Oct. 2020
.
the
J.W. Mitchell High School 2323 Little Road New Port Richey, FL 34655
https://connectplus.pasco.k12.fl.us/jwmhs-hoofbeat/
Issue 1 Volume 19
hoofbeat
“Having Stang Gang in the stands really brings energy to the games and motivates us on the field to play our best for them,” Ronald Fiumara (‘21) said. (page 11) Photo by Laynie Mazur
Issue One Table of
Contents
News (page 3)
• Overview of the 2020 Presidential election • Student Union on Black Awareness and Culture addresses racism on the school level • Variety of clubs offered on campus
(pgs. 8-9)Photo by Jelayna Vasquez
Lifestyles (pages 5-7)
• How to social distance with friends • Tips on being successful in online classes • New procedures to keep classrooms clean • Volunteering opportunities for students • Requirements for in-state colleges • Color Guard’s new practices and routines • Closer look at Sarah Evans’ (‘21) art and sales • Feature on the new specialized band masks made by Bella Holton (‘21) and family
Centerspread (pages 8-9)
• Quarantine trends: hair, clothes, new jobs, etc.
(pg. 5)
(pg.12)
Photo by Ostina Myrtil
Photo by Laynie Mazur
Sports (pages 11-13)
• The 2020 JV and varsity football schedule • Changed volleyball rules and new strategies • Swim and Dive teams updated rules • ROTC’s nationals cancellation and uncertainties in the new school year • Ms. Regenia Dixon’s (FAC) explanation of the expectations for spectators at sports games • Cheer team adaptation to the new climate • Boys’ golf coach’s impact on the players • Closer look into the new Stang Gang leaders
Entertainment (page 14)
•Netflix cancellations cause uproar from viewers • Movie theaters reopen their doors to the public and the new movies being shown • Musicians and band playing shows virtually
Opinions (page 15)
• Editorial: Congressional hypocrisy •Faces in the Crowd: How do you feel about wearing masks? • New procedures for a safer cafeteria
Back Page (page 16)
• Online School v. Traditional school
Connect with us on Twitter and Instagram at
@mhshoofbeat
Check out our online newspaper:
https://connectplus.pasco.k12.fl.us/jwmhs-hoofbeat/
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CONTENTS
(pgs. 13)
(pg.13)
Photo by Laynie Mazur
Editorial
Policy
Published six times a school year, the student newspaper of J.W. Mitchell High School is a public forum with its student editorial board making all the decisions concerning its contents. Unsigned editorials express the views of the majority of the editorial board. Letters to the editor are welcomed and will be published as space allows. Letters must be signed, although the staff may withhold the name upon request. The paper reserves the right to edit letters for grammar and clarity, and all letters are subject to laws governing obscenity, libel, privacy and disruption of the school process, as are all contents of the paper. Opinions of letters are not necessarily those of the staff nor should any opinion expressed in a public forum be construed as the opinion or policy of the school administration, unless attributed.
Photo By Laynie Mazur
HoofbeatStaff Editors
Gracie Glover
editor-in-chief
Hailey Kroll
editor-in-chief
Davis Burnette Luke Cartiglia
news editor
Nicole Sofia Barrios Moreno
Jelayna Vasquez Ashley Hoskins sports editor
Emma Diehl
sports editor
Hayley Fliss
centerspread editor
Riley Curie
Emma Rogers business manager/copy editor
Valerie Farrar
backpage editor
lifestyles editor
Ostina Myrtil
Laynie Mazur
online/social media manager
Tori Marjan ent. editor
Reporters
opinions editor
Susan McNulty adviser
Sofia Chianella Faith Giambarberee
Alexa Grubbs Amelia Marty Marina Saviceva-Noti
Avery Weber
Education leads to voter preparation
Knowledge of the platforms for the two presidential candidates gives students insight into their political opinions for Nov. 3 A national effort aimed at creating jobs
Create 10 million jobs in 10 months
It’s important to vote because we finally get to have a say in who we want to be in charge of our country for the next four years.
Reopen economy while protecting America’s citizens with masks
Develop a vaccine by 2020 and go back to normal regarding the pandemic in 2021 Enforce immigration laws to protect American communities and jobs
Lauren
Modernize American immigration system
Sammartano (‘21)
Put patients and doctors in charge of our healthcare systems
Protect the Affordable Care Act and stand up against abuse of power
Joe Biden (D)
Donald J. Trump (R)
Source: joebiden.com
Source: donaldjtrump.com
Combatting racism: stronger together The new Student Union on Black Awareness and Culture creates an action plan for addressing racism on the school level Valerie Farrar lifestyles editor On June 9, alumni, Nabil Koney-Laryea (‘20), organized a Zoom meeting with Ms. Jessica Schultz (FAC) to address racial tensions coming to head in the United States. Ms. Schultz and Koney-Laryea outlined a detailed plan to help combat racism at the school-level by creating of an anti-racism committee for students and teachers, called the Student Union on Black Awareness and Culture (SUBAC). Ja’mija Coure (‘22) is one of the students joining this new committee. “I’d be more than happy to help raise awareness for those who are afraid to stand up for
their skin color because they are afraid of the opinions of the student body at Mitchell. Personally, I’ve had many encounters with the students at Mitchell about my race, [but] it’s not just me; a lot of the other minorities like me have faced jokes, comments, and other slurs purely for not being white,” Coure said. A future goal of the SUBAC is to increase school wide participation in Black History Month in February. Currently, the school does not heavily partake in Black History Month. SUBAC members hope to include a moment of silence for black lives lost to racism, anti-racism pledges to sign in the cafeteria, recognizing more historical civil
rights leaders, discussing current events in all RANCH periods, and
possibly hosting a speaker on the
issue. “Many of our students truly believe there is no issue with anything going on regarding racial profiling, discrimination, and injustice, which is ignorant. Having more interactions with Black History Month could allow those who truly just don’t understand gain perception on these issues, especially if we have students of color who have faced discrimination speak out on the issues,” Coure said. Another new SUBAC member, An Le (‘21), would also like to see teachers trained on combatting racism in the classroom. If teachers are trained to recognize racism among their students, they will be better equipped to enforce the school’s
zero-tolerance policy. “Training teachers in anti-racism would be extremely beneficial in the classroom, where discriminatory actions can quickly be identified and addressed. Sometimes teachers may not recognize that a student’s actions were explicitly hateful, and teaching them to recognize these actions will promote a safer learning environment for our students,” Le said. If you wish to help bring these plans to reality and combat racism, attend the SUBAC meetings every second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 3:30 in Room 503, or join through the Zoom meeting option offered by the club.
Find an interest and you will find a club
Get involved by joining a club! To find more information about each club, visit jwmhs.pasco.k12.fl.us/clubs-and-organizations/ Cornhole Club Corp Greene Gym TBD
Dance Team
Hatfield Orange Commons Tuesdays and Wednesdays 3 p.m.
Ecology Club Mr. Koslin Virtual 3rd Wednesdays 8 a.m.
National English Honor Society
Kerr Room 519 4th Mondays 8 a.m.
FCA
Dixon Virtual 1st Mondays 7 p.m.
French Club
Gay Straight Alliance
Konrad Room 307 2nd and 4th Thursdays 7:45 a.m.
HOSA
Schulaski Room 505 TBD
Bruegger Gym 1st Thursdays 7:45 a.m.
FBLA
Interact
Glaves Room 316 3rd Thursdays 7 a.m.
Game Club
Dotson Room 825 TBD
Martanovic Room 704 1st and 3rd Mondays 7:45 a.m.
Leo Club
Schulaski/Leavey Media 1st Fridays 7:50 a.m.
Math NHS
Philosophy Club
DeLeon/Kaelin Media 4th Tuesdays 3:00 p.m.
Gifford Portable 20 2nd and 4th Thursdays 3:00 p.m.
Mustang Film Creation Club
SADD
Taylor Room 740 TBD
National Honor Society
Greene/Pitcher Media 3rd Fridays 7:30 a.m.
Science NHS
Crabtree Media
2nd Wednesdays 7:45 a.m.
Koslin/Illig Room 323 TBD
Odyssey of the Mind
Social Inclusion Club
Crabtree Media TBD
Durand/Comito Room 130
1st and 3rd Wednesdays 7:45 a.m.
Rho Kappa
Hampton Media 2nd Fridays 8:00 a.m.
Spanish NHS
Student Union on Black Awareness and Culture
Waterman Room 503 2nd and 4th Tuesdays 3:15 p.m.
Teen Court
Pitcher Room 326 1st and 3rd Tuesdays 3:15 p.m.
Corporal Greene TBD
Student Council
Young Democrats
Besack Room 721 2nd and 4th Thursdays 7:50 a.m.
Students for Service Schulaski Room 505 TBD
NEWS
Daniel Room 811 1st and 3rd Wednesdays 3:15 p.m.
YouthBeats Vanno Virtual; TBD
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Turning her
passion into a profession
Turning her pastime into a future career, Sarah Evans (’21) opened her own online store for selling handmade custom artwork Riley Curie backpage editor Taking brush to canvas went from hobby to career for Sarah Evans (’21) during the summer of 2020. Evans took her artistic talent to the next level by creating her own art shop. The pieces she offers on her website include portraits, nature pieces, and watercolors.
Evans first got into art by taking Ms. Donna Fulton’s (FAC) 2D art class in her sophomore year. After the class, her interest in art grew. Art became a hobby for Evans and pushed her to new limits. “I have always had a creative inclination, and admired art. Art has been a way for me to create my own worlds, and I find it very important to understanding
Sarah Evans (’21) fixes a painting at her personal art desk. “I’ve definitely liked the mini canvas paintings the best, and seeing all the different things people ask for is quite fun,” Evans said. Photo by Riley Curie.
myself and appreciating what’s around me,” Evans said After gaining more skill, her interest in art grew. Through an online website called Big Cartel, Evans started her store to sell her art. Her website consists of all the work she sells and different pictures of the pieces of art. “I decided to start selling this summer because I was starting to gain technical skills and loved the idea of creating for others. I decided to use Big Cartel because it is designed for artists trying to sell their work and get exposure. It is a fairly simple program and doesn’t cost too much for a new store,” Evans said. An Le (’21) is one of those who bought a piece from Evans store. One of the options on her website for purchase is a 5” by 5” custom mini canvas panel. Le ordered one of these canvases for Evans to paint a picture of Le’s dog as a decoration for her house.
“I saw that she had been posting about them on her Instagram stories, and I was super intrigued. I love the paintings and I’m definitely buying from her again. I’ve even
recommended her to family members who are considering
Put in work to make band
an order from her in the future,” Le said. Having her own store pushes Evans to paint new things. The goal of the store is to launch Evans into an art career in the future. By painting things out of her comfort zone, Evans pushes herself to grow as an artist. “It has forced me to paint things that I wouldn’t usually choose to paint, like other people’s pets, and observe form, shape, and shadow there, which is applicable to anything I choose to paint in the future. I intend to pursue art as a career, so hopefully, this will expand into a full-time freelance job,” Evans said. Evans’s website can be accessed through sarahkpaints.bigcartel.com and is also linked in the bio of her Instagram @sarahkevanss. More specifically, the things she paints include but are not limited to mini canvas panels for $15, custom canvas paintings for $25, and watercolor or pencil portraits for $20.
homemade
The flute section leader, Bella Holton (‘21), volunteers to help make masks for the band to keep everyone safe for performaces Marina Saviceva-Noti staff reporter
After my mom would sew the individual pieces, I would iron them and give them back to her to sew together. We would then add the nose piece and strap elastics through and the mask is done,” Holton said. As expressed by Holton,
As summer came to a close, Bella Holton (’21) got to work making 288 individual musician masks. Musician masks are similar to regular cloth ones, but there is a hole near where the mouth is for the instrument mouthpiece. Holton, a flute player in the It means a lot to me that my Wind Ensemble, worked with mom and everybody else six other relatives and friends including Catherine McWee helped out for the band, (’22), Matthew Benjamin (’21) where it’s now possible for and Leila Sujanani (’21) two everybody to be able to play weeks before school started to get the job done. safely. “I volunteered [to help] so my mom didn’t have to take the bulk of the work, and I wanted to help the band,” Holton said. Every mask is fabric, making almost 300 masks for sanitized and cleaned before and students to wear daily proved after being handled. The masks to be a redundant and tedious had to be strong enough to process at times. withstand everyday use, and hold “It would sometimes be up while playing an instrument. stressful with the amount we had “They were made at home, to do; it took forever to cut all cutting material on a table, on the pieces,” Holton said. the floor, or on a cutting mat. Holton multitasked as she We ironed and used the sewing worked on the masks, but was machine in my mom’s room.
Bella Holton (‘21)
committed to finishing. “It was sort of relaxing since you can watch TV while cutting or ironing,” Holton said. With an air of urgency as the first day of school came closer, Holton and the others reached their quota. After finishing the masks, Holton gave them to Mr. Ryan Herring (FAC) and Mr. Joel Quina (FAC) to distribute to the band on the first week of school. Now, wind players in Concert Band, Symphonic Winds, and Wind Ensemble have their own homemade musician mask so the band as a whole can follow district guidelines while participating in class and during performcances. “It means a lot to me that my mom and everybody else helped out for the band, where it’s now possible for everybody to be able to play safely. It’ll make my senior year something memorable,” Holton said. Now, the band is able to have proper practices and performances while staying safe thanks to the Holton family and those who contributed.
Wearing the masks Bella Holton (‘21) and her mom hand stitched, Holton walks across the field alongside her parents at the senior football game. “It felt like a dream walking down the field, I still don’t really feel like a senior. It was awesome to see everybody during the game being able to play and have fun because of the masks we made, and I hope everybody there was able to make some good memories, too,” Holton said. Photo by Laynie Mazur.
Marching band members safely stand together in the endzone to play “stand tunes” during the September 19 game against Pinellas Park High School. The special musician masks made it possible for the band to play at the game for Senior Night. “Thanks to the efforts of our band parents like Mrs. Holton, my friends and I were actually able to enjoy our senior year in the program, anf for that we are all so grateful,” Pearl Torrez (‘21) said. Photo by Laynie Mazur.
FEATURE
HOOFBEAT
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Social distanced fun
When hanging out, it is important to stay apart to stay healthy Jelayna Vasquez sports editor
grocery store to buy food for a socially distanced picnic in the backyard, the park or the With this global pandemic beach. For something more lasting longer than expected, physically active, try riding people want to gain some bikes or hiking. You could sense of normalcy. However, cook or bake new recipes with to stay safe while hanging out one or two friends. There are with friends, extra precautions a multitude of activities that should be taken. The Center keep everyone safe while for Disease Control and having fun. Prevention (CDC) recommends “Outside of school, I go using hand sanitizer or washing to the mall with friends. It's your hands often and wearing much different there with mask masks to cover your nose and mandates, labels on the floor mouth. When that ensure around others, distance, We feel like these monitor your lines to get are the safest things health daily into stores, and refrain and closed we can do for a from hanging fitting virus that is mostly out with rooms. We out of our control. others in close all mutually quarters. feel like Audrey “We always masking is make sure that the safest Zilay (‘22) we are feeling precaution 100% and that we can we have not come in contact take since the virus is airborne. with anyone who is sick. We We often use sanitizer before wear masks when we go out touching belongings or in public and we do activities other things around us, I also where we can stay socially personally try not to eat in distanced,” Alana Walker (‘21) public anymore.” Audrey Zilay said. (‘22) said. To stay safe while hanging Tristan Harrigan’s (‘22) life has out with friends, options not changed as much as his include hosting a movie night, fellow classmates. As long as or going to a restaurant or everyone follows the measures
Updated
recommended by the CDC while hanging out, the freedom to choose how he spends that time depends on his preference. “My friends and I really haven't changed much about what we do. We usually hang out at each other's houses, go to the beach or something else. As far as precautions, we wear masks when needed and don’t do anything too stupid,” Harrigan said. Until this pandemic is resolved, keep those around you safe by following health guidelines and adapting your social life.
Virtual School
survival guide 1. “Ask your peers and online teachers for help when you are confused about a topic.” - Tyler Knight (‘22)
2.
‘‘Try to maintain a similar routine and schedule as when you went to traditional school.’’ - Chelsea Seide (‘21)
3.
“Do not let yourself get behind on your assignments. Make sure everything is done at least the day before it is due.” - Tyler Knight (‘22)
4.
‘‘Attend any club meetings you are a member of through Zoom so you can continue to participate.’’ - Chelsea Seide (‘21)
face-to-face class procedures
On July 6, the “Reopening with the Mustangs Webinar” introduced safety measures for those choosing traditional school
Class procedureszzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz Practice safe social distancing whenever possible by limiting group gatherings.
Expect symptom screenings by all students and staff. Replace the air filters more frequently. 6
HOOFBEAT
LIFESTYLES
Post signage and lessons to encourage frequent hand washing.
Mandate wearing masks by everyone on campus. Ensure hand sanitizer is available throughout the campus.
New
visions for the volunteer clubs
Presidents of service clubs discuss thier future plans for community service opportunities in the midst of the global pandemic Sofia Chianella staff reporter There was once a time when volunteering at nursing homes, food banks, and places like homeless shelters seemed heroic, but now they seem dangerous. We can thank the Coronavirus for putting fear in volunteering. However throughout the school, there are numerous volunteering clubs that give students an opportunity to volunteer during this challenging pandemic hitting the nation head on. President of Interact, An Le (’21), prepare for Interact club members to continue volunteering during this time. Not only is Le trying to give the club members opportunities for service hours, but is trying to help
her suffering community. “This year, we’ll be hosting several different drives for different organizations in the area. We’re starting off the year by doing a drive for Pasco County Animal Services, collecting various items such as blankets, towels, dog/ cat food and toys, and more. Second semester we are hoping to participate in Relay for Life, an event we’ve raised money for and participated in since the start of this club a few years ago,” Le said. Usually, clubs during this time would be at concession stands at sports games, or at homeless shelters giving food to people who need it, or putting on a fundraiser; this year looks a little different. Co-President of the service club
Students For Service ,Hannah Spinney ( ’21), is not stopping reaching out to the less fortunate in our county during these difficult times. “We will be volunteering for Pac a Sac, which is what we do weekly to pack food for less fortunate students at Seven Springs Elementary and we also pack food for a local homeless community,” said Spinney. Across the country, many ask how activities will go on while social distancing and having proper safety precautions. Megan Maxton( ’21) who is the president of Leo’s club, is dealing with this pandemic safely and properly to ensure that every club member gives back to their community while staying as
nteract officers An Le (‘21), Courtney Kaelin (‘21), and Louis Chianella (‘21) discuss plans for volunteer opportunities for the Interact club members. Photo by Sofia Chianella.
safe as possible. “For the first semester we are going to give volunteer hours based on collections. Last year our
requirements were 20 hours per semester, but now we are going to loosen our requirements and only have 1 or 2 mandatory collections depending on the time of year. It will never be the same normal again, however I am just going to continue reaching out to my community and schools and try to help out the pasco community as much as possible. We will be volunteering for metropolitan ministries and elementary/middle schools around pasco,” Maxton said. The Students for Service club welcomes new members to help serve our community, but Interact applications are final as well as Leo’s club. See page 3 of the Hoofbeat for a full list of clubs.
College applications just around the corner As seniors prepare for their lives after high school, colleges provide information for the application process and acceptance
Florida State University
Florida Atlantic University
SAT: 1290 - 1410 ACT: 29 - 32 GPA: 4.1 - 4.5
SAT: 1110 - 1260 ACT: 23 - 29 GPA: 3.62 - 4.34
“My cousin went to FSU, so when I visited her I fell in love with the campus and it became my dream school,” Sophia Morgan (‘21) said.
“They have a nice campus and they are the only school in Florida with the major I want,” Ethan Weber (‘21) said.
Colorguard
University of South Florida
University of Florida
SAT: 1270 - 1340 ACT: 28 - 30 GPA: 4.1 - 4.4
“There is a medical program that I’m interested in, and it’s close to home so I can still see family and friends,” Victoria Redinger (‘21) said.
SAT: 1320 - 1460 ACT: 30 - 33 GPA: 4.4 - 4.6
“I always loved the campus and the STEM program, and my father is an alumni,” Cobe Smart (‘21) said.
twirls into the new year
Girls’ colorguard team practices over the summer to prepare themselves for the unique challenges of the upcoming season Davis Burnette staff reporter
The girls congratulate each other July 20 in the aftermath of another successful colorguard practice. The team practices both virtually and physically since July in preparation for a possible performance. “During the pandemic, we have been mainly in the cafeteria after school. We all are 6ft apart and we still wear masks just to stay safe. We start with stretching then cardio/ warm ups. Then we just go into spinning and dancing,” colorguard captain Reese Borsky
(‘22) said. The team took careful precautions to remain safe throughout exercises, including participating in a virtual camp and remaining six feet apart with masks on when meeting physically, as the team continues to improve from previous years. “The newbies are learning very quickly and efficiently. And even though there’s difficulties when trying to help people with choreography, the social distancing doesn’t really get in the way of learning and helping each other out,” Megan Kron (‘21) said. Despite new challenges, an important aspect during
practices is making sure the team is working hard,having fun, and bonding through the exercises. “I personally really like when it’s towards the end of practice and we do the choreography we have been working on during practice to music,” Borsky said. “Another part would be spending time with my team and bonding with them as we go through each practice,” Kron said. Overall, the colorguard team transitioned from its usual practices to establish safe, socially distanced protocols, while continuing to improve. So far, if you want to catch the
Varsity colorguard members Daelynn Benitez (‘21), Brenna Peterson (‘21), Bianca Wilson (‘22), and Alaina Stobie (‘21) cheer on the football team alongside the Marching Mustangs band at a home game against Pinellas Park. Photo by Laynie Mazur.
team in action, they are currently planning to perform in the
LIFESTYLES
football game vs Wiregrass on Oct. 9.
HOOFBEAT
7
Back to
work
Employees take safety precautions on the job Tori Marjan ent. editor COVID-19 created unusual circumstances for families, teenagers, and children. Students working jobs adjusted to new rules and procedures created to help to make a safer environment for everyone. Executive orders implemented safety procedures for places such as businesses. Students around campus adjusted to these rules and continued to work their jobs. “Working at Clean Juice over quarantine was definitely a very different experience. Now, if it was difficult to hear a customer before the masks they just add to the stress. Over the course of COVID-19 we have implemented the use of masks in our store. We’ve always been good about washing our hands and switching out our gloves so that wasn’t much of a change. We continue to wash our hands very frequently and always have our gloves on,” Cate Miller (‘22) said. Businesses implemented social distancing, masks, temperature checks, and more cleaning in all workplaces to ensure safety. Florida’s state mandate requires limited gatherings in public places and masks. Samantha Madeira works at TJ Maxx, and constantly sanitizes the counters and cleans while working. “Working throughout COVID has not really been a struggle. We are always sanitizing the counters and cleaning everything. I always feel safe in my work environment because of the cleaning measures and precautions,” Samantha Madeira (‘21) said. It is important to follow all safety procedures that you can to make it easier for workers to do
ing Chang rs lo hair co
their job. Wear masks and social distance to try to make it safer and facile for those working. This makes their job simpler with all the extra work they’re required to do due to COVID-19. “Working during quarantine was very different then how it
A su
From March until Au
“I started to dye my hair because I had the same blonde hair for years. I was really bored during quarantine so I dyed it pink and now I’ve dyed it red.
Grace Boatright-Earls (‘22) Photo by Tori Marjan (‘22)
Samantha Madeira (‘21) scans items to checkout at TJ Maxx. She wears a mask to protect herself and customers from COVID-19 as well as using a plastic shield over the register to reduce the spread. Photo by Tori Marjan (‘22)
used to be. I had to change what I was used to doing and adjust to the new safer ways we had to do things. We are required to wear masks at Checkers and have to clean everything a lot more,” Chad Monson (‘21) said. Dealing with COVID-19 and all the chaos that came with it isn’t easy. Students working jobs during quarantine currently go through a lot. They carry the responsibility of making sure they’re safe and work in a clean, sanitized environment.
“I had been thinking about doing something with my hair for a while and a friend of mine convinced me. I just went with it impulsively and I love it.”
Photo provided by Anuk Kaminsky (‘21)
“Going into high school with no in-person orientation was good. It’s different from middle school but overall easy.”
Carter Durham (‘24)
Anuk Kaminsky (‘21)
Photo by T
Photo provided by Grace Boatright-Earls (‘22)
“I dyed it because I got bored and wanted to change up my style. I ended up falling in love with colored hair, so now I’ve dyed it four times.”
Maybelline Kline (‘23) Cate Miller (‘22) delivers curb side drinks from Clean Juice safely to customers using gloves and a mask. She is also keeping as much distance as possible from the car to reduce COVID-19 exposures. Photo provided by Abbi Baker
ummer in quarantine
ugust, students stayed home, exploring new trends and opportunities
Transf ormin styles g
Online Mustang U orientation
“Over quarantine I had a bunch of extra time so I started making Pinterest boards for clothes, and online shopping to switch up my style. I got a new hobby from it.” Photo by Tori Marjan (‘22)
Photo p Sophia rovided by Henge s (‘21)
Sophia Henges (‘21)
“Going into high school with no real orientation was pretty easy. I have friends in higher grades that helped me around.”
Photo provided by Sophia Jimenez (‘22)
“I got bored during quarantine so I started watching videos with cool clothes that inspired me to change up my style.”
Kerry Lennon (‘24)
Michael Cane (‘22)
Tori Marjan (‘22)
Photo provided by Sophia Jimenez (‘22)
“In-person orientation did not affect me very much. I figured out where all my classes were and who my teachers were on the first day.”
Nicholas Marty (‘24)
“I really got into the big pants trend during quarantine and then the pants I was able to find while thrifting. I would match them with any shirts I own or just had bought.” Photo by Tori Marjan (‘22)
Sophia Jimenez (‘22)
Buy a yearbook in room 517. $80 until Dec. 31 Seniors: go online to giganteproductions.com/seniors and schedule an appointment for senior portraits by Dec. 11. Club picture day on Jan. 19 all day in the gym and senior panoramic at 2:30 p.m. Place senior dedication orders by Friday, Dec. 11. jwmhs.pasco.k12.fl.us/the-stampede-yearbook
Underclass make up picture day Oct. 7, from 10 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. in the Conference room directly across from Student Services in the Main Office building. Those in grades 9 – 11 who missed picture day on Sept. 2 or those who bought a pack of pictures on Sept. 2, but do not like them are eligible for retakes. If you got your photo taken on Sept. 2, and did not buy photos, you are not eligible for retakes.
Thank you to our sponsor
advertising sponsoring
If you are interested in or the Hoofbeat contact: smcnulty@pasco.k12.fl.us 10
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Serving students for 45 years
running
Boys’ golf coach expresses his passion for the game and accomplishments both his own as well as past players on the team Emma Diehl sports editor Out on the green, boys’ golf coach Jeffrey Leavey (FAC) instructs students on how to better their skills in the sport. In his second year coaching golf, Leavey works with his students, mostly underclassmen, to help them improve in multiple aspects of the sport, giving them advice along the way, and forming bonds that will last long after his players graduate. Before becoming a coach, Leavy himself ran cross country and played golf. He began playing golf when he was just 17 years old, and ran cross country throughout high school. However, he truly began to play more after retiring in 2003. “I absolutely love competing. I’m an adrenaline junkie; I love the sound of speed in my ears. I love being outside, seeing the wildlife [and] enjoying the Florida sunshine,” Leavy said. Before moving to Florida, Leavey coached the track and cross country teams in St. Charles Illinois for 34 years. After
moving to Florida, he joined the year the seniors had 4 different coaching staff for cross country coaches in 4 years,” Leavey said. and track the past 11 years, and The golf team has been golf for two. relatively undisturbed by the “[My favorite aspect of pandemic. Since the sport is coaching is] helping every already socially distant, the kid enjoy sports and fitness. athletes are able to remain safe Coaching Nick [Gabrelcik from the pandemic on the green. (‘20)] to 12 at the FHSAA state “We can socially distance championship 2019 [was a because we are 200 yards away defining from the moment for next group. me]. Nick Golf has won regionals been These athletes are now with a chip-in played my team. I have been of a birdie,” throughout Leavy said. this blessed to have great Being a disaster,” people to coach, forever. Leavy said. new boys golf coach in Over Florida last the years, Jeffrey year, Leavey Coach had a team Leavey has of mostly helped seniors. students Now, the team is full of mostly improve their golf, track, and underclassmen who are new to cross country skills. Being their the team. coach allows for him and his “This year, everyone is a former athletes to create close freshman or sophomore. Last relationships in which they stay in year we had 5 seniors on the touch long after graduation. team. All [of] the kids now have “These athletes are now my only had me as their coach. Last team. I have been blessed to
Leavy (FAC)
Stang Gang
Jeffery Leavy reflects on one of his most memorable moments.“I [once] shot an eagle while playing with my grandson and dad. One of the greatest joys of my life is sharing a passion for competition with my son and my grandchildren. Golf is one of the few intergenerational activities we can share with one another.,” Leavy said.
have great people to coach, forever. I’ve been to their weddings, gone to Cub games with them, and stayed friends for a lifetime,” Leavy said. He strives every day to help those in the pursuit of becoming a better athlete. Leavy decided to leave a piece of advice for new and experienced players alike. “Enjoy the great shots, forget the bad shots, and have fun every day,” Leavy said. Celebrating 45 years as a coach, Leavey created bonds with players that will last a lifetime, and helped improve their skills.
Jeffrey Leavey is a recreational and competitive golfer who loves to run. For his time spent at St. Charles, he earned a spot in their Hall of Fame. “I won 4th place in a summer Golf league back in St. Charles. I was [also] first many times as a distance runner from high school to my well into my 60’s,” Leavy said. Photos provided by Leavy
lives on despite setbacks
In spite of restrictions, new Stang Gang leaders plan to run the group with the same intensity and spirit as in previous years
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students, there will be an empty row between each row of fans, and standard social-distancing rules apply. “While COVID-19 has caused things to change, I want to keep a fun and energetic atmosphere for the games for everyone to enjoy and have a great time,” Hill said. Hill plays on the baseball and basketball teams for Mitchell. As an athlete himself, Hill understands the positive impact of fans on the players. “As an athlete, I know how having a huge crowd can give you that extra boost of energy that you need. It helps athletes get pumped up while getting in the opposing team’s head. This could be affected
Ja m
es
Hi ll
(‘2
1)
(‘21
ds
oa Rh er op
Stang Gang’s influence on the student body left a distinguishable mark over the past couple of years at Mitchell. This year, as life adjusts to the new standards of precautionary measures due to COVID-19, Stang Gang leader James Hill (‘21) plans to keep the tradition of the group alive. “I want to keep a fun and energetic atmosphere for the games for everyone to enjoy and have a great time. As the leader, I will still do everything to support the players as I can, whether it’s starting chants in the stands, getting more people to show up to games, or just creating a fun atmosphere that everyone will enjoy,” Hill said. Following Pasco County district
measures and mandates, the stands will have about 1400 people, or 50 percent capacity to comply with social-distancing standards, and masks must be worn at all times. As for the Stang Gang, which normally overflows with
Co
Laynie Mazur opinions editor
by restrictions as not as many people will be allowed into games, but we will still be as loud and as great a student
incredible student section we have at our school,” Rhoads said. Despite cancellations and postponements of football games in the beginning of the season, the Stang Gang 10/2 @ East Lake #Black/Gold is keeping with tradition 10/9 vs. Wiregrass #Blackout by making every 10/16 vs. Leto #Neon/Pinkout football game have 11/6 vs. Wesley Chapel #Goldout a dress-up theme, to boost morale in not only the section as ever,” Hill said. players but also in the student Assisting Hill in his leadership body themselves. of the Stang Gang, Cooper “The themes this year will be Rhoads (‘21) does not want great. We have some things COVID-19 to dampen the planned that will hopefully excite student’s support at volleyball everyone who comes to cheer,” and football games. Rhoads said. “My role in the previous years With Hill and Rhoads leading has been going to every game, the Stang Gang, the spirit in the but as more of a follower. This stands survives regardless of the year, I’m excited to help lead the adjusted world of today.
Upcoming game themes
SPORTS FEATURE
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Marching to Nationals Standing out
NJROTC teams prepare for the new season after nationals were canceled
Spectators follow new rules at sporting events
Emma Diehl sports editor
Davis Burnette staff reporter
With the state awards ceremony nearly silent, the NJROTC Field Meet teams sat on the field, waiting for the overall rankings to be released. Then, they were announced; the JWMHS unit came in second, and they were going to Nationals. It was supposed to be the first time that both the Orienteering and Field Meet teams went to Nationals. A few weeks later, COVID-19 struck, and Nationals were no more, leaving the team thinking about the possibilities. While the in-person Field Meet Nationals competition in Tallahassee was canceled last year, the unit came in second based on their previous scores. They came in second in the state,
and were the first Pasco County school to earn a chance to go to Nationals, as well as the first Pasco school to place. “Last year when Nationals were canceled, I was very disappointed because it was the first time that our NJROTC program at Mitchell was going to Nationals, and it was the last year for our seniors. I was looking forward to it because we know how hard we had to work, but we’re going to try again this year,” Alexander Tavernaro (‘23) said. In March 2020, the Orienteering team was at the airport to fly to Virginia when they got the call that Nationals was canceled. Matthew Benjamin (‘21) had been preparing for nationals when he received the news that they had been canceled. “It was very disappointing. We had been working so hard up to that moment when
The Nationals team from the 2020-21 school year poses with their new trophies and family members at the state competition.
Keep
everything shut down. On the bright side, we have the opportunity to show that we are qualified if our season starts this year,” Benjamin said. With COVID-19 still putting people at risk, the teams work around the virus, with practices and meets constantly changing. Dates have been rearranged, canceling meets and shifting dates, and practices changed to include masks. “We are preparing like always. Getting ready for athletics and academics currently for field meets, and drill is going to start soon. We aren’t 100% sure when or if meets will happen, but we are preparing as if they are,” Grace Young (‘21) said. The original start date of the field meet season, set for Nov. 7 was canceled, and there are no official dates for a new one. The first Orienteering meet is also not officially scheduled.
This year’s field meet team practices their routine for armed exhibition on Sept. 17, by running through the steps. Photos by Emma Diehl
arise. It will be important that we get the word out to as many spectators as possible what the new procedures are for this year. Early communication with schools, spectators and athletes is the key. As a problem arises, we will do our best to solve it,” Ms. Dixon said. If any athlete on either team tests positive for COVID-19, then the administration cancels the
With the beginning of sports season comes significant changes regarding spectators’ attendance in the stands. Administration created multiple restrictions and guidelines to attendance and social distancing to guarantee a safe, fun, socially distanced game. “We are allowed to have 50% capacity at all sporting events. This number will be calculated by using our electronic ticketing system GoFan,” Business On Friday night, Sept. 18, during the football game against Manager Pinellas Park, Stang Gang wore their masks, but struggled with Ms. Regenia maintaining a safe distance. Photo by Jelayna Vasquez Dixon (FAC) game and the ticket sales. said. With that in mind, students With the change in policy should not enter any game if for sports games comes the they are ill or have a fever, and possibility for issues to arise. all spectators should practice The River Ridge vs. Woodstock social distancing, including football game reportedly no congregation in walkways, proceeded with the issue of hallways, and common traffic spectators not wearing masks. areas. To solve this possible issue, Overall, the goal of the the administration and School new policies, guidelines and Resource Officer (SRO) will help restrictions is to allow the sports enforce the new policies at the teams to compete and the events, including masks and spectators to stay safe while social distancing. supporting their school. “With any new system, there are always glitches that we will have to work through as they
cheering through the challenges
The girls’ varsity and junior varsity cheerleading teams make adjustments to continue practicing and cheering amid pandemic Valerie Farrar lifestyles editor Hailey Dolen (‘22), in her second year on the varsity cheer team, practices every Tuesday and Wednesday at 3:30. Dolen practices her routines, stunts, and cheers with the rest of the team. However, with the new regulations, practices and football games are a different experience for these athletes. According to an executive order from Pasco Administer Dan Biles, “everyone in Pasco County [is required] to use face coverings while indoors at a public business or county government facility.” This mandate aims to
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keep everyone safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, but for athletes like cheerleaders, it raises particular challenges. “This year, due to corona, we wear masks the whole game [unless] we stay six feet apart while we cheer. We always wear a mask during practices [except] while we stunt. These changes are here to keep everyone safe so none of us spread germs or get sick while cheering,” Dolen said. Morgan Zimmerman (‘21) has been on the varsity team since her freshman year. Now on her fourth and final season of Friday Night Lights (FNLs), this round is
SPORTS
unlike all the others with the new restrictions. “This season, I am most excited for football season and FNLs, [but] there are more restrictions on what we can do because of corona. There won’t be as many people in the crowd. I understand that these changes are necessary and we are doing the best we can with them, but I wish things could go back to normal,” Zimmerman said. Caitlin Morris (‘23), who has been on the junior varsity team for two years, earned the position of captain this season. As part of her job now, she keeps everyone’s spirits up and
encourages them amidst new challenges. “My team is just going along with all the changes, we all try to stay positive [because] there is nothing we can really At the home game against Pinellas Park on Sept. 18, the do about it. I varsity cheerleading team kept the spirits of the Stang don’t mind the Gang high while cheering for the varsity football team. changes as long Photo by Jelayna Vasquez as everyone is circumstances, come out to the safe and healthy,” Morris said. next varsity football game away To support all of our at East Lake on Oct. 2. cheerleaders in these unique
Friday Night See you on the court Lights
Volleyball teams continue to practice and hold matches during COVID-19
Luke Cartiglia staff reporter
Varsity football schedule for the 2020-21 season. All games at 7:30p.m. September 11
Land O Lakes
Canceled
September 18
Pinellas Park
(W) 42-12
September 25
Cypress Creek
(W) 61-3
October 2
East Lake
Away
October 9
Wiregrass
Home
October 16
Leto
Home
October 23
Sunlake
Away
October 30
Sickles
Away
November 6
Wesley Chapel
Home
During the game against the Pinellas Park Patriots, Tayshawn Sullivan (‘23), beat the offensive lineman, and made the tackle. “My favorite part was playing with all of the seniors for their senior night and beating a team who beat us last season,” Sullivan said. While their first game of the season was canceled, they won the second game against Pinellas Park with a score of 42-12. Photo by Laynie Mazur.
restrictions, the team still season record of 5-0, winning manages to play well together their first five matches of the and develop team chemistry that season as of Sept. 25. Come out With numerous restrictions is essential to playing the game. and support these athletes as in place due to COVID-19, JV “In the beginning we were they face Tarpon Springs High and varsity volleyball players affected by having to train in School on Oct. 6 at home. found a way to get practice in. small groups, and our season Both teams celebrated victories got pushed back two weeks as against Hudson High School on well. We only had two weeks Sept. 8. to practice “Since our as a team practice usually together,” Ava starts at the Connors (‘23) It (COVID-19) drove beginning of said. me to take volleyball summer, we had Despite the to the next level and to work around restrictions, quarantine appreciate the players the volleyball and social team still and coaches. distancing. The practices county made together while Desirae us go in phases abiding by Waterman (‘24) and at first we protocol. The JV team member Riley Mazur (‘24) couldn’t even varsity team prepares to spike the volleball over touch volleyballs and we have has a win-loss record of 4-1 (as the net at an away game against to wear masks on the sidelines of 9/25), only losing their match Anclote High School on 9/24. Photo during games now,” Avery Lewis against East Lake High School. by Laynie Mazur (‘22) said. The JV volleyball team has a Gym capacity will be at only fifty percent this year as well as social distancing orders. Spectators and players on the sidelines are required to wear a mask at all times. Despite the restrictions, Desirae Waterman (‘24) manages to find the positives. “It affected my practices, games, and volleyball in general, it drove me to take volleyball to the next level and appreciate the players and coaches,” Waterman said. The varsity team has also The JV volleyball team huddles up before the beginning of their game on been affected with the same Sept. 24 to prepare for their match against Anclote High School. The team won the match with a score of 2-0. Photo by Laynie Mazur restrictions. Despite the
Swimming and striving for excellence The Swim and Dive teams are diving into their new season, facing the challanges that the pandemic is throwing their way Faith Giambarberee staff reporter Late August, at the YMCA, the swim team practiced for their first meet set on Sept. 9, just to see it get cancelled. Despite the complications, they soon after held their first meet on Sept. 16. The team was more than ready to bring home the win against Fivay, and they successfully did just that, with a score of . They will display their best techniques and put their consistent practices to use. Alexa Palena (’23) stepped up to the edge of the diving board, to prepare for her dive during practice at the YMCA. She sees diving as a mental game.
“I like to compete back twisting the most. It is fun to see how fast and how high you spin your body. I love the feeling I get when I get a new dive, it is so rewarding.” Palena said. These swimmers show commitment and dedication to their team through various ways, such as early 6am practice times and tricky stunts. “The thing I like about swimming is the feeling of being on a team, and even though it’s not easy, everyone goes through it together. Everyone on the team always gets along, they are all super nice and welcoming to new people as well.” Athena Stefas (’23) said. The swimmers do not plan on
quitting anytime soon because overall, the advantages outweigh the hardships and they have each other; a personal support system. “I enjoy the team. It is always fun to win alongside friends. I plan to stay on the team throughout my high school career,” Palena said. This year, policies are different and swimmers need to follow certain rules and obligations in order to stay safe and have fun, as COVID-19 interferes with their ideal schedule. “Since we practice at the YMCA, they have us wear masks, but when we’re swimming we have to take them off. They keep us socially distanced by having five people in each lane, whereas
we’d usually have six or seven in each lane. We usually have to switch people out of the pool, so some are swimming and some are doing workouts on land next to the pool,” Stefas said. As these swimmers complete newly learned skills and show off their favorite dives, twists and flips, the world, it’s On Wednesday, Sept. 23, Breanna Thomas (’22) environment, and all competed against Sunlake High School at the YMCA. Photo by Faith Giambarberee they’re used to from before has been altered. out and support the team next However, these changes meet is on Wednesday, Oct. 7. will not tamper with planned They will be competing against meets and practices. The swim River Ridge and the meet will be team has a total of 14 meets held at home. planned for this season. Come
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Netflix cancellations upset viewers Viewers are disappointed after hearing the upsetting news about the cancellations of two popular Netflix shows this year Amelia Marty staff reporter Along with everything 2020 possessed, Netflix decided to discontinue two of their most successful shows last spring, “The Society” and “I Am Not Okay with This”, and fans are not happy about it. Producers discontinued “The Society” following the release of the first season, which premiered on Netflix May 10, 2019, stating that they could not begin the shooting of the second season due to COVID-19. “The Society” grabbed the attention of teenagers by being continuously exciting and based
around teenagers trying to run their community in West Ham, Connecticut after the rest of the population disappears, leaving them questioning what to do next. “I really like it because it was based around kids our own age and slightly older, and it was sort of a mystery and full of suspense. It was very intriguing wondering what would come next,” Savanna Pardus (‘23) said. The cancellation of the second season left viewers disappointed and questioning what happens after the airing of the last episode when the group of teenagers had disappeared from the town,
which reinstates that they have gone to a parallel universe, which is the overall idea following the original disappearances of the population in the beginning of the show. “I feel very upset because ‘The Society’ was one of my favorite shows and I was so excited for the new season, since they left off with a big cliff hanger,” Nadine Corbett (‘23) said. Following the cancellation of “The Society”, Netflix also announced that they decided to not continue with the production of “I Am Not Okay With This”.It came out on Feb. 26, 2020 just one month before COVID-19 was declared a worldwide pandemic. The controversial comedy based on the comic book by Charles
Forsman and was predictably discontinued due to the circumstances created by COVID. “It was about this teen girl who’s in high school that had a little trouble at home and basically got superpowers and had to hide them,” Pardus said. Both suspenseful shows left off with a cliffhanger so viewers hope that the cancellations will change. As of now, Netflix cancelled the production of the second season, but producers of “The Society” are hoping to possibly continue filming once CDC regulations loosen up. The situation regarding, “I Am Not Okay With This” is still being determined, but for now appears cancelled indefinitely. Viewers hope for no more cancellations.
“I liked ‘The Society’ because it was suspenseful and mysterious, and I personally like these kinds of shows.” Nadine Corbett (‘23)
“I liked ‘I Am Not Okay With This’ because of the interesting plot and romantic touch added.” Savanna Pardus (‘23)
Theaters reopen despite health risks
Movie theaters have reopened after new movies were released during quarantine on streaming platforms for all audiences Alexa Grubbs staff reporter
Since the first movie theater opened in America in 1905, people of all ages buy tickets to watch movies play on the big screen, while the smell of buttered popcorn fills the air. But on Monday, March 16, 2020, Regal Cinemas, Alamo Drafthouse, and AMC Theatres closed their U.S. theaters due to COVID-19. Suddenly, producers released new movies like “Trolls World Tour,” “Birds of Prey,” and “The Invisible Man” digitally
instead of in theaters. On Aug. 20 and 21, AMC Theatres and Regal Cinemas reopened their theaters after months of being closed. Having experienced the differences first-hand, Americans now know the positives and negatives of watching new movies from their home versus going to the movie theater. “I prefer going to the movie theater because it’s what gives the whole experience meaning. At home you don’t get the movie theater popcorn or even the satisfaction of going out to do something with friends,” Madison Slusser (‘21) said.
With the new am glad to normal, even see movie with theaters theaters I think the movie industry open, people enforcing has learned that it’s still need to include important to still deliver follow safety social their movies to their procedures to distancing keep everyone and mask audience even if it’s not in healthy. So wearing, a traditional way. during this as well as unprecedented cleaning Aneet time, movie the seats theaters decided in between to enforce safety showings precautions, such and as, purchasing tickets online, reducing self-serve food,” Caitlin frequent cleaning, and more. Amodeo (‘24) said. “Some of the precautions I COVID-19 impacts everyone
Khanna (‘22)
from people, businesses, and the overall nation. The entertainment industry learned and adapted because of the changes made due to the pandemic. “I think the movie industry has learned that it’s important to still deliver their movies to their audience even if it’s not in a traditional way,” Aneet Khanna (‘22) said. Ultimately, only time can tell as new movies come out. Make sure to look in theaters for movies like “Black Widow,” being released Nov. 6, 2020, “Soul,” on Nov. 2, and “Dune,” coming out Dec. 18, 2020.
Can’t see them in person? Not a problem Music artists find an alternative way to perform concerts and take on virtual streaming while staying safe and socially distant
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Hypocrisy in the US confirmations The president should not have the power to appoint new Supreme Court Justices in their final year of their presidential term With the recent passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, President Donald Trump appointed Amy Coney Barret in her place on the Court. This led to controversy due to the upcoming election. The democratic party wishes to postpone selecting a new Justice until after Trump’s presidential term, even though they did the same in years prior. Both parties’ complete hypocrisy in appointing new Justices develops deep political tension that only continues to occur in the federal government. To solve
this, a new Justice appointment should not be made by a president in the final year of their term. Democrats, today, push for the appointment to follow after the election, yet tried to do the same thing just four years prior. That February, as Obama spent his final months in the White House, he got the opportunity to appoint political moderate Merrick Garland, whom Obama believed would appeal to both parties. At the time, Senior Senator of Kentucky, Mitch McConnell, announced the
Facesin theCrowd
Senate found a new Justice appointment as “null and void” even before Obama announced a new Justice. Subsequently, Garland did not become a Justice. Despite this, McConnell pushed Trump to appoint a new Justice after Ginsburg’s passing to swear in a conservative Justice before Nov. 3, as this would promise a very right-leaning Supreme Court. McConnell claims that the U.S. Senate must always change and adapt, but this total contradiction on his prior beliefs goes beyond a
“just” government. Besides, Republican Senior governor of South Carolina, Lindsey Graham, supported McConnell in this motion and found a new Supreme Court Justice appointment as a president ends their term to be unjust. “I want you to use my words against me. If there is a Republican president in 2016 and a vacancy occurs in the last year of the first term, you can say Lindsey Graham said, “let’s let the next president, whoever it might be, make that
nomination,” Graham said. Graham recently claimed “the rules have changed” in Barret’s appointment, also going entirely against his past remarks regarding appointments. Both parties are at fault for making appointments during their final year despite the out roar from their opposing party. Adjusting the rules to restrict a new Justice appointment during the last year of a term resolves this constant unrest and would please both ends of the spectrum.
How do you feel about wearing masks? Photos by Jelayna Vasquez
Masks are essential for keeping everyone as safe as possible at school, but can be irritating. Masks can make it difficult to breathe and talk to one another.
Brooke
Ealy (‘23)
Most people feel more comfortable when everyone around them is wearing a mask, and they aren’t that inconvenient to wear so people should just do it.
Benjamin
Horvath (‘21)
I think masks are good, helpful, and safe, but they get annoying after wearing them all day.
Riley
Mazur (‘24)
I don’t think masks are as big of a deal as people make them out to be. Their purpose is to help protect ourselves and others so I don’t personally have a problem with wearing them.
Kaylie
Washington (‘21)
I don’t see how they are effective because if they are not washed often, you could end up with a lung disease from breathing in your own bacteria. Also they are very annoying to wear.
Ethan
Rogers (‘23)
Measures to stay safe around campus
New precautions around the school, in place to slow the spread of COVID-19, protect students and faculty from the pandemic Avery Weber staff reporter
The 2020-21 school year looks different from previous academic terms. Resulting from the spread of COVID-19, extra precautions placed to protect students and faculty from the illness take precedence. Students, staff, and visitors on campus are required to wear a mask or face covering. These new policies produced mixed opinions in the student body. Some favor the safeguards while others disagree and find them unhelpful. “I feel that wearing masks are important and are a necessity in the society we are in. It’s rude of the students who don’t wear them properly because they are
not only putting themselves in a position where they could get sick, [but] they are also potentially exposing other students,” Alexandra Kilian (‘23) said. In addition to wearing masks, students must socially distance during lunch periods. When seated inside the cafeteria, every-other seat is taped off in order to prevent students from being in close contact with one another. When outside, one or two students per side of the picnic tables complies with social distancing standards. Taylor Sanford (‘21) disagrees with this precaution. “I am personally not a fan
of the every-other seating at lunch. It makes it harder to connect with friends. You can’t hear them and everyone is so spread out you can’t talk to everyone because you will be so far away,” Sanford said. Extra safety measures in classroom environments provide clean areas for students. Desks are spaced out as much as possible with some faculty deciding to remove desks from their rooms completely. Teachers must clean surfaces with Students follow social distancing precautions in the cafeteria by keeping one seat between a germicidal detergent and them. “Having to sit every other seat is not too deodorant between each bad because it’s meant to keep us safe, but it period to help combat the sometimes [is] difficult because it’s harder to spread of COVID-19. talk to friends,” Kaylie Washington (‘21) said. “I like that the desks are Photo by Avery Weber.
OPINIONS
being cleared after every period, but I wish they would’ve taken the extra minutes from the longer school day and put them into passing in order to give teachers more time to clean and the desks more time to dry, as well as making sure students had the time to take alternate paths to get to class and not be late so that certain hallways wouldn’t be so crowded,” Leonid Alexeyev (‘22) said. The measures in effect are intended to limit the spread of the virus and protect everyone on campus. Students and staff must continue to follow these guidelines until district officials determine the safeguards are no longer needed.
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My school, my way OR face-to-face The traditional model allows students to stay in person while online provides learning at home Nicole Sofia Barrios Moreno staff reporter
As the summer came to an end students prepared for their return to school and faced a decision regarding their learning model. The traditional model offers individuals to come back on campus and learn in the physical classroom. mySchool online allows students to educate themselves through a virtual classroom with a teacher from the physical school. Students received the option of fulltime educational access to a virtual school platform via Pasco eSchool. A diverse number of students faced the bittersweet reality in connection with high school traditions. The energy that surrounds the football stadium on Friday nights and the black and gold pride among the students around the Ranch became limited for students. Izabella Guillan (‘23) believed the pandemic left society a challenge, possibly leaving extracurriculars and high school traditions out of the picture. “Being online takes away from us being able to participate. Such as for me, I look forward to a lot of the spirit weeks, and with doing online school, I can’t really participate as I normally would on campus,” Izabella Guillan (‘23) said. The pandemic also raised mixed emotions about returning to school. According to Ms. Carolyn Divincent (FAC), 76 percent of students selected the traditional model, 31 percent of students selected the mySchool Online
model, and less than one percent of students selected the Pasco eSchool model. “I would go back to school in a heartbeat. The only reason I did online was to stay away from the pandemic as much as possible,” Elijah Lopez (‘22) said. From the silent mouse clicks to typing notes via Microsoft Word, virtual scholars have reported satisfaction with having the ability to learn at an accelerated pace. Jessica Lin (‘21) expressed that learning through a virtual environment exceeded her expectations for
productivity and efficiency. “There is definitely a difference in what can be accomplished in terms of activities and assignments, but the gap can be closed by personal perseverance and drive. The great thing about being part of a virtual classroom, such as Pasco eSchool, is the autonomy you have over productivity,” Lin said. Even though the pandemic may not exist in a few years, families may continue to benefit from the online learning model. Students may elect the learning model most convenient.
pull in front of the stop sign, so the cars parked in Red can not always get out, which creates traffic,” Pitts said. Megan Pitts (‘22) arrives Once on campus, the face on campus at 7:50 a.m. masks do not come off unless every morning to park in her they ask for an authorized assigned parking spot. Before mask break isolated from getting out she quickly puts other students in the hallway. on her mask and grabs her This allows students to have backpack. She meets up with an opportunity to catch their her friends outside of the breath after long periods of band room, being conscious time with a mask on. of how close they are to one “I have not taken a mask another by keeping six feet apart, while each wears a mask break. I do not feel the need when I am in my normal of their own. The year 2020 classes; however, when I am in looks a different this year, from NJROTC, it does get hard to the masks, to the new car breathe especially after doing loop protocols, to the social physical activities,” Josiah Wilkins (‘24) said. Normally, at this point Traditional in the year, football 1604 (76%) games would fill the stands to the brim; however, the new mySchool guidelines only allow 497 (31%) 50% capacity into the stands. The football Pasco Eschool team has been following the proper protocols 2 (<1%) to continue to practice for their season, but the band has a different Total : 2097 layout for their marching season. Their band camp was cut short by a week, and only distancing. the percussion and colorguard Construction on the new bus practiced during the one week loop finished over quarantine they could practice. The band before school started back has been actively preparing for up. The bus loop relocated to behind the home stands of the the season behind the scenes football field to allow for a new by creating “musician masks” for the wind players to utilize car loop in its original place. while playing. The new car loop allowed “We have to wear for the addition of about 50 masks [while playing their new parking spots for more instruments], and we haven’t students to be able to park on campus. The new car loop acts even played as a full band [yet]. It’s a bummer not having as a parking area as well as a a regular marching show,” student drop off, but pitfalls Leila Sujanani (‘21) said. remain. By following these newly “The new car loop in the implemented protocols, morning is not that bad when hallways and classrooms will you are parking, but in the be safe spaces and keep the afternoon the cars don’t know student body healthy. where to start the line so they Emma Rogers copy editor