The Hornet’s Buzz Staff Box & Policies Co-Editors: Joseph Mormino Aurora Nicol
Inside this Issue
page 3--The Silent Age is Over Fans finally return to sporting events
Managing Editor: Brennen Knabe Writers/Photographers: Nabila Ahmed, Noar Al-Hamid, Asia Barnes, Grace Campbell, Asia Cortez, Holland Duggan, Mary Gerend, Alyx King, Jaelyn Lehnert, Lily Patterson, Zoe Payne, Kaili Rush, Caedence Scott
pages 4-5--Homecoming Feature Tradition returns with “Around the World”
page 6--Steps to earning Driver’s License Know how to gain this right of passage
Adviser: Paul Aubrey, CJE Policies As preservers of democracy, our schools shall protect, encourage and enhance free speech and the exchange of ideas as a means of protecting our American way of life. The Hornet’s Buzz is the official student-produced medium of news and information published/produced by Journalism II: Multi-media students.
page 7--Northland Parent Association sues NKC Schools, others Conflict over masking reaches a head between some parents, local officials
page 8--Pathways
A new approach to high school
Brickyard Review
A take on the newest offerings
Media-level Policy The Hornet’s Buzz is and has been a forum for public discourse for student editors to inform and educate their readers as well as for the discussion of issues of concern to their audience, the student body of North Kansas City High School. Advisers may – and should – coach and discuss content during the writing process.
page 9--Editorial
The Buzz staff has worries related to Pathways, Standards-based grades
page 10--Supply shortage
Global supply problems affect school lunches
The Role of Student Media and Mission Statement The mission of The Hornet’s Buzz is to inform and educate the student body of North Kansas City High School by increasing readership through presentation of quality information that is relevant to the lives of teenagers. Our purpose is to educate the members of our audience, the student body of North Kansas City High School, on matters of interest and importance to young people. The Buzz will offer opinions on certain issues identified by the staff as important in the form of unsigned editorials written by the Editorial/Opinion Editor.
page 11--Getting involved with politics Students stretch their wings, join public discourse
Pages 12-13--Guide to Missouri colleges Learn about the schools that may be a part of your next step
page 14--Standards-based grading
Letters to the Editor Guidelines and requirements for submitting The Hornet’s Buzz may accept letters to the editor, guest columns and news releases from students, faculty, administrators, community residents and the general public. We ask that letters to the editor, guest columns or other submissions be 300 words or fewer and contain the author’s name, address and signature. All submissions will be verified. The Hornet’s Buzz editorial board reserves the right to withhold a letter, column or other submission and/OR return it for revision if it contains unprotected speech or grammatical errors that could hamper its meaning. Deadlines for letters and columns will be determined by each year’s student staff, allowing sufficient time for verification of authorship prior to publication.
What it means for your transcript
page 15--Calendar, Comic, Note from the Editor The month ahead, Probably Strawberry
northtownnews.com nkchsbuzz
2 Contents
hornetsbuzz1
The
The Silent Age is Over
BUZZ
By: Brennen Knabe In the last year, life has dramatically changed for everyone. Such is apparent, even in athletics. “The atmosphere is definitely different, and for the better. Playing without a crowd sucked some of the fun out of Friday nights. I think we’re all glad it’s different” said junior tight end Jackson Baehr. The simplistic beauty of not only the game of football, but sports in general is the genuine feeling of togetherness that it brings to the community. “There’s a lot of people here that I don’t see eye-to-eye with, but at games, and on Friday nights, we’re all together just for that time.” said senior Joe Winfrey. When told Winfrey’s quote, Beahr also cited that feeling of togetherness, even in turmoil. “It’s much easier to go out and perform when there are hundreds of people behind you- or in your corner.” For quite some time, that is undeniably what was missing, especially here at Northtown. “The demeanors changed.” said Winfrey “It’s a more exciting atmosphere and makes the school a better place on Friday’s” There’s more than just that to look forward to. Sports like tennis and golf have athletes competing at an elite level; a level we haven’t seen in years. Sydney Fuger, as a freshman became the first state qualifier in women’s tennis since 2006. Riley Lewis has medaled in almost half of her matches this year, and has brought new players, and great leadership to a women’s golf program that took a big hit last year. Along with those, NKC volleyball has a star-studded group of talent and leadership led by Calissa Minatee and Yanni Washington. NKC football has a devastating defensive line led by top recruits in the nation, Domonique Orange and Edric Hill. As life progresses past the stress and fear that the pandemic has brought, it still is, and never stopped being a great day to be a Hornet.
“It’s all coming back, and it’s great to be a part of. Although it isn’t totally what it was, this new normal is nowhere near as bad as what it could be. I’m overwhelmingly grateful that we can play for, and in front of fans, again.” said Kylee Estes, junior volleyball player.
NKC football rushes the field after defeating Staley
Kaden Torres (11) prepares to embrace the student section after a big win
Sports 3
Homecoming Week by: Mary Gerend
After a year of social distancing and hybrid school, Homecoming is more anticipated than ever before. This is a return to some much-needed normalcy, with all of the events that are traditionally held during the week- Spirit Days, the assembly, the parade, the football game, and the dance- are all scheduled to take place without a hitch. The only difference is that masks are required inside, but there will be no capacity limit or social distancing requirements in effect. The theme this year is Around the World, with decorations featuring all the continents being placed all around the campus. The theme is tied to North Kansas City High School’s diverse student body, and the North Kansas City School District’s new slogan: “You Belong Here”. Kennady Washington, a queen nominee says, “My favorite thing about Northtown is
the fact that no one is the same, but yet everyone fits in somewhere. North Kansas City High School is built of so many different cultures, personalities, and knowledge that everyone connects to another in a unique way. It makes me feel like everyone truly belongs here!” The Homecoming football game is scheduled to take place on Friday, October 15 against Oak Park High School, one of Northtown’s rivals. Athletic events against Oak Park are always highly anticipated, and this year the turnout should only increase. The student section is always packed, as king nominee John Pham says, “I love the spirit of Northtown… our football team and student section always are hyped, ready and loud.”
The theme for the football game is Gold Out, a Northtown tradition and fundraiser started in 2017 by former STUCO President Mary Catherine Rechtien. Proceeds from the merchandise sold for Gold Out go to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which is a not-for-profit organization that strives to find a cure for childhood cancer. Students show up to the game clad in gold-colored clothing and accessories, ranging from face paint, tutus, Gold Out shirts, tights, and headbands. This year, local establishment NKC Nutrition created a special Gold Out Tea, which will be available from September 21 to October 15. All tips and proceeds from the tea’s sales going to St. Jude. A huge aspect about Homecoming is the Court. Each year, there are twelve senior candidates on the Homecoming Court: six candidates for Homecoming Queen, and six for Homecoming King. The king is crowned at the annual
Homecoming candidates from left to right, (back row), Scott Nguyen, Kevin Pelico, Charles Maloney, Domonique Orange, Joe Winfery, John Pham, Brandon Nguyen, Yoana Zamora-Miranda, Trinitee McIntyre, Kennady Washington, Duaa Mohamed, Antonia Garcia, Kizzie Washington, and Katie Dinh. Photographed by Aleksander Galloway
4 Feature
The
BUZZ Homecoming assembly, which happens during the day on Friday, October 15, with the queen being crowned at halftime during the football game a few hours later. This year, the candidates for Homecoming Queen are Katie Dinh, Antonia Garcia, Trinitee McIntyre, Duaa Mohamed, Kennady Washington, Kizzie Washington, and Yoana Zamora-Miranda. The King candidates are Charles Moloney, Brandon Nguyen, Scott Nguyen, Domonique Orange, Kevin Pelico, John Pham, and Joe Winfrey. All the candidates are extremely involved with the student body, and passionate about the school. For example, Zamora-Miranda is involved with just about everything. From the Northtown Women’s Empowerment Club and National Honor Society to Track & Field, she can be found at practically every event. The same can be said about all of the Candidates, who are involved in a plethora of extracurricular activities. Students will get to see more of this year’s Homecoming Court during the Homecoming Assembly on October 15, where each King/Queen duo will perform an elaborate dance routine. “I’m partners with [King Candidate Scott Nguyen], and we have some pretty great ideas. We hope everyone will love them as much as we do. All of the other Candidates have fun plans as well, so it’s going to be a really good time,” said Zamora-Miranda.
In addition to the assembly, there is also a Homecoming Parade. The parade will take place at the end of the school day on October 15. It will feature the Hornet Marching Band and the Homecoming Court. In addition, many of Northtown’s clubs will also have floats in the parade, where they will be competing to win a cash prize and award for Best Float. Homecoming Week concludes with the dance on Saturday evening, from 7-10pm. It will be held in the fieldhouse, featuring a DJ and many of your favorite songs. All grade levels are welcome to attend, be it freshmen looking to experience their first high school dance, or seniors looking to soak up the festivities for the last time. With a return to normalcy, Northtown’s 2021 Homecoming Week looks to be one that is remembered for years to come. So with that said, vote for your favorite Queen and King candidates, dress up for spirit days, buy a Gold Out tea, and bring your enthusiasm to every event to express your love and pride for Northtown!
I
can’t wait to see how incredible the rest of the candidates will look, this will be fun. I am in charge of the Gold Out St. Jude’s fundraiser this year in place of Mary Cate so make sure to get a shirt, and represent in gold on that Friday!! - Kennady Washington
Homecoming Court meets with Student Council.
Feature 5
Get your drivers license this week, just like we always talked about.. Student guide to getting your Driver’s License and Permit By: Asia Cortez
Want to know how to get your driver’s license? Well, first you have to get your permit: When getting your permit, you should: • Study: read the handbook, take test online, ask an adult who has their permit • Find a good DMV to take your permit • Things you’ll need: proof of identity, social security number, proof of Missouri address • There are 25 questions on the test, to pass, you have to get 20 out of the 25 questions correct Steps to getting your driver’s license: 1. You’ll need a car obviously (any kind, it doesn’t matter) 2. Get to know your car. Study the buttons in the car, learn what they’re used for, and get used to them 3. Read a driver’s handbook. Reading this will help you understand how driving will be and it will teach you the right way to drive 4. Practice driving. You should find a big parking lot where there are no cars and drive around there. Also, recommend practicing parking as well, and be sure to have an adult with you or someone who’s 18 or older and actually knows how to drive 5. Once you got the hang of driving and parking in the big parking lot, you could try going on the street (not the
6 Feature
highway) and drive. You should also study the street signs and the light signals and get to know them 6. Be sure to get your permit before you get your driver’s license. Thing’s you might need to get your license and permit in your hand: • Proof of identity • Birth certificate/Age • Social security number • You also might need to give them your address as proof you’re living in the Missouri state
Here’s the address for the nearest permit/license testing location: Address: 5943 NE Antioch Rd, Gladstone, MO 64119
Hours: They are open from 8am to 5pm everyday except Saturday and Sunday Website to fill out an appointment: gladstonedmv.com Phone Number: (816) 455-5100 Bring your printed test to the DMV afterwards to get your card!
The
BUZZ
NPA Sues North Kansas City By: Holland Duggan
A new organization formed last month called the Northland Parent Association (NPA) a group of parents working to remove mask mandates in schools across Northland and Kansas City area. There is a lot of confusion surrounding the NPA’s intentions, message and goals. The leader and face of the NPA, Jay Richmond appeared on a well-known conservative radio show hosted by Chris Stigall to give a more clear representation of the message behind the NPA. “If you want to wear a mask or if you want to put your child in a mask or if your doctors recommend it, that’s perfectly fine but we live in America as far as I know & it should come down to parent choice,” He elaborates that the NPA isn’t against masks, vaccines or other preventative COVID measures, they believe it’s their right to make that choice and mask mandates violate their personal freedoms. As of August 29th, the NPA has filed a lawsuit listing several school districts including North Kansas City School District and their school board members. Some people may see this lawsuit as extreme measure but Jay Richmond argues they were given no other choice, “We’ve (the NPA) spoken out at every school board meeting across the Northland’s including health board meetings and we decided we were not being listened to, everything was falling on deaf ears to those boards,” Like minded parents expressed similar objections to the mask mandate during the North KC school board meetings. Many people argue the districts mask mandate is in students’ best interest, but parent Brandy Warts disagrees, questioning the District council, “What about the social and mental ramifications of this mandate? When we are mandated to wear masks physical risks and social and mental well-being are being ignored.”
The lawsuit also lists the Kansas City Council form our own opinions on the mask mandate. members as defendants in the case due to the city-wide mask mandate. In response to the NPA’s Lawsuit Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas tweeted: “As it has been since the onset of this pandemic, my primary objective when it comes to Kansas City’s COVID-19 response is to save lives. No lawsuit will change that. Still, I’m saddened to see yet another lawsuit filed today over masking without merit under Missouri law-just like the suits filed against us before, including the Missouri Attorney General’s own politically motivated stunt.” Both the NKC school district and Kc City Council are planning to continue mask mandates in an effort to protect students and the surrounding communities. The NPA refuses to step down and will continue their efforts to abolish mask mandates. For now as students and parents we can make an effort to inform ourselves and
NPA parents protesting mask mandate.
Feature 7
Admins Pathway Plans for Students By Noar Al Hamid
Student Pathways Plan (SPP), it’s a new program that our district is trying out for students to learn about self-management and planning skills. Skills that administration chose to have students focus on in the hope they will help with future success. The program views the student’s voice as the number one priority and with that they will provide a certain guidance to help the student get where they need to be. Pathways can apply with to any classroom setting. There are four pathways, School of Human Services, School of Business, Leadership and Entrepreneurship, School of Design, Innovation and Technology, and School of Health and Wellness. The classes students take, whether it be Chemistry or American Lit will all count in the program depending on a students chosen pathway. Jamie McSparin, who is a college and career facilitator stated, “They’re still doing it all in their four classes. But we’ve added an additional class to learn some additional skills within that industry.” North Kansas City School district hopes to make sure that their students are more prepared on what they want to do with their lives before graduating.
The Brickyard: A Coffee Review Go get a hot chocolate! By: Lily Patterson
On August 27 the Brickyard opened in the library. It is a student ran coffee shop, they have an assortment of drinks and food. Such as coffee, hot chocolate, tea, gum, and muffins. Their prices range between $2-$3. The Brickyard is perfect if you need a snack or something nice to drink in the morning! The line can get a bit long, but things tend to move very fast. A personal favorite about it being in the library is the opportunity to read/study while enjoying my coffee. The atmosphere really brings everything together. So far, I have tried their French vanilla cappuccino, hot chocolate, earl grey, and jasmine tea. Unfortunately, I haven’t had the opportunity to try other drinks because of the machines being down, which is a reoccurring issue in the shop. When the machines are down, they are only able to produce black coffee and teas. The cappuccino is very creamy and has a bit of a bitter taste. It is definitely stronger than a latte or mocha. So if you aren’t into sweet stuff I would definitely go for that. The hot chocolate is my favorite thing they have. It is Denny’s level of hot chocolate. It is very rich in flavor and isn’t watery like many other places. It took a while for the teas to grow on me, but I really enjoy them. The earl grey tea has more of a citrus flavor and the jasmine has a heavy floral taste. They are working very hard on trying to get the machines up again. I have heard they are going to do seasonal stuff too. So, I would be on the lookout for those when the time comes around!
8 News
The
BUZZ
Staff Editorial: Concerned over the potential effects of Pathways In hushed tones, the class of 2025 as eighth graders chose a pathway last year, picking between four options. Students from every grade have an opinion though, not just the ones participating. The Buzz recognizes that there are advantages to this system, but also cautions all involved not to ignore the disadvantages. We worry this is the worst time to change how school operates for the freshmen, considering they haven’t had a normal year of school since sixth grade and even then, the Class of ’25 was the first class to use one of the districts sixth grade centers. But the pathways weren’t a new choice, the plan to start pathways was first discussed years ago. But this has still left a lot of work on teachers. Many teachers have had their classes sorted into a pathway and are now supposed to connect their curriculum to their pathway, something that may be tedious for teachers when creating their freshmen lesson plans which eventually comes back to other students when their time is invested more in one class than others. The career pathways weren’t just the only new addition to academia this year. The new school year also introduced standards-based grading to the student body- although not entirely. Departments
were allowed to choose to use the grading system (see page 14). Standards don’t feel as rewarding to some students compared to the normal A-F. We’re worried that the standards aren’t necessarily reflective of the work done. If we do good work, we should get a 4- but instead fours are reserved for going “above and beyond” which was a grade that didn’t really exist before excepting extra credit. An 100% means you meet standards given on an assignment, but a 3 in a standard means all your cumulative assignments that reflect that standard are proficient. We’re worried that freshman will change their minds about their chosen pathway, if a 14-year-old surrounds themselves with humanities classes they may never know that they have an interest in engineering or higher-level math, and vice versa for a STEM student never sparking an interest in a journalism class, or food classes. We’re worried that the standards-based grading will make our high school transcripts confusing and cause grading to be harsher.
We’re worried that freshman will change their minds about their chosen pathway, if a 14-year-old surrounds themselves with humanities classes they may never know that they have an interest in engineering or higher-level math, and vice versa for a STEM student
Editorial 9
What’s in my Lunch Today?
Global supply chain issues have now disrupted our very own lunches. By: Aurora Nicol and Noar Al -Hamid
The international supply shortage has made its way to Northtown. Supply shortage is defined as when a certain amount of specific product or service runs out. This has been an ongoing problem because of factory shutdowns due to COVID-19 all around the world. Shipping costs have skyrocketed as the number of employees has decreased yet the demand for items only increased, causing huge backlogs at shipping centers and factories. The ongoing pandemic as well has caused reformatting within certain industries has caused mass supply chain disruptions, and there’s uncertainty within concerned governments of when it will end. Three of the biggest food providers for the North Kansas City School District have dropped the district as a client be-
10 News
cause of this. The three companies that provided for the district were US Foods, Sysco, and Kohls. Of course, this doesn’t equate to students walking away with nothing for lunch but what is happening is an erratic menu. Jenna Kuth, the North Kansas City Schools Director of Food and Nutrition Services explained to KCTV5 that schools have adjusted by changing their menu “on the fly,” which means the menu calendars that are available to students and parents are no longer correct. Students who have allergies or handicaps on the food they eat but rely on school lunches have been cornered into bringing their lunch, or trusting that they may be able to find something. The usual multiple options for lunches have been cut. Sysco offered a statement on the matter,
“This is mainly due to unprecedented labor shortages in the industry. We are aggressively recruiting delivery partners and warehouse associates, and our goal is to restore service to our impacted customers as soon as possible. We expect this to be a temporary situation” Katie Rich, a registrar at North Kansas City High School, who handles the official records of the school as well as attendance, says to help with families that need food, she can help link them with a food sources and providers that are available. Many families rely on the district to be able to provide their kids with full school lunch as well as breakfast, and this supply shortage has a much bigger impact on them. If you’re able to bring your lunch to school it’s recommended to try.
The
BUZZ
Getting Involved in Politics at a Young Age
Discovering more about your values and beliefs at school By Grace Campbell
not productive to anyone.” Said Mondello. “I would think the core values of the Young Dems are to get Our school has two politically affiliated clubs, the word out to young voters to register, realizing their values Young Democrats and Young Americans for Freedom (YAF), matter, and voting is important, especially in local elections/ and are both available to join, regardless of affiliation. government. I also think understanding political issues in a You can join either club regardless of your political views, as both clubs are positive and accepting of any beliefs you hold. deeper sense is possible for young people who care about Educating yourself on politics and its opposing sides will give the world surrounding them.” Said Mondello, when referencing the core values of the Young Democrats. you a greater understanding of the events currently going Get involved in politics at a young age, even if you can’t on. When you become eligible to vote, you will be able to attend certain meetings. You can read news articles and make a more If you are trying to figure out what you believe in anduse the internet to become informed deinformed. There are many ways are looking to explore your options then yes” cision about to get involved. Educating your- Mrs Mondello, Young Dems Sponsor what party self is the simplest and most and individual essential step in politics. Look at the other side. Even if you you would choose to support. Plus, people 16 and older can don’t agree with a certain side look at other perspectives, work at voting polls during an election. you will still learn something new. “I like to learn about everything going on in the world and learn about other people’s perspectives” said Ameliya Gerlt a member of Young Americans for freedom when asked what makes you interested in politics? She was also asked “What would you say to those who would like to join Young Americans for freedom?” said Gerlt, “Just do it. It’s a fun club and you get to meet like-minded people, plus Mr. Breinin is nice.” Paola Mondello, the advisor of Young Democrats said when asked if should non-democrats join? “Not if they’re closed-minded. If you are trying to figure out what you believe in and are looking to explore your options, then yes. If they are just joining to be combative or contrarian, that is
Brandon Taegel, Jonas Anderson, Lyhn Nguyen, Yoana Zamora-Miranda, Gracelyn Clifford, Sylvie Cates, sponsor Paola Mondello, Owen Baxter, Cas Van Kasteren, Lourdes Al Alam, Reed Pearman at an after school young democrats meeting
News 11
Missouri Colleges Guide Mary Gerend
If you want to go to college, but don’t want to leave the state, have a look at six different possible options.
University of Missouri (Mizzou):
Located in Columbia, Missouri, Mizzou is about a 2-hour car ride from Kansas City. As a member of the SEC (Southeastern Conference), Mizzou is the place to be if you want big sports. At upwards of 22,616 undergrad students enrolled, your average class size will most likely be large- don’t be surprised if you have lectures with over 100 students. This means that your student-professor relationship will likely be distant. Mizzou boasts a world-renowned journalism program, with other popular majors being Minority and Ethnic Studies, Business, and Health Service Prep. Looking at info from University of Missouri Admissions, it will cost you $24,092 per year, not including financial aid and scholarships.
12 In Depth
Missouri State University (MSU): MSU is a medium-sized university with an undergrad enrolment of roughly 14,000. It is located in Springfield, Missouri, a roughly 2 hour and 50-minute drive from Kansas City. Springfield is home to over 100 parks and has a lake nearby for kayaking and canoeing, great for the outdoor enthusiast. MSU is a division 1 (FCS) school and has athletics, however, it is not a huge part of campus life. The average class size is fairly small, according to Niche, 48% of classes are between 20-39 students. Some popular majors are Business, Psychology, and Elementary Education. One year at MSU will cost you $18,930- but many people will qualify for scholarships and aid.
University of Missouri- Kansas City (UMKC): UMKC is in the heart of Kansas City, so it comes with the advantages of being close to home. You could also be a commuter and save money on room and board! There are roughly 6,500 undergrad students, making the average class size 26. If you want to study music, UMKC is the place to be in Missouri. Other popular majors are Business, Biology, and liberal arts. UMKC is a division 1 (FCS) school, however they don’t have football. UMKC Basketball games are played at Municipal Auditorium, built in 1936 and boasts some of the which are widely attended by students and civilians alike.
The
BUZZ
Missouri Science and Technology University (M S&T): M S&T is a bit farther than the other colleges, at almost a 4-hour car drive to Rolla, Missouri. There are 5,692 undergrads, making it a medium sized campus. M S&T is a division II school, with soccer, volleyball, basketball, football, and more. Missouri Science and Technology is great for science and tech majors. If you want engineering and computer science, this is the place to be. The academics come at a price, though. As the estimated total cost of attendance is $26,808 for a year. However, it will likely be less than this, as 81% of students receive scholarships (college factual). Truman State University: Truman State is located in Kirksville, MO, about a 2 hour and 35-minute drive from home. It is a division II, and they do have a football team. Athletic events are attended, but not a huge part of campus life. A year at Truman will cost you $18,936 but they offer many merit scholarships. The most popular major at Truman is Business, followed by Kinesiology and Exercise Science.
Northwest Missouri State University: Northwest Missouri is a relatively small school, with an undergraduate enrollment of 4,954. If you want big sports at a small school, this is the place to be. While NMSU is in Division II, 85% of students say varsity sports are a big part of campus life, and both football and basketball programs are coming off of national championships. It’s a great medium if you want a bit of everything, but don’t want to be overwhelmed by enormous class sizes and 20,000 people. Northwest is about a 1.5-hour drive from KC, making it easy to come home on weekends. The most popular major at NMSU is Elementary Education, followed by Communications and Agricultural Business. Northwest Missouri will probably cost you around $15,500 a year.
Questions about college? Contact Dr. Jamie McSparin College and Career Facilitator jamie.mcsparin@nkcschools.org
In Depth 13
Changes: Some classes switch to new grading system By: Holland Duggan
This school year North Kansas City Schools are switching over to a new method of grading, Standards-Based Grading (SBG). Administration left it up to each department to decide whether they would be using traditional grading or standards. SBG breaks a class down into learning targets and students are graded based on their mastery of that learning target. SBG is new and can seem intimidating so let’s break it down. The grading scale The biggest difference between standards-based grading and traditional grading is the grading scale. Instead of using the A-F scale SBG uses a 1-4 scale and you get multiple grades for each learning target that are averaged out rather than having an overall grade in the class. Standards-Based Grading scale: Some teachers may choose to use a 0-4 or 1-5 scale and they also can use half points/add a .5 to
14 News
the grading scale. 4 (Advanced)- Goes above and beyond expectations 3 (Proficient)- Meets expectations 2 (Approaching)- Meets expectations with assistance 1 (Emerging)- Little to no mastery Why the switch? This way of grading gives more feedback so you’re able to easily recognize what areas you’re struggling with and what you need to improve. This grading school gives students less anxiety surrounding assessments because you are given multiple opportunities to improve your score over the year. Rather than giving a definite score you are graded on how you improve and work to meet the expectation.
The PowerSchool Error Due to this grading scale being a new concept staff have run into many different issues with grading. Staff have been having trouble putting grades ion PowerSchool using Standards Based grading. The percentages aren’t matching up with the letter grade. When you get a 3 using standards that’s an A but a 3 out of 4 percentage wise ends up being a 75%. So when you end up using Standards Based Grading, PowerSchool’s grades end up showing the letter grade as an A but the percentage will be a 75%. This will not effect transcripts because transcripts only show letter grades. This new grading scale will take time for both staff and students to get used to but hopefully over this year we can all learn to adapt to Standards-based grading.
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Editors’ Notes:
I’m so happy and proud of all the work that went into this issue. This is our first print issue in two years and everyone who wrot, or designed is a new member on our staff besides Joe Mormino, Brennen Knabe, and me. It is so incredible to me that there are so many new people who are interested in getting content to our peers. Readers, if you’ve ever had a want to write or share stories, or share voices with the school there may be a place for you in our lovely journalism department. Thank you staff, thank you readers!
Probably Strawberry
-Aurora Nicol, Co-Editor
Alyx King
An eleven-year-old boy named Harold is hired by the cannibalistic ice cream company, Fountain of Youth Dairy. Wanna read more? Check out our website, northtownnews.com!
News 15
The Buzz