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41 Obery Street Plymouth, Massachusetts
Issue 2: January 2022
Plymouth North High School
Farewell Mr. J By: Brooke Holmes
School pillar and administrator at North for almost seven years is moving into administration at the district's central office this upcoming new year. His new position at the central office will be as the attendance supervisor for the entire district of Plymouth Schools. He will help integrate families in the district into the school system by facilitating and supporting the process of enrolling their children in school. The new duties of his position may involve helping families in the district connect to services they need and enroll in schools that are conducive for their children's success. “I want to help kids and families to build a strong connection with school,” said Mr. Janulewicz, assistant principal at Plymouth North. “And in my new role the kids who are not here are going to be the focus, and hopefully helping them become great students.” Mr. J's experience connecting to freshmen and students throughout the school has prepared him for his upcoming role. “If kids need to talk about something Mr. J is usually the person that they talk to. With all the different counselors in the building he also serves that role,” said Mrs. Nickerson, Freshman Academy counselor. His work with students will surely be missed as he has played a large role in the health and well-being of students throughout Plymouth North since the start of his position by ensuring their success in and after school. His passion has made kids' lives better and it has made parents understand and feel more connected to our building,” said Mr. Parcellin, principal of Plymouth North. “In his day to day work he has made our school a better place for the people in it and he is sure to excel within the district.”
An in-depth look at the impact Mr. J has made at North and the future of the freshman academy “Leaving his position as the head of the freshman academy he has quite large shoes to fill. The future of the freshman academy remains unclear. “Throughout his time planning freshman challenge day and coordinating the freshmen academy. He has made it a supportive and wonderful place for teachers,” said Ms. McWhirter, long-time teacher of the freshman academy. “He is fun and energetic and can also be serious and firm. There’s a delicate balance he maintains very well that not many people can. He continually has done a great job of holding kids accountable and responsible for their actions and their expectations.” Despite his departure, the freshman academy will continue its initiatives of organization, deep thinking, and self-advocacy in order to continue to help students excel. Leading and longtime teachers will step up through the next weeks in order to help the freshman succeed. “We will continue to work for the goals of the freshman academy to help kids, and stay within our team structure in order to offer stability for freshmen and to hold them accountable each term,” said Ms. Jalbert, who has taught in the freshman academy for thirteen years. Mr. J’s presence from bus duty to in the hallways will surely be missed by all, as Mr. J has made a lasting impression on the students of North.
“He has our best success in mind so especially after this year we’ve had it so hard, he has helped our transition into high school.” said Michaela Hanlon, a freshman student at Plymouth north. Not only freshman will miss Mr. J as he has had a lasting impact on upperclassmen and students and faculty through the building often seen as a transparent and down to earth presence within North's administration. Despite leaving the school community his legacy will live in through the changes and breakthroughs he has made in the freshman academy. We are sure to see a greater impact from Mr. J as he works through the district to get all ages kids engaged in school.
Equity and Justice Committee Provides Change Equity and Justice Provides Space to Share Thoughtful Ideas and Experiences DJ Proctor
Inequities and injustices can occur in any microcosm of the world today, and Plymouth North is far from immune to that struggle. The diverse community of sexualities, genders, race, nationality and languages does not come without its own individual set of challenges in finding comfort and acceptance in their school community. Anyone can face adversity from ignorant or shallow minded people at school. In 2022, the injustices and inequities that occur at school aren’t just cases of bullying and harassment out in the open like days past, but they are elaborate displays of inappropriate behaviors and can involve disturbing socio-political statements in person and online. The victims of these acts of intolerance and belligerence at. North needed a place to air their grievances and get the vindication from those responsible for their struggles. The Equity and Justice Commission serves as a platform for students to discuss their issues they’ve had with intolerance and harassment, and find definite solutions and support from the star-studded cast of teachers that run the group. The group not only talks about the negatives, but they also discuss the positive happenings and influences that are steering Plymouth North in a more inclusive direction for everyone.
JANUARY 2022
“This committee was formed in August 2020 on the coattails of the murder of George Floyd and the protests that came in response that were really polarized and politicized at that point,” said Ms. Brittany Hildebrand, committee founder. “There was an overwhelming need to create a safe space to address these injustices, because even though we’re a school community we have a population that’s part of the larger society where these society where these issues affect all of us, even here.” In the time leading up to the school year, that team laid the blueprint for a committee that would tackle the realm of issues dealing with inclusion, diversity, discrimination and related topics in a way where students can have a space where they can bring any matter to the table and have their lived experiences heard. In their monthly meetings, the committee plans trainings and school -wide initiatives surrounding cultural proficiency and implicit bias, and facilitates discussions where anyone can openly share their experiences. Ms. Kelsey Wilbur, committee member, states that the goals of this club are simple and concrete. “Our main focus for this committee is to make North better and therefore, everything we do is all centered around that goal. Students are the heart of this community and their voices and experiences are the most important ones involved. By involving them and using their ideas,
North can only get better,” said Wilbur. I joined to get those ideas out in the open,” said Jenna Abraham, a longstanding participant on the committee. This space is so valuable to the school community because of the changes it inspires, elevating our school to a place that is accepting of all students like it should be. The committee is always looking for new students to join; all are encouraged so stay posted for fliers and announcements communicating dates of the meetings that usually happen once a month on Thursday. The discussions that happen with the Equity and Justice Committee occur sparsely in the regular school environment, but the insightful perspectives that are shared there have the potential to open eyes and move mountains.
PAGE 1
North’s School Store Back in Business By: Liam Husband The spot to be for tasty drinks, snacks and everything Plymouth North, is taking its place back in the spotlight as teachers and students are prepping for a big January opening, after the stores nearly year and a half hiatus. Due to the Covid 19 Pandemic many businesses and other popular places had to close down due to safety measures. This includes Plymouth North's very own school store. Although the long wait for all the tasty and fun products the store has to offer is over, a new era for the store is beginning. Jennifer Figlioli, Plymouth North Marketing teacher explained the opening process. The store will be open in January and the first week that it is open will be exclusively for the seniors as it's their prize for winning the Pep Rally Contest. And after that it will begin to reopen for the other grade levels for the duration of the year. It is now open during K block with grades 9-12 being able to go during directed study (Monday, Thursdays, and Fridays) and seniors being able to go all five days since they have directed study five days a week. With this opening, lots of planning and adjustments have been made to ensure the store was ready to go. That's why the first week for seniors is very important. Figlioli said, “This will act as a soft opening so we can make adjustments as needed.” As far as having the new store, it comes with a new cast as well. “Ms. Anderson will be running the school store now. She has been working really hard to get it ready to open,” said Figlioli. Before the opening a lot needs to be done. Ingrid Anderson who will be running the store said, “The school store shut down in 2020 making the cleanup and organizing a bit of a bigger battle, lots of expired food and drink need to be disposed of and general cleaning of the space needs to be done.” They will be selling similar products, although lots of purchasing decisions will have to be made.
Hours Staff: A-C days 9am12pm D days 8am-12am Grade 12: K-Block Mon-Fri. Grades 9-11: Directed Study
“We are hoping as the year progresses and we work out a few kinks, we can offer specials once a month,” said Anderson. Along with this soft opening, the store must make sure that it meets the wants and needs of customers. “It is important that we offer the products that our target market wants while meeting their price point,” said Figlioli.
PAGE 2
Seniors Support Freshman for the NHS Student Voice Project The leaders in the school community looking to boost up their younger peers By: Delia Joyce
📷 Madde Tassinari With the suspense and build up around the opening it has many students eager and excited to see the store, once again. Colin Raeke Junior at Plymouth North expressed his excitement for the opening of the store. “The second I walk into that room I will explode with pure joy,” said Raeke. With all this excitement many juniors and seniors can reminisce about what the store was like two years ago. “My favorite memory was smelling those freshly baked cookies coming out of the oven in the mornings,” said Raeke. Many are looking forward to new times in this store. “I love to see students in the store and the positive vibes that it offers. It allows students to grab a snack and offer another a place where they feel as if they belong,” said Figlioli.
“I love to see students in the store and the positive vibes that it offers. It allows students to grab a snack and offer another a place where they feel as if they belong.” Mrs. Jennifer Figlioli In addition to the school store helping satisfy students appetites and boosting the school morale it also serves as an educational piece to Plymouth North’s Marketing students. “Also we will have more of a student presence as it will be treated as an extension of the Marketing Programs shop,” said Figlioli. Many marketing students are going there doing their class so they can get real life selling experiences. This is important as students can take what they learn in the classroom and apply it to real life situations. So no matter if you need a drink, snack, shirt, or just a place to see some smiles, the school store will be a great place to go.
“It’s important because it helps underclassmen connect with older students and feel more comfortable in a new school. Also since upperclassmen weren't freshmen during Covid, I would hope to teach them what freshman year is like during this time,” said freshman Solome Bell. “I hope they [the freshman] know that their input is valued and if you get involved and really take your high school experience seriously, Each year, the National Honor you'll get out what you put into it,” Society works to create change said senior officer Sofia DeCola. inside and outside the walls of Their overarching focus is helping Plymouth North. This year, they are freshmen make the best out of the focusing on their own student next four years. population, particularly the class of One thing that has really 2025. The freshman class has connected all the students and struggled with integrating into the high school environment, as most do faculty is the common struggle through the pandemic. when transitioning into a new Senior Katie Donohoe building. However, due to the recognizes the pandemic stunting the emotpandemic and ional growth of these studThe goal is for its effect on ents, the first term of this all students. school year has been a mutual respect “This major challenge. The between all project is senior class is a group important that the freshmen oftmembers of the because en look up to, and the school community. due to class of 2022 has choCovid, sen to take advantage Everyone can learn everyone is of that in a positive way. from each other. off balance. “This particular year our We want to help focus is engaging the freshthe new members man. In student voice we want of our school, the freshmen, to make sure that everyone that's get into the groove of things. We here at North is represented. We are want to get them to a place where focusing on the freshmen and trying they feel comfortable with their to welcome them and trying to help own selves, with their grades, and them with their transition into high with their after school activities,” school,” said NHS Advisor Mrs. Burt. said Donohoe. “Each month we are going to go “As far as our message, it is not into an advisory with a group of only to become a part of our seniors. This month our focus is community because we feel as community, and to introduce them though that makes the whole high to all the clubs, teams, and school experience a little more organizations.” positive, but also too be “Student voice wants to accountable for your academics encourage getting involved, and and how you hold yourself in the helping students become aware of all of the extracurriculars available at classroom, hallways, and cafeteria, so that our overall community is a Plymouth North,” said Burt. better place,” said Burt. Often, students don't know about Mrs. Burt encourages seniors who the sports and clubs available, and may be interested in this project to through students voice the seniors participate regardless if they are in can bring those programs to light. the National Honor Society. Student The seniors who are participating in this project remember what it was Voice was built on giving a platform to all students, and giving every like to be a freshman, and the student a place to be themselves. challenging transition. Contact any of the NHS officers or “When I was a freshman I advisors if you are interested in struggled with the same thing that a becoming an influence to the lot of people struggle with now, underclassman at Plymouth North. being a part of Plymouth North and involving myself in the community,” said Senior Gwyneth Amonte. From her experience, she understands the need for support and role models as an underclassman. The goal is for mutual respect between all members of the school community. Everyone can learn from each other.
Poetry Out Loud
Leadership Club
Embracing the art of poetry throughout the Plymouth North community
Plymouth North seniors take on a new approach to a former club in order to reinforce skills students will need not only in school, but in their futures
By: Alexcia Barry Poetry Out Loud is a national arts education program which encourages the study of poetry within school communities. This competition was initially brought to Plymouth North by English teacher Mrs. Erin Auger who expressed a great interest in poetry and felt as if the competition would be a great opportunity for students to showcase their talents in a very different and unique way. Department head Mrs. Shelley Terry said,“Poetry Out Loud has been an in class requirement for grades 911 since 2016.” Students are required to participate in the first round of the competition for English class. During the first round participants are graded based off of the Poetry Out Loud scoring rubric on their physical appearance, voice and articulation, dramatic appropriateness, evidence of understanding, as well as their overall performance. Even if students do not end up advancing further than the in class portion of the competition English teacher Ms. Brittany Hildebrand said that regardless, “Poetry Out Loud is a good challenge for students to work on their oral presentation skills.” English teacher Ms. Erin Studholme, Poetry Out Loud organizer said, “I forgot how cool it was to watch students who I typically wouldn’t expect to thrive in this element do an amazing job. Whether or not a student makes it to the further rounds of the competition it is still a super fun experience for them.” After the first round of the competition the selected students who score the highest on the Poetry Out Loud scoring rubric will advance to the Semi-final round. At North, the semi-final round was held the week of January 10th during k block in the lecture hall. At the semi-finals, participants are only required to recite one poem, but as students get deeper into the competition things become more challenging. The final round of Poetry Out Loud was held January 25th and required students to not only memorize and recite one poem, but two. The night of the final competition outside judges step in to do the job. No longer are participants being graded by their teacher, but now they are being graded by a panel of judges along with an accuracy judge as well. These judges are made up of Plymouth’s Poet Laureate, middle school English teachers, the District ELA Coordinator Dr. Lisa White, and our school Librarian Mrs. Linda Harding. Freshman Amy Lee was the winner and Junior Maggie Buckley was the runner-up. Lee will move on to the regional competition, which will be digital this year and the winner of that competition will move to the Massachusetts state competition. Finally, the winner of the state competition will compete nationally in April at the National Poetry Out Loud competition which offers a grand prize of $20,000.
By: Amanda Cherry Plymouth North’s Leadership Club provides students with the opportunity to work on various skills in the comfort of a small group. Students from any grade level are welcome to meet in room 109 every other Monday and learn a variety of different skills to help better themselves. Leadership Club was first introduced in the 2020-2021 school year by former students Andi Martin and Eliza Mayo. However, the club didn’t last very long due to Covid-19 and different school-wide regulations. Covid restrictions made it difficult to start different projects, such as community outreach, so the club ultimately ran its course without getting much work done. This year, senior presidents of the club, Madde Tassinari and Maya Galindo, have revamped and updated the primary goals of the club in order to push current students to work on skills that will benefit them in their future professions. The main goal of Leadership Club is to instill and promote qualities that will help them with their leadership skills later in life. Students learn how to collaborate with others and are challenged to think critically about certain topics raised within the community. This club is one of North’s most unique clubs because it combines the practicing of life long needed skills with entertaining activities and challenges.
“We want to focus towards civic responsibility for students and getting them active in the community by volunteering and donating” -Maya Galindo
Doing these presentations will allow students to get comfortable presenting in front of others without the burden of receiving a grade on their back. This project will help students with their public speaking, a skill that is needed in both other classes and later in life in the working world. The group also intends to work on teaching students how to create a professional resume as well as a cover sheet to send to future employers. Students will learn an extremely important skill that will help them drastically later in life. Ms. Sprowl, the club's advisor, was more than happy to be a part of the club and its mission when Madde and Maya approached her about being an advisor. “A lot of these skills only get better with practice, and what better way to do that than in front of a group of judgment free students all there to learn and better themselves,” said Sprowl. Leadership Club intends to be a safe place for students to work on building their confidence and social skills while also giving back to the community. The focus on the importance of community service and volunteering is extremely salient for this club. “We want to focus towards civic responsibility for students and getting them active in the community by volunteering and donating,” said Galindo. “We want to encourage students to be involved in the community,” said Tassinari. “We hope members will go off on their own and do their own volunteering.” Although Leadership Club is still developing and becoming its own entity, members will continue “doing things that will help them and their community thrive,” said Galindo. The club continues to grow and evolve, benefiting both the Plymouth community and the members themselves.
“We want to instill skills like confidence and reinforce the ability to collaborate with other students,” said Galindo. A planned event for future Leadership meetings is members will create slideshow presentations of whatever they desire and present them. “I’m most looking forward to being able to do presentations and work on public speaking,” said Aubrey Corbett, a senior member of the club. “It’s fun and laid back and you should do it if you want to better yourself and your social skills.”
PAGE 3
North’s School Store Back in Business By: Liam Husband The spot to be for tasty drinks, snacks and everything Plymouth North, is taking its place back in the spotlight as teachers and students are prepping for a big January opening, after the stores nearly year and a half hiatus. Due to the Covid 19 Pandemic many businesses and other popular places had to close down due to safety measures. This includes Plymouth North's very own school store. Although the long wait for all the tasty and fun products the store has to offer is over, a new era for the store is beginning. Jennifer Figlioli, Plymouth North Marketing teacher explained the opening process. The store will be open in January and the first week that it is open will be exclusively for the seniors as it's their prize for winning the Pep Rally Contest. And after that it will begin to reopen for the other grade levels for the duration of the year. It is now open during K block with grades 9-12 being able to go during directed study (Monday, Thursdays, and Fridays) and seniors being able to go all five days since they have directed study five days a week. With this opening, lots of planning and adjustments have been made to ensure the store was ready to go. That's why the first week for seniors is very important. Figlioli said, “This will act as a soft opening so we can make adjustments as needed.” As far as having the new store, it comes with a new cast as well. “Ms. Anderson will be running the school store now. She has been working really hard to get it ready to open,” said Figlioli. Before the opening a lot needs to be done. Ingrid Anderson who will be running the store said, “The school store shut down in 2020 making the cleanup and organizing a bit of a bigger battle, lots of expired food and drink need to be disposed of and general cleaning of the space needs to be done.” They will be selling similar products, although lots of purchasing decisions will have to be made.
Hours Staff: A-C days 9am12pm D days 8am-12am Grade 12: K-Block Mon-Fri. Grades 9-11: Directed Study
“We are hoping as the year progresses and we work out a few kinks, we can offer specials once a month,” said Anderson. Along with this soft opening, the store must make sure that it meets the wants and needs of customers. “It is important that we offer the products that our target market wants while meeting their price point,” said Figlioli.
PAGE 2
Seniors Support Freshman for the NHS Student Voice Project The leaders in the school community looking to boost up their younger peers By: Delia Joyce
📷 Madde Tassinari With the suspense and build up around the opening it has many students eager and excited to see the store, once again. Colin Raeke Junior at Plymouth North expressed his excitement for the opening of the store. “The second I walk into that room I will explode with pure joy,” said Raeke. With all this excitement many juniors and seniors can reminisce about what the store was like two years ago. “My favorite memory was smelling those freshly baked cookies coming out of the oven in the mornings,” said Raeke. Many are looking forward to new times in this store. “I love to see students in the store and the positive vibes that it offers. It allows students to grab a snack and offer another a place where they feel as if they belong,” said Figlioli.
“I love to see students in the store and the positive vibes that it offers. It allows students to grab a snack and offer another a place where they feel as if they belong.” Mrs. Jennifer Figlioli In addition to the school store helping satisfy students appetites and boosting the school morale it also serves as an educational piece to Plymouth North’s Marketing students. “Also we will have more of a student presence as it will be treated as an extension of the Marketing Programs shop,” said Figlioli. Many marketing students are going there doing their class so they can get real life selling experiences. This is important as students can take what they learn in the classroom and apply it to real life situations. So no matter if you need a drink, snack, shirt, or just a place to see some smiles, the school store will be a great place to go.
“It’s important because it helps underclassmen connect with older students and feel more comfortable in a new school. Also since upperclassmen weren't freshmen during Covid, I would hope to teach them what freshman year is like during this time,” said freshman Solome Bell. “I hope they [the freshman] know that their input is valued and if you get involved and really take your high school experience seriously, Each year, the National Honor you'll get out what you put into it,” Society works to create change said senior officer Sofia DeCola. inside and outside the walls of Their overarching focus is helping Plymouth North. This year, they are freshmen make the best out of the focusing on their own student next four years. population, particularly the class of One thing that has really 2025. The freshman class has connected all the students and struggled with integrating into the high school environment, as most do faculty is the common struggle through the pandemic. when transitioning into a new Senior Katie Donohoe building. However, due to the recognizes the pandemic stunting the emotpandemic and ional growth of these studThe goal is for its effect on ents, the first term of this all students. school year has been a mutual respect “This major challenge. The between all project is senior class is a group important that the freshmen oftmembers of the because en look up to, and the school community. due to class of 2022 has choCovid, sen to take advantage Everyone can learn everyone is of that in a positive way. from each other. off balance. “This particular year our We want to help focus is engaging the freshthe new members man. In student voice we want of our school, the freshmen, to make sure that everyone that's get into the groove of things. We here at North is represented. We are want to get them to a place where focusing on the freshmen and trying they feel comfortable with their to welcome them and trying to help own selves, with their grades, and them with their transition into high with their after school activities,” school,” said NHS Advisor Mrs. Burt. said Donohoe. “Each month we are going to go “As far as our message, it is not into an advisory with a group of only to become a part of our seniors. This month our focus is community because we feel as community, and to introduce them though that makes the whole high to all the clubs, teams, and school experience a little more organizations.” positive, but also too be “Student voice wants to accountable for your academics encourage getting involved, and and how you hold yourself in the helping students become aware of all of the extracurriculars available at classroom, hallways, and cafeteria, so that our overall community is a Plymouth North,” said Burt. better place,” said Burt. Often, students don't know about Mrs. Burt encourages seniors who the sports and clubs available, and may be interested in this project to through students voice the seniors participate regardless if they are in can bring those programs to light. the National Honor Society. Student The seniors who are participating in this project remember what it was Voice was built on giving a platform to all students, and giving every like to be a freshman, and the student a place to be themselves. challenging transition. Contact any of the NHS officers or “When I was a freshman I advisors if you are interested in struggled with the same thing that a becoming an influence to the lot of people struggle with now, underclassman at Plymouth North. being a part of Plymouth North and involving myself in the community,” said Senior Gwyneth Amonte. From her experience, she understands the need for support and role models as an underclassman. The goal is for mutual respect between all members of the school community. Everyone can learn from each other.
Poetry Out Loud
Leadership Club
Embracing the art of poetry throughout the Plymouth North community
Plymouth North seniors take on a new approach to a former club in order to reinforce skills students will need not only in school, but in their futures
By: Alexcia Barry Poetry Out Loud is a national arts education program which encourages the study of poetry within school communities. This competition was initially brought to Plymouth North by English teacher Mrs. Erin Auger who expressed a great interest in poetry and felt as if the competition would be a great opportunity for students to showcase their talents in a very different and unique way. Department head Mrs. Shelley Terry said,“Poetry Out Loud has been an in class requirement for grades 911 since 2016.” Students are required to participate in the first round of the competition for English class. During the first round participants are graded based off of the Poetry Out Loud scoring rubric on their physical appearance, voice and articulation, dramatic appropriateness, evidence of understanding, as well as their overall performance. Even if students do not end up advancing further than the in class portion of the competition English teacher Ms. Brittany Hildebrand said that regardless, “Poetry Out Loud is a good challenge for students to work on their oral presentation skills.” English teacher Ms. Erin Studholme, Poetry Out Loud organizer said, “I forgot how cool it was to watch students who I typically wouldn’t expect to thrive in this element do an amazing job. Whether or not a student makes it to the further rounds of the competition it is still a super fun experience for them.” After the first round of the competition the selected students who score the highest on the Poetry Out Loud scoring rubric will advance to the Semi-final round. At North, the semi-final round was held the week of January 10th during k block in the lecture hall. At the semi-finals, participants are only required to recite one poem, but as students get deeper into the competition things become more challenging. The final round of Poetry Out Loud was held January 25th and required students to not only memorize and recite one poem, but two. The night of the final competition outside judges step in to do the job. No longer are participants being graded by their teacher, but now they are being graded by a panel of judges along with an accuracy judge as well. These judges are made up of Plymouth’s Poet Laureate, middle school English teachers, the District ELA Coordinator Dr. Lisa White, and our school Librarian Mrs. Linda Harding. Freshman Amy Lee was the winner and Junior Maggie Buckley was the runner-up. Lee will move on to the regional competition, which will be digital this year and the winner of that competition will move to the Massachusetts state competition. Finally, the winner of the state competition will compete nationally in April at the National Poetry Out Loud competition which offers a grand prize of $20,000.
By: Amanda Cherry Plymouth North’s Leadership Club provides students with the opportunity to work on various skills in the comfort of a small group. Students from any grade level are welcome to meet in room 109 every other Monday and learn a variety of different skills to help better themselves. Leadership Club was first introduced in the 2020-2021 school year by former students Andi Martin and Eliza Mayo. However, the club didn’t last very long due to Covid-19 and different school-wide regulations. Covid restrictions made it difficult to start different projects, such as community outreach, so the club ultimately ran its course without getting much work done. This year, senior presidents of the club, Madde Tassinari and Maya Galindo, have revamped and updated the primary goals of the club in order to push current students to work on skills that will benefit them in their future professions. The main goal of Leadership Club is to instill and promote qualities that will help them with their leadership skills later in life. Students learn how to collaborate with others and are challenged to think critically about certain topics raised within the community. This club is one of North’s most unique clubs because it combines the practicing of life long needed skills with entertaining activities and challenges.
“We want to focus towards civic responsibility for students and getting them active in the community by volunteering and donating” -Maya Galindo
Doing these presentations will allow students to get comfortable presenting in front of others without the burden of receiving a grade on their back. This project will help students with their public speaking, a skill that is needed in both other classes and later in life in the working world. The group also intends to work on teaching students how to create a professional resume as well as a cover sheet to send to future employers. Students will learn an extremely important skill that will help them drastically later in life. Ms. Sprowl, the club's advisor, was more than happy to be a part of the club and its mission when Madde and Maya approached her about being an advisor. “A lot of these skills only get better with practice, and what better way to do that than in front of a group of judgment free students all there to learn and better themselves,” said Sprowl. Leadership Club intends to be a safe place for students to work on building their confidence and social skills while also giving back to the community. The focus on the importance of community service and volunteering is extremely salient for this club. “We want to focus towards civic responsibility for students and getting them active in the community by volunteering and donating,” said Galindo. “We want to encourage students to be involved in the community,” said Tassinari. “We hope members will go off on their own and do their own volunteering.” Although Leadership Club is still developing and becoming its own entity, members will continue “doing things that will help them and their community thrive,” said Galindo. The club continues to grow and evolve, benefiting both the Plymouth community and the members themselves.
“We want to instill skills like confidence and reinforce the ability to collaborate with other students,” said Galindo. A planned event for future Leadership meetings is members will create slideshow presentations of whatever they desire and present them. “I’m most looking forward to being able to do presentations and work on public speaking,” said Aubrey Corbett, a senior member of the club. “It’s fun and laid back and you should do it if you want to better yourself and your social skills.”
PAGE 3
Crochet Club By: Miranda Coleman The covid pandemic has laid a lot of burdens on many people, causing lots of stress and anxiety. Crochet club creates a relaxed environment for students, where they can take a break from learning and let their creativity flow. Mrs. Jenkins-Brown, the advisor of the crochet club, wanted to make the crochet club a safe place where students can forget their worries and use their brains more creatively. “Crocheting makes me feel relaxed, productive, and creative,” Jenkins-Brown said. The crochet club, which meets on the first Thursday of every month at Plymouth North, allows students to both let their creative personalities shine through and take a break from the rest of the world. “I just love that we get to take a break from schoolwork and be at school, but like, do something where you don’t have to think that hard,” said Jenkins-Brown. Aubrey Corbett, a senior at Plymouth North High School, is a member of the crochet club. She has been in the club all throughout high school and continues to go to the meetings. Corbett said, “A big part of me joining crochet club was actually Mrs. JB…She’s just a very supportive and welcoming teacher and such a great person.” Many students don’t join the crochet club because they don’t have any experience. However, experience isn’t necessary. “I had never learned how to crochet prior to crochet club and I actually learned how to crochet from the club itself,” Corbett said. “If you don’t know how to crochet if you’re bad at crocheting, it’s totally fine…there’s no reason to have a certain skill set or anything.” Another reason some students may not join the club is that they think they don’t have the correct materials. However, students don’t have to worry about getting their own materials for the crochet club. Ms. Jenkins-Brown said, “For the crochet club specifically, we mostly get donations from school community members.” The crochet club is a fantastic club to join if one is looking for a new hobby or a way to relax. Crochet Club is a fun way to take your mind off of things and spend time with other kids from your school and just relax. Typically in each meeting, students will grab whatever materials they need and just start crocheting whatever they would like. Ms. JenkinsBrown often offers snacks and treats for students to take while they crochet. Crochet Club is a very inclusive and welcoming club where students can talk to and get to know each other. With all the stress the winter season usually puts on people, finding new hobbies or ways to relax is a great way to manage that stress. Crochet Club is the perfect club to go to if you are looking to relax, have fun, chat with friends, and let your creative juices flow.
📷 Hannah Flockton
The Songwriter's Club By: Hannah Flockton A new arrival to Plymouth North this school year, this tune-filled club is thriving with bright new faces who take an interest in songwriting. Songwriters Club, established at the beginning of this school year, invites all students of any musical background to join. They meet every Monday after school and music made by students of all walks of life is encouraged. The main focus of the club is to create a safe space for students who are interested in making music to join. It is less intensive than the other musical ensembles held at North, such as only meeting once a week, and being less strict than ensembles who produce recitals. Songwriters club gives students a space to express their creativity freely. Aine Lindsay, a sophomore at North, is a member of the Songwriters club. “I like that I get the opportunity to work with certain people that I wouldn’t have known or approached outside of school,” said Lindsay. Lily Caple, a freshman, has been involved with music her whole life. “Songwriters club is a community. It is really fun to come back at the end of the day when you are just looking for a group of people who really care about each other and just want to help each other out,” said Caple. The club is student-directed by a junior at North who is pursuing a passion for songwriting. She arranged and produced one of her original songs in Plymouth North A Cappella’s album “Unaccompanied” last year.
"It's so fun...it's like a catch-up circle, gossip corner." - Ms. Jenkins-Brown
"When it comes to music, there are your typical choir kids, and your theater kids, and kids who like band music, but because of Songwriters club, this is the first time we’ve seen all of these kids make music together,” said Sydney Palmer, student director of the club. “This club is diverse, welcoming, fun, and new. It is growing and evolving and that’s why we need students to join it. Sharing your work will help inspire others,” said Palmer. Mr. Dave Grossman, the choir director at North, is the advisor of the club. “The original idea for this club was that it would eventually evolve into a student-led record label. We went through the process of deciding what we needed to get there, and the first thing we realized was needed was a new culture and environment of music creation,” said Mr. Grossman. Not only does the Songwriters Club embrace creativity and music-making, but it also provides an example of how people from all corners of the school can come together to create something meaningful.
Drumming Up Some Noise By: Seeger Creane
When discussing extracurriculars at PNHS, both students and staff are familiar with many of the heavy hitters. From the musical to sports teams to choir ensembles, many clubs and activities are well known throughout the school. However, one very talented group of student musicians has flown under the radar: Winter percussion. Winter Percussion is an indoor performance group made up of students from Plymouth North and Plymouth South. Participants perform a preselected show here at PNHS and at various competitions throughout the area on a wide variety of percussion instruments, ranging from marimba to guitar to snare drums. “Winter percussion is a music ensemble that has percussion instruments, including guitar and bass. The students do a song or a show that has a theme to it, usually with a uniform or costume that plays into the theme a little bit,” said Mrs. Bonnie Holmes, band teacher and director of the winter percussion at PNHS. This ensemble offers students an opportunity to branch out and try something new. Everything from the music they perform to the instruments students are able to play is very different from regular in-school band class. “For one, some people are playing their main instrument and some people are playing a secondary or different instrument. There are people who play clarinet or saxophone and are learning to play marimba or xylophone,” said Mrs. Holmes. Winter percussion transitions away from the usual trumpet or violin and towards much more unique instruments, such as marimbas or glockenspiels. This wide array of unique instruments is provided by PNHS, and rehearsals are held at Plymouth North twice a week, making it a very convenient opportunity for students. The Winter Percussion ensemble also provides terrific social opportunities for its participants. The process of learning, rehearsing, and performing music together is a great bonding opportunity and creates many long-lasting friendships. “My favorite part of winter percussion is spending time with people who have the same interests as I do and growing as musicians together,” said junior Grace Hovey. Senior Zach Terman shared a similar sentiment. “What draws me to winter percussion is the atmosphere and camaraderie between all the members. We are all there for the same reason, playing music,” said Terman. The bond shared between these young musicians is something that can only be achieved by sharing the experience of making music together. “There is a lot of hang-out time and the kids really bond a lot,” said Mrs. Holmes. From the music performed to the fun had by its participants, winter percussion is a uniquely fun club.
📷 Maggie Ladd
Leading on the Sidelines By: Ryan Healy Injury. A word that athletes never want to hear. From high school players up to professionals, injuries obstruct all athletes and prevent them from doing what they love. Plymouth North Senior, Max Allen, is a captain for the Soccer and Basketball teams this year and is having his experience with a long-term injury. Over the summer, he tore several ligaments in his knee while leading the team in a summer league basketball game, preventing him from participating in his favorite activities for a long period of time. With basketball being his main sport, Max was devastated when he heard about the injury timeline. “I was speechless at the moment, you know, he’s a tough kid,” said Varsity Basketball Coach, Tim Ward, who has watched Max’s progression as a leader throughout his high school career. Even as a freshman, Max was very instrumental to the basketball program. “He has always been a leader of the group that he’s playing with so the natural progression for him was to be named captain in his senior year,” Ward said. “He’s a kid that put in more work than most,” he said on the topic of Max’s work ethic. “He really got the team together in the offseason, [and] he really was set up to have a great senior year,” he said. “You couldn’t tell, you know, he’s not letting out what he’s losing right now,” said Ward when talking about Max’s current role on the sideline. “He’s encouraging others, he’s working with others. He’s seeing things happening on the court from a player's perspective and communicating with the coaching staff,” Ward said. It is not unusual for a student-athlete to quit a sport after sustaining a terrible injury, Ward said, “There are some kids that wouldn't stay around.” Yet because of his selflessness, he stuck around, “He’s done a great job putting the team above himself,” said Ward. Chris Kane, a senior basketball player gave his insight on having Max as a leader and playing sports with him growing up. “I’ve known Max since the 6th grade.“Not only was Max always my teammate but he was also someone who put the team before himself,” Kane said. “He would always help out the team with whatever we needed help with on and off of the court.” Even with Max on the sideline, the basketball program is very grateful to have him, “Max has always been a true leader and I am very grateful to have him and so is the whole basketball team,” Kane said. “Having Max on the sidelines is very unfortunate but he has been like a coach to this team this year. It’s nice to have an extra set of eyes from a player's perspective,” he said.
Although soccer wasn’t Max’s priority sport, he was still dedicated to the team and helping them get to their outstanding 11 win season and playoff run. Varsity Soccer and former Freshman Basketball Coach, John Tocci commented that “Max was a great leader on the freshman basketball team so I knew he had it in him [to be the soccer captain also]”. “I thought his impact was as good as if he was on the field as well, it was definitely sad that he wasn't on the field, but his leadership was constant,” Tocci said. “It always seemed like he was in the game, his mentality was to always motivate us to win,” said sophomore soccer player, Jack Corby. Max’s influence spreads through to his teammates and impacts them in a way that will inspire them to be leaders in their own lives. All teams need leaders and Max Allen is one to remember despite being sidelined in his senior season. “He’s been a great communicator, great organizer, he's in that role where he is a player-coach right now.” “He’s done a great job putting the team above himself.” “He’s fighting with all of his guts to try to get back to the team by the end of the year but in the meantime, he's helping the team to get ready to x- Chris Max has always been a true leader and I am very grateful to have him and so is the whole basketball team. Having Max on the sidelines is very unfortunate but he has been like a coach to this team this year. It’s nice to have an extra set of eyes from a player's perspective. I know I can go to Max whenever I need help with a play or just advice about the game in general.” - John Tocci “Freshman year in high school, max was a great leader on the freshman basketball team so I knew he had it in him. Last year his leadership was good. And then it progressed well through the summer. Right out of the gate he just showed that he is going to be an important person to our team. I thought his impact was as good as if he was on the field as well, it was definitely sad that he wasn't on the field, but his leadership was constant. -Corby On the soccer side, he is always hyping up the team and getting us into game mode, game mentality. He was a good friend, drove me around places, got me to practices. It always seemed like he was in the game, his mentality was to always make us motivated to win.
Crochet Club By: Miranda Coleman The covid pandemic has laid a lot of burdens on many people, causing lots of stress and anxiety. Crochet club creates a relaxed environment for students, where they can take a break from learning and let their creativity flow. Mrs. Jenkins-Brown, the advisor of the crochet club, wanted to make the crochet club a safe place where students can forget their worries and use their brains more creatively. “Crocheting makes me feel relaxed, productive, and creative,” Jenkins-Brown said. The crochet club, which meets on the first Thursday of every month at Plymouth North, allows students to both let their creative personalities shine through and take a break from the rest of the world. “I just love that we get to take a break from schoolwork and be at school, but like, do something where you don’t have to think that hard,” said Jenkins-Brown. Aubrey Corbett, a senior at Plymouth North High School, is a member of the crochet club. She has been in the club all throughout high school and continues to go to the meetings. Corbett said, “A big part of me joining crochet club was actually Mrs. JB…She’s just a very supportive and welcoming teacher and such a great person.” Many students don’t join the crochet club because they don’t have any experience. However, experience isn’t necessary. “I had never learned how to crochet prior to crochet club and I actually learned how to crochet from the club itself,” Corbett said. “If you don’t know how to crochet if you’re bad at crocheting, it’s totally fine…there’s no reason to have a certain skill set or anything.” Another reason some students may not join the club is that they think they don’t have the correct materials. However, students don’t have to worry about getting their own materials for the crochet club. Ms. Jenkins-Brown said, “For the crochet club specifically, we mostly get donations from school community members.” The crochet club is a fantastic club to join if one is looking for a new hobby or a way to relax. Crochet Club is a fun way to take your mind off of things and spend time with other kids from your school and just relax. Typically in each meeting, students will grab whatever materials they need and just start crocheting whatever they would like. Ms. JenkinsBrown often offers snacks and treats for students to take while they crochet. Crochet Club is a very inclusive and welcoming club where students can talk to and get to know each other. With all the stress the winter season usually puts on people, finding new hobbies or ways to relax is a great way to manage that stress. Crochet Club is the perfect club to go to if you are looking to relax, have fun, chat with friends, and let your creative juices flow.
📷 Hannah Flockton
The Songwriter's Club By: Hannah Flockton A new arrival to Plymouth North this school year, this tune-filled club is thriving with bright new faces who take an interest in songwriting. Songwriters Club, established at the beginning of this school year, invites all students of any musical background to join. They meet every Monday after school and music made by students of all walks of life is encouraged. The main focus of the club is to create a safe space for students who are interested in making music to join. It is less intensive than the other musical ensembles held at North, such as only meeting once a week, and being less strict than ensembles who produce recitals. Songwriters club gives students a space to express their creativity freely. Aine Lindsay, a sophomore at North, is a member of the Songwriters club. “I like that I get the opportunity to work with certain people that I wouldn’t have known or approached outside of school,” said Lindsay. Lily Caple, a freshman, has been involved with music her whole life. “Songwriters club is a community. It is really fun to come back at the end of the day when you are just looking for a group of people who really care about each other and just want to help each other out,” said Caple. The club is student-directed by a junior at North who is pursuing a passion for songwriting. She arranged and produced one of her original songs in Plymouth North A Cappella’s album “Unaccompanied” last year.
"It's so fun...it's like a catch-up circle, gossip corner." - Ms. Jenkins-Brown
"When it comes to music, there are your typical choir kids, and your theater kids, and kids who like band music, but because of Songwriters club, this is the first time we’ve seen all of these kids make music together,” said Sydney Palmer, student director of the club. “This club is diverse, welcoming, fun, and new. It is growing and evolving and that’s why we need students to join it. Sharing your work will help inspire others,” said Palmer. Mr. Dave Grossman, the choir director at North, is the advisor of the club. “The original idea for this club was that it would eventually evolve into a student-led record label. We went through the process of deciding what we needed to get there, and the first thing we realized was needed was a new culture and environment of music creation,” said Mr. Grossman. Not only does the Songwriters Club embrace creativity and music-making, but it also provides an example of how people from all corners of the school can come together to create something meaningful.
Drumming Up Some Noise By: Seeger Creane
When discussing extracurriculars at PNHS, both students and staff are familiar with many of the heavy hitters. From the musical to sports teams to choir ensembles, many clubs and activities are well known throughout the school. However, one very talented group of student musicians has flown under the radar: Winter percussion. Winter Percussion is an indoor performance group made up of students from Plymouth North and Plymouth South. Participants perform a preselected show here at PNHS and at various competitions throughout the area on a wide variety of percussion instruments, ranging from marimba to guitar to snare drums. “Winter percussion is a music ensemble that has percussion instruments, including guitar and bass. The students do a song or a show that has a theme to it, usually with a uniform or costume that plays into the theme a little bit,” said Mrs. Bonnie Holmes, band teacher and director of the winter percussion at PNHS. This ensemble offers students an opportunity to branch out and try something new. Everything from the music they perform to the instruments students are able to play is very different from regular in-school band class. “For one, some people are playing their main instrument and some people are playing a secondary or different instrument. There are people who play clarinet or saxophone and are learning to play marimba or xylophone,” said Mrs. Holmes. Winter percussion transitions away from the usual trumpet or violin and towards much more unique instruments, such as marimbas or glockenspiels. This wide array of unique instruments is provided by PNHS, and rehearsals are held at Plymouth North twice a week, making it a very convenient opportunity for students. The Winter Percussion ensemble also provides terrific social opportunities for its participants. The process of learning, rehearsing, and performing music together is a great bonding opportunity and creates many long-lasting friendships. “My favorite part of winter percussion is spending time with people who have the same interests as I do and growing as musicians together,” said junior Grace Hovey. Senior Zach Terman shared a similar sentiment. “What draws me to winter percussion is the atmosphere and camaraderie between all the members. We are all there for the same reason, playing music,” said Terman. The bond shared between these young musicians is something that can only be achieved by sharing the experience of making music together. “There is a lot of hang-out time and the kids really bond a lot,” said Mrs. Holmes. From the music performed to the fun had by its participants, winter percussion is a uniquely fun club.
📷 Maggie Ladd
Leading on the Sidelines By: Ryan Healy Injury. A word that athletes never want to hear. From high school players up to professionals, injuries obstruct all athletes and prevent them from doing what they love. Plymouth North Senior, Max Allen, is a captain for the Soccer and Basketball teams this year and is having his experience with a long-term injury. Over the summer, he tore several ligaments in his knee while leading the team in a summer league basketball game, preventing him from participating in his favorite activities for a long period of time. With basketball being his main sport, Max was devastated when he heard about the injury timeline. “I was speechless at the moment, you know, he’s a tough kid,” said Varsity Basketball Coach, Tim Ward, who has watched Max’s progression as a leader throughout his high school career. Even as a freshman, Max was very instrumental to the basketball program. “He has always been a leader of the group that he’s playing with so the natural progression for him was to be named captain in his senior year,” Ward said. “He’s a kid that put in more work than most,” he said on the topic of Max’s work ethic. “He really got the team together in the offseason, [and] he really was set up to have a great senior year,” he said. “You couldn’t tell, you know, he’s not letting out what he’s losing right now,” said Ward when talking about Max’s current role on the sideline. “He’s encouraging others, he’s working with others. He’s seeing things happening on the court from a player's perspective and communicating with the coaching staff,” Ward said. It is not unusual for a student-athlete to quit a sport after sustaining a terrible injury, Ward said, “There are some kids that wouldn't stay around.” Yet because of his selflessness, he stuck around, “He’s done a great job putting the team above himself,” said Ward. Chris Kane, a senior basketball player gave his insight on having Max as a leader and playing sports with him growing up. “I’ve known Max since the 6th grade.“Not only was Max always my teammate but he was also someone who put the team before himself,” Kane said. “He would always help out the team with whatever we needed help with on and off of the court.” Even with Max on the sideline, the basketball program is very grateful to have him, “Max has always been a true leader and I am very grateful to have him and so is the whole basketball team,” Kane said. “Having Max on the sidelines is very unfortunate but he has been like a coach to this team this year. It’s nice to have an extra set of eyes from a player's perspective,” he said.
Although soccer wasn’t Max’s priority sport, he was still dedicated to the team and helping them get to their outstanding 11 win season and playoff run. Varsity Soccer and former Freshman Basketball Coach, John Tocci commented that “Max was a great leader on the freshman basketball team so I knew he had it in him [to be the soccer captain also]”. “I thought his impact was as good as if he was on the field as well, it was definitely sad that he wasn't on the field, but his leadership was constant,” Tocci said. “It always seemed like he was in the game, his mentality was to always motivate us to win,” said sophomore soccer player, Jack Corby. Max’s influence spreads through to his teammates and impacts them in a way that will inspire them to be leaders in their own lives. All teams need leaders and Max Allen is one to remember despite being sidelined in his senior season. “He’s been a great communicator, great organizer, he's in that role where he is a player-coach right now.” “He’s done a great job putting the team above himself.” “He’s fighting with all of his guts to try to get back to the team by the end of the year but in the meantime, he's helping the team to get ready to x- Chris Max has always been a true leader and I am very grateful to have him and so is the whole basketball team. Having Max on the sidelines is very unfortunate but he has been like a coach to this team this year. It’s nice to have an extra set of eyes from a player's perspective. I know I can go to Max whenever I need help with a play or just advice about the game in general.” - John Tocci “Freshman year in high school, max was a great leader on the freshman basketball team so I knew he had it in him. Last year his leadership was good. And then it progressed well through the summer. Right out of the gate he just showed that he is going to be an important person to our team. I thought his impact was as good as if he was on the field as well, it was definitely sad that he wasn't on the field, but his leadership was constant. -Corby On the soccer side, he is always hyping up the team and getting us into game mode, game mentality. He was a good friend, drove me around places, got me to practices. It always seemed like he was in the game, his mentality was to always make us motivated to win.
Swimming Back To Normalcy With in person meets finally back, the Plymouth High School swim team is making a big splash on their return By: Skyler Wodzinski. After a year of virtual meets, the Plymouth swim team is finally back to in person competitions. The team finally gets the chance to compete against other towns in person unlike last year which consisted of self timed races. Last year, the team would go to practices and race and time each other. There were no other teams, just the Plymouth swim team there. The Coach would then submit these times and the swimmers would compare times and scores against other teams. It still maintained the fun of the sport but it was not as exciting since it did not allow teams to compete against each other. Senior swim Captain Morgan Adams is excited for the in person meets.
She has been swimming for her entire life and is currently committed to Salisbury University to swim. The sport is very exciting for her and getting to have a full fan section back makes the meets that much more enjoyable. Adams is extremely excited to have fans back in the stands. “It really makes for just a much more enjoyable and fun environment especially having spectators allowed,” Adams said.
After a year of virtual swim meets, the team is thrilled to get back in the water and compete against other schools. “The energy is so much more vibrant than our meets where we just swam against each other,” Adams said. Swimming is one of the newest sports offered here at Plymouth North High School and it is a combined team of Plymouth North and South athletes. High School swimming is a competitive team sport.
The points of each swim event are added up throughout the races and the overall winner is determined by which team has the most points by the end of the meet. The athletes can all work together to become their best selves while working with their teammates. The team trains and practices together while developing bonds which are important in their everyday lives.
Plymouth North’s Max Balboni takes a gulp of air as he competes in a virtual swim meet last season. E. Gene Chambers
Track and Field: Past, Present, and Future Madeline Dayie
Ava Whiting, senior captain, running in the 4x4 relay at the Reggie Lewis Center
Madde Tassinari, returning senior, running in the 55m hurdles
With the change of season, winter Track and Field has started up again, although very different in experience from what it was the previous year. Last year, the sport was moved to the “Fall 2” season because of the irregular circumstances surrounding the pandemic, and the team was unable to compete at their normal location. “We were allowed to run outside because the Reggie Lewis Center was closed,” said Clifton Buckley, a North teacher who also coaches Track and Field. “We tried to create a competition within the team with mini-teams run by each coach just to keep some air of competitiveness.” The Reggie Lewis Center is an indoor track in Roxbury that hosts different competitions and conferences for Massachusetts schools. Fortunately, it was able to reopen for the 2021-2022 school year. Middistance runner Caitlin Belle Isle is one of many who is grateful for this return to normalcy. “We finally get to go back to the Reggie Lewis Center, which is great,” she said. “Now we get to go to the Patriot League, which is other schools, like Whitman-Hanson, Duxbury, stuff like that.” The Patriot League is a coalition of different local schools that meet up for competitions.
“A Patriot League meet usually takes about 3 hours … to get all the different events in,” Buckley said. Its events range from hurdles to long jumps to relay races, all varying distances. There are usually five Patriot League meets per year, but this year it’s been shortened to four. One of the captains for the team who competes in hurdles and shotput is Senior TJ Showstead, who’s also been in Track and Field since Freshman year. Showstead is also glad that the meets are in-person again. “Last year we had to go completely virtual. We were running at our own school and just comparing the times to other schools. It wasn’t very fun,” he said. Coaches and teammates of Track and Field alike agree that returning to the old ways of racing and competing has brought back more consistency, coordination, and enjoyment to their sport.