Quarter One 2018 • Volume 4, Number 1
Reclaiming The Nest
Design by Rebecca Schneid
Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School 5901 Pine Island Road Parkland, FL 33076
The Eagle Eye Quarter One 2018 • Volume 4, Number 1
Contents
Cover photo by Darian Williams
The opinions expressed in this paper are not necessarily those of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School or Broward County Public Schools. The publication abides by the scholastic press associations and is a member of the Florida Scholastic Press Association, the National Scholastic Press Association and the Columbia Scholastic Press Association. If you would like to advertise please call (754) 322-2150 or email melissa.falkowski@browardschools.com
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03 Letters to the Editor 04 New to the nest takes a vIllage 06 ItREMEMBERING DWIGHT JOHNSON
MSD student body shares their perspective on various issues
New developments occur at MSD
New portables installed at MSD dubbed “Eagle Village” Custodian Dwight Johnson passes away
07 Get on Board
Secure the next Generation
Broward voters approve half mill tax increase to fund schools Broward County voters elect school board members
09 Dear Class of 2022 Parking Problems
Concerns arise regarding parking spots in the senior lot
10
Photo by Nyan Clarke
Editorial Board Hannah Kapoor Rebecca Schneid Editors-in-Chief
BRianna fisher Junior Editor-in-Chief
Dara Rosen Taylor morrison Leni Steinhardt Zoe Gordan Anna Dittman Associate Editors
Mady Kravitz Business Manager
Einav cohen Managing Editor
Nyan Clarke Photo Editor
Ryan Lofurno Sports Editor
Staff Writers
Samantha Goldblum Joyce Han Jenna Harris Todd Hewling Brian Jesionowski Jason Leavy Jack Macleod Sarishita Malakapalli
Brian Martinez Nadia Murillo Nicole Suarez Fallon Tratchtman Amelia Weiss Katrina White Darian Williams
Eagle Eye Editor Board sends message to freshman class
10 Securing stoneman
Updated security measures create new normal
13 Walking new halls
Teresa Hall joins MSD as Principal on Task Assignment
Doing the most
Assistant Principal Daniel Most joins MSD staff
14 Instafamous 17 18 blast from the past 20 The Many Faces of Trauma 22 Once an eagle always an eagle 25 Media Mayhem 27 Born to lead On the Road to Change
March For Our Lives embark on two-month bus tour to engage with youth voters and activists
English teacher Brittany Sinitch gains popularity on social media
Delorean makes a special appearance during Homecoming week
MSD students and faculty use different methods to cope with trauma
MSD Alumni come together to support the Parkland and Coral Springs community
Conflicts involving media worry the public
MSD swim and dive team and cross country team gain new coaches
Design by Rebecca Schneid
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Senior Priority
Dear Editor, As the entire country knows what happened to our school on Feb. 14, we are all well aware of safety concerns and issues. One major issue is that the class of 2020 (juniors) who have dual enrollment are allowed to park in the senior lot because they’re “too scared.” Now do not get me wrong, I am not dismissing their fears or problems, but I just want to make this issue more clear to the school because the seniors this year do not have enough spots for themselves. Plus all of the security guards and staff parking in them along with the seniors. As seniors, we have waited for three of our high school years to be able to park there, and now, because some juniors NEED to park and not walk to the junior lot, we are losing spots. Seniors are continuously being told they will be put on a waiting list for a pass to park, when we all know the juniors take up all of the spots. It is just ridiculous. Even though it’s the juniors taking our spots, it’s the administration who lets them. Alyson Peri, 12
No Connection
Dear Editor, There is something that has been bothering me for a really long time and it is very simple, Wifi. Our school’s wifi is terrible and there is no doubt in that. Ignoring the fact, for now, that we are only allowed to access certain websites, it is far too unreliable that it is barely worth using. The fact that it doesn’t even allow us to use Google Chrome for any sort of research, but the fact that they block websites with no bad content in it just grates on my nerves. If you want to look something up on a wiki, nope, wifi won’t let you. Using a server to read a story and don’t want to use your data, school wifi disagrees. It’s just pointless restrictions that no one literally uses it unless they have a computer they need to use. The fact that, at one point, certain websites were allowed but then blocked for use is…. Just why! Given the fact that it was done to prevent us from using our data to cut cost on mobile bills, it completely counters its original purpose. What’s worse is that the school has different service strengths throughout the entire campus on all platforms. One classroom can have the perfect signal and five feet away has nothing. Honestly, I would like to see the internet actually help us rather than hinder us. Mia Oliveira, 12
Send us a letter Have something to say about school? Have something to say about a local, national or global issue? Have something to say about this issue of The Eagle Eye? We want to hear your opinions. Email submissions to: msdeagleeyenews@gmail.com
Submissions must be between 100-250 words
No New Normal
Dear Editor, It’s time for us to stop pretending Douglas is still a normal high school. I know we all wish we could go back to functioning as reckless, rowdy teenagers at school, a form of escape from the harsh realities of the outside world, but we can’t. PTSD is still an issue in this community, and it will be for a very long time. We as a student body tend to want to ignore these things, but the simple fact is, we just can’t. We cannot knock on doors loudly or scream and shout at lunch without a care in the world, because we might
inadvertently hurt another student. Not physically, but mentally. We all need to be conscious of the fact that everyone is at a different stage in the healing process. It is in our nature to judge, but the fact is, that it’s impossible to know every student’s story. One can never know where someone is in the healing process or what they might have lost. If we’re going to get through the rest of our high school careers together, we must first learn to accept and understand each other. That begins with a mutual understanding. Augustus Griffith, 11
A Limited Lens
Dear Editor, It appears that in a majority of U.S. news there is a severe lack of insight regarding the rest of the world. The American populace would apparently prefer reading about a magazine analysis of a fake TV show murder case, or about the controversial president breathing weird, rather than news regarding Europe or Asia or Africa. Of course, this news exists, but in a ridiculous minority compared to the “Top Ten Beauty Tips” or the “You Won’t Believe What This US Politician Did” categories. The only international news broadcasted or discussed longer than five minutes appears to be when they speak about national issues that affect the U.S. directly, or about a world-affecting natural disaster. The news that is given to the public is often copied, word-for-word, from another writer and given as original
content. In short, U.S. news does not give its people a magnifying glass into the world; rather, it gives them a mirror to admire themselves in. And the American people have been trained to take that mirror without complaint. This needs to change. A consistent and reliable section of the news describing the advancements or troubles of other nations, not just the U.S., would help in our understanding of the world politically, socially and economically. With the world being connected stronger than ever in human history, it is astonishing to see the U.S. so divided from the rest of the world. Only by informing the populace of more than just themselves can we hope to instill a vital curiosity that encourages them to realize that the U.S. isn’t the only nation that exists. Katarina Athanasiou, 11
Believe Women
Dear Editor, If you’ve been watching the news, I’m sure you’ve heard about the accusations surrounding Brett Kavanaugh and you probably know what I am about to say. I can understand why there would be skeptics who don’t fully believe the accusations against Kavanaugh. Yes, 35 years is a long time to come out about someone sexually assaulting you, but what most fail to understand is that when you are sexually assaulted, it takes you a long time to fully understand what has happened to you. Most people who argue that she “took too long” have most likely never been sexually assaulted, or have and now
have deep issues they have not dealt with. There shouldn’t be a time clock on trauma, it is extremely hard to come out to someone about your experience, whether it’s because you feel ashamed, scared or just aren’t ready to have that conversation yet. Every person is different and shouldn’t be judged on how long it took them to come out with their story. I am extremely proud of Dr. Ford for speaking out. Her story can, and has, inspired so many people to come out with their trauma, and she makes it known that it doesn’t matter how long you take, your story is still valid. Anahi Maldonado, 11
Eliminate Hate
Dear Editor, The overwhelming amount of hatred that is prevalent in our world today is alarming. Many of the prominent issues happening in the world stem from hatred. I mean most people in the world are afraid of stepping foot outside of their homes because of the possibilities. Some even feel unsafe in their own homes. That fear stems from the hatred that is engulfing the globe. Day after day there is news about violence motivated by hate.
Prejudice towards race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, a disability or a person’s upbringing has become a way of isolating one’s victim. Whether it be through verbal, mental or physical abuse. Not only that, but people in your everyday life can spew some kind of hatred. Even if there may not be malicious intent, it can still hurt other people. When did hatred become a way of life? It’s 2018 shouldn’t love trump hate? Kiara Doleo, 12
The Next Generation Dear Editor, I really worry about the next generation. We are the generation of technology, but we at least grew up playing outside as children. Kids these days are growing up solely on iPads and cell phones. There’s so many game consoles out as well, and with people using headsets to talk to strangers while they play, there’s not as much need for kids to get any meaningful interaction. It’s so rare to see children actually playing outside or even having kids read a book. There’s no time for kids to be bored and figure out a way to entertain themselves because as long as their phone has a charge, they have something to do. When we were young if we were bored, we went outside or read a book or we played with whatever toy we begged our parents to buy us, but today’s children only have technology Alyssa Kramer, 12
Oceans are Rising. Why Aren’t We?
Dear Editor, A few years ago, climate change was all anyone could talk about. But now that we’ve got bigger issues in America, it has been way less of a hot-button topic. Reports of environmental regulations being rolled back are buried under the scandal of the week. Regardless, the clock keeps ticking on climate change. Not all of the damage being done is even reversible, and it gets more permanent as time goes on. Global warming of 1.5 degrees Celsius has occurred since pre-industrial times, causing dangerous consequences for both the environment and human life. Hurricanes, like Florence, Harvey and Maria, are growing stronger, slower-moving and more disastrous. Northern Europe has experienced record-breaking heat waves in areas unprepared for such temperatures. Flooding in places like India, Japan, Southeast Asia and the Southeastern U.S. has taken lives and destroyed property. Even here in Florida, a “red tide” of harmful algae has made its way to Palm Beach, filling the waters and beaches with dead sea life. Rising global temperatures contribute to all of these phenomenons. Burning fossil fuels, pollution, over-farming of cattle and deforestation, among many, many other human actions, contribute to rising global temperatures. Climate change is not just a theory. It’s not made up by liberal scientists trying to take over the world or something. Climate change is real, and denying it only allows the impacts to get worse. Anna Bayuk, 11
Letters to the Editor 03
NEW to the NEST Captivating change
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o start off a new school year with a new attitude, many organizations and businesses cleaned and beautified Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School’s campus. The work included new paint on the outside walls, landscaping and rocks. “I think it is important, especially with the new paint and some beautification things going on around campus, that it makes the place more homey for kids and that they feel like it’s being up kept and looks good and makes them want to come to school because its not run down and grungy,” principal Ty Thompson said. To give the whole campus a new atmosphere, an alumnus reached out and donated enough paint from Sherman Williams to repaint every building. The walls have been altered to represent the school’s colors, which are burgundy and silver. “The school looks a lot cleaner with the new paint,” junior Rachel Taylor said. “I think it was a great way to come back to the school and to give it a new feel.” Additionally, Churches United, an organization made up of local churches including Park Ridge and Coastal Community, donated new landscaping for
the courtyard. The donation included new plants surrounded by bricks to improve the appearance of the campus. “The bricks allow kids to sit down during lunch so that not as many kids are sitting on the floor,” Office Manager Teresa Basilone said. “Seeing how beautiful it is just makes me feel better. When I see that beautiful garden over there with the rocks I feel like I’m in a spa. You feel like you’re in a nice place and just renewed.” When they came back for the new school year, many students noticed an apparent difference in the look of the school. They felt that this renewed their perception of campus, and that it brought forth a serene atmosphere. “The landscaping is beautiful and gives me a new mindset,” junior Noa Golan said. “I’m super thankful for all of the donations that help clean up the environment and declutter the school and my mind.” When repainting the walls, workers accidentally painted over club murals for school clubs such as DECA, Key Club and yearbook. This upset some students and sponsors because it had erased all of their hard work on the paintings. “It made me upset,” yearbook advisor Sarah Lerner said. “I don’t know who
A Helping Paw
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s every new school year begins, the campus welcomes new students and faculty. But this year, man’s best friend has a newfound presence at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, as therapy dogs and service dogs can both be found on campus. Each day during both lunch periods, two to four therapy dogs are available in the courtyard for MSD students to interact with and pet. The dogs are provided by various organizations on a volunteer basis and scheduled by the Broward County Public Schools Department of Diversity, Prevention and Intervention. In the school’s Media Center, students can also interact with and pet River, a 4-month-old Bernedoodle. Bernedoodles blend the loyalty of the Bernese mountain dog with the cleverness of a poodle. River, a therapy dog in training, belongs to Media Specialist Diana Haneski. River was donated from Utah Bernedoodles, a breeder in Idaho, so that MSD students could have a permanent therapy dog on campus.
04 News • New to the Nest
MSD gets a makeover for the start of the new year
did it, but I asked at the end of last year for them not to. When I saw it, I told Thompson, who didn’t realize either, but it just made me sad.” Other clubs did not mind that their designs were painted over. Some clubs like DECA are working to redesign new artwork to be displayed. “Honestly, if it makes the school seem cleaner, I’m all for it,” DECA officer and senior Sam Goldberg said. “As long as it’s for change and helping the students heal, then we don’t mind.” Joining in on the beautification, Publix also wanted to help. Workers revamped the entire front quad area of the culinary classroom, replacing all the sod, putting in palm trees, planting two herb gardens that run down the sides and placing blocks in the center of the gardens. They also helped to beautify the front of the classroom area facing the courtyard by replacing all of the dead grass with lava rock. “I love [the garden]. It’s nice being able to walk outside and be able to be around nature,” culinary arts teacher Ashley Kurth said. “We have a plot over by Marjory’s Garden that we take care of, but having people go out there was just really
difficult. What I have noticed is that it is nice to have the garden right here to go have a lesson outside or have a couple kids grab some basil themselves, then come back inside.” Churches United plans to come back to MSD to finish placing lava rocks in the courtyard. With their help, both sides of the courtyard will be symmetrical, enhancing its overall beauty to students. “I think [the beautification] has been awesome,” Thompson said. “Unfortunately with our situation, it’s nice to see that there is good in the world and that people are coming out and providing support that we need and are able to donate these things to help beautify the campus. It gives me hope that there are lots of positive people out there.” While everyone has different methods of relaxation, a change in their environment is a common theme. Whether that is a new room or a trip outside, a new environment can create a feeling of calmness and tranquility. With the addition of the new paint and landscaping, these changes are helping some students and faculty find just that. Story by Brianna Fisher; Photos by Nyan Clarke
Therapy and service dogs join students on campus
“When I see people whose days are so greatly brightened just by the sight of River, that’s when I know it is all worth keeping her here for students and teachers to enjoy every day,” Haneski said. Therapy dogs are intended to provide comfort and affection to people in various settings. These animals have intensive obedience training, and their presence has been proven to lower stress levels. “The dogs around campus have made me feel more comfortable and excited to be at school,” junior Leah Goldberg said. “I wake up earlier just to get to school and see my furry friends.” In contrast to therapy dogs, service dogs are trained to help a specific person with a disability and/or other specific needs. For example, they might aid individuals who suffer from visual impairment, deafness or seizures. Most service dogs wear an identifying vest or signage to alert others that they are trained working animals and should not be pet or played with. Three MSD students have approved
service dogs that accompany them around campus. Only students who have completed the approval process with Broward County Public Schools may bring their service dog to school. Spree, a German Shepherd, accompanies junior Haylee Shepard to school every day. Spree completed both Good Citizen training and Service Training before she was provided to Shepard by Guardian Angel Medical Service Dogs. This Puppy Pose. Junior Haylee Shepard brings her dog, organization trains puppies to Spree, to school with her everyday for support. Photo by become working service dogs for Nyan Clarke people in need. “Having Spree with me helps to reduce command her. my anxiety levels,” Shepard said. “She “Having Annya at school with me always behaves in class which helps me makes being here so much easier every not be distracted and stay on task.” day, and she can be very therapeutic,” Senior Madeleine Wilford brings her Wilford said. 1-year-old German shepherd and Belgian The dogs at MSD provide a helping malenwall mix, Annya. Wilford gives all paw to those in need, offering special of her commands to Annya in German comfort to make their day a bit brighter. so that no one other than Wilford can Story by Samantha Goldblum
Design by Dara Rosen
working for wellness
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n the newly opened wellness center, students can talk to two school psychologists, five mental health/ family therapists and four social workers, all of whom are trained to help students with any emotional issues Students have already begun to use the available services. The wellness center sees 13-15 different students each day and 50 or more when drills or triggering events occur. “A student can go there and release their emotions without having to feel embarrassed,” senior Daniela Santiago said. School psychologists are trained to talk to students about their problems and give them ways to cope with their issues. The job of a school psychologist is to apply their expertise in mental health, learning and behavior to help any child succeed academically, socially, behaviorally and emotionally.
“Crisis interventions and crisis counseling is given to students who might be having symptoms of PTSD or are just feeling overwhelmed,” school psychologist Dr. Jessica McBride said. “The goal is to calm the student down and get them back to class and back to learning.” The wellness center is located inside two portables that were installed over the summer in the grass field between the 400, 500 and 600 buildings. Students seeking assistance can get a white pass, which permits the student to go to the wellness center during their personalization class. A new pass is written for each individual appointment. “The therapist will write them a white pass for their next appointment. The student will go to their personalization for the ten minutes and they will come see their counselor and then go back to their personalization class,” McBride said.
New wellness center opens for students
“A student could also be referred by their guidance counselor if they are having ongoing difficulties.” Students in crisis can visit the wellness center without a white pass. However, the student must be escorted to the center by security or a counselor from class. Junior Ashley Paris feels visiting the center has been beneficial to her. “I thought it was a really good Give Me Zen. Wellness portables create safe, calming idea to go and rant about things, space for students. Students can use a white pass to visit because it’s someone who is the wellness center. Photo by Nyan Clarke licensed to listen to you and give “I know that it’ll be here this year you advice,” Paris said. “I feel that it is and next year; I would think for a while,” better than talking to a friend.” Principal on Task Assignment Teresa Hall The long-term future of the wellness said. center is unknown, as all of the portables For the time being, the wellness center have only been leased for two years while is available to any student who needs it the new building is constructed. this school year. Story by Brian Martinez
HeartWarming Donation
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n July 5, 2018, Maggie Vidal-Santos, a middle school art teacher at Ruth K. Broad Bay Harbor K8, in Bay Harbor Islands, Florida, delivered a seven foot eagle sculpture to Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, which was ultimately installed in the senior courtyard. Vidal-Santos had donated a sculpture to Sandy Hook Elementary School in 2013. She felt the need to reach out and donate something similar to MSD to help with the healing process. “We did something for Sandy Hook, how could we not do something for our neighbors?” Vidal-Santos said. “This really hits close to home, this could have been us.” Vidal-Santos’ first idea was to create a sculpture because she felt that it would never be lost or forgotten about. She decided that it would be best if her students got to design the structure on paper and watch it come to life. “After many sketches, I incorporated all of my students’ ideas and came up with the final design of the eagle wrapped around the heart accompanied by 17
feathers towards the bottom to represent the students and teachers that were lost,” Vidal-Santos said. Sculptures, however, are costly to build, so the class knew that there had to be a system in place to raise the required funds. The eagle sculpture cost around $10,000 to create. Vidal-Santos decided to give a shirt to anyone that was willing to donate. Her students immediately reached out to shirt vendors and anyone willing to donate to the cause. “I wanted something that would be viewed by everyone at the school as they walk by and it can be a lasting piece,” Vidal-Santos said. “Once we decided on the sculpture, we designed a shirt to give to anyone that donated more than $10.” The final sketch was sent to a fabricator and a digital version was created. Once the three-month construction process was complete, it was time to transport the sculpture to its final destination — MSD. Vidal-Santos personally delivered the sculpture to the school. “It was hard to get in contact with the
Stop the bleed
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n preparation for the new year, Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School implemented new bleeding control kits during the of Aug. 8. The bleed kits provide classrooms with the appropriate tools to minimize an injured person’s risk of bleeding out. The kits include a tourniquet, compression bandages, regular gauze and chest seals. “[The bleed kits were] originally founded as a nationwide push right after Sandy Hook because they ran into the same problem that we did — kids got shot and then they couldn’t get to them in time,” geography teacher, Ernest Rospierski said. Rospierski, psychology teacher Ronit
school during the summer, but I needed to deliver it because it was done and the fabricator did not have much extra room to store the creation,” Vidal-Santos said. The eagle sculpture was originally placed within Marjory’s Garden. However, the club’s officers felt the sculpture would receive more exposure in a higher traffic area in the school. Drama teacher Melody Herzfeld was extremely impressed by the sculpture, so she asked to have it placed in its current home, the senior courtyard, which is just outside of her classroom in the 700 building. “It was bright, beautiful and larger than life, and when I saw it, it made me feel happy and protected,” Herzfeld said. “Students and staff love taking pictures in front of it. I have to look at the 1200 building everyday; so, the sculpture gives me a contrast of hope and a heart full of love for the kids and staff members who have passed.” The staff was not alone in their gratitude; many students fell in love with the sculpture as well.
Miami art class donates sculpture
#NeverAgain. An eagle sculpture donated by a middle school art class in Miami, Florida stands 7 feet tall in the senior courtyard. Photo by Nyan
Clarke
“I really love walking past the sculpture because it is a symbol of the lives lost but also a reminder that there are truly caring people in this world,” junior Allie Lazar said. “I just can’t believe that they went through such an extensive process to help out a school that they’ve never even been to before.” Story by
Fallon Trachtman
MSD installs bleed kits
Reoven and Assistant Principal Denise Reed spearheaded the initiative to implement the bleed kits. “After the shooting happened, literally three days later, I went disc golfing with a buddy of mine who is a firefighter and he’s the guy that introduced this idea to me and actually showed me one [of the bleed kits],” Rospierski said. “He looked at me and said ‘would this have helped?’ and I said ‘yeah.’” The funding for this project came from a T-shirt sale initiated by sophomore Aidan Spitzer, which raised $20,000, and an additional $2,000 raised by Lori Alhadeff. Feeling as though the bleed kits could be a beneficial addition to the community,
the City of Coral Springs applied for a grant to install the kits into MSD and local businesses. “The parents and the community felt that there was a need and we just went with it. It wasn’t the first time that the community had been approached [about installing bleed kits], but obviously since Feb. 14, their vision has changed,” Reed said. “I was told by several companies that we had been trying to get this for a long time, but no one really saw the need and now they do.” Teachers got the opportunity to learn how to administer aid using the kits through multiple training sessions
by the Coral Springs Fire Department. Sixty teachers attended the initial training. In the near future, MSD administration plans to also have students trained. Before the installation, the CSFD and Coral Springs Police Department visited the school to determine the most convenient places for the kits. They decided to place one kit in each classroom and others in strategically placed locations throughout the school. Story by Todd Hewling
News • New to the Nest 05
Design by Nyan Clarke
It takes a village
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any teachers found themselves without a classroom last year; some came from the 1200 building and others were moved around in order to accommodate those who lost their rooms. Teachers who had to change rooms frequently pushed carts full of supplies and technology around the school. In order to solve this issue, 34 portables were leased to Broward County Public Schools under a $2.5 million contract with California-based vendor Mobile Modular Management Corp. Of the 34 total portables, 30 are classrooms, two are bathrooms and two others make up the school’s new wellness center, which is located in a separate location from the rest. The other 32 portables are situated together on top of the school’s former basketball courts. These portables are just a temporary solution to Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School’s classroom shortage, as plans for the construction of a new building have already begun. Alongside Principal Ty Thompson, the new Principal on Task Assignment, Teresa Hall, oversaw the installation of the portables over the summer, which involved hours of work for the crew as they were working on an advanced timeline. The portable installation began on Aug. 7. The process was completed when code inspectors gave the approval for teachers to begin moving in on Aug. 10. “It happened quickly,” Hall said. “It was truly amazing to watch it go through the stages. The staff out there just put a lot into having it ready.” The new portables save teachers the stress of floating from classroom to classroom after each period. “I moved around at the end of the year last year, and I was just really happy to have a permanent home,” English II and creative writing teacher Stacey Lippel said. “Anything is better than floating around.” The new temporary classrooms are modern compared to those from previous years. Features of these portables include a thermostat that teachers are able to control themselves, a space that is very
open and clean and large windows that let in a lot of light. “I like having my own space. It’s very private; it’s very bright,” Lippel said. The community of portables has been dubbed Eagle Village by the teachers who now have a classroom there. “Mrs. Hall first said Eagle Manor, but the teachers said manor sounds like an old folks home… We are a village and now we call it Eagle Village,” said Assistant Principal Denise Reed. “The teachers out there came up with that. They wanted it to be fun and something they could relate to.” While the portables solve the classroom shortage problem, there have been some concerns from students and teachers about the need for a covering over the portables to protect them from the sun and rain. “After it rains, the aluminum floor becomes really slippery and dangerous,” junior Christina McNichol said. According to administration, this problem will be met with a solution in the next few months, as a canopy that will cover the portables was ordered to shield the temporary buildings from harsh weather conditions. “I can’t wait for the canopy to go over the top,” Hall said. “It’s going to connect to the building, so that when you walk to the building out there, you have a covered walkway,” Hall said. Security and safety measures have increased significantly since last year, and some students and faculty have had concerns about whether or not the portable classrooms themselves are safe. While some of the features of the portables are discomforting to some, many teachers are still content in their new surroundings. “Once you shut the lights off and close the blinds, you really can’t see in there at all. It’s just so dark. I was comforted to know that,” Hall said. Lippel, who lost her classroom in the 1200 building, feels the same level of safety in her current classroom. “We have to trust the security measures we have in place,” Lippel said. “I
New portables installed at MSD dubbed Eagle Village Taking a Stroll. Junior Harris Jaffe walks back to his 8th period debate class in Eagle Village. Photo by Rebecca
Schneid
Homey Decor. English teacher Stacey Lippel Welcome Home. The school supplied the adorns her new portable with various comforting outside of every classroom in Eagle Village with decorations. Photo by Samantha Goldblum a welcome mat.. Photo by Samantha Goldblum
don’t feel any less safe than I would’ve felt in the main building.” The main goal for Lippel and other teachers in Eagle Village was to create a comforting space for both themselves and their students, where the environment could be peaceful and productive. “Because I spend a lot of time here, I want it to be a place I enjoy being,” health and fitness teacher Marilyn Rule said. Much of the staff who now teach in Eagle Village have decorated their portables in a way that is unique to themselves. Math teacher Cindi Halverson has decorated her room by hanging up a long tapestry with vibrant blue waves across her wall. “It made it my serenity. I love the ocean and the beach,” Halverson said.
Lippel also has a variety of decor in order to create the same effect for herself and her students. “I have created a zen environment, where I always have lavender flowing in my diffuser, I have nature inside as well, with some fairy lights… it was really important to me to make it feel warm and inviting,” Lippel said. The portables, though smaller and farther away from the main buildings of the school, are described as bright, clean and spacious inside by teachers who have moved. While this is only a temporary plan before the new building finishes with construction, Eagle Village is working as a successful substitution, providing a necessary atmosphere suitable for both the teachers and students. Story by Jenna Harris
REMEMBERING DWIGHT JOHNSON
“A lot of the teachers really loved him,” Assistant Principal Daniel Most said. “He always had a smile on his face t was difficult to see Dwight Johnson, and enjoyed his job. He got along with everybody.” custodian at Marjory Stoneman While at MSD, Johnson’s most recent Douglas High School, without a smile assignment had been monitoring and on his face. Described by many as cleaning the gyms, weight rooms and someone with a good heart and soul, locker rooms. Johnson made it his mission to make “He did multiple jobs. He pretty much everyone he met feel welcomed. Johnson worked as a Broward County did anything we asked him to do. Even if it was something outside his regular Public Schools custodian for over 30 job classification,” head night custodian years, 15 of those years at MSD. Johnson, who was 66 years old, passed Emanuel Hodge said. As an active member of his church, away on Sept. 12, 2018. Born on Nov. 21, 1952, he was raised in Pensacola, Florida. The Holy Redeemer Church of God in Christ, Johnson became a deacon to Johnson graduated from Woodham pursuit his religion. High School in Pensacola, Fla. and later Described by friends as loyal, kind and continued his studies at the University of approachable, Johnson is said to inspire Miami.
Custodian Dwight Johnson passes away
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06 News • Changes at MSD
them to be ethical, responsible and selfreliant. With a jubilant sense of humor, he was always the first person to laugh and to make others laugh. “Dwight was a funny guy. Give him a minute and he could imitate anyone,” Hodge said. “He kept us laughing and smiling. If any one of us were having a bad day, he would make sure to cheer us up.” Outside of his church and MSD, Johnson could be found cooking, a passion of his for many years. “We are going to miss him badly. He’s like family; he will be missed,” Hodge said. Johnson leaves behind his mother, two older siblings and a daughter. His funeral was held on Oct. 1, 2018 at the Roy Mizell and Kurtz Worship Center. Story by Leni Steinhardt
Forever in Our Hearts. Custodian Dwight Johnson passed away at 66 after working at MSD for 15 years. Photo Courtesy of Lauren
Rubenstein
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Secure the next generation Broward voters approve half mill tax increase to fund schools
County, 6.994 in Miami-Dade County and 7.470 in Orange County. For homeowners with a residence valued at $240,000, the half a mill increase n Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2018 equates to a $120 per year increase in voters approved the Secure the their taxes. This increase is expected to Next Generation Referendum to raise approximately $93 million per year. raise money for Broward County The extra funding will be used to Public Schools. Starting in 2019, Broward fund pay raises for teachers, upgrades to County homeowners will see a half school security and extra school resources millage increase in their property taxes. such as social workers and guidance Local property taxes are calculated counselors. Seventy-two percent of the using millage rates. One mill represents funds are allocated towards teacher and $1 in tax per $1,000 of tax-assessed value. staff compensation, up to 20 percent is Each city in Broward County pays a allocated to security and 8 percent is different overall millage rate. allocated to school resources. In Coral Springs, residents pay based Liberal Arts math teacher Kim on an overall 20.614 millage rate and Krawczyk agrees with the intended goals in Parkland, residents pay based on a of the referendum and views it as vital to 18.2669 millage rate. All Broward County the success of public education in Florida. homeowners pay the same millage rates “If you can’t pay teachers, you can’t for county services like county operations keep them. If you can’t keep good (5.4623), public schools (6.4740), and teachers in your school, the system fails,” children services (0.4882). Krawczyk said. “If your school system Broward County Public School’s fails, then the property value will go current 6.539 millage rate is the one of down.” the lowest, compared to its neighboring The county has not specified exactly counties. For example, the school board how the funds allocated for compensation millage rate is 6.769, in Palm Beach are going to be distributed among
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n Aug. 28, Broward County primary voters elected new members to the school board. Five of the nine total seats on the board were up for election — Districts 1, 4, 6, 7 and 8. Two of the candidates, Lori Alhadeff and Ryan Petty, lost a child in the shooting on Feb. 14 at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. Alhadeff, who lost her daughter Alyssa, was elected to the District 4 seat that includes the area of Parkland between Parkside Drive and the City of Coconut Creek. Abby Freedman, the board member who previously held the seat, decided not to run for re-election. Alhadeff will be sworn in at the organizational meeting on Nov. 20. “Lori Alhadeff asked me in a meeting a few weeks ago for my seat,” Freedman said at a closed door meeting of administrators and teachers, according to a May 21 Sun-Sentinel article. “After crying five times during our meeting, I told her that if this seat could give her just one second of happiness, just one second, she could have it.” Alhadeff initially ran for the seat unopposed; however, two other candidates emerged by the June 30 filing date, including another MSD parent, Tennille Decoste. Alhadeff received 65 percent of the vote, winning the seat. “I am so excited to represent District 4. On Feb. 14 my life changed forever. Alyssa
Meet the board
teachers and staff, but have given a 6 percent raise estimate for teachers. The Broward Teacher’s Union will negotiate the distribution of the money. Negotiations have not yet begun. Culinary Arts teacher Ashley Kurth anticipates that there could be discord among teachers about how the money is distributed. “That’s gonna be another argument as well — who’s got the hierarchy of the amount of years they’ve put in, how much they should be getting verses other people that are coming in,” Kurth said. The 20 percent that is reserved for security is intended to comply with the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act. The act allocated $400 million of the existing education budget for school safety initiatives and mental health treatment. The act requires that every school in Florida have a school safe officer on campus and provides $162 million to fund that initiative. However, the funding from the state is not enough to fund school safe officers on every campus in Broward County. The Secure The Next Generation referendum allocates local funds to make
Persuasive Poster. A sign advertising the benefits of the Secure the Next Generation Referendum hangs in the bus loop at Country Hills Elementary. Photo by Nyan Clarke
up the budgetary difference. “It’s mostly better training of security and continuing to increase to make sure that you have proper coverage throughout the school for the needs that need to be met,” Kurth said. The approved millage will start on July 1, 2019 and continue until June 30, 2023, but the funds will not be available until July 20, 2019. According to Florida state law, local tax referendums can only span four years. To continue the millage increase beyond 2023, Broward County voters would have to approve a new referendum. Story by Nicole Suarez
Broward County voters elect school board members
was ripped from our family. I am using my grief in a positive way to demand action for change. School safety is paramount,” Alhadeff said. Petty, who lost his daughter Alaina, ran for the District 8 at large seat, which represents all of Broward County, challenging incumbent Donna Korn. The Broward County School Board races received national media coverage. Both Alhadeff and Petty made school safety enhancements and new security protocols their prime concerns. They also campaigned for more accountability and transparency within the school district. At one event, Korn described the previous school year as an “amazing” year, causing some community members to become upset, especially the families of the victims. Korn claimed that the statement was taken out of context and that she was referring to how well the district performed academically. “This was in no way a comment on the state of security within our schools or to overlook the tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas,” Korn said in response during an interview with WLRN on Aug. 13. “It was an accolade to the students, teachers and principals who work hard educating our children every day and inspiration for even greater success this year.” Adding even more controversy to the race, Korn’s campaign found a series of
tweets from Ryan Petty’s Twitter history, as far back as eight years ago, that were littered with racist, homophobic, anti-Semitic and pro-gun comments. In an interview with the Sun-Sentinel on July 27, Petty said that he regretted some of his social media comments and explained that he is a different person now and they do not represent him. Making Her Mark. Lori Alhadeff speaks with County “I’m not the same person. Commissioner Michael Udine at a polling place in If you go through my Twitter Tamarac, Florida on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2018. Photo feed, there’s a marked difference Courtesy of Joe Cavaretta/South Florida Sun Sentinel/TNS from today,” Petty said in the interview. “I stopped arguing about election on. Incumbent Ann Murray will politics on social media. It’s a waste of face off against Jim Silvernale, as they vie time. You end up making enemies out for the District 1 seat. Murray received of your friends and it doesn’t get you 36.4 percent of the vote and Silvernale anywhere.” received 33.7 percent of the vote. Since Ultimately, Korn defeated Petty to none of the four candidates received the retain her seat on the school board. minimum 51 percent of the vote to win, In District 6 (Hollywood, Hallandale Murray and Silvernale will compete for Beach and Pembroke Pines) former the seat on Nov. 6. MSD teacher Richard Mendelson lost School board members serve four to incumbent Laurie Rich Levinson. In year terms, which expire in alternating District 7 (Fort Lauderdale, Dania Beach, election years. The next school board Davie, Hollywood, Wilton Manors and election for Districts 2, 3, 5 and 9 will Lazy Lake) incumbent Nora Rupert beat be held in 2020. School board members Mike Olbel and Hubert St. Clair to retain represent over 34,000 employees and her seat. 270,000 students in the Broward County In District 1 (Davie, Lauderhill, Public School system, which is the sixth Plantation, Sunrise, Tamarac and Weston) largest school district in the United the race continues into the general States. Story by Jason Leavy
District 1
District 2
District 3
District 4
District 5
District 6
District 7
At-Large
At-Large
Ann Murray
Patricia Good
Heather Brinkworth
Abby Freedman
Rosalind Osgood
Laurie Levinson
Nora Rupert
Donna Korn
Robin Bartleman
News • Local Politics 07
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CAUSING TRAFFIC
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he start of the new school year has presented a variety of parking problems for both students and staff. With close to 850 students, the class of 2019 is one of the largest MSD has ever seen, and with only 385 spots in the senior lot, some seniors have been left without a place to park. “The issue this particular year has a couple of folds; one, this is our largest senior class in quite a while so we don’t have enough spots for everybody,” Principal Ty Thompson said. “The second set of problems is the fact that with the new buildings potentially coming in on the south side, we had to allocate some parking in the north lot for those staff members.” Senior spots sold out in less than a week this year; however, more seniors are on the waiting list than usual with no guarantee of ever receiving a decal. “We deserve to be able to park in spots we have been waiting to get since freshman year,” senior Alondra Gittleson said. “I have to walk to and from the junior lot and sometimes have to ask friends who have senior spots to drive me to my car.” According to Coach Lauren Rubenstein, who oversees senior parking, 11 juniors were permitted to park in the lot
specifically for dual enrollment courses. Many of them request this parking space in order to leave school mid-day. However, some juniors do not see the problem with the limited number of spots. They feel that if the school allows juniors to park in the lot when they dual enroll, they have the same right to a spot as a senior. “It’s not that I feel that I should be allowed to park there or not, but this summer it came to my attention that I could park there if I was dual enrolled,” junior Max Wolfman said. “Because of that reason, I bought a pass and now I’m allowed to park there.” Seniors must meet certain requirements to receive a decal, such as holding a valid driver’s license and having proof of vehicle insurance and registration. They must also maintain an unweighted GPA of 2.0 or higher and a good disciplinary record. More than half of the senior class meet these qualifications. Failing to uphold these qualifications puts one’s spot at risk of being taken away and given to someone on the waiting list. On top of these requirements, this year, a new rule was introduced wherein those that exceeded five tardies would have their senior lot privilege revoked in an effort to resolve
A number of parking problems have developed with the beginning of a new school year
the lack of parking spots. However, no one has lost their parking privilege because of this rule yet. This school year has also come with struggles for faculty when it comes to parking, for new security measures have changed the dynamics of the parking lots designated for staff. Although the east lot stays open until 8:00 p.m., finding a space is difficult and the south lot is closed daily by 4:00 p.m. “The gate where I normally park is closed soon after school, so my car will be locked if I have a club. However, if you come in at the last minute or right when you’re supposed to be here, it’s hard to get a spot in the front lot,” Media Specialist Diana Haneski said, “I prefer to park in the south lot, but if I don’t leave in time, I’ll be stuck or have to inconvenience someone. I end up parking in the front, but we can’t all park in the front.” Additionally, 40 spots in the senior lot have been reserved for faculty and staff to use. The additional spots are meant to combat the problem of the loss of faculty parking once the construction of the new building begins. “There is really no designated plan for [which staff] get to park in the senior lot,” Thompson said. “It does seem like many staff that are on that side of the school are parking on that side, so the 1300’s, 800’s,
Parking Predicament
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he senior lot has always been a defining characteristic of the senior experience. Students who have dedicated years of their life to MSD are finally rewarded in their last year by being able to customize a personal parking spot and making it their own. It is thought of by many as a right of passage, and is highly anticipated by seniors. So, why are juniors taking up spots in the senior lot? For a variety of reasons, this year has proven to be different than any other. There is an unprecedented rate of juniors using senior parking spots for a variety of reasons, one of which includes dual
enrollment. The journey to the junior lot is hot, loud and obnoxious. The senior lot is called the senior lot for a reason: it is where seniors park. Notice how there are no juniors in that equation. But that is only one part of it. Students are using dual enrollment classes to get in and out of school when they please. In turn, students who have been waiting for a senior parking spot have been deprived and deferred to the junior lot. Seniors are being forced to park in the junior lot because juniors are taking up the senior lot. How delightfully paradoxical — not. It seems as though there is no use to
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elcome to the next four years of your life. Hopefully, you have had an easy transition to high school thus far, if not, just remember to stay positive — it can only get better. There is no doubt that high school can be an intimidating change; from academic pressures to social struggles, the stress is sometimes all too real. Do not be blinded by the troubles of the moment, before you know it, it will all be over and you will be venturing onto the next chapter of your life. Now is the time to get out of your
comfort zone. Get in touch with your interests by joining a cool club, taking a weird elective and meeting some new friends. Just get yourself out there and you will be sure to find your niche, even if it is not somewhere you initially expected. From every experience, accomplishment and failure that you are bound to face comes a new perspective that will make you a smarter, stronger, better person. That may sound cliche, but it could not be more true. Now more than ever, MSD is all about moving forward. Your presence on campus has already demonstrated your
Photo by Rebecca Schneid
even some portable teachers are parking over there because it is closer.” Some teachers have already begun to use their reserved parking spaces; however, the additional security has made it harder to enter the school as well. “All the gates that used to be unlocked aren’t anymore, and sometimes I have to walk around the 1200 building to enter the school if there’s no one near the 1300 gate,” English teacher Chelsea Briggs said. “The senior parking lot is always open for after school activities, which is why I park there.” These parking problems have become an inconvenience to some. Although circumstances have limited the alternatives administration can pursue, students and faculty will be required to become flexible with these changes. Story by Rishita Malakapalli
Juniors should not be allowed to park in the senior lot
even name the lots “junior” and “senior,” for their users do not even need to be in the assigned class anymore. The struggles some juniors face is understandable. Regardless of why juniors are taking dual enrollment classes, they are. They do not want to walk all the way to the junior lot daily, heaving books back and forth. It is annoying, irritating and can be physically challenging for many. But they are juniors — not seniors. The senior class has gone through everything high school has to offer over three years of hard work and are now tirelessly completing their fourth. If the junior presence continues to grow in the
Dear Class of 2022
Senior Royalty. Senior Sam Resnick has a decal and parks in the senior lot everyday.
senior lot, it could crumble the fine-tuned hierarchy seniors have worked so hard to build over the years. Regardless of the classes a student takes or if they drive to school, they should park in their assigned class parking lot. Assigned parking simply reduces the complexity of the situation and allows the parking predicament to fade off. The convenience of the senior lot is definitely noticeable, but the fact of the matter is that the seniors who want to use their lot this year have waited patiently throughout their high school career. Juniors can do the same. Editorial by Jack Macleod
The Eagle Eye Editorial Board offers advice to the freshman class
first signs of resilience and acceptance, and it has not gone unnoticed. Your class is a beacon of hope, a symbol that life continues even when the unimaginable takes place. Do not forget the courage that you have demonstrated thus far as you overcome whatever obstacles life may bring to you. One last thing: remember to be considerate towards the upperclassmen. They have endured more than most can imagine. However, as an eagle, you have entered a school that values standing as one. Sure, sometimes we like to have fun with you guys, but just know that
everyone here was in your shoes at one point. You will not be a freshman forever; you only get to live this time of your life once, so never take a single moment for granted. High school is the time to grow and explore your interests, but also have fun during the process of maturity. There may be tough times in your life, but you have entered a community where there is more love and support to hold up each and every single one you — all you have to do is ask. Welcome to the nest young eagles, you are in for the flight of your life.
News • News Briefs 09
Updated security measures create new normal
Securing Stoneman
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he security measures enacted at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School have continued to evolve since Feb. 14. Some have been abandoned, like clear backpacks, and some have been put on hold, like portable metal detectors. Other measures, such as ID badges, hallway passes and bag searches before school, have continued. Additionally, several new security measures have been implemented for the 2018-2019 school year, including the installation of new gates, additional cameras, an upgraded surveillance system, an increase in security personnel, new classroom door locks and upgrades to the single point of entry in the main office, which is utilized once the school day officially begins. Three new gates were installed over the summer to allow one point of entry during the regular school day. Two of the new gates were installed in the north parking lot where seniors enter school — one between the 700 and 800 buildings and one at the 1300 building. The third gate is located in the south parking lot for students walking from North Community Park, students riding the bus and faculty entering campus. In the morning and at the end of the day, security personnel monitor each gate, checking students and faculty for proper identification. “I think that the new security measures at school are for the most part effective in the way that when we walk into school they check our ID badges to make sure that we have a Stoneman Douglas ID,” junior Helen Abbott said. If a student does not have a school ID, they are denied entrance into school at the gates. In this case, students either need to return home to retrieve their identification, or they must enter through the main office and wait to a receive a paper version of their information. Students are given two warnings for forgetting their identification. Each additional time, they will be issued a new school ID and obligated to pay a $5 fee. “Although it [$5 fee] might be
annoying for forgetful students, I think that it makes the incentive to wear the school IDs much stronger than if there were no consequence,” junior Raymond Wong said. A significant change to campus is the number of security personnel. In the past, the team consisted of seven monitors and one security specialist, contrasting significantly from the current 12 security monitors and three security specialists, making a team of 15 total security
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As a tool for students, parents and staff to report suspicious activity, the Broward County sheriff’s office has created an app to assist this process. The downloadable app for cell phones is called Safer Watch. It allows users to report non-emergencies, suspicious activity and anonymous tips directly to the Broward Sheriff’s Office. The enactment of new security protocols were introduced through a combination of efforts from administration, students, teachers,
They kind of look at all those things and see which ones make the most sense for our school because we still want to make sure we’re a school and not a jail.
personnel. MSD also has three school resource officers, an increase from the one SRO in previous years. New security cameras are now observed by a designated campus monitor throughout the school day. Additional cameras were added to eliminate any blind spots on campus. Entrances to the front office remain locked at all times. Campus visitors must wait to be buzzed in to the front office in order to enter the building. Classroom doors are also locked at all times. The locking mechanisms were changed over the summer so that teachers can access their classrooms with their keys, but do not have to remember to re-lock the door because it always remains locked. Even with all these additional measures, administration encourages students, parents and faculty to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities or threats. “The number one thing that I would say we have been really successful with is our continuing campaign that if you see something, say something,” Assistant Principal Daniel Most, who oversees school security, said. “As a matter of fact, I was just talking with a parent who thought they saw somebody on campus who wasn’t supposed to be here. They responsibly brought it to our attention, and we investigated it and determined that it was a vendor.”
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parents and the community as a whole. Input from the district, Broward Sheriff’s Office, public forums and School Advisory Council and School Advisory Forum meetings, was taken heavily into account. “They kind of look at all those things and see which ones make the most sense for our school because we still want to make sure we’re a school and not a jail,” Most said. According to Principal Ty Thompson and Principal on Task Assignment Teresa Hall, Most has driven a good portion of the changes to security measures and protocols this year. Most, who joined the MSD administrative team over the summer from Everglades High School, took over as the assistant principal supervising school security. Assistant Principal Winfred Porter, who previously supervised school security, expressed his confidence in Most. “I enjoy working with Mr. Most; he is very knowledgeable. I trust his judgment, he is a great addition to our team,” Porter said. “I respect him a lot; I respect what he brings to the table, including additional security personnel.” Not all changes remain in the hands of MSD administrators. On June 4, the Broward Community League of Cities’ School and Community Public Task force released a 93-page report suggesting changes specific to both MSD and the rest of the school district. One of those recommendations included the
Safe and Sound 23% very
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10 News • Security
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MSD students rate effectiveness of school security measures not effective
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installation of portable metal detectors. After meeting with security experts, the idea was put on hold so the logistics of the implementation could be studied further. The core of the issue involved the logistics of moving 3,300 students through metal detectors in a timely manner and still be able to start school on time. “At this point, as far as I know, it is still something that’s being discussed, but as everyone knows, we do not have any metal detectors at our school right now,” Most said. The Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Public Safety Act passed by the Florida legislature on March 5 has also driven changes to safety regulations at MSD. The act mandated that code red drills be held at all schools as often as fire drills. State law requires schools to have two drills within the first two weeks of school and one every month throughout the school year, for a total of 10 drills each year. The emotional trauma that these drills bring many students and staff at MSD has been brought to the attention of Broward County Public Schools officials and possible solutions are being discussed. “I think it is very tough on our students and staff to have to go through that many drills, obviously, it’s trying to walk a delicate balance of making sure that everybody’s prepared and knows what to do in an emergency, but at the same time, not trying to cause unnecessary stress on the students and staff,” Most said. The false alarms have caused the district to request waivers to remove some of these required drills for MSD. The district is still waiting for responses from state officials. “In the case of Stoneman Douglas, you’re causing trauma every time you have an alarm, and we don’t want to do that,” Superintendent Robert Runcie said at a workshop, according to a SunSentinel article published on Sept. 25. Security protocols at MSD will likely continue to evolve and have become part of the new normal that school staff and students experience daily. Story by Einav Cohen
Wearing ID Cards
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Limited Points of Entry
27% effective
Design by Einav Cohen This is Me. New rule requires students to wear IDs while on campus. Photo by Nyan Clarke
Standing Watch. Officer Mark Davis Keeping an Eye Out. Deputy Dean stands guard amongst students Seymour patrols the socializing students during lunch. Photo by Nyan Clarke around campus. Photo by Nyan Clarke
Patrolling the Halls. Security team member Teresa Williams patrols the halls while class is in session. Photo by Nyan Clarke
News • Security 11
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Walking new halls
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he start of the 2018-2019 school year at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School was marked by countless recovery concerns, from the installation of portable classrooms to managing the wellness center. MSD introduced new staff to manage the school’s changing dynamic. Teresa Hall came to the rescue to assist Principal Ty Thompson as principal on task assignment. As principal on task assignment, Hall is charged with many of the responsibilities that arose from the events of last year. In order for Thompson to resume his previously existing duties as principal, Hall has assumed charge over the installation of portables, the new building construction and the wellness center. “I was task assigned to MSD for this upcoming year to provide assistance to Thompson while he handles his busy schedule,” Hall said. “[For construction of the new building] I had to pick an architect, which was a long process because I had to listen to several presentations and the next step was to find a builder, who was chosen just last week.” While this is her first official year at
MSD, Hall is quite familiar with the school. She served as an administrative intern to the school district last year and was assigned to MSD after Feb. 14. This year, Hall’s duties fall under the umbrella of leading the school, which she has a great amount of experience with. “I’ve been a principal for a total of eight years. I opened West Broward High School as an assistant principal for two years, working with the former principal of MSD, Dan Traeger,” Hall said. She then worked as a principal at Attucks Middle School in Hollywood, Florida for an additional two years. When the principal from West Broward retired, Hall was called back to fill his shoes. While she is excited to be at MSD, she still misses her old job. “[West Broward High School] was not just the first school I worked at, but was like my second home,” Hall said. “I opened it with people I’ve now known for so many years and I feel like I’m being irresponsible just leaving it. It was very emotional and difficult for me.” Although she had a hard time leaving, Hall is optimistic about her upcoming year at MSD. “I was very worried about getting to
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social studies teacher in the South Florida area. When he found out that a new school, Everglades High School, was under construction in 2003 and hiring a new staff, he jumped at the chance to start his new career. Most was then selected to be a part of the school’s faculty, working as a social studies teacher. After six years of teaching, he was promoted to the position of assistant principal at Everglades High School, holding the job for another nine years. “I was very lucky that I became assistant principal to the school that I was already a teacher at,” Most said. “I knew so many of the students, the families, the community and the teachers and staff.” The summer after his ninth year as an assistant principal, Most got a call to become an assistant principal at MSD. “My transfer to Douglas has been really good,” Most said. “Everybody here has been super accommodating. I was a little nervous coming here because of the events of last year, but I was really excited about the opportunity to be able to come and help the students and staff in their recovery and healing.” One of his goals for the school year is to enhance curriculum so that it relates to students every day lives, hopefully increasing their interest and focus. He also is working to improve and expand on the wide variety of extracurricular activities already present at MSD. “I just want the kids here to be best prepared for college and have a rigorous education,” Most said. “While I don’t want to change anything about the school, I would like to see students work on their inclusivity, and I want everyone to feel like they are apart of a community.” Most’s main responsibilities as assistant principal include supervising the English
On Task. Principal on Task Assignment Teresa Hall works in the principal’s conference room in the main office.
Photo by Nyan Clarke
know the new staff and how people would view me as a new member, but I ended up feeling very welcomed. The staff and the students are also just fantastic.” Hall said. “My main goal for this year is to give any assistance the students and teachers need.” Outside the heavy demands of the school environment, Hall takes any chance she can to relax and enjoy her passion of water activities. “I am already looking forward to break, when I can go on my boat and go
Doing the most rom the moment you walk into Assistant Principal Daniel Most’s office, it is not hard to understand who he is. Family photos. Marjory Stoneman Douglas sports posters. Artwork from his children. Certificates from his days in the US Army. UF Gator memorabilia on every single wall and shelf. Most’s office is a raw and honest representation of who he is as an administrator, a father and a true Gators fan. Most grew up in Long Island, New York before moving south to attend the University of Florida, where he majored in public relations. At first, he did not see himself staying in the Sunshine State, but eventually Most decided to move to Coral Springs to start a family with his wife who he met in college. “[My wife] was from down here and all her family was down here so I stayed here to be with her,” Most said. After the events of Sept. 11, 2001, when Most lost his job in a public relation firm, he joined a concession company known as HomeTown Concessions, created by his father-in-law in Weston. The company often hired teenagers to run the stands. It was during this time that he realized how much he enjoyed teaching children important skills that would help them later in their lives. “My father was a teacher, my mom was a school psychologist. I always said I was never going to follow in their footsteps,” Most said. “My wife said if you really like it you should go back to and become a high school teacher, so I started substitute teaching to kind of get a feel for it and I really liked it so I followed through, finished my masters degree in education and here I am.” After transitioning to education from sales, Most began looking for a job as a
Teresa Hall joins MSD as Principal on Task Assignment
sailing,” Hall said. Her ideal vacation consists of sitting on the sand, reading a book and enjoying the serenity of water. “The only thing holding me back from sailing would be the alligators on the lake,” Hall said. While many of her responsibilities fall in uncharted territory, Hall faces them head on. Even though the length of her term is still undetermined, she is a proud eagle through and through. Story by Joyce Han
Assistant Principal Daniel Most joins MSD staff Hard at Work. Assistant Principal Daniel Most works in his office in student services. Photo by Nyan
Clarke
and reading departments, working with Coach Rubinstein on activities and field trips, looking over security on campus and acting as an advisor to the sophomore class. But, his day-to-day jobs often change — he could have one thing scheduled but get pulled into a meeting at any time. “On any given day my job is visiting classrooms, meeting with vendors to decide if there’s new resources or materials we’re going to get, to dealing with students who are having a tough time socially, academically or emotionally,” Most said Along with being an educator, Most is a family man and the father to a 9-year-old daughter, spending almost all of his free time with his loved ones. One of his family’s favorite vacation spots is Disney World, which they visit multiple times a year. As his daughter grows up, Most is
excited to be able to attend UF football games with her. “I know everybody thinks that their child is just the best kid in the world, but I know my child is the best in the whole world because we’re both educators, we both spent a lot of time, still now, reading to her, going to museums, going to zoos, giving her opportunities to expose her to different or alternative types of education to make sure she would have an appreciation for learning, and we try to continue to push that with her to this day,” Most said. As the newest member to the Eagle family, Most has dedicated himself to paving bright futures for the students of MSD. With his years of experience and faith in youth, he has been welcomed to the MSD community with an open arms. Story by Amelia Weiss & Brianna Jesionowski
News • New Administrators 13
On the Road to Change A
t the March For Our Lives on March 24, 2018, Marjory Stoneman Douglas student Cameron Kasky welcomed the 800,000 protesters in Washington, D.C. and the millions watching at home to “the revolution.” Over 800 cities across the country were ablaze with the fiery anger of hundreds of thousands of protesters who claimed they were tired of gun violence in America. But after that day, the question remained: What comes next? In their speeches on March 24, the March For Our Lives organizers pushed their audiences to utilize their right as citizens to vote, specifically in the upcoming November midterm elections. To prepare the country for the elections and to spread their message, the organizers embarked on a two-month bus tour in over 20 states and in all 26 congressional districts of Florida, called
March For Our Lives student organizers embark on two-month bus tour across country and state of Florida to engage with youth voters and activists
their “Road to Change.” “I was brainstorming after the March with the other leaders and we wanted to go into communities where this affects people most. We knew the only way to do that was to… hop on a bus community to community the old fashion way,” senior Jackie Corin, who is the lead organizer of March For Our Lives, said. “It was definitely the right move…We were going to support all the people that supported us that day.” The tour had multiple purposes. The first goal included engaging with activists and survivors of gun violence all across the country in order to gain new perspectives. Secondly, the organization wished to educate voters on gun violence and the influence of the NRA, opening their eyes to how common-sense gun reform is reasonable. Finally, the tour made a major push throughout the summer to register as many citizens as
possible, especially young people. “I feel like before the tour, people connected with the movement, but never really got to be a part of it. We really wanted to bring that to them and talk to them on a one-on-one level and see how March For Our Lives could help them make a difference in their communities,” senior John Barnitt said. “We wanted them to know their voices mattered, especially when it came to voting.” The National Road to Change Tour was organized primarily by Corin and student activists in each city they visited. In order to visit all of these states, the group separated the tour into three legs. The first visited the Midwest, from Chicago, Illinois to Standing Rock, North Dakota; the second leg visited the Southwest, from Dallas, Texas to Oakland, California; the third leg visited the East, from Charleston, South Carolina to Newton, Connecticut. The entire tour was kick-started,
though, with the annual Peace March in the Southside of Chicago, an event that tries to bring unity to a place where gun violence is a prevalent issue often times connected to gang violence and domestic violence. “The Peace March…was one of the most amazing experiences in my life. I’ve never really been exposed to inner-city gun violence before, but it really struck me,” sophomore Lauren Hogg said. “My friend that I met said gun violence there was like when you ‘lock two lions in a cage together.’ It made me realize that inner-city gun violence is due to a lack of resources, not because people just want to shoot each other.” Each of the 41 stops on the National Tour, including Chicago, were strategically chosen to make the most impact, both on the March For Our Lives organizers and on the residents of the places they were visiting.
Protest for Change. Seniors Sarah Chadwick and Kirsten McConnell and alumna Tyra Hemans protest in front of the Alabama State Courthouse for common sense gun laws.
Photo courtesy of Emilee McGovern
Speaking Up. MSD seniors Alex Wind and Tyah-Amoy Roberts speak on a panel with other student activists in Palm Harbor, Florida
Photo courtesy of Emilee McGovern
14 News • Road to Change
Protest for Change
Speaking Up
Different Cities. Same Issue
Design by Rebecca Schneid “We chose certain stops for multiple reasons: one was if there was a lot of NRA money running through that area, another was if there was a lot of gun violence in that area or a large amount of activism from students, like Ferguson,” Corin said. “We looked at previous voter turnouts and decided to go to places where even if we registered 1,000-2,000 young people; hopefully those people could make a difference in the upcoming midterm election and be the swing vote.” Many of the stops on the National Tour were in urban areas like Chicago and Oakland, where people are killed daily by guns. Others, like Standing Rock, were chosen because of their very prevalent activist groups, with whom the March For Our Lives organizers wanted to make lasting connections with. No matter the reason, there were multiple events planned at each stop with student activists and residents. These events usually consisted of round tables with the city’s own March For Our Lives chapter and a town hall where residents could come and ask questions about policy, midterms, gun violence and the organization’s future. At many stops, the organizers would take activists from each city with them on the bus tour for multiple stops. “The most inspirational people that I met were the people we took on the bus with us from all over the country;
of a separate Florida Tour, emphasizing the state’s history with gun violence and representatives who take money from the NRA. “It was super important to have another tour going to all of the districts in Florida because ultimately, Florida is our home. We want to make sure that no other community in Florida is affected
much more capable than society makes them out to be,” Barnitt said. “I was so inspired by all these young people who had accomplished and put forward so much for a cause that hadn’t even affected them directly…I guess I didn’t really understand how many people we impacted until I got to see them in person.” Once both tours had finished — the National Tour ended with a rally in Newtown, Connecticut and the Florida Tour concluded with a town hall in New Orleans, Louisiana — it was evident that both groups felt accomplished. “The Road to Change was super successful. We registered tens of thousands of voters and engaged hundreds of thousands of people…and like Orlando after Pulse or Parkland was it really gave me hope for the future,” Tour was simultaneously traveling to and the everyday shootings in Liberty Hogg said. “We are seeing a political all congressional districts in the state City and Miami,” Corin said. Our governor shift in America… and [I know because of of Florida, as well as cities in Georgia, now running for senate takes a lot of NRA this tour] that in the future when there Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana. money and many governor candidates is injustice, there will always be young MSD seniors Adam Alhanti and were taking lots of money from the NRA, people to stand up for what’s right.” Barnitt were two of the organizers of and we wanted to make sure that all of The organization and the country will the Florida Tour — working day-in and these communities were aware of how not be able to measure the success of the day-out to secure venues and organize Road to Change tour until November, correspondence with people in each stop. destructive these people would be in office.” when the ballot boxes are filled. Once the “March For Our Lives originated in Just as in the National Tour, the Florida votes are counted and representatives Florida and we really wanted to impact are elected, there can be a true our own state as we were trying to impact organizers had the opportunity to meet with and talk to young activists who had understanding of whether or not March the nation,” said Alhanti. “Florida is similar goals as them, and were inspired For Our Lives has changed the political one of the most powerful states in the by the organization’s work after Feb. 14. climate in the United States. Story by country.” “I learned that young people are so Rebecca Schneid Corin also expressed the importance activists like Bria Smith from Milwaukee… Alex King from Chicago and Ramone Contrares from Harlem,” Corin said. “They all inspire me to be a better person every day…and I’m still friends with all of them. Similar events and experiences were created on the separate Florida Road to Change Tour. As the National Tour was traveling the country, the Florida
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We are seeing a political shift in America... and [I know because of this tour] that in the future when there is injustice, there will always be young people to stand up for what’s right.
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Different Cities. Same Issue. March For Our Lives hosts a roundtable with Oakland, California youth, discussing the differences of gun violence in their communities, and how they all have been affected by it. Photo
days
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courtesy of Emilee McGovern
Making Connections. Members of March For Our Lives, including MSD alumni Daniel Williams, David Hogg and Chris Grady, have fun with Freedom School youth in South Los Angeles, California, an area that deals with gun violence on a daily basis. Photo courtesy
Making Connections
of Emilee McGovern
student activists
80
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10,000+ registered voters
News • Road to Change 15
Design by Joyce Han
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INSTAFAMOUS
Design by Taylor Morrison
E
nglish I and Acting I teacher Brittany Sinitch is known for many things — she is an MSD alumna, social media influencer and Dance Marathon guru. Sinitch made her first instagram post as @fivefootoneteacher on Aug. 11, 2017. Since then, Sinitch has made around 240 additional posts and has gained more than 100,000 followers. Sinitch hopes to make a difference and inspire young educators through her newfound online influence. “Even if I had 50 followers or 100 followers, I knew that someone was gaining inspiration,” Sinitch said. “I just stuck with it and stayed true to myself. I began to grow and grow more overtime, and now it’s almost like a little empire.” Sinitch uses her platform to share her activities with her students and connect with other educators around the world. Her instagram notoriety has also given her the opportunity to travel the world to present to different educators at conferences like Get Your Teach On. Following her Instagram fame, Sinitch posted her first YouTube video on July 8, 2018 under the same account name @fivefootoneteacher. As of Oct. 5, she has posted a total of 17 videos and has since gained almost over 113,000 subscribers. Sinitch posts videos that are centered around being a teacher, such as “What every teacher should know,” “Teacher outfits of the week,” and “Life as a high school teacher! First week of school.” Her videos receive significant views, ranging from 19,000 to over 750,000 per video. However, her two most popular videos, “Life as a high school teacher! First week of school” and “Emotional reveal of dream classroom” share more in common than just teaching. They both display Sinitch’s room renovation. Brittany Wheaton from @thesuperheroteacher, held an extreme makeover contest for teachers in partnership with Lysol. Wheaton encouraged Sinitch to apply. “She [Wheaton] encouraged me to
English teacher Brittany Sinitch gains popularity on social media
Room Renovation. Murals, flexible seating, picnic style tables and inspirational signs add bright decor to room 430. Lysol funded the room makeover after English teacher Brittany Sinitch won their online contest for an extreme classroom makeover worth $5,000. Photos
by Rebecca Schneid and Nyan Clarke
apply for the contest and it’s not just something I would think about doing because I always think someone needs it more than me,” Sinitch said. “That’s when she was like do you realize what you’ve been through, you lost your room?” Sinitch, one of the teachers with a classroom in the 1200 building, endured moving between five classrooms following the events of Feb. 14. “Everyone knows that my room in 1200 was like my baby,” Sinitch said. “When I lost it, I felt like I lost a little part of myself, and I didn’t even realize that, until Brittany [Wheaton] came along.” During these daily moves, Sinitch became acquainted with what would become her future permanent classroom:
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symbolizes strength to me and what it means to persevere and push through something and be strong for a greater purpose.” Sinitch credits her new welcoming environment to the open and meaningful conversations she is able to have with students. Sinitch is entering her second year of teaching at MSD. After graduating from MSD in 2012, Sinitch went on to major in English Education at Florida State University, before deciding to return to her alma mater as a teacher. “The whole idea of being positive, passionate and proud to be an eagle really did stick with me,” Sinitch said. While at MSD, Sinitch spent much
Sinitch said. Another way that Sinitch has been able to make a difference is through her work with the Dance Marathon organization, which raises funds for the Children’s Miracle Network by getting students of all ages to participate in a marathon that involves dancing, games, food and more. According to their website, the Children’s Miracle Network “raises funds and awareness for 170 member hospitals that provide 32 million treatments each year to kids across the U.S. and Canada.” “I think it is a really exciting movement that unites students, gives them leadership opportunities and allows for them to give back as well,” Sinitch said. Sinitch participated in Dance Marathon all four years of college and went on to raise over $20,000 by herself for the cause. Once she came to MSD as a teacher, she decided to introduce the program to the school. The first ever Dance Marathon at MSD of her time involved with student took place on April 21, 2018 and raised government and drama club. As senior $66,283.17, breaking the record for the class president, Sinitch was able to give most money raised by a high school’s a speech at her graduation, where she Dance Marathon. outlined how important MSD is to her. Sinitch hopes to improve upon last “In my graduation speech, I year’s success through more activities specifically said that, as eagles, we learn and fundraisers throughout the year. how to fly, but we can always return home She hopes that this will help unite to our nest and I really did that,” Sinitch and educate the community about the said. “I knew that I wanted to return, it movement not just on the night of the was just something about Douglas — it marathon, but throughout the year. feels like home.” “There’s just something about Sinitch has always wanted to become standing for those who can’t — that has an educator. As a child, she would play a whole new meaning for us [at MSD] to teacher with her younger sister, who stand for the people who can’t anymore, would pretend to be the student. However, use our voices for a greater purpose and it was in eighth grade that Sinitch make miracles for the kids,” Sinitch said. discovered her true passion for words Whether it be connecting with and realized she wanted to be an English educators around the world, spearheading teacher. record-breaking fundraisers or guiding “When I went into eighth grade, we students through their freshman year of read ‘The Diary of Anne Frank’ and that’s high school, Sinitch continues to reach when I realized how important the power her goals to inspire others and make a of words are and how we can write for a difference through her online influence greater purpose to be remembered for a and in the classroom. Story by Taylor very long time and make a difference,” Morrison
Everyone knows that my room in 1200 was like my baby. When I lost it, I felt like I lost a little part of myself, and I didn’t even realize that, until Brittany [Wheaton] came along.
room 430. She described feeling safe in room 430 in her submission to Wheaton and ended up winning the classroom renovation. From Aug. 6-10, Wheaton and her team came to Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School to renovate Sinitch’s classroom. On Aug. 10, the renovation, which included freshly painted walls, plants, various seating options, pillows and wall art, was completed. The grand prize makeover was valued at $5,000. A separate GoFundMe Campaign raised an additional $2,740 for the project. Designers also included sentimental objects in the makeover. Two of Sinitch’s favorite parts of the room include a sign and a cart. A large sign made by Sinitch’s previous students that reads “a new home will be found” with all of their signatures is featured on the wall. The cart, which held her belongings that she pushed from classroom to classroom last year, is featured in her room as a storage unit. “That cart symbolizes so much more than just a metal cart,” Sinitch said. “It
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Feature • Brittany Sinitch 17
Designby byCarly Brianna Fisher Design Novell
‘Back to the Future’ Delorean makes a special appearance at the Homecoming parade
Twin Tuesday Junior Jorgie Garrido and senior Mei-Ling Ho-Shing hug each other during Twin Tuesday’s lunchtime activities. Photo by Nyan
Clarke
18 Feature • Homecoming
Wacky Wednesday
Past Vs Future
Time Flies Friday
Freshmen Hailey Jacobsen-Batezel, Darby Seniors Jordyn Laudanno and Adam Berman Juniors Rebekka Friborg, Isabella Reisch, Taylor Rivera and Arielle Hernandez dance together capture their costumes by taking a selfie. Photo Yon, Arielle Hafetz and Olivia Wesch dress up in and enjoy the music in the courtyard. Photo by by Mallory Muller their class color. Photo by Rebecca Schneid
Nyan Clarke
Design by Carly Novell Design by Carly Novell
Blast
Delorean makes special appearance during Homecoming week
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pectators at the annual Homecoming parade on Sept. 7, 2018 experienced a special “Back to the Future” surprise, when a Delorean made a memorable appearance. This year’s Homecoming theme was “Back to the Future,” based off of the iconic hit movie released in 1985. The Delorean was featured in the “Back to the Future” movies as a time traveling car, which plays a legendary role in the movies. “SGA decided to choose this Homecoming theme because we thought it would get the most amount of people involved, considering the movie is so popular,” Student Government Association President Jackie Snytte said. “Also, we thought everyone would have fun dressing up as different periods of time throughout the week.” Homecoming week started on Tuesday, Sept. 4. The days were themed Twin Tuesday, Wacky Warping
Pep Rally Senior Ryan Kavanaugh asks senior Emily Hollander to Homecoming during the pep rally. Photo by Rebecca Schneid
from THE
Wednesday, Future vs. Past Thursday and Time Flies Friday. “It’s exciting to dress up for our grades with our friends,” sophomore Sydney Walker said. When she found out the Homecoming theme, Senior Class Vice President Ma’ayan Mizrahi came up with the idea to rent a Delorean for the parade. She wanted to incorporate the theme into the parade so that there could be more involvement from MSD students. “Because this is one of the first big events this year at the school, it was one of our goals to have the most participation that we’ve ever had, so we tried our best to have all of the clubs come, and since the Delorean was there, many people were really excited,” Mizrahi said. “People took pictures and it made everyone a lot more hyped and excited for Homecoming.” The process began with calling companies that rent out Deloreans. After speaking with a couple of businesses, Rent The Delorean gave a discount on
Parade Seniors Yuval Alter, Lexi Smith and Alondra Gittelson represent the Science National Honor Society in the Homecoming parade. Photo by
Nyan Clarke
PAST
the rental and were willing to work with Mizrahi and SGA. According to the owner of Rent The Delorean, Adam Kontras, it should have cost SGA $2,500, but he only charged them $800. “If we could’ve done it [rented out the car] for free, we would’ve,” Kontras said. “We went as low as possible with the considerable transportation.” The car had to be transported by trailer from Tampa, FL. The price included gas, hotels and other expenses. The Delorean that was rented for the parade was not the same car from the movie, which actually featured four different Deloreans. However, it was extremely similar to it. The car driven in the parade includes original parts that were purchased from the same hardware stores in Burbank, California where the crew of “Back to the Future” pieced their cars together. “The added touch of the Delorean gave our parade a unique touch,” sophomore Madeline Dwyer said.
The Deloreans were first manufactured by John Delorean’s Motor Company for the American market from 1981 to 1983. It is a sports car with gullwing doors. Only 8,583 Deloreans were ever produced. Principal Ty Thompson rode in the passenger seat of the Delorean as Jim Carroll, an employee of the rental company, drove. “It [riding in the Delorean] was extremely cool,” Thompson said. “I’m a boy of the 80’s. I grew up in the 80’s; I was all about ‘Back to the Future,’ so it was cool to be able to be in the Delorean and to check it out. It was such an awesome experience.” Homecoming week concluded with a varsity football win on Sept. 7 against South Broward High School and the Homecoming dance held at the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort on Sept. 8, where seniors Hunter Reilly and Jessica Frengut were crowned Homecoming King and Queen. Story by Nadia Murillo
Homecoming Game
Homecoming Dance
Junior Alex Rodriguez celebrates with his teammates during the Homecoming game.
Junior Jorge Zapata crowd surfs while singing at the Homecoming dance. Photo by
Photo by Nyan Clarke
Nyan Clarke
Feature • Homecoming 19
A
The many faces of trauma
fter experiencing a tragedy, the seed of trauma is planted. It can grow and become a life-long struggle that requires care and attention to tame. There is always the possibility that an individual will endure a distressing experience, ultimately scarring them for the rest of their lives. From physical and sexual abuse, to witnessing or experiencing violence, a broad range of situations fall under the classification of trauma. Psychology Today reports that trauma is commonly categorized into two groups: the little “t” vs. the big “T.” Car accidents, natural disasters and more personal issues like divorce fall under the little “t,” while events that are deemed life-threatening and that are more apt to cause Post Traumatic Stress Disorder are classified under the big “T.” Since trauma is experienced in different forms, not everyone will encounter the same adverse effects. However, the most well known result is PTSD, which is a constant mental and emotional stress that can cause vivid flashbacks and distractions from the present. Symptoms may include anxiety, depression and the adaptation of harmful habits. According to the Mayo Clinic, PTSD often affects individuals that “go through, see or learn about an event involving actual or threatened death, serious injury or sexual violation.” Since PTSD can be seen in many types of victims, it is possible that they will go through similar stressors. For example, witnesses of community violence can exhibit similar symptoms as soldiers that have been in battle, since both groups witness death, violence and hear loud noises. Traumatic events do not only happen in battlefields or communities that are considered to be unsafe. They can occur anywhere, at any time, even in places that are the least expected. Many of the students and faculty at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School face events that trigger their emotions on a daily basis. The sound of alarms, discussions about gun violence and content on the media can trigger extreme sensitiveness. “I get triggered by loud noises and walkie-talkies because I was in the auditorium on Feb. 14,” junior Katelyn Gomez said. “Hearing those sounds just bring back flashbacks. When I see crowds or a lot of people running in one direction I get freaked out.” While students are on campus, there
MSD students and faculty learn and use different methods to cope with trauma
20 Feature • Coping with Trauma
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same technique to get you to take the emotions away from a bad experience. It’s really helpful.” If one method of therapy is ineffective, there are many routes to take when it comes to treating trauma. For example, a common method used is exposure therapy, in which a person has to face their fear repeatedly over time. The desired result is that the person will come to terms with their thoughts, leading to a decrease in anxiety and depression. “There is always other stuff that you can do; there is multi-centered, multisource therapy where you pick a little bit of everything,” Louis said. For some individuals, it is easier to talk about traumatic experiences with someone that they identify with or are comfortable with. “I think most students are comfortable [talking to me]. I’m sure there are some who don’t, but I think that most do. In fact, I have some students from last year who still come to see me, and I’m happy to help however I’m able to,” English teacher Laurie Edgar said. Instead of therapy, some choose to find ways to cope through action, is actually about 80-85 percent effective in adolescence which is 13-18 years old,” like exercise, meditation, prayer, art forms, public speaking or even activism. Louis said. Through these methods, those afflicted Trauma focused cognitive behavioral with trauma can learn to let off steam, therapy is a short-term treatment that relax and manage their feelings. consists of 12-20 sessions, 90 minutes “I keep the oils, bilateral tapping, each. There are eight components of little things we’ve all been learning this therapy that the mental health unfortunately over the last seven months professional gradually moves through about how when we have those moments with the patient. of anxiety, when we feel that stress, how “We do something that is called a do we help ourselves navigate getting psycho-educational [therapy] where through the moment, and then moving we talk about exactly what trauma is on,” Edgar said. “I think that that’s part of and what is happening to your brain what I can do is help get us through the physiologically and why you still feel moments.” very hyper vigilant when things like People can also learn to cope with that happen,” Louis said. “The whole trauma through things that they are process is like once you learn about it, passionate about. For example, musical then you can start learning your own triggers and we start teaching relaxation artists might write a song to put techniques, from deep breathing to music their thoughts together or a person with strong opinions might become a meditations.” motivational speaker. Dealing with the aftermath of a “I write when I don’t want to talk traumatic event can be an overwhelming task, but learning how to cope is essential about it,” senior Emily Melamed said. “I guess because it’s comforting to see it all to a person’s mental well being. In on paper, that way I’m reminded that it’s order to handle their trauma, some seek real.” help through a variety of the therapy Disturbing events can leave behind techniques. mental scars that become a life-long “I go to this therapy called EMDR, struggle and can change the way one which has helped me a lot, so that’s how sees the world. However, finding a way I’ve gotten better,” sophomore Anna Crean said. “Different people do different to handle and care for themselves is one way to battle calamity, and make each things, but [EMDR is] kind of like REM day more bearable. Story by Dara Rosen and sleep and your eyes move really quickly Anna Dittman when you sleep, so it’s kind of using the are times when they see, hear or feel something that evokes a reaction. To help alleviate the stress and anxiety students feel, Broward County Schools created the new wellness center in the portables for immediate help. “Roughly we have about 13-15 [students visiting the wellness center] daily, but when we have a fire drill or a false alarm, we see like 50 kids here,” Dr. Jhoni Louis, a school psychologist, said. According to the Evergreen Psychotherapy Center, children and adults who have a history of trauma are likely to avoid reminders of painful memories. Avoidance has proven to reduce anxiety in the short-term; however, in the long run, general trauma and sentiments of powerlessness still persist and hinder the healing process. “The method we use [at MSD] is called trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and research has shown that it
Once you learn about [trauma] then you can start learning your own triggers and we start teaching relaxation techniques.
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Design by Dara Rosen and Anna Dittman Photo illustration by Nyan Clarke
Feature • Coping with Trauma 21
MSD Alumni come together to support the Coral Springs and Parkland community
Once an eagle always an eagle
Mobilized Marchers. MSD Alumni walk down Pennsylvania Ave at the March For Our Lives in Washington, D.C. Photo courtesy of Mobilizing
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MSD Alumni
ragedy often brings people with a similar past together. With a common desire to make a difference after the deadly shooting in their hometown on Feb. 14, many Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School alumni found themselves getting in touch with one another, each eager to lend their support to the Parkland/Coral Springs community. Just hours after the news broke out, friends Judith Danovitch (class of 1996), Rachel Nyswander Thomas (class of 1998) and Kim Moscaritolo (class of 1996), created a Facebook group titled Mobilizing MSD Alumni. They hoped to get in contact with other MSD alumni to figure out a way to help their former beloved city. “We used the word ‘mobilizing’ because we wanted to focus on alumni actively doing something to help,” Danovitch said. “We invited our friends from MSD to join and, within a few days, we had over 10,000 members.” Mobilizing MSD Alumni, which now has over 11,500 members, has three main objectives: outreach, advocacy and building alumni community. According to the group’s website, outreach initiatives deal with providing support to MSD students and teachers, as well as organizing recovery and advocacy
projects with the school and the Parkland community. Advocacy is a much broader initiative, which involves taking action to demand policy change, encouraging voter registration on a national scale and amplifying the voices of student activists and victims’ families. The community aspect correlates to strengthening alumni connections, finding new alumni and maintaining strong ties to MSD.
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social media accounts. “To me, that was a way to get involved and help out using the skills I have,” Sloan said. “Within the social media realm I’ve helped in creating posts and letting people know that the alumni are out there and that we are here to help in.” According to many alumnae like Sloan and Tori Ford, who graduated from MSD in 2013 and then from Elon University in North Carolina in 2017, their favorite part about being included in a group like this is that they have been granted the opportunity to connect with so many alumni they did not know existed or lived by them. “The best thing is the inspiring and supportive community that has formed from such tragedy,” Ford said. “Alumni I One usually doesn’t get the chance to never knew, who only lived a few miles repay the teachers and school that helped from me in DC, are now great friends. you grow as a person,” Lapin-Bertone said. After moving to North Carolina, I felt that “My favorite part is being able to tell the I already had a family here, with over teachers, staff and students when they 100 plus North Carolina alumni warmly ask why I volunteer so much - ‘You’re all welcoming me back to the state ready worth it.’” to take more action in support of the Another MSD alumna, Nicole Sloan #neveragain movement.” (class of 2007), now lives in New York City, Whether receiving their high school after graduating from Indiana University. diploma recently or years ago, the MSD With a background in marketing and alumni will forever hold onto their fond social media, Sloan contributed her skills memories from when they attended the to help run Mobilizing MSD Alumni’s school. From being president of a club,
I’ve had the opportunity to give back. One usually doesn’t get the chance to repay the teachers and school that helped you grow as a person.
One alumnus, Jesse Lapin-Bertone (class of 2000), who still lives in Coral Springs, mainly focuses on the outreach pillar. Through his membership, LapinBertone has had countless opportunities to work with MSD students and teachers. Lapin-Bertone has aided his help in many service projects; he helped produce the “Shine” music video, supported campus events, such as Dance Marathon and the Feis Bowl, and even brought modulars and furniture on campus so therapy could occur in a private setting
22 Feature • Mobilizing MSD Alumni
during the last few months of the school year. Recently, Lapin-Bertone helped bring suicide intervention training to staff and students over the summer and wrapped up the installation and training of Stop the Bleed kits for MSD classrooms for the upcoming year. According to the alumni, none of these changes would have been made possible without the overflow of support from the organization. “I’ve had the opportunity to give back.
”
Design by Zoe Gordon On The Road. MSD Alumni in New York City attend a local Road to Change event over the summer. Photo courtesy of Mobilizing MSD
alumni
For The Kids. MSD alumni attend the first dance marathon MSD has participated in April 2018.
Photo courtesy of Mobilizing MSD Alumni
Gift Exchange. MSD alumni create graduation gifts for the class of 2017-18. Photo courtesy of
Mobilizing MSD Alumni
On the Road
going to nationals with the band, traveling for Mu Alpha Theta math competitions or sharing MSD school spirit, each alumni has a vivid and unique memory of the high school, remembering the high standards that shaped them into who they are today. “Since the school was so new, it was always very exciting to experience the ‘firsts,’” one of the four national directors of Mobilizing MSD Alumni, Craig Pugatch (class of 1996) said. “I vividly remember the Marching Eagles — we weren’t Eagle Regiment back then — winning our first Grand Champion title at the Cape Coral marching competition and proudly displaying that first large trophy on the wall with a somewhat empty trophy shelf. I loved coming back over the years and seeing that shelf overflow.” Though the Feb. 14 shooting at MSD gave additional meaning to the school, the perception of the alumni has not changed. They will hold onto their adored memories as they support the Parkland and Coral Springs communities and fight for change in the country in honor of the 17 victims. As new eagles leave the nest year after year, Mobilizing MSD Alumni encourages them to find a place in their organization and join the effort in supporting their hometown. Story by Zoe Gordon
For The Kids
Gift Exchange
Building alumni community
Outreach
Advocacy
Supporting the MSD community in healing and hope
Making #NeverAgain a reality
Alumni supporting one another
Mobilizing alumni as a force for policy change in Washington and across the nation, amplifying the advocacy of student leaders and victims’ families.
Strengthening alumni connections and embracing graduating seniors as they enter the alumni community.
Meeting the needs of MSD students and teachers as they evolve, organizing and funding special recovery and advocacy projects in partnership with the school and the Parkland Community Partnered with MSD faculty to ensure that students had comfort and grief therapy supplies upon their return to campus Organizing concerts, 5K runs and other benefits for the MSD students Fund Arranged meals for families in hospitals and first responders after the shooting Provided funding and travel resources for Shine MSD and healing through the arts. Planned a full schedule of summer activities for MSD students.
Organized funding and logistics for more than 1,000 MSD students and chaperones to attend the March For Our Lives in Washington, D.C.
Set up 26 regional chapters led by local alumni in less than two weeks
Coordinating and interfacing directly with lawmakers, including senators, representatives and local leaders in Florida and other regions to develop and move forward with sensible policy changes
Mobilized 11,500 alumni in less than one week following the Parkland shooting
Partnering with national gun safety organizations to mobilize alumni response in support of national, state and local legislative reform Hosting educational trainings in regional chapters across the country on how to talk to children about gun violence and advocate for gun safety
Facilitated alumni attending more than 190 events to support the MSD community in 2 months Continuing to connect and mobilize more than 11,500 alumni on an ongoing basis across the U.S. and around the globe Hosted over 40 alumni-led events in 26 cities in six weeks.
Feature • Mobilizing MSD Alumni 23
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Media Mayhem Conflicts involving media worry the public
D
ue to increasingly accessible technology, the presence of media follows us wherever we take our digital footprint. With a never ending tap of information at our fingertips, every realm of modern society has transformed into one that is more easily informed, but also more easily manipulated due to distorted information. The Statistics Portal reports that as of 2019, there will be about 2.77 billion social media users worldwide. Alongside this expansion has come what Oxford Dictionaries describes as an era of “post truth,” in which instead of objective facts, information that appeals to the emotions and personal beliefs of people is in higher demand. From this societal trend, a certain resentment towards the media has brewed. “By and large the media does what they are supposed do. They report the facts whether or not people want to hear them,” journalism teacher Sarah Lerner said. “There are many people who believe that journalists are not doing their jobs simply because they are reporting on truths they don’t want out there.” Doubts in the integrity of the media were epitomized by the “fake news” epidemic of the 2016 election. In the scramble for the presidency, many news organizations were targeted for their alleged inability to properly portray each candidate. “The job of a journalist is to research and get to the bottom of a story all while reporting things fairly and accurately,” Lerner said. “If a journalist is not doing that, then that’s on them. But we can’t be making sweeping generalizations about the media as a whole.” Even though the feud with the media has only recently gained widespread attention, doubts have existed long before
Survey shows American trust in major U.S. institutions
2016. A study by the Harvard Business Review reports that trust in the government and media has been on a constant decline since the Watergate scandal, with 71 percent of respondents stating that governing figures are “not at all or somewhat credible.” “If we don’t like a story being told or if there are inaccuracies in that story, we have a right to call it out,” Lerner said. “But we can’t make blanket statements and call journalists ‘enemies of the people.’ That leads to a huge mistrust among the American people.”
Tensions with the media extend beyond the accuracy of their reporting, as well. Many criticize the tendency of mainstream networks to overlook the problems of common life. “Every day I turn on the news and it’s about some drama unfolding in the White House,” Cardoso said. “While that is important, there are other issues that don’t receive nearly as much attention. There are American cities without clean water, countries in civil wars… don’t they deserve to be heard?”
“In many ways, I think it was a necessary evil,” Pfeiffer said. Thanks to the media, the issues manifested in the shooting were not quickly forgotten by the American people. But their continuous coverage of the gruesome details have left many questioning their purpose. “I have seen stories about our school based solely off of tweets — that’s not good journalism,” Lerner said. “It’s very disconcerting when you drive up to school and see a thousand news trucks and nothing is happening. People think it’s okay to come here just because it’s been a slow news day.” Regulations have been put into place to protect the privacy of students. For example, all media requests are processed by the county’s Office of Public Communications As ordained by the First Amendment, At Marjory Stoneman Douglas High where they are heavily scrutinized. the press is intended to serve as a gatekeeper School, students have been firsthand “This is a school, we are here to educate to American freedom. All forms of media, witnesses of the media’s ability to both children and I don’t think that they [the from TV broadcasting to social networking unite, divide, inform and misinform the media] have any business here right now,” sites, are expected to uphold democracy by masses. It all started with their coverage of Assistant Principal Denise Reed said. “Their keeping the masses informed. Feb. 14, when the world became witness to constant reminders of what happened to us “If everyone is walking around with the the horror unraveling in Parkland. are just not healthy.” wrong information, then our democracy “After everything that happened it would MSD students and staff will continue to can’t function properly,” senior Melanie have been easier to just try and move on search for a new sense of normalcy, with or Cardoso said. “We can’t limit a free press, with our friends and family,” senior Isabella without the media documenting their every but as citizens we have the responsibility to Pfeiffer said. “We needed the media to get steps. The coverage of MSD, however, seems make sure the information we consume is our platform across.” to embody both the perks and flaws of credible.” From their smart phones, MSD students modern media: it has the power to elevate As the largest consumers of digital were able to spark national conversations the voices of the unheard, as well as disrupt media, teenagers have the challenge about gun violence, mental health and the tranquility of everyday life. maintaining responsible habits when school safety — all while overcoming a “More responsible journalists — that’s consuming information to protect tragedy. While the media was an essential what this country needs,” Lerner said. themselves from the deliberate spread of factor in the outreach of these messages, With free speech comes free will. The misinformation. This of course, is different their portrayal of MSD often brought up media will continue to capture American than simply rejecting information that may questions about the intent behind certain society for better or for worse, but it is or may not coincide with one’s beliefs. coverage. ultimately up to the people to determine “Rather than refuting what is being said, Mainstream networks, such as FOX, what should or should not frame how people are just blanketly labeling every CNN and MSNBC seemed to haven taken they perceive the world. Story by Hannah journalist as an enemy of the people and distinct sides on the tragedy through their Kapoor; photo illustration by Darian that is a huge problem,” Lerner said. coverage of its implications. Williams
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If everyone is walking around with the wrong information, then our democracy can’t function properly.
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11+89 14+86 14+86
Source: Harvard IOP
feel they do the right thing
11% of the time
feel they do the right thing
feel they do the wrong thing
feel they do the wrong thing
Media
89% of the time
14% of the time
feel they do the right thing
Congress 18%
86% of the time
20% of the time
feel they do the wrong thing
The Government
80% of the time
Most popular News Sources
Source: MediaPost
1 CNN 2 Local News 3 Facebook 4 FOX News
Arts & Leisure • Fake News 25
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BORN TO LEAD Diving into a new year
Proper Form. Coach Julian Wynter-Anderson instructs the swim team on their techniques during their Sept. 28 practice. Wynter-Anderson began coaching five years ago and works alongside Assistant Coach Caitlin Hanley. Photo by Nyan Clarke
T
he Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School swim and dive team is making a splash this season with the addition of two new swim coaches: Julian Wynter-Anderson and Caitlin Hanley. In June 2018, the former head coach, Lauren Rubenstein, was promoted to athletic director at MSD, leaving the
coaching position open. Shortly after Rubenstein’s promotion, she contacted Wynter-Anderson, a former swimmer and experienced swim coach, who was then hired for the position. Wynter-Anderson lived in Kingston, Jamaica for most of his childhood. When he was 12 years old, he moved to Atlanta before moving to Miami in 2010. He began
coaching at local swim clubs five years ago. According to Wynter-Anderson, he is honored to be a part of the upcoming season. “I’m excited for what [the swim team] can do this season. It’s going to be one of the best ones yet,” Wynter-Anderson said. In addition to a new head coach, the team also has a new assistant coach, Caitlin Hanley. As a former swimmer and current environmental science teacher at MSD, Hanley was eager to contribute to the swim program. Hanley is from Deerfield Beach; she attended Pompano Beach High School, where she was a member of their swim and dive team. Both Wynter-Anderson and Hanley agree that mentoring and getting to know the swimmers has been one of the highlights of their season so far. The skill levels among the athletes range from swimmers with no prior experience to competitive, year-round swimmers. “I like that we have a very diverse group of kids,” Hanley said. Wynter-Anderson and Hanley work together to adjust the workouts to fit each swimmer’s skill and ability level and creating a training program that includes swimming and dry land work to help the
RUN BY A NEW COACH
C
hange is never easy, especially when it comes down to the one person a team looks up to the most — a coach. The Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School cross country teams underwent major changes in the 2018-2019 school year due to the events of Feb. 14. The teams were devastated by the passing of their coach, Scott Beigel. Knowing that filling the spot of Biegel would not be easy, the teams looked to geography teacher Robyn Mickow to fill the position. Mickow also coaches the MSD track teams. Mickow did not hesitate when given the option to coach both the men’s and women’s cross country teams. The experience of coaching track created a smooth transition for her, as well as the team. “The position just sort of came to me. It just happened during track, which I was coaching at the time,” Mickow said. “A lot of the long distance runners for track, ran for cross country as well.” Originally living and working in Arizona and California, Mickow moved to Florida 12 years ago. Since then, she has taught at MSD for four years and
has coached the track team for two. She gained a passion for running when she ran for the cross country team during her own time in high school. Some continuity and familiarity remains for the teams, as training coach Bob Oelschlager has continued as the team’s training coach. However, with Mickow as coach, there is a slight difference from previous years. “I’m sure there has been a change in coaching. This is because I’m different than Scott was. I have a different personality,” Mickow said. Since the start of the season in August, Mickow has grown close with the runners. Now that she teaches in the new portables, she frequently allows the team to meet up in her room before practices. “The new coach [Mickow] has been absolutely amazing,” sophomore Brett Lickerman said. “She is so welcoming and fit in with our team right away. Just like Biegel, she truly cares about us.” The women’s cross country team is currently ranked first in the region. With a successful season already, the team is hopeful that both the men’s and women’s teams will attend States. “At our last City Meet, we took top
Design by Ryan LoFurno
MSD swim and dive team, along with the cross country team, gain new coaches
MSD swim and dive team welcomes two new coaches swimmers achieve their individual goals this season. “I am hoping to break more personal records this year,” sophomore Bri Thirkell said. Although the major changes within the team can seem daunting at times, the majority of the swimmers have maintained a positive and enthusiastic outlook for the upcoming season. “I am excited for another season at Douglas, and I can’t wait to make more memories at meets and team events,” sophomore Victoria Veiga said. An important goal for this year’s swim team is to honor the legacy of the 17 students and faculty members who were killed on Feb. 14, 2018, specifically Nicholas Dworet, former captain and teammate for many of the current MSD swimmers. This season, the swimmers compete and train with a new mindset: to swim for Nick. “Put it all out on the line, in the pool, and do it in remembrance of Nick,” junior Cody Chin said. With help from their new coaches, the players on the swim and dive team hope to add to the legacy of excellence established by those who swam before them. Story by Katrina White
Coach Robyn Mickow volunteers to coach the MSD cross country teams
Warming Up. Coach Robyn Mickow leads the cross country teams through warmups on Oct. 2. Both teams competed at a meet the next day. Photo by Nyan Clarke
five places, winning first place as a team. For the [men’s] team, we have recruited strong runners, and past runners have gotten stronger,” team captain Alyssa Fletcher said. The team will continue to honor their former coach through memories and their newly designed t-shirts. On the back of the shirts is adorned with a phrase Biegel would frequently say to his team before
meets — “Just run faster.” “This year we are really doing it to honor Coach Beigel,” Mickow said. “The team honors him by their behavior each day. They also just speak about him in such great terms. They miss him.” With help and guidance from their new coach, cross county teams will run towards first place at States in honor of coach Biegel. Story by Leni Steinhardt
Sports • Coach Profiles 27
