Becoming a sexually active teen opens up a lot of emotions that sometimes can be difficult or uncomfortable to deal with, and I think processing those emotions with trusted adults, like parents or other adults that they feel comfortable with, is an important way to clarify their values. It involves a lot of new emotions that they [teenagers] haven’t experienced before, which could sometimes feel overwhelming and a little daunting,” Gray said.

Developing the courage to initiate the conversation is a milestone in itself, but reactions from parents vary. As a parent, it is important to receive the information openly and supportively.

“I think the most important thing that [a parent] can do is to listen and not judge; the teen is going into the conversation with an open mind and an open heart, and to appreciate that their teen is trusting them enough to open this line of communication and to share their ideas about values,” Gray said.

If one cannot hold an open conversation about their sexual life as a teen, looking for other sources such as therapists or counselors also serves as an outlet to find the necessary resources.

Cultivating an open bond with a trusted adult allows for a safer and healthier relationship, both with one’s significant other and one’s guardian.

Positive Psychologist and Parenting/Life Coach Ellen Gray said.

This topic also opens up new avenues for emotions. At an adolescent age, becoming sexually active creates a sense of maturity

“[When teens receive a response] it should be without judgment, like no matter what, because I think that kids know right away if they’re being judged, and that just shuts everybody down. So without judgment, loving, open-minded, and respect,” Mills said.

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PHOTO BY VALENTINA ARIAS

PERIO END THE STIGMA,

Around the globe, the first period of a young girl signifies a new stage of her life: womanhood. This new stage of life, though initially appearing exciting, brings stigma. With varying levels of severity for women worldwide, stigma surrounding menstruation becomes the cause of inequity and abuse. According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), 1.8 billion women menstruate each month, with many of them experiencing the process through shame and indignity.

“I’m somewhat disappointed that this [menstrual stigma] is still going on… I think as a society in general we need to be more tolerant about all people,” pediatrician Dr. Anna McConnell said.

When a girl gets her first period, the perspective of her in some people’s minds shifts from a young innocent child to an unhygienic and matured woman. Although a natural cycle has begun, the attitudes and perceptions of menstruating girls everywhere change more rapidly than their bodies. According to the New York Post, 42% of women in the United States have experienced period shaming, with one in five being shamed by a male friend and one in 10 being shamed by a classmate.

and president of Women of Tomorrow

Condoleezza Alexis said.

When something is surrounded, or like menstruation, engulfed in stigma, it causes repercussions beyond the known taboo. Menstruation opens up the doors for unintended teen pregnancy, currently 19 states teach abstinence-only sex education, which has proven ineffective, as many of these states simultaneously have the highest percentage of teenage pregnancies.

“Old enough to bleed, old enough to breed” is a phrase that received notoriety through alt-right social media, signifying that once a woman begins her menstrual cycle, she is old enough for sexual reproduction. This phrase further perpetuates the danger carried by menstruation stigma; unfortunately, for many young girls, the beginning of a period leads to sexual violence. Ideologies like the one above further promote toxic cultures that harm girls and women.

Child marriage is a consequence especially prevalent in non-Western countries and cultures, as the start of menstruation indicates womanhood, which is commonly misrepresented as readiness to wed. Girls Not Brides, a charitable organization fighting to eliminate child marriage, records that 37% of girls in Nepal are married before the age of 18. As unsafe conditions continue to prevail with a scarce amount of interference, the current culture surrounding periods harms menstruating

Free and accessible water fountains and toilet paper in public spaces are a given — these items are used for uncontrollable bodily functions and are therefore a

menstruate — an uncontrollable bodily function — do not have access to period products in public or private spaces. The lack of access to menstrual products negatively impacts girls and bars their educational and individual progress. According to the University of Michigan, one in five American girls miss school due to a lack of menstrual products. Furthermore, a study conducted by Thinx and PERIOD found that 20% of American teenagers struggled to afford menstrual products. Period poverty is a solvable dilemma where consequences are exacerbated by menstrual stigma.

“With period stigma comes people not wanting to talk about periods or address the situation in general and because of that a lot of important topics aren’t discussed or talked about…that directly leads to period poverty,” Alexis said.

The stigma surrounding menstruation

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500 MILLION

People lack access to menstrual products and hygiene facilities

16.9 million People who menstruate in the US are living in poverty

23 percent Of students have struggled to afford period products

1 in 5 American girls miss school due to lack of period products

57 percent of students say they feel their school doesn’t care about them if they don’t provide free period products in the bathrooms

23 percent of students have struggled to afford period products.

“I’m really thankful to work here and be pregnant working at Palmetto, because my teacher friends are super supportive and share a lot of stories during lunch about their experiences, and when I need to take a step back, I feel like I have the support to do so”

A DIFFERENT KIND OF DUE DATE

A DIFFERENT TYPE OF DUE DATE: Teaching While Pregnant

The job of a teacher is one that many underestimate. From making lesson plans, grading papers, overseeing a group of students, providing mentorship and more, being a teacher is a rewarding, yet tasking job. Teachers help grow and nurture the minds of future generations but aside from the students in their classrooms, some teachers simultaneously grow and nurture something else—a baby. The experience of teaching while pregnant is one many do not know, though their experiences shed light onto the power and strength of women.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, around 80% of all working women become pregnant at some point in their working lives. Although women can teach almost up until birth unless otherwise instructed by their doctor, they must still manage pregnancy symptoms.

“Tiredness is a very common symptom [of pregnancy], and it can be worse in some women than others. Nausea is a classic symptom, but it can even be worse to some than someone else,” Miami Palmetto Senior High School Advanced Placement Biology teacher Sarah Israel said. “Both of those things are especially bad first trimester, and then some people get to second trimester, and they start to feel better. Some people don’t; some people just feel awful; it’s very individual.”

Before becoming a biology teacher, Israel attended medical school, where she was pregnant with her son in the latter half. In the second half of medical school, she did rotations to go through all the different specialties such as surgery, rotation in internal medicine, OB-GYN rotation and even delivered seven babies. Shifts could last between 8-12 hours during the day or overnight but no matter the rotation, Israel persevered.

“Everyone in medical school was very, very nice, and very understanding. But you have to understand, I was not complaining; I didn’t dare,” Israel said. “You’re going to want to kind of fake it till you make it to do your job.”

A potential issue for pregnant teachers or in Israel’s case, those in the medical service, are things like minimal bathroom breaks, set lunch schedules and constantly walking around the room. In the first trimester, morning sickness presents itself the most and increased appetite patterns often affect women as well.

“[Bathroom breaks] are a big deal when you’re pregnant. Because you can’t leave the kids. You know, I didn’t have that experience. I had a different experience, which was, rotations in the hospital. But especially when somebody gets to the third trimester, the baby is sitting on their bladder. And [teachers] don’t get to go to bathroom all the time. And that would be very difficult,” Israel said.

For MPSH photography teacher Katherine King, her pregnancy took place during the 2020-2021 school year when Miami-Dade offered hybrid learning due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, King taught her students online for the majority of the year until brought back in October to teach in-person. Aside from adjusting from the changes quarantine brought to her life, King also adjusted to the changes pregnancy brought to her life.

“You’re worrying about how much water you’re drinking in the day or if you’re getting accurate nutrition, because when you’re pregnant, you have another being that you’re in charge of already,” King said. “I had to drink a lot more water, which is inconvenient as a teacher, and literally eat any chance I could to not only give the baby nutrition, but so I wouldn’t feel sick on top of that.”

Coming back from teaching in the safety of her home, King felt weary about teaching in-person considering the limited knowledge about COVID-19 at the time. Scientists even stated that pregnant women were more prone to COVID-19 and could experience worse effects resulting from the virus. Yet, MPSH worked with King to help her feel as safe as possible. Her in-person numbers were kept low and Athletic Director Steve Batten built King a barrier of Plexiglass to prevent any possible germs from touching her.

“It was convenient for me because I only had maybe 10 or 15 kids in person, so it wasn’t as difficult to leave them for a minute to go to the bathroom, as opposed to now having a full class, so in a lot of ways I had an easier time working while being pregnant, even though we were still going through all the troubles of COVID,” King said. “I guess a lot of people don’t realize and everyone’s experience is different, but some people have a hard time physically in their pregnancy. It was not the easiest time for me since I had a lot of health issues. I had to go to [a lot] of doctor’s appointments, and it takes a lot out of you physically.”

Though pregnant during an uncertain time, family members and fellow faculty helped support King throughout her pregnany. Longtime friend since highschool and current MPSH statistics teacher Melissa Moser often gave King support.

“Ms. Moser was a really big support because she had already gone through a pregnancy and she kind of knew tips and tricks and really knew how to help me and what I needed a lot of the times and knowing things that I didn’t even know that we needed. She was a really big support… I love her so much; she’s amazing,” King said.

As of Feb. 2023, Moser is currently six months along with her second pregnancy. Physically, Moser’s pregnancy has been fairly smooth, not requiring frequent bathroom breaks or feeling morning sickness like many pregnant women do. This has allowed her to stay in her classroom and teach for prolonged periods of time as she normally would.

“One bright side is that some women feel like they have to go to the bathroom all the time because their babies are low and pushing on their bladder. With my daughter and with my second one, my son now, they’re both high,” Moser said. “For me, I’ve been taking the elevator; I can’t take the stairs since they are a little bit winding on the third floor. Honestly, I’m lucky to have a pretty nice physical aspect of my pregnancy that I haven’t had too many issues with.”

Although Moser is not experiencing any physical issues that can come along with pregnancy, things like fatigue and “mommy brain” have impacted her in the past few months. “Mommy brain” refers to how some pregnant women struggle with verbal recall and memory recollection because as studies show, pregnancy results in the loss of gray matter which deals with social cognition. So while the body physically changes, a mothers brain changes as well.

“While I was pregnant with [my daughter] during the summer, I at least got a break, and I didn’t feel as exhausted as I do this time around. Now, I’ve been pregnant this entire school year, and I will give birth during the school year, so I would literally have started and ended the school year as pregnant,” Moser said. “Also just having a toddler at home, so now also when I get home I don’t get a break, so this pregnancy I’m just very tired.”

People like her husband, King and other faculty have been major supporters in Moser’s pregnancy. Additionally, Moser’s students have been extremely supportive of her pregnancy. She revealed the news to her students by showing them her new computer wallpaper on the Promethean board which she often updated with pictures of her young daughter. The new picture displayed her family smiling while her daughter held a “promoted to big sister” sign.“Every three or four months, I would change [my monitor] background to a more updated picture of [my daughter]. So last year for a while, I had our Halloween picture. But this year, I was like, ‘Hey, guys, look, I got a new picture,’ and so they’re like, ‘Oh, she’s so cute.’ It took them a second to register what she was holding,” Moser said.

Students often ask Moser how she is feeling and recommend baby names into the little pink box resting in the front of her room. She admires their concern for her wellbeing and how in a way, her pregnancy has brought her and students closer together.

“It’s kind of cute how my students are very invested in my pregnancy. That box is for… [name] suggestions. So my students know it’s gonna be a boy and [I like the names] as long as it sounds good in English and Spanish… A lot of them are suggesting names… And it’s just cute. They always check in on me and they’re like, ‘so how are you feeling today?’” Moser said.

As one approaches their due date, the process of preparing for time off and filing for pregnancy leave begins. In Florida, teachers file through their insurance for a temporary leave and if they want compensation, they must be gone from work for 30 days minimum. Teachers receive six weeks of maternity leave with a normal birth and eight weeks if they had a C-section. Women have the option to extend their leave longer, but they would not receive pay. Those on maternity leave get 60% of their paycheck through their insurance company, but the maternity leave does not cover insurance so they must pay back all the insurance when they return to work.

Florida has no mandatory state law that requires employers to offer pregnancy leave, but employers are covered by the Pregnancy Discrimination Act that gives pregnant women the same benefits as employees with temporary disabilities and is required to guarantee their job upon return from leave. The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) gives certain employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid protected leave per

year to help employees balance their work and family responsibilities with reasonable time. A father can also use FMLA leave to care for the child or his spouse who is incapacitated from the pregnancy or birth. For women who need more than 12 weeks off, maternity leave poses a potential financial barrier.

“What I will say is while individual people are really supportive, it is kind of unfortunate that just like as a society, women are expected to go back to work really quickly or risk not getting paid… But it’s unfortunate because even though you’re afforded 12 weeks or whatever the time is, you don’t get paid or you don’t get paid as much with short term disability,” Moser said. “In general, being a pregnant woman kind of stinks because if you’re not in a financially comfortable place, you’re kind of forced to go back quicker than you might want.”

As Moser approaches her due date in May, she has begun the process of filing for pregnancy leave. Moser has filed once before, while working as a teacher at another school when she was pregnant with her daughter. The process gave insight into how maternity leave affects women differently based on how their financial standing affects the amount of time they can take off of work.

“This was one of the things that kind of was upsetting when I first had my daughter was realizing, unless I had planned for it ahead of time, there was really not much in terms of maternity options. You got your leave, or you got whatever was affordable, but there was like no money really attached to it. So you could take work off and you wouldn’t be penalized, but you can’t afford to live. So I’m very fortunate that with my daughter, things worked out where I had so many days off, and I was financially comfortable, and it worked out this time where my son is going to be in May so I’ll have the summer. But it’s unfortunate that having a kid [means] also worrying about your finances,” Moser said.

MPSH has not only one pregnant faculty member, but two. MPSH dance teacher Marianne Valdez is currently in the sixth month of her first pregnancy, and though her belly may bar her from angelic leaps and doing splits, Valdez continues to lead students in the art of dance each school day. Like Moser, the pregnancy has been quite positive, though she has faced more of the physical tolls.

“It’s been awesome teaching while pregnant; my students have been really nice to me. The hardest part, and if there was just anything bad about [the pregnancy] was just the morning sickness… In the first trimester, it was really

hard for me to be in school because I was so sick, but now it’s my second [trimester] so it’s better.” Valdez said.

Teaching a strenuous physical activity like dance while pregnant has been an interesting and educational experience for Valdez. While not being able to use certain parts of her body to make demonstrations initially presented a hindrance, she has been able to improve the verbal aspect of her teaching tremendously, which she feels will help her in the future.

“One of the biggest changes was my body expanding, because I didn’t realize how often I used my abdominal core to teach [my students]. I’ve realized it’s actually the base of where I move from, so not having that and having to explain movement without being able to do it has been really hard,” Valdez said. “It’s almost like taking a step back and watching them more helps to describe the movements, which is good because one day I’ll be older, and I won’t be able to perform the moves that are in my head.”

Valdez’s students take a personal interest in her pregnancy and always ensure that she does not overdo any of the movements during their dance classes, even going so far as to write “Mrs. Valdez May Not Jump” on their classroom whiteboard. Valdez appreciates that her students encourage her and show her kindness daily, always viewing her pregnancy as a positive thing and even wanting to throw her a baby shower.

“They were really excited about when I was going to be showing, opposed to like ‘Oh god, she’s showing,’ which is really nice and does actually affect you,” Valdez said. “It’s been really nice to have a positive support system instead of ‘Ugh she’s pregnant.’”

Valdez has gained support from people like her husband, and wisdom from the several teachers like King, Moser and Robin Barson who have all gone through pregnancy, while teaching at MPSH or not. She feels that MPSH’s teachers have given her more insight into the peculiarities of pregnancy as a teacher versus in other professions.

“I’m really thankful to work here and be pregnant working at Palmetto, because my teacher friends are super supportive and share a lot of stories during lunch about their experiences, and when I need to take a step back, I feel like I have support to do so,” Valdez said.

M-DCPS’ current pregnancy leave is three months paid leave if chosen to do so. Teachers can then be granted three more months of an unpaid, limited disability leave upon request.

Depending on the type of birth, daycare options and many other circumstances, each woman’s decision about how much time to take off often varies.

“If I need three more months or the whole year, [leave] is unpaid for sure, but I get to keep my job, which is so huge,” Valdez said. “I am coming back, but I can’t imagine leaving my newborn until she’s able to at least communicate through babbles that she’s hungry or lift her neck, and then I’ll be fine leaving her in a daycare. But that very newborn age, zero to nine months, is pretty uncomfortable and formative and you want to be there for them.”

For millions of women worldwide, facing the decision between starting families and maintaining their careers often results in choosing one over the other. Yet, one can have a child and continue to advance their professional lives. While pregnancy comes with many changes both physically and mentally, women throughout history have found ways to progress, despite the often harsh realities of childbirth. For teachers, these women have done so with the help of their students, colleagues, loved ones and their own self determination. From teaching students in their classrooms each day to entering motherhood, teachers nurture more than than the minds of this generation, but form familial bonds in and outside the classroom.

Samantha Elkins Print Editor-in-Chief s.elkins.thepanther@gmail.com

Jasmine Judge Business Manager j.judge.thepanther@gmail.com

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thePANTHER february column

HALLOFFAMENOMINEES

Brett Beveridge class of 1982, Karyn Cunningham class of 1981

Lynn Evans 36 Years of Employment, Tom Foley Class of 1977

Janet Hupp 18 years of employment, Ketanji Brown Jackson class of 1988

Tim Hardaway Jr. Class of 2010, Rick Hirsch Class of 1975, Katie Phang class of 1993

David Soderholm 33 years of employment, Imogene Johnson 33 years of employment

Lee Levin class of 1985, Hardold “Harry” Nerenberg 20 years of employment

Brett Parks class of 1997, Kermit Weeks class of 1971, Don Westbrook class on 1964

HOW TO LOSE A LOVE INTEREST IN 10 DAYS, HIGH SCHOOL EDITION

Picture this: someone takes interest in you. You hang out with them a few times, FaceTime here and there, are each other’s “#1 Best Friend” on Snapchat and even go exclusive. Then, a few weeks pass, and for whatever reason, they have got to go. The following points are, according to Miami Palmetto Senior High students, the best things to do in order to — politely, but quickly — get someone to lose interest in you.

Clingy is Key

The bottom line is: in order to get a person to lose interest in you without openly rejecting them, never leave them alone. Spam their Snapchat. Call them every night. Never let them out of your sight at school or in public. In most cases, this overbearing attention results in them losing interest in you and wanting to spend less time around you.

When You Are Together, Spend the Whole Time on Your Phone

People who only spend time on their phones while with others are generally considered rude. So, take advantage of this standard and annoy the person with an unrelenting attraction to your phone. Act as if there were a life-or-death situation occurring on your phone for the entirety of your time together, while in reality, you may just be playing games like “Candy Crush” or watching the latest episode of “Outer Banks.”

Do Not Let Them Hang Out With Their Friends More Than With You

It is important for one to spend time with their friends. So, in order to crack down and deter one from liking you, when they tell you they are going to spend some time out with friends, include yourself every time. No one likes to feel as though they have to share an entire social life with another person, and this will probably have your person of interest pretty annoyed.

Be Pessimistic About Meeting Friends and Family

On the other hand, refusing to socialize whenever a person of interest suggests meeting new friends or family members could also deter them from staying with you. For example, excessively complaining about meeting people or acting intentionally standoffish in social situations can make them feel frustrated with you.

Sara Paredes Feature Editor s.paredes.thepanther@gmail.com

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Homeschool in Highschool Tennis Players at MPSH

For many athletes, playing sports is the most important part of their day. Those who take their sport extremely seriously may not match with the traditional eighthour school day due to the need to balance their education with their practice and competition schedule. Therefore, many athletes may take the homeschool route to manage their own athletic schedule while still obtaining a high school education.

“I actually was homeschooled from eighth grade to ninth grade, then went back to public school, and then [I] just went back to homeschool again for this half of the year. I picked to do that so I can spend more time focusing on my sport,” Florida Virtual School Junior and Miami Palmetto Senior High girls’ varsity tennis captain Brooke Revolta said.

MPSH athletics department accepts has accepted many homeschooled athletes, which allowsing students to still get the high school experience whileof being on a team. Countless athletes choose to play at MPSH because of its reputable name and highly-ranked sports teams. Some students, like Revolta, have attended parts of high school, while others, such as junior and tennis player Matteo Sama, have spent their whole high school careers homeschooling. Sama’s daily schedule revolves around tennis as he plays four to five hours a day.

“I wake up at 7 [a.m.] seveln and then do some school work. Then I will train from 10 [a.m.]-12 [p.m.] or 9 [a.m.]-12 [p.m.] , depending on the day…maybe do a little work, then go back to practice from 4-6 or 4-7 [p.m.],” Sama said.

Revolta and Sama share a similar schedule,

as both have goals of attending college for tennis.

“On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays I have practice in the morning from 10 [a.m.]-12 [p.m.], then practice in the afternoon from 4-7 [p.m.]. Then on Tuesdays and Thursdays, I have one hour in the mornings and two hours in the afternoon,” Revolta said.

As most of the MPSH team goes to the same tennis academy to practice and prepare for matches, it is common that they have similar schedules. Even without the MPSH team, most of the players would still be good friends, as they see one another almost every day.

“Basically everyone on the team goes to the same [tennis] academy. I literally see them many, many hours a day, so I am good friends with them because we have similar interests,” Sama said. In order for a homeschooled student to play at MPSH, itthis must be their school zone and they must try out like every other athlete. Additionally, jJust like all in-school students, homeschool athletes are expected to complete the required MDCPS Athletic Physical Packet, four4 online National Federation of State High School Associations courses about athletic safety, and pay for insurance.

Along with Revolata and Sama, eight other homeschooled athletes also compete on the MPSH tennis team. All the athletes atheltes, homeschooledhomeschoooled or not, act as one team and go into matches ready to dominate.

“They have to earn their spot on the team regardless, so it doesn’t matter if they’re homeschooled or not. They still

have to earn their spot by competing,” MPSH biology teacher and head tennis coach Kelly Gibson said.

Despite being homeschooled, the these athletes still experience almost the same high school sports experience as a non-homeschooled student due to their strong bonds with their teammates.

“I still have all my friends from the team, and the bond with them is really great,” Revolta said.

Homeschool is not without its challenges, as the students do not get constant daily socialization. But, participating in such an interconnected team makes this a nonissue for Sama and Revolta. Team dinners, fundraising events and traveling to competitions together gives way for friendship outside of the court.

“I probably would not do it [homeschool] if it were not for the team… I thought the team spirit was very nice and when you are competing at a high level, it is exciting,” Sama said.

Brooke Wilensky Copy Editor b.wilensky.thepanther@gmail.com

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Loving A Team: Analyzing Why One Becomes a Superfan

Behind every sports team , there is an audience that frantically obsesses over the team’s victory or defeat. Sports fans often associate their identity and the way they perceive themselves with the team they support.

Identifying as a sports fan can be a definitive characteristic and has even led people to report a higher sense of self-esteem and lower rates of depression and loneliness since their main source of confidence and pride stems from their team recognition. A 1994 study of the saliva of 21 males after watching the World Cup between Brazil and Italy found that after Brazil won, their fans’ testosterone levels increased while Italian fans’ testosterone levels remained unchanged.

“I am very attached to the [Miami] Heat because it is a high-level team of the sport I most love to play. Along with me playing the sport myself, it is a nice feeling to watch a team play at a professional level that represents my city,” Miami Palmetto Senior High junior and basketball player Joshua Lipson said.

Additionally, fFans are able to create a sense of pride and community within a team by wearing clothing that identifies themselves with the team’s logo and colors. “I am always showing love and support for the team, whether it is by wearing a player’s jersey to the game or wearing a [Miami] Heat shirt to school. I have a lot of [the team’s merchandise] and love to express my passion for them,” Lipson said.

However, some sports fans make a consistent observation about the differences between their team’s victory or loss. The most typical phrase used when a team wins is “we won,” but when the same team loses, the fan quickly switches to the third person saying, “they lost.” This natural tendency to

associate closely with the team in victory is known as “basking in reflected glory.” A fan will easily express their passion, support and pride when their team succeeds, but when they fail, they are quick to blame the team.

“A long-time, loyal fan will stick with the team no matter if the team is winning or losing. However, a fair-weather fan will be there when the team is performing well and when they are not doing well, they are not there. There is also a bandwagon effect involved, like ‘this team is doing well, so I want to be there with everyone else.’ So other fans will just jump on that bandwagon and copy others behavior,” MPSH Psychology honors teacher Aretha Hutchinson said.

Sports provides an escape from the reality and stress of life to tune into a passionate environment filled with hard-working athletes. This positive experience allows fans to relax and enjoy a sense of achievement with reduced stress levels. A team’s performance can also have an impacthave a notable impact on one’s emotional and mental state. Watching a team win in the last second can be a euphoric experience, ; while watching one’s team lose in the last minute of overtime in the final game can ignite a feeling of depression.

“On psychological well-being, there is a point where being competitive is really good. I mean, you need that to win your game. You need that to be on top of your game. But if you become too competitive, to the point where it’s no longer useful, then that’s detrimental,” Hutchinson said.

Attending these sporting events in-person displays the social-psychological phenomenon of disinhibition. Fans shout, yell, stand up, cheer and high-five strangers all around them. Even people who are typically reserved and shy will explode with excitement in bursts of thrill when surrounded by others engaged in the same unrestrained excitement.

“When you are around a group of people, they influence your behavior. When watching a game, you are usually

excited and everyone around you is super into the game. So that kind of changes how you would act under normal circumstanc es. The people around you, the excitement and the environment all can alter the behavior of someone,” Hutchinson said.

The obsession with a team can also represent one’s culture and heritage.

“I am Argentinian, so soccer is a huge part of my culture. Soccer is life. From the day you are born, you have a club and that is your club,” MPSH sophomore Ignacio Perales said.

Seeing one’s favorite the team one identifies with take the title in their major final game can also present a sense of nationalism and passion.

“[After Argentina won the World Cup], it was the best day of my life; it was incomparable. The glory of winning a trophy like the World Cup is that it lasts for four years straight,” Perales said.

The excitement produced when watching a game is unrivaled; the adrena line rush is indescribable and the passion is unmatched. Although passionate sports fans may continue to act as a mystery to many, they will continue to support their team no matter what. To a sports fan, a game is not just a “game,” it represents so much more.

Ava Stuzin News Editor a.stuzin.thepanther@gmail.com

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SPORTS |21

For the Love of the Game

strangers helps with arguably the most important skill to have in

“I mean, if we are all on a team together we have to communicate,” Shields said. “[Pickup games make you better at communication] because you have to meet new people you’ve never

Playing in pickup games often provides additional athletic benefits to people, as it serves as a useful component in

“I can tell you from the training aspect of what I do now, pickup games are literally how you go out there and see what works and what doesn’t,” Kelly said. “Pickup games are probably the best thing you could possibly get into, because at the end of the day, a pickup game doesn’t really matter, but it’s helping you improve your sport, your skills and your abilities you can bring to

The field and court are not the only locations players can utilize the skills they have acquired through playing their respective sports with and against strangers. Kelly believes that playing in pickup games can help players form better teamwork, cooperation and social skills that athletes will use for the rest of their lives.

“Everything I’ve learned in basketball has helped me in life,” Kelly said. “The first thing was learning how to work with others. For me, when I was younger, it was learning how to speak up for yourself. So, I had to be a little more assertive when I was out there on the court. Then, as I got older, me being assertive on the court helped me be very assertive when I was in a business or

While participating in pickup games can improve players’ athleticism and help them form lifelong skills, many play for a much simpler reason: enjoyment. According to Shields, when it comes to recreational soccer games, the more the merrier.

“I think it’s more fun to play with other people too, because the games have more people in total,” Shields said.

“Like, instead of being a three v. three, you’re playing a 10

By playing with strangers who share a passion for a certain sport, one can form bonds with people they may

in sports, however, because of the inevitable bond formed within a team. This new trust formed between teammates and the interest they share (their sport) unifies people in a way unparalleled by any other experience.

“The whole concept of a ‘team’ pretty much will bring people towards a common goal, even if it’s for a short period of time,” Kelly said. “I’ll start talking to somebody, and, you know, we just hit it off because we have the same common interest. So it’s an easy icebreaker.”

Similarly, Miami Palmetto Senior High sophomore and pickup soccer game player Hudson Shields believes playing with

“There was this one time, these two guys— seniors, I think from Columbus, walked over to our game and they were messing with players on my team, it was fun,” Shields said. “It’s nice to meet people from other schools— not just Palmetto. That’s one of the best parts of pickup games.”

Edie Carneiro Copy Editor e.carneiro.thepanther@gmail.com

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FLORIDA TAKES A STEP IN THE WRONG DIRECTION

DURING BLACK HISTORY MONTH

February is Black History Month, but instead of celebrating it properly, Florida has engaged in a culture war that censors Black history instead of promoting it.

The state of Florida has rejected Advanced Placement African American Studies from being taught in schools. Students are stripped of a course that would enable them to analyze and think critically about Black history and culture. It is curious that the state finds fault with AP African American Studies, while AP European History remains uncontroversial and is offered in multiple Florida schools. Unfortunately, as a community, we are familiar with double standards.

The push to rid schools of AP African American Studies is all part of Gov. Ron DeSantis’ push to stop “wokeism” from invading classrooms. DeSantis signed the “Stop WOKE Act” in April 2022, which banned schools or workplaces from teaching concepts that could make students feel guilty or teach them how people are oppressed based on race, gender or national origin. The reality is, this serves as an agenda to slowly censor the history of marginalized communities. Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” bill does the same thing, but with a focus on limiting discussion about the LGBTQ+ community in elementary schools. The conjunction of these two laws can be found in one of DeSantis’ justifications for rejecting AP African American Studies, with his opposition to the course’s covering of “Black Queer Theory.” Interestingly enough, AP United States History also covers the struggle for LBGTQ+ rights during its focus on the Progressive Era, but the state has not encountered an issue with that course.

Following the governor’s rejection of the course, the College Board removed many historical Black figures and movements that conservatives may deem “problematic,” such as Black Lives Matter. However, the College Board has denied that their actions resulted from DeSantis’ criticism.

What is it about Black history that is so dangerous that DeSantis does not want students to learn about? Is it perseverance, resilience and courage in the face of discrimination? Is it the fact that those who learn history are empowered?

The message is clear and intentional. In Florida, students of all races will be denied the opportunity to study the contribution of Black Americans to the nation with the rigor of a university-level class. Much of the governor’s messaging is about “”freedom,” yet there is nothing more antithetical to freedom than censoring history. Perhaps the governor is referring to certain people’s freedom to go about living their lives without having to consider the importance of Black history, or maybe he is protecting them from an AP course that has “African American” in its name.

According to Maya Angelou, “History, despite its wrenching pain, cannot be unlived, but if faced with courage, need not be lived again.” Such words epitomize the spirit of Black History Month. Instead of assuming students will feel guilty for things they never participated in, or feel oppressed because of the community they are a part of, DeSantis needs to allow students to confront the ugly reality of American history and learn from it. How many students will be unexposed to the works of Angelou, or of the accomplishments of other prominent figures in Black history because of DeSantis’ rejection?

Black History Month is a time to reflect on how far we have come as a nation. We should take pride in the progress our ancestors have made and vow to never stop marching toward a more perfect union. This month, let us not forget the pioneers; let us not forget the sacrifices made in the pursuit of a more complete freedom. Let us not forget that Black history is American history.

Daniel Perodin Staff Writer d.perodin.thepanther@gmail.com

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ENOUGH IS ENOUGH. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH.

5YEARS SINCE THE PARKLAND SHOOTING:

This February marks five years since the Marjory Stoneman Douglas shooting in Parkland, Florida that killed 14 students and three teachers and injured 17 others.

When dates like these approach, it is common for people to address the dates of the shootings as an “anniversary,” but what part of a school shooting where 17 people were shot to death warrants the title of anniversary? The more I think about it, the more convinced I am that our gun violence problem is also a language problem — euphemisms, distortions, misdirections. Students were not “taken” from their families — they were murdered. They did not show up to school one morning and simply not return home that afternoon — they were shot and killed by a man who should not have had a gun. Parents did not “lose” their children that afternoon. Alyssa Alhadef was killed, Martin Duque Anguiano was killed, Nicholas Dworet was killed, Jaime Guttenberg was killed, Chris Hixon was killed, Luke Hoyer was killed, Cara Loughran was killed, Gina Montalto was killed, Joaquin Oliver was killed, Alaina Petty was killed, Meadow Pollack was killed, Helena Ramsay was killed, Alex Schachter was killed, Carmen Schentrup was killed and Peter Wang was killed.

Clearly, the world is not all sunshine and rainbows, so why is the media not more direct about reality? It is always the same: the 911 call transcript, military vehicles disgorging SWAT teams, witnesses hugging and weeping, ambulances rolling away and candles lit at “memorials.” We never see a body. We never see what a .223 round of ammunition actually does to a human. It has all been sanitized and glossed over. Every single time I hear a congressman call for a “moment of silence,” I hear him saying, “I don’t want to talk about this.” Every tweet from a congressman’s finger’s offering the same line of “thoughts and prayers,” makes me cringe from within. If anyone had a serious commitment to “thoughts and prayers,” maybe the U.S. would not be ranked as the country with the highest number of school shootings. In every instance that a politician urges the “thoughts and prayers” phrase, they never pay victims any form of meaningful thought, discourse or discussion on the time families spent planning funerals for their grade-schoolers.

While I was in sixth grade enjoying my middle school’s Valentine’s day dance in our school’s cafeteria, a gunman walked through the doors of Marjory Stoneman Douglas and murdered 17 people. Weeks before that horrific incident, Education Week began tracking shootings in schools that resulted in injury or death. Since that time, other high-profile, mass school shootings have killed and injured people in dozens of other shootings that did not

garner the same media coverage and public outcry, but were no less devastating to the schools, students, educators, families and communities affected.

One singular hour. At 11:33 a.m., just last May, a shooter entered Robb Elementary School in Texas and murdered 19 innocent third graders and their two teachers. When police arrived at 11:35 a.m., what was their solution? How did they fulfill their oath to “protect and serve” our nation’s most vulnerable? Law enforcement proceeded to lock a deranged gunman with an automatic killing machine inside the elementary school classroom. Over the next hour, he murdered every single soul inside. Over 19 idle police officers stood aside, watching the second-worst school shooting in history take place.

Our country’s refusal to enact gun-control measures of any kind today and every day is killing our children. When I think about walking into school every day, I hold the same fear as many other American students: that I could be the next child texting my mother under the “safety” of my desk at any moment. I worry that my mother will be the next parent to wait outside a community center or police station to learn how many bullets I took while I was analyzing a rhetorical situation or completing a timed writing.

21 people are shot every day in the U.S., and with guns now being the leading cause of death of our children, America’s 120.5 to 100 gun-to-resident ratio is to blame. 103 people have been killed and 281 people injured in school shootings since 2018. In 2022, there were 51 school shootings — more than double the numbers for 2018 and 2019, which both saw 24 such incidents. Last year, school shootings hit a record, with 100 people shot on school campuses and 40 people killed. With state legislators more focused on bathroom bills, abortion and “voter fraud” than on gun safety, it sickens me that the thing standing between me and gun violence is a fabricated culture war that continues to grapple the attention of a nation far more than a story of a child’s cold-blooded murder.

If you see something, say something. Call Anthony Rodriguez. Call Carlos Gimenez. Call Marco Rubio. Call Rick Scott. It is up to you to understand how elections affect our daily lives and whether we live or die while in a classroom. We will be the generation that ends school shootings. It is up to us to ensure that.

Amy-Grace Shapiro Online Editor-in-Chief a.shapiro.thepanther@gmail.com

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BEING A LESBIAN IN HIGH SCHOOL

I have always known there is something different about me. The realization first struck me in fifth grade on my way back from a field trip; my friends were making a list of the cutest guys in our grade, and I realized that I just did not get it.

In middle school, I knew I liked girls but had no clue what to do with that information. Unfortunately, I was not educated enough to know there were different sexualities besides gay and straight. Later, I found out what bisexuality was, and thought that label fit at the time, but it still did not fully feel right.

I came to the conclusion that I was lesbian when I realized that no guy could ever make me feel the way a girl could.

Once I became comfortable with my label, I started coming out to people. I was and am extremely lucky to have been raised by a mom I knew would always accept me, who gave me the space and comfort to be able to tell her about myself a bit later in my life. This support also encouraged me to gain the confidence to tell my friends. Sadly I felt that some of my closest friends would not take it very well, and I was right. My closest friend, however, did take it well. She was the first person I came out to when I was 11-years-old.

One of the biggest challenges I face with being a lesbian is questioning how close I can be with a girl friend. I look up to the typical highschool best friend duos where the girls are super close, have sleepovers, hug and cuddle all day — but it is completely platonic. Being a lesbian makes me feel like I cannot have these friendships or that people are scared to have them with me in fear of me crushing on them. The feeling of having to be extremely careful to not make a girl uncomfortable causes me to feel uncomfortable most of the time. My romantic relationship is also impacted by this, because if I am ever close with a girl in a platonic way, people automatically assume or even tell me I am doing something wrong.

On a similar note, being part of a sports team where I did not have any friends at the beginning and having to change in the locker room with everybody was one of the worst experiences I have gone through. I recall going all the way in the back and staring at the wall in fear of making anyone uncomfortable, despite how

uncomfortable I was myself. As the season went on, I made friends and became more comfortable around everyone. I realized that I was overthinking things too much and barely anyone cared about me being there — in the best way possible.

Friendships with guys can also be tricky; it can either go perfectly, or be a complete failure. Half of the time a guy will love the fact that I am a lesbian, we will even have our own version of a ‘girl talk’ and will bond over similar interests. The other half of the time it feels awkward because they do not know what to do with someone who presents themselves the way I do but is not a boy, and they can make me feel like I am out of place.

People have the tendency to assume I want to be a boy simply because I do not occasionally fall into the feminine girl stereotype. It is awkward when people treat me like a guy simply because of the way I dress and express myself. I love being a girl, I love the whole traditional aesthetic behind it. I love receiving flowers, getting taken on dates, getting treated like a princess, all of it. The beauty of being a lesbian is the fact that I get to date another girl. There is nothing more beautiful than the romantic love that two girls can share.

Being in high school while being openly gay has taught me numerous lessons about life. I am thankful to attend Miami Palmetto Senior High, where there are teachers who support me and are there to listen if there are any issues at school and certain students who helped me create a safe space for myself and others with their love and kindness. I would not change a thing about what I have gone through, because overall, the good and the bad have shaped me into who I am today. I am proud to be a lesbian, and I am glad to have learned that it is okay to be different as long as you are you.

Paula Ortiz Design Editor p.ortiz.thepanther@gmail.com

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FACEOFF:

no: YES: Do opposites attract?

When it comes to ideal love, many people search for someone who shares common interests, similar styles and, most of all, related personalities, but looking for these similar traits has been the wrong approach this entire time. When locating a perfect pair, most times, individuals both carry qualities that the other does not fill in those gaps. People take the phrase “opposites attract” far too literally; opposites do not have to be a “bad boy” and a “good girl,” it can simply be someone who is outgoing and someone more reserved.

Although Scientific evidence has debunked the popular phrase “opposites attract”, many still think this phrase remains true in several ways. One can see this phrase in action when looking at well-known celebrity couples, including Mila Kunis and Aston Kutcher and Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani. While on “Live with Kelly and Ryan,” Kunis and Kutcher stated that they were opposites, but that balanced them out as a couple, further proving this attraction between opposites.

Learning new aspects of a person that differs from yourself can provide novelty to a relationship and spark unique conversations. Especially in this generation, opposing views have begun to move people apart, but what if these views could strike conversations that inform others and allow for a better understanding of opposing views? What if creating healthy opposition allows this negativity associated with having a different opinion slowly fade away?

Opposition still contains a highly negative connotation, yet in numerous cases, these oppositions have brought people closer. For example, if someone always notices the good in life while the other only sees the bad, these opposing perspectives on life can slowly merge into the perfect medium for looking at life in a positive light but still remaining aware of the negatives.

Opposites do not always have to be people we run away from; instead, we can learn new opinions on different topics to broaden our viewpoints. Having different strengths and weaknesses allows the other person to fill in the gaps you lack and vice versa. “Opposites attract” is a broad term that people have believed for years, but understanding the positive side of having divergent views and different interests transforms this negative phrase into something that can strengthen a relationship and lead to engaging conversations.

Ava Garcia Managing Editor a.garcia.thepanther@gmail.com

Although opposite personalities benefit the other by introducing them to new values, having little or nothing in common after advancing past the stage of initial admiration increases chances that the two will get bored of each other or argue on a greater scale. Do opposites really attract, or is it all a myth?

The homogamy hypothesis explains the effects of similarities in a relationship. In 2013, psychologists Matthew Montoya and Robert Horton concluded that this hypothesis dominated in a relationship’s success. Similar attitudes, personality traits and values all contribute to a stable and healthy relationship while drastic differences make it difficult for it to work out. For example, one person may be a neat freak and feel the obligation to keep the house spotless, while their partner throws their clothes on the floor and leaves mail lying around the house, which raises conflicts and poses a threat to the well-being of the relationship.

A past study found that couples who share values fared better in their marriages than those who did not. If a relationship encounters conflict over differing values and conflicting goals, such as where to reside, or whether or not they want children, there is a higher chance that these arguments will end in divorce. Empathy is key in emotional support among partners, and it makes it extremely difficult to put oneself in the shoes of someone they cannot relate to. Additionally, as parents, partners need to cooperate and work effectively. How would two complete opposites come to terms with parenting methods and means of educating and raising a child? With these issues, the child will grow up with insecurities and uneasiness over their parents’ disputes.

Finding somebody who suits your lifestyle, personality and shares your morals and perspectives, instead of challenging them, will increase the likelihood that you will find a middle ground in most conflicts, establish trust and understanding and find happiness together.

Sofia Strohmeier Copy Editor s.strohmeier.thepanther@gmail.com

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PANTHER the

Samantha Elkins

Online Co-Editor-In-Chief

Amy-Grace Shapiro

Managing Editor

Ava Garcia

Senior Copy Editor

Nicole Martin

Senior Multimedia Editor

Ryan Mckean

Senior Design Editor

Ella Pedroso

Business Manager

Jasmine Judge

Feature Editor

Sara Paredes

Contents Editor

Isabella Hewitt

News Editor

Ava Stuzin

Life Editor

Michael Angee

Sports Editor

Eitan Greenberg

Opinion Editor

Sofia Taddeo-Goldstein

Multimedia team

Valentina Arias

Maddie Volpe

Emilia Haus

Design team

Ivy Lagarto

Luna Garcia

Mia Shields

Paula Ortiz

Copy team

Edie Carneiro

Gabriella Alvarez

Brooke Wilensky

Sofia Strohmeier

Staff writers

Alexis James

Jake Hawkins

Paulina Handal

Daniel Perodin Adviser

Laura Aviles

STAFF EDITORIAL

FILL THE SHELVES

In the past year, various laws have passed restricting the choice of books available at schools. As part of Florida’s education reforms, the HB 1467 Law requires media specialists to evaluate books in school libraries to ensure appropriateness and make sure they do not contain pornography or race-based teachings, among other topics. In addition, it also orders that books provided from kindergarten to third grade must omit topics of sexual orientation and gender identity. If teachers are found teaching any banned books, they can face potential felony charges.

Many students and parents feel as though these rules express unfairness and are doing a disservice to their education. Following the banning of 176 books in Duval County Schools in Jacksonville, FL., teachers and parents expressed their concern about censoring students’ education. Books like “Before She Was Harriet” by Lesa Cline-Ransome and James E. Ransome and “Dumpling Soup” by Jama Kim Rattigan and Lillian Hsu-Flanders are banned.

Here at The Panther, we pride ourselves on informing others on various topics, no matter the issue. Those on staff gain inspiration from a plethora of novels and articles, with many provided at school. By limiting the diversity of books at schools, students’ learning of historical events and other cultures is hindered upon. The reality is that many banned books deal with subjects that invite conversation, and are realistic and timely. While it is understandable that certain topics should be taught in-depth by parents’ conversations with their children, schools must continue to create a foundation for students to learn. It is time to halt Florida book banning.

Gabriella Alvarez

Copy Editor

g.alvarez.thepanther@gmail.com

MISSON STATEMENT

The Panther staff aims to inform fellow students and parents about school-wide, local, national, and international news. The Panther’s content aims to represent the student body. Editorials feature the opinions of staffers. Features of other students, teachers and clubs further promote the spirit, culture and personality of Miami Palmetto Senior High School.

EDITORIAL POLICY

The Panther is a monthly publication of Miami Palmetto Senior High located at 7431 SW 120th Street Miami, FL 33156, (305) 235-1360 ext. 1124. The views expressed are solely those of The Panther staff. Students who wish to respond to an article in this publication or discuss another issue may write letters to the editor and submit them to room 1237 or e-mail us at s.elkins. thepanther@gmail.com and/or a.shapiro.thepanther@gmail.comThe Panther has professional membership in NSPA and CSPA. The Panther prints 1,400 copies per issue for distribution. The Panther is distributed for free to all students in school. Please visit our paper online at thepalmettopanther.com.

BYLINE POLICY:

All creative work (such as illustrations, graphics, photos and writing) excluding staff editorials and staff member pictures will include byline credits.

CORRECTION POLICY:

Any errors in print will be acknowledged in the next print issue in a correction box. Any errors online will be acknowledged immediately. Errors include facts, figures, misquoting and name misspellings.

ADVERTISING POLICY:

Ads will be designed by the advertiser and include all information the advertiser wants included. If the advertiser asks the staff to design the ad, the individual who sold the ad will design the ad or the Ads Manager will. Ads will be approved by EICs, the Advisor and the Ads Manager. If an ad produced is illegible, contains false information, or the advertiser does not like it, they will receive a free ad in the next issue. If you would like to advertise, please contact us.

The School Board shall comply with all Federal Laws and regulations prohibiting discrimination and all requirements and regulations of the U.S. Department of Education. The Board will enforce its prohibition against discrimination/harassment based on sex, race, color, ethnic, or national origin, religion, marital status, disability, age, political beliefs, sexual orientation, gender, gender identification, social and family background, linguistic preference, pregnancy and any other basis prohibited by law. The Board shall maintain an educational and work environment free from all forms of discrimination/harassment, which includes Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. Title IX prohibits sexual harassment and other sexual misconduct such as unwelcome touching, graphic verbal comments, sexual jokes, slurs, gestures or pictures. All students, administrators, teachers, staff, and all other school personnel share responsibility for avoiding, discouraging, and reporting any form of prohibited discrimination or harassment against students by employees, other students and their parents or guardians, or third parties. This policy prohibits discrimination and harassment at all School District operations, programs, and activities on school property, or at another location if it