The Newtonite Club Day Special V96 by The Newtonite

The Newtonite v Monday, Sept. 18, 2017 • Volume 96

Newton North High School, 457 Walnut St., Newtonville, Mass. 02460

Students share concerns over push for new norms Samantha Fredberg “I genuinely did not know where to go,” said senior Eva Checkoway. “It was pouring outside, the cafeteria was overflowing with freshmen, students were taking up every inch of wall space on Main Street,” Checkoway said. During a lunch block free the first week of school, Checkoway said she was told that the “View,” one of the balconies overlooking Main Street, was not an acceptable hangout space. “With the size of our student population, closing all of these spaces is not only inconvenient, but I don’t think it’s a possible response,” she said. Students expressed confusion and frustration about the temporary closures of the Library Learning Commons (LLC) and other social spaces during the first week of school. North families received an email notifying the community of the closures Sunday, Aug. 27. The changes occurred this year as a response to overcrowding and a particularly tense environment last year, according to vice principal Amy Winston. “I’d be happy for them to clarify their expectations, but not going to the extent of shutting down the library,” said senior Bronwyn Turner. “Keeping the library open and having a school-wide assembly establishing behavioral norms I think would be the best way to tackle this situation.” Beals House dean Scott Heslin explained rules regarding social spaces available in lieu of the LLC. “When there’s no lunch going on, kids are supposed to hang out in the cafeteria, outside, or in Newtonville, but they are not supposed to be in any hallways, not on Main Street, just the cafeteria.” While the only official social space is the cafeteria, Heslin noted that students are allowed to be on Main Street during crowded lunch blocks, but never with food. Winston explained that this school was designed to house around 1,800 students, but currently has over 2,000. “I think we need more spaces in the school that aren’t just the cafeteria,” senior Maya Renneker said. “It is way too loud to do work there, but not everyone wants a super quiet library all the time if it’s just a free block.” Winston said, “My understanding is that because freshmen and sophomores are required to go to the cafeteria during cancelled classes, juniors and seniors perceive it as a space for freshmen and sophomores, which I understand. “However, the cafeteria has nice light, there are electrical outlets, there are big tables, and it can be a nice social space,” she added. “Right now, while the weather is nice, I would encourage students to go outside,” Winston said. “We have great space around the building including the picnic tables outside of the Tiger’s Loft.” During the senior class assembly held Wednesday, Sept. 13, seniors Chris Matthews and Julia MacDonald addressed the class and spoke about their favorable experience workby

ing with a group of students, faculty, and library staff to form new behavioral expectations in the library. House deans assembled a select group of students from each grade Monday, Sept. 11 to develop behavioral expectations and norms to be posted in social spaces, according to Winston. On the same day, the LLC opened for silent study and printing. According to senior Sam Kesselman, who attended the meeting, the group addressed issues of mutual respect between librarians and students, but they will need to meet again to create a list of norms. “Nothing concrete was established, but at least we have a framework and goals to work with,” he said. Winston explained that the meeting was a good starting point for this year’s discussion of social spaces. “We were tight on time, and it is hard work, but I think we made some good progress,” she said. Though he appreciates the outreach, Kesselman explained that having the discussion at the end of last year or before the first day of school would have been more effective. “Proactive beats reactionary any day of the week,” he said. Last year, senior Ian Reid formed a subcommittee of the Student Faculty Administration (SFA) focused on social spaces at North. “We passed a bill I wrote that opened up Main Street and the entrances, at first for a trial period this semester and then hopefully for good starting next semester,” he said. Kesselman, also an SFA member, explained that the bill has not been recognized this year. “I felt the SFA’s authority was not followed,” he said. At press time, the library is open for silent study, and no further meetings have been scheduled. Turner said that many students felt as though they did not know exactly what they did wrong in these social spaces last year to deserve revisions of behavioral expectations According to librarian Erin Dalbec, last year was defined by poor communication between some students and librarians. Dalbec explained that in her experience, some students would often disrespect or ignore librarians, especially when they were with large groups of friends. “Communication is a big thing, and I think that sometimes it is on all of us,” Dalbec said. “As a librarian, it’s hard for me to remind myself that students might be having a hard time, and students might not realize that we’ve had a difficult day in the library. I want to work on respect. I want to work on that myself, and I want students to respect me too.” According to Winston, the issues in the library extend to other areas of the school. “In the old building, students were allowed to eat on Main Street, but everyday it was just strewn with lunch trash,” she said. “It’s not what you want in your school, so whatever we do, we are doing it in baby steps and holding clear expectations so we can protect the beautiful building that we have.”

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Teddy Everett

Senior Nai Abelenda and sophomore Christina Giglao perform the ‘Awesome’ at a football game against Waltham Friday, Sept. 8.

Club day displays wide variety of opportunities for students v Club listings 2017-2018 v 3D Design Club

What: Students will learn the basics of 3D design and work on projects of their choice. When: Wednesdays after school in 217. Goal: “To allow members to harness their creativity in a unique way through the fundamentals of 3D design. These skill are the foundation needed in Hollywood special effects, architecture, video games, advertising, and more,” said senior Reese Farquhar, an officer. Officers: Farquhar and senior Jonathan Jasperse. Adviser: To be determined. Contact: reesef908@gmail.com, zombeeturkee@gmail.com, or the Facebook group “NNHS 3-D Design Club.” —Rose Skylstad

Agriculture Club

What: Students learn about gardening and garden throughout the year in the school greenhouse. When: Every other Thursday X-blocks. Goal: “To show how fun gardening can be and explain why it is important,” said senior Abraham Sharooz, an officer. Officers: Sharooz and junior Ben Borhegyi. Adviser: Science teacher Barbara Gibson. Contact: abesharooz@gmail.com —Rose Bostwick

Anime/Manga Club

What: Students watch and discuss anime and manga. When: To be determined. Goal: “To get ready to go to Anime Boston, which is an anime convention. We try to let every who wants to go so we fundraise,” said senior Maya Dunn, an officer. Officers: Dunn and junior Angela Lin. Adviser: English teacher Mike Schlegelmilch. Contact: angelalin1313@gmail.com —Rose Skylstad

Animal Rights Club

What: Students volunteer at shelters, learn about problems afflicting animals through guest speakers, and sometimes visit the zoo

or aquarium. When: Monday X-blocks in the Tiger’s Loft. Goal: “To raise awareness and educate people about why it’s wrong to mistreat animals,” said senior Susanna Hamel, an officer. Officers: Hamel and seniors Alexia Lancea and Emma Nephtali. Adviser: Culinary teacher Lisa McKinney. Contact: susannahamel@gmail.com, alexialancea@hotmail.com, or emma.nephtali@ gmail.com —Amy Morrill

Archery Club

What: Students practice archery skills with no experience necessary. When: Wednesday after school in 325 or by the storage closet in the athletic wing. Goal: To “have fun while practicing our target shooting skills,” said senior Christine Collins, an officer and internal communications manager. Officers: Collins, senior Robin Lu, and junior Joe Huang. Adviser: History teacher Jamie Bal. Contact: nnhsarchery@gmail.com and Facebook group “NNHS Archery.” —Rose Bostwick

Asian Culture Club (ACC)

What: Students discuss points of interest in the Asian community and plan the Asian Culture Day and Night events. When: Monday X-blocks in 353. Goal: “To educate others who don’t know much about Asian culture and help them understand what it’s all about and help those with Asian culture feel proud of their heritage,” said senior Carrieanne Mamba, an officer. Officers: Mamba, seniors Seika Ghavidel, Michael Lee, Wendy Li, and Sheil Mehta, and sophomores Jenny Huang and Dian Dian Jonas-Walsh. Adviser: English teachers Charlene Beh and Michele Leong. Contact: Facebook group “NNHS ACC 2014-2017.” —Jackie Gong v continued on page 3

opinion

2 v The Newtonite, Newton North

Monday, Sept. 18, 2017

Clubs provide students with sense of belonging While there are many positive aspects of having a large school, such as its diversity and wealth of opportunity, students do not always have the chance to voice their opinions, try new experiences, or find places to belong.

editorial Clubs foster the collaborative environment that students crave in such a big school. With more than 2,000 people crowding the halls, developing a sense of belonging becomes a necessity. Joining a club is a chance to make new connections through common interests within the large student body. With more than 70 clubs to choose from, students can find outlets to express themselves and opportunities to help others. They can try something new and are welcomed regardless of skill level or prior knowledge. They can even challenge themselves to interact with those who may disagree with them and people they may have otherwise not met. These different interests across the school showcase North’s strengths. Students working together in clubs achieve

impressive goals through teamwork, whether it’s organizing days to educate everyone in the school on an important issue, or learning a new skill like how to garden, to creating a space for respectful discussion with people, or even enjoying entertainment like a movie and the company of others. These activities encourage a sense of student leadership and ability, in turn building confidence. Clubs are a place for students to brainstorm, to put ideas into action, to set personal goals and to better themselves individually. They are also a space for students to make mistakes and learn from them. Students learn and grow just as they would in a classroom except on a personal and social level. We all want North to be the best it can be. Yet, it can be easy to succumb to the hustle and bustle of working on one class assignment to the next, and the work can become mindless. Devoting time to the causes and interests we care about allows us to work towards making this large school a close knit community, a better place, and one we become proud of.

Teddy Everett

Students cheer on North’s football team in a game against Waltham High School at Leary Field on Friday, Sept. 8.

Provide relief for disaster victims both in and out of media spotlight

Adam Clements In the wake of two catastrophic hurricanes, Harvey and Irma, American society has come together to support those who have been affected. Ordinary civilians, celebrities, and corporations alike have publicly donated and urged others to donate to hurricane relief funds. It is heartening to see such displays of unity, compassion, and empathy from across all strains of American society. The destruction already caused by Harvey in Texas is horrific, as is that of Irma in the Caribbean and Florida. All efforts to repair and minimize their damage are honorable and worthwhile. However, attention towards by

events affecting Americans has drowned out the significance of other disastrous events worldwide and underscored how relatively little attention they often receive. In recent weeks, persistent and continuous flooding in Nepal, India, and Bangladesh from an onslaught of monsoon rains is thought to have killed thousands, and the United Nations estimates at least 41 million people have been affected. A devastating earthquake off the coast of Mexico has torn apart communities in southern Mexican states. In the same time frame, flooding from extreme rainfall has displaced over 100,000 people in Nigeria.

The Newtonite

Events causing mass deaths should not be so sparingly mentioned by media outlets. And they should be worthy of international attention and assistance despite not directly affecting as many Americans.

column It is logical and sensible for the majority of American resources to go towards helping other Americans. But it is nonetheless important to acknowledge the large-scale harmful events occurring around the world, and what can be done to help them, as well. Natural disasters are unfortu-

Editors in chief — Valeria Dountcheva, Jackie Gong, Lucy Lu Managing editors — Rose Bostwick, Amy Morrill Senior editors — Nour Chahboun, Jonathan Cohen, Samantha Fredberg, Maya Waldman Arts editors — Zoe Goldstein, Hannah Liu Features editor — Laura SchmidtHong News editors — Tali Falk-Judson, Rose Skylstad, Sophia Zhou Sports editors — Jake Forbes, Will Kharfen

Opinion/Blogs editor — Adam Clements Talk of the Tiger editor —Nichol Weylman-Farwell Photography manager — Wendy Li Graphics manager — Alisa Caira Advertising and Business manager — Ophelia Baxter Technology manager — Michael Tang Advisers — Tom Fabian, Derek Knapp, Amanda Mazzola Staff — Teddy Everett, Derek Krantz, Abby Roll, Joelle Sugianto

The Newtonite staff does all its own reporting and photography to post content daily to its website, thenewtonite.com. They make all content choices. Sign up for The Newtonite’s weekly email newsletter on its website. In addition to the print graduation special, the Newtonite publishes a special on the first day of school, a club special, and a midyear special. To place an advertisement in the online or print version of The Newtonite or to contact us by phone, please call 617-559-6273. Readers can also reach us at thenewtonite@gmail.com.

Letters The Newtonite serves as a designated forum for student expression. Readers are invited to submit guest articles and letters to the editor. Letters should be put in The Newtonite box in the main office or emailed to thenewtonite@gmail.com. The Newtonite reserves the right to edit all letters, which must have the writer’s name and a student’s class and homeroom.

and homelessness, local crises that can benefit from not just monetary donations, but the help of volunteers as well. To reiterate, I am in no way arguing against supporting victims of hurricanes in the United States. But major tragedies that receive constant media attention should not be the lone circumstance in which we are compelled to help. The immediate rush of assistance and national unity in the wake of events like Harvey and Irma should be a reminder of the acts of compassion we should strive to complete regularly, whether in our own communities or when disaster strikes around the world.

Essential PH-1 Android offers simplicity Derek Krantz There is a new smartphone on the market–not a new iPhone or a Samsung Galaxy, but something different entirely. The Essential Phone, or the Essential PH-1, is a brand new Android smartphone. What this means is while it is its own independent brand, it falls under the same umbrella as Samsung Galaxies or Google Pixels and runs much of the same software (Android, under Google, is the software response to Apple’s popular software iOS). The company, Essential Products, was established by Android co-founder Andy Rubin in 2015. The phone was designed with minimalism in mind. It runs basic, stock Android software and was meant to contain only the “essential” features of a phone. There is no logo on the back; there isn’t even a company name anywhere. Ironically, the phone does not contain a feature which many deem essential: the headphone jack. It seems the company does not feel the same way about its importance. At the same time, the phone itself has a very premium look. The phone has an excellent display, perhaps even ahead of its peers. The only cutouts to the screen are at the top where the front-facing by

The Newtonite, founded in 1922, is the news source of Newton North High School, 457 Walnut St., Newtonville, Mass. 02460.

nately somewhat commonplace and are likely to continue growing more frequent as climate change continues to create extreme weather patterns. We must be prepared to help each other in responding to them on a global scale, not only when they feel close to home. In addition to looking at the bigger picture of disasters worldwide, the benevolent spirit shown when they occur in the United States can be applied in our more personal lives on a regular basis. It is always possible to help with the small-scale struggles around our own community— those that you can impact more directly. Massachusetts faces constant issues like an opioid crisis

“selfie” camera is and at the bottom where there is a small area below the display. The goal was to make users “feel like they’re basically just holding a display” according to tech news and review site Android Authority’s Joshua Vergara.

column The hardware seems to be of a very high quality. It has a simple box design, much like a stretched version of the iPhone 4’s shape. Lined with titanium around the edges rather than the smartphone standard aluminum, it should provide extra drop protection. While the glossy finish on the back may appear to be glass, it is actually polished ceramic. This material is harder to scratch than glass, but easier to break due to its brittle nature. It has a fingerprint scanner on the back in roughly the same place the Apple logo would be on your iPhone. While useful, the location can be somewhat awkward to reach for users. Also on the back of the phone is a dual lens camera and two magnetic holes for attachable parts like the future 360-degree camera from Essential. The normal camera is arguably the weakest feature on this phone. There is a standard red/green/blue

lens as well as a monochrome one. What this means is that the phone can take black and white pictures on the monochrome lens, something your iPhone can do already with a filter. Along with black and white is an HDR mode which attempts to increase the resolution of the pictures but sometimes results in the odd effect of random parts of the picture being sharper than others. However, the front-facing camera can shoot video with 4K resolution. This ability is impressive, especially for a brand new line of phones entering the market. This phone works well for someone who wants only the minimum from their phone. Although for some it might seem like not enough, it has what it needs and does its job. However, there may be better options out there even for minimalists. At a $699 price tag, the Essential Phone could be more of an investment than buying an iPhone or Samsung Galaxy from a couple years back. Older phones might be a better option for someone who doesn’t care about the edge-to-edge screens and fingerprint scanners of 2017. While it may not be for some, the Essential Phone is a fresh breath of simplicity in an ever-complicating tech world.

clubs

Monday, Sept. 18, 2017

Newton North, The Newtonite v 3

Aviation Club

What: Students learn how to build and fly remote control planes and drones. When: Thursday X-blocks in 424. Goal: “To build cool things that fly and to have fun,” said senior Michael Kann, an officer. Officers: Kann, senior Joseph Trias, and junior Dylan Evans. Adviser: Science teacher Kevin Brosnan. Contact: Facebook group “NNHS Aviation Club.” —Amy Morrill

Badminton Club

What: Students spend time playing badminton and learn different techniques to improve. When: Monday and Thursday X-blocks. Goal: “To create a productive space where people can socialize with each other and try something new, no matter their skill level,” said junior Joelle Sugianto, an officer. Officers: Sugianto and junior Nathan Huang. Adviser: Science teacher Sangeet Srikanth. Contact: Facebook group “NNHS Badminton.” —Jake Forbes

Black Leadership Counsel (BLAC)

Advisory

What: Students talk about current issues regarding race at North and organize Black Culture Day Friday, Feb. 2. When: Monday X-blocks, location to be determined. Goal: “To make a safe place for people of color as well as encourage unity and to create this environment for people of color and everyone,” said senior Josie Joseph the officer. Officer: Joseph. Adviser: Science teacher Jodie Cohen. Contact: Jodie_Cohen@newton.k12.ma.us —Jacques Abou-Rizk

Book Club

What: Students come together and discuss the literature choosen by students every month. When: Friday after school. Goal: “To encourage students to read more and interact with books outside of school,” said senior Alisa Caira, an officer. Officers: Caira, senior Wendy Li, and sophomore Avi Heschel-Aronson. Adviser: To be determined. Contact: Facebook group “NNHS Books ‘n’ Stuff.” —Jake Forbes

Chess Club

What: Students learn to play chess through tutorials, watching others play, and playing against officers. When: Monday X-blocks in 449. Goal: “We strive to provide a welcoming environment for everyone, regardless of their strength, to have fun and improve their game,” said senior Flynn Zhi, an officer. Officers: Zhi and senior Gershon Gilman. Adviser: History teacher Kathryn Codd. Contact: yiyangzhiflynn@gmail.com —Jake Forbes

Chinese Yoyo Club

What: Students practice their Chinese yoyo skills, listen to music, and relax. When: Monday X-blocks in the cafeteria. Goal: “We hope to spread more Asian culture around. You don’t have to be Asian to enjoy Chinese yoyo,” said senior Justin Lin, an officer. Officers: Lin and senior Keyur Patel. Adviser: Foreign language teacher Star Lew. Contact: nnhsyoyo@gmail.com —Jake Forbes

Class of 2018

What: Students represent the Class of 2018 by arranging fundraisers and putting on events for their class. When: To be determined. Goal: “To raise money for our class, as well as help create a feeling of class spirit and unity,” said class president Sara Buchwald. Officers: Buchwald and vice presidents Chloe O’Neil, Elizabeth Davis, Amrita Iyer, and Ben Schwartz. Adviser: Science teacher Jodie Cohen. Contact: sarabuchwald@gmail.com —Maya Waldman

Wendy Li

Chinese exchange students Barry Liu, Frank He, and Tom Ding from Jingshan High School take an assessment in the International Cafe Thursday, Sept. 7.

Class of 2019

What: Students raise money for the Class of 2019. When: Friday E-blocks, or Wednesday third lunch in the Beals house office. Goal: “To create memories and a unified class,” said junior Maya Mathews, class president. Officers: Mathews and vice presidents Morgan Britt-Webb, Sam Meiselman, Joelle Sugianto, and Ava Waters. Advisers: Television and film production aide Amanda Mazzola and math teacher Colleen Virgil. Contact: nnhstigers2019@gmail.com —Trisha Patel

Class of 2020

What: Students plan events to raise money for the Class of 2020. When: Once a week in Adams House during second lunch. Goal: “To raise money for the class,” said freshman Vishaan Shetty, class president. Officers: Shetty and vice presidents Annel Chittilappilly, Dayla Depina, Ali Lee, and Myles Murphy. Adviser: To be determined. Contact: nnhstigers2020@gmail.com —Carolyn McDonald

Crossfit Club

What: Students engage in Crossfit in order to be more active. When: Everyday after school. Goal: “To be more active,” said junior Emma Maclean, the officer. Officer: Maclean. Adviser: Physical education teacher Lauren Baugher. Contact: Facebook message Maclean. —Jonathan Cohen

Deaf Culture Club

What: Students who are deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing learn sign language and socialize. When: Thursday X-blocks in 313. Goal: “Build the bridge between the deaf and hearing communities at our school and teach deaf culture and ASL because there is no ASL class anymore,” said senior Kat Ho, the officer. Officer: Ho. Adviser: Interpreter Krystal Chung. Contact: Facebook group “NNHS ASL Club.” —Jonathan Cohen

Debate Team

What: Students learn how to construct and deliver arguments on current events. When: Monday and Thursday after X-block in 472. Goal: “To become more confident in public speaking, research, writing and reasoning

skills,” said senior Cate Liu, an officer. Officers: Liu and seniors Sam Kesselman and Kate West. Adviser: Math teacher Dennis Klem. Contact: dennis_klem@newton.k12.ma.us or kate1639@gmail.com —Gwen Bankmann

Documentary Club

What: Students watch documentaries individually, then discuss and critique together. When: Every other Wednesday after school in 353. Goal: “To make friends, have interesting conversation, and learn about different topics from sushi to space travel,” said senior Kate West, an officer. Officers: West and junior Charlotte West. Advisers: English teacher Neil Giordano. Contact: Facebook group “NNHS Documentary Club.” —Rose Skylstad

Dreamfar Marathon Club

What: An all-inclusive running club where all runners and walkers are welcome. When: Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday after school, and Saturday starting in November. Goal: “To achieve our year-long goal of running a marathon or half-marathon in May, in the Providence Marathon,” said math teacher Colleen Virgil. Officers: To be determined. Advisers: Virgil, science department head Heather Haines, special education teacher Amy McMahon, math teacher Ethan Peritz, and vice principal Amy Winston. Contact: colleen_virgil@newton.k12.ma.us —Jonathan Cohen

Envirothon

What: Students study environmental sciences, and prepare for competition in May. When: Monday X-blocks in 110. Goal: “To develop the team’s understanding of the environment, and to prepare for the competition,” said junior Laura SchmidtHong, an officer. Officers: Schmidt-Hong and senior Einat Gavish. Adviser: Science teacher Anndy Dannenberg. Contact: lauraschhong@gmail.com —Skyler Bohnert

Feminism Club

What: Students will discuss a range of feminist issues and help organize feminist-related events. When: Thursday X-blocks in 129. Goal: “To have a fun and meaningful year and to empower NNHS students to fight inequality, whether gender-related or otherwise, in any way they can,” said senior Abby Richmond, an officer. Officers: Richmond and seniors Alisa Caira,

Shanie Kalikow, and Zoe Lee. Adviser: Art teacher Shannon Slattery. Email: nnhsfeminism@gmail.com —Lilah Gentry

Film Club

What: Students meet to watch movies of various genres on a weekly basis. When: Tuesday in 362, time to be determined. Goal: “To give our members a better understanding of film in both technique and societal significance and give the students at North who love movies a program at the school where they can actually watch them,” said senior Dylan Crook, an officer. Officers: Crook and senior Ben Feldman. Adviser: Math teacher Ethan Peritz. Contact: Facebook message Dylan Crook. —Maya Waldman

First Generation Americans

What: Students gather to learn about other heritages and talk about their experiences living as first-generation Americans. When: To be determined. Goal: “To encourage students to take pride in where they come from and organize events in school that promote a willingness to learn about other cultures,” said sophomore Ellie Karniadakis, an officer. Officers: Karniadakis and others to be determined. Adviser: Math teacher Charles Rooney. Contact: elliekar22@gmail.com —Maya Waldman

Forté

What: Students learn and rehearse contemporary musical arrangements. When: Sunday, time and place to be determined. Goal: “To raise up North’s female voices, and build tight bonds between our group members while we prepare to sing our hearts out at different events throughout the year,” said senior Sarah Vernovsky, an officer. Officers: Vernovsky and seniors Clare Donohoe, Maggie Quigley, and Sarah Shapiro. Adviser: Fine and performing arts department head Todd Young. Contact: Booth at Club Day. —Maya Waldman

Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA)

What: Students learn how to bring business and education together in a positive atmosphere. When: Monday X-blocks in 319. Goal: “To succeed in FBLA competitive events and positively affect the school through our events,” said senior Eric Zhang. Officers: Zhang, seniors Connor Flint, Matteo Greenberg, Henry Johnson, Sam Meiselman, Jack Whalen, and Lily Winton, and juniors Sam Meiselman and Shaelyn Fitzgerald. Adviser: Business teacher Robert Kane. Contact: nnhsfbla1@gmail.com —Sophie Ravina

Monday, Sept. 18, 2017

4 ◆ The Newtonite, Newton North

Newton North, The Newtonite ◆ 5

Club Day offers new experiences investing and develop public-speaking and leadership skills through collaborative projects and discussions. When: Monday X-blocks in 102. Goal: “To make our members better speakers, leaders, and businesspeople, with a sound knowledge of economics and investment,” said senior A.J. Arbuckle, an officer. Officers: Arbuckle and seniors Ben Leikind, Evan Lipchin, Sam Thayer, and Joseph Trias. Adviser: Business teacher Rob Kane. Contact: benasa1@hotmail.com, joseph@ trias.org, Facebook group “NNHS Investment Club,” or Facebook message any club officer. —Rose Bostwick

Italian Culture Club

What: Students form a connection with Italian language and culture by playing games, watching shows, making food, and receiving homework help. When: Monday X-block once a month in 256. Goal: “To further students’ knowledge and understanding of Italian culture through fun games outside of the rigid school class,” said senior Victoria Denaro, the officer. Officer: Denaro. Adviser: Italian teacher Justin Evans. Contact: victoriadenaro1@icloud.com or Facebook group. —Rose Bostwick

Jewish Cultural Club Wendy Li

Senior Gabriella Avelino introduces prop department to incoming freshmen at the Theatre Ink informational meeting Wednesday, Sept. 6.

Gender Sexuality Alliance (GSA)

Goal: “To build a safe space for female identifying students to be themselves and give and receive support,” said junior Anna Solomon, an officer. Officers: Solomon and juniors Talia Attar and Julia Greenblatt. Adviser: To be determined. Contact: Facebook group “NNHS G.A.L.S.” —Maya Waldman

What: Students learn about current events affecting LGBTQ students. When: Thursday X-blocks in 242. Goal: ‘‘To create a safe and secure place to talk about gender and sexuality,’’ said junior Maeve Slack-Watkins, an officer. Officers: Slack-Watkins and juniors Hayley Kline and Achille Ricca. Advisers: Special education teacher Lisa Goldthwaite and Spanish teacher Chris Alberg. Girls’ Coding Club Contact: mslackwatkin@gmail.com, newton- What: Students learn computer programming in a fun and collaborative environment. northgsa Instagram. —Rebecca Kellstein When: Thursday X-blocks, location to be determined. Girls Achieving Leadership through Goal: “To encourage more female students to enter fields involving computer science and Service (G.A.L.S.) technology,” said junior Eve Martin, an officer. What: Students discuss gender in society as well Officers: Martin and juniors Laura Schmidtas the importance of female leadership. Hong and Alina Zheng. When: Time to be determined, in 269. Adviser: Science teacher David Bennett.

Contact: evenmartin19@gmail.com —Maya Waldman

Greengineering Club

What: Students plan and execute projects to help the environment. When: Time to be determined in 148. Goal: “To work together on green and environmentally friendly projects,” said senior Andrew Dale, an officer. Officers: Dale and junior Hannah Liu. Adviser: Math teacher Adam Peloquin. Contact: andrewdale970@gmail.com or hannahliu2000@gmail.com —Rose Skylstad

High School Quiz Show

What: Students prepare to compete on WGBH’s High School Quiz Show. When: Thursday X-blocks in 316. Goal: “To qualify for the televised rounds of the high school quiz show,” said history teacher Gregory Drake, an adviser. Advisers: Drake and history teacher Albert Cho. Contact: gregory_drake@newton.k12.ma.us —Jackson Lake

What: Students learn K-pop dances and participate in K-pop culture. When: Tuesdays 4 to 5 p.m. in 265. Goal: “Learn K-pop dances, and perform them at Asian Culture Night (performance is optional), and have fun,” said senior Li Shandross, an officer. Officers: Shandross and senior Claire Mendelssohn. Adviser: Special education teacher Katherine Schneck. Contact: lshan1@msn.com —Rose Skylstad

LigerBots

What: Students plan outings and hikes in New England. When: Time to be determined in 410. Goal: “To give students a basic respect for nature and its wonders,” said junior Ben Borhegyi, an officer. Officers: Borhegyi, senior Sophia Wilcox-Warren and junior Ben Libraty. Adviser: Science teacher Anndy Dannenberg. Contact: Facebook group “NNHS Hiking Club.” —Rose Bostwick

International Crisis Club (ICC)

Math Team

What: Students discuss international crises and raise awareness for them. When: Time to be determined in 324. Goal: “To raise awareness for crises around the world that would otherwise go unnoticed,” said senior Valeria Dountcheva, an officer. Officers: Dountcheva and senior Emma Ross. Adviser: History teacher Subheen Razzaqui. Contact: Facebook group “NNHS International Crisis Club,” or Facebook message any club officer. —Isabella Lecona

Senior Sonya Feng practices a back somersault dive in the pool Friday, August 25.

K-Pop Club

What: Students collaborate to build robots and learn Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) skills. When: Monday 6 to 9 p.m. in 139 at North and Thursday 6 to 9 p.m. in 9170 at South. Goal: “To teach students STEAM skills through project-based learning,” said sophomore Douglas Williams, an officer. Officers: Williams and seniors Cameron Mastoras and Ian Post. Adviser: Administrative technology specialist Phil Golando. Contact: info@ligerbots.com —Hari Narayanan

Hiking Club

Joelle Sugianto

What: Students discuss and learn about Jewish culture, news and history. When: To be determined. Goal: “To create a community of people who are interested in Jewish culture and to educate North about Jewish culture,” said junior Samantha Fredberg, an officer. Officers: Fredberg and junior Julia Greenblatt. Adviser: Math teacher Melissa Perez. Contact: samanthafredberg@gmail.com, jwgreenblatt@gmail.com or Facebook group “NNHS Jewish Culture Club.” —Sophie Murthy

Investment Club

What: Students learn about economics and

What: Students practice math skills and participate in competitions. When: Wednesday after school in 463. Goal: “To foster an interest in math and to do fun and intriguing problems,” said senior Tony Sun, the officer. Officer: Sun. Adviser: Math teacher Elisse Ghitelman. Contact: tonysun24@gmail.com or elisse_ ghitelman@newton.k12.ma.us —Rose Skylstad

Melocotones:

What: Students sing a capella covers of a variety of different genres.

When: Sunday 4:30 to 6 p.m. at 269 Nevada Street. Goal: “To have fun singing in a group while also developing a better ear for music,” said senior Rose Mooney, an officer. Officers: Mooney and senior Thacher Andreae and junior Ben Gobler. Adviser: Fine and performing arts department head Todd Young. Contact: melocotonesdirectors2017@gmail. com —Sophia Zhou

Mock Trial

What: Students learn to prepare fictional court cases and participate in simulations of court trials. When: Wednesday 7 to 9 p.m. and Sunday 2 to 5 p.m. in 356. Goal: “To improve your presentational skills, general public speaking confidence, your critical thinking skills, and your ability to collaborate with others and give constructive feedback,” said junior Jeanne Duong, an officer. Officers: Duong and senior Ilai Gavish. Adviser: Italian teacher Silvia Dupont. Contact: jeanne.d188@gmail.com or ilaigav@ gmail.com —Sophia Zhou

to be determined. Goal: “To spread music and teach students how to sing and perform without instruments,” said senior Gabriella Avelino, an officer. Officers: Avelino, senior Samidio Depina, and junior Rene Miller. Adviser: Theatre Ink director Adam Brown. Contact: northernlightsnnhs@gmail.com —Zoe Goldstein

One Night Out

What: Students work one-on-one with children with disabilities and their siblings. When: First Saturday of every month 6 to 9 p.m. at the Boston Ability Center. Goal: “To give kids with disabilities an incredibly fun night, their siblings the attention they deserve, and parents a night to themselves,” said senior Jon Hammer, an officer. Officers: Hammer and seniors Lydia Smith and Jack Vasu. Adviser: Special education teacher Brian Rooney. Contact: hammahpats@gmail.com —Laura Schmidt-Hong

Partners in Kind

What: Students learn international diplomacy and deal with simulated international crises. When: Thursday after X-block in the film lecture hall. Goal: To “learn about international affairs and actively participate in them through teamwork and simulations,” said senior Max Teszler, an officer. Officers: Teszler and senior Lukas Alexander. Adviser: History teacher David Bedar. Contact: nnhsun@gmail.com —John Ozkol

What: Students discuss ways to bring kindness to the school community and brighten the lives of students and faculty. When: Wednesday or Thursday after school in 460. Goal: “To bring a little more kindness into our lives and to focus on the positive things in life,” said senior Alanna Horowitz, an officer. Officers: Horowitz and sophomore Sophie Wax. Adviser: Math teachers Allegra Atkinson and Tracey Stewart. Contact: alannahorowitz@yahoo.com, tracey_stewart@newton.k12.ma.us, or allegra_atkinson@newton.k12.ma.us —Isaac Tang

Newton Girls’ Rugby

Peer Mentors

Model UN

What: Students learn how to play rugby and compete with teams from other schools across the state. When: Everyday after school in the spring. Goal: “To give girls who’ve never tried rugby, aren’t confident enough to try out for a team, or don’t have enough money for club to be able to play and learn the game,” said senior Lauren Eckenrode, an officer. Officers: Eckenrode and Sharon High School senior Ana Morrison. Adviser: Italian teacher Justin Evans. Contact: Facebook group “Newton Girls Rugby.” —Sophia Zhou

What: Students help new students in the Newton Public School system integrate into North. When: Every other month. Goal: “To welcome new students to North,” said senior Lily Winton, an officer. Officers: Winton and senior Connor Flint. Adviser: School counselor Kyra Slawski. Contact: lily.winton@gmail.com —Tali Falk-Judson

Wendy Li

Senior Angela Buras runs after the ball in a field hockey game against Milton Thursday, Sept. 7. —Sophia Zhou

Public Arts Club

What: Students plan and make public art and coordinate the big chalk mural during Art Morning. When: Monday X-blocks in 127. Goal: “To spread positivity through art around the school,” said senior Zoe Lee, an officer. Officers: Lee and seniors Anna Demko, Shanie Kalikow, Jane O’Reilly, and Bella Sullivan. Adviser: Art teacher Shannon Slattery. Contact: Facebook group “Public Arts Club” or @nnhs_chalkstagram on Instagram.

Recycling Club

What: Students work with the administration to institute a lasting recycling program. When: Thursday X-blocks, location to be determined. Goal: “To have sustainable recycling in the school,” said senior Sam Kesselman, an officer. Officers: Kesselman and senior Wendy Li. Adviser: Interim mathematics department head Jennifer Letourneau. Contact: nnhsrecycling@gmail.com —Tali Falk-Judson

Newton Youth Commission

What: Students promote useful change in Newton as part of a city-run organization. When: Wednesday after school in 102. Goal: “To unite the city and let kids have a voice in our government,” said senior Maya Gomberg, an officer. Officers: Gomberg and sophomore Aneel Chittilappilly. Adviser: Director of Youth Services Quinn Etchie. Contact: mfgmaya@gmail.com —Laura Schmidt-Hong

NNHS Ultimate

What: Students practice by completing drills, working out, and scrimmaging for various tournaments. When: Everyday after school at Cabot Field. Goal: “To spread awareness of the sport, transition players into the competitive spring season, and to create a welcoming atmosphere for new players,” said senior Kat Ho, an officer. Officers: Ho and senior Liam Condon. Adviser: Science teacher Matt Anderson. Contact: Facebook group “NNHS Falltimate 2017.” —Will Kharfen

Northern Lights

What: Students sing and perform a cappella arrangements of songs. When: Thursday X-blocks and Sunday, location

Wendy Li

Students sit in the hall to study during a free block in the first week of school due to the closure of the Library Learning Commons (LLC).

clubs

6 v The Newtonite , Newton North

Monday, Sept. 18, 2017

Rosie’s Place Club What: Students fundraise to pay for and cook meals at Rosie’s Place, a women’s shelter. When: To be determined. Goal: “To sponsor as many meals as possible and get donations from people around the school,” said senior Olivia Kelly, an officer. Officers: Kelly and junior Ashley Wang. Adviser: Counselor Belma Johnson. Contact: Facebook group “Rosie’s Place Club” or oklivliv@gmail.com —Jackie Gong

Science Team

What: Students train for and compete in science competitions. When: To be determined. Goal: “To teach people about science,” said junior Ethan Gahm, an officer. Officers: Gahm and senior Cody Kotake. Adviser: Science department head Heather Haines. Contact: ethangahm@gmail.com —Ruchik Trivedi

Ski and Snowboard Club

What: Students take trips on weekends to snowboard and ski. When: Two or three times a year. Goal: “To have fun, as with most clubs. If you love to ski, it’s the place to be,” said senior Gabe Gekas, an officer. Officers: Gekas, seniors Susanna Hamel, Michael Kaan, Charlie Lewis, Caroline Norton, and junior Ben Libraty. Adviser: Special education teacher Stephen Hess. Contact: stephen_hess@newton.k12.ma.us —Zoe Goldstein

South Asian Student Association

What: Students engage with South Asian culture. When: To be determined. Goal: “To build a South Asian community at North,” said senior Amrita Iyer, an officer. Officers: Iyer and juniors Alex Kelsey-Ramos and Iman Sayeed. Adviser: Science teacher Sangeet Srikanth. Contact: nnhsasa@gmail.com —Tali Falk-Judson

Students In Service (SIS)

What: Students learn the importance of developing leadership skills through community service. When: Thursday X-blocks. Goal: “To positively affect our community through community service projects,” said senior Eric Zhang, an officer. Officers: Zhang, seniors Evan Lipchin and Spencer Bowman, and junior Maya Matthews. Adviser: ELL teacher Amy Worth. Contact: nnhs.sis@gmail.com —Sophie Ravina

Student Library Advisers

What: Students help out around the library. When: Every day during school hours. Goal: “To help improve the library,” said junior Marisa Proia, the officer. Officer: Proia. Adviser: Library teacher Erin Dalbec. Contact: erin_dalbec@newton.k12.ma.us —Tali Falk-Judson

Surf Club

What: Students discuss logistical plans about the club’s future trips to the beach during the winter and go to the beach during the Spring. When: A couple of meetings during the year and trips to the beach on Saturdays and Sundays during the spring. Goal: “To teach students how to surf and just to have a good time at the beach,” said senior Gabe Gekas, an officer. Officers: Gekas and seniors Nevin Ketchum, Henri Rousseau, and Kiernan Stone. Adviser: French teacher Kathryn Teissier. Contact: Facebook group “NNHS Surf Club” or email gabe@gekas.org. —will Kharfen

Theatre Ink

What: Students perform, direct, design, and stage manage theatrical productions throughout the year. When: Schedules dependent on position.

Teddy Everett

Seniors Willy Hodgson and Will Thompson pursue a Waltham player in a Friday Night Lights football game against Waltham High School Friday Sept. 8.

Goal: “To give students as many opportunities as possible on and off the stage,” said Theatre Ink director Adam Brown. Adviser: Brown. Contact: adam_brown@newton.k12.ma.us —Jackie Gong

Theatre Ink Stage Crew

What: Students manage the sounds, lights, and set-building for Theatre Ink shows. When: Every day after school in 112. Goal: “To tech all the shows, meaning building sets, hanging and focusing lights, and miking the actors so they can be heard on stage,” said senior Max Huntington. Officers: Huntington and senior Maggie Quigley. Adviser: Theater teacher Michael Barrington-Haber. Contact: michael_barrington-haber@newton.k12.ma.us —Zoe Goldstein

The Newtonite

What: Students write and edit articles for an in-print and online newspaper. When: Every day in 273. Goal: “To serve the North community as a reliable news source,” said senior Lucy Lu, an officer. Officers: Lu and seniors Valeria Dountcheva and Jackie Gong. Adviser: English teachers Thomas Fabian and Derek Knapp and television and film production aide Amanda Mazzola. Contact: thenewtonite@gmail.com —Laura Schmidt-Hong

Thoughtprints

What: Students discuss the art and writing behind making a magazine and producing two magazines each year. When: Sunday 7 to 9 p.m., at an officer’s house to be determined. Goal: “To engage with students through our publications and through school events such as concerts and art shows,” said senior Alisa Caira, an officer. Officers: Caira and senior Miranda Eng. Adviser: English teacher Neil Giordano. Contact: thoughtprints1213@gmail.com —Helen Xiao

Tiger Docs

What: Students discuss current events and discoveries in medicine. When: Every other Monday in 411. Goal: “To learn about different fields and subjects in medicine and to get people who

are interested in medicine together,” said sophomore Maya Lobel, an officer. Officers: Lobel and junior Samantha Fredberg. Adviser: Science teacher Albert Calderone. Contact: nnhstigerdocs@gmail.com —Tali Falk-Judson

Tiger’s Eye

What: Students discuss current events and write and peer-edit opinion pieces for online magazine publication. Goal: To “elevate teen opinions in a fun, stress-free, and constructive environment,” said senior Abby Richmond, the officer. Officer: Richmond. Adviser: Science teacher Arielle Miles. Contact: Facebook group “NNHS Tiger’s Eye.” —Jackie Gong

Tigers for (T4CA)

Climate

Action

What: Students fundraise for environmental organizations and conduct activism on climate issues in their local community. When: Thursday X-blocks in 461. Goal: “To promote environmental activism and education in our community,” said senior Lucy Lu, an officer. Officers: Lu and seniors Adam Clements and Seika Ghavidel. Adviser: Science teacher Deborah Lund. Contact: llnature4@gmail.com or Facebook group “NNHS Tigers for Climate Action.” —Amy Xue

Tiger Friends/Cooking Club

What: Students learn cooking skills and support peers who may have a learning disability. Goal: “To welcome all who would like to attend, both those who want to learn about cooking, as well as those who would like to support their peers,” said special education teacher Lisa Goldthwaite, the adviser. Officers: To be determined. Adviser: Goldthwaite. Contact: Email lisa_goldthwaite@newton. k12.ma.us or go to room 315. —Tali Falk-Judson

Tiger Reads

What: Students discuss books and write reviews. When: The last Friday of every month in 271. Goal: “To engage students in reading for pleasure while providing them with a more relaxed platform to discuss and analyze the books, and express their opinions in review

format on a blog,” said sophomore Sophia Zhou, an officer. Officers: Zhou, and sophomores Zoe Goldstein, Maya Lobel, and Carolynn McDonald. Adviser: English teachers Thomas Fabian and Derek Knapp. Contact: tigerreadsclub@gmail.com —Tali Falk-Judson

Tiger Pride Club

What: Students come together at various sporting events to cheer on the North teams. When: To be determined. Goal: “To make the school more united and supportive of each other,” said Carmen McCauliffe, an officer. Officers: McCauliffe and senior Bailey Eveleth. Adviser: Physical education teacher Courtney Albert. Contact: Facebook message the officers. —Maya Waldman

Treat Yourself Club

What: Students participate in various bonding activities to help underclassmen feel comfortable in North’s environment. When: Wednesday and Friday after school in 472 and Sunday at 743 Washington Street (Cabot’s Ice Cream and Restaurant). Goal: “To make students feel welcome and gain social skills in a positive, friendly environment,” said senior Lauren Bailey, an officer. Officers: Bailey and senior Alejandra Castellanos. Adviser: Math teacher Colleen Virgil. Contact: laurenb2018@icloud.com or alejandraxcastellanos@gmail.com —Jackie Gong

Tutors in Action

What: Students work with elementary school students to brainstorm and practice useful strategies for those who may be struggling in math class. When: Mondays at 2:45 p.m. in the Film Lecture Hall. Goal: “To help students with their math work and provide them with a better foundation for middle school math,” said senior Hayden Weaver, an officer. Officers: Weaver and seniors Shruti Krishnamachari and Lucy Lu. Adviser: Math teacher Derek Hogan. Contact: Facebook group “Tutors in Action” or message the officers through Facebook. —will kharfen

Monday, Sept. 18, 2017

Newton North, The Newtonite v 7

talk of the tiger Club Day Crossword

In this club... Across

4. Students learn about medicine. 5. Students grow microgreens in the greenhouse to sell to local businesses. 6. Students help new students integrate into North. 7. Students prepare fictional court cases and participate in simulation court cases. 9. Students discuss issues regarding diversity in the school and plan school-wide events. 12. Students learn about environmental issues and natural resource management. 13. Students help out around the library. 14. Students learn about economics and develop public speaking and leadership skills through collaborative projects and discussions. 15. Students stitch in a comfortable environment.

Down

1. Students sing in a student-run co-ed acapella group. 2. Students plan and execute projects to help the environment. 3. Students plan trips to the beach in the winter and then go in the spring. 9. Students learn about gardening and garden throughout the year in the school greenhouse. 10. Students work with the administration to implement a long lasting recycling program. 11. Students learn the basics of improv and play improv games.

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8 v The Newtonite, Newton North