high school 2.0 how schools are changing to meet the needs of today’s students p.12
1000 Idaho Ave. Portage, MI 49024
volume 50 issue 4
www.portagenorthernlight.com
Contents Staff Ed: The Big Three
People of the Pack
The three most important things that the Northern Light staff feels we should change about the school system.
Junior Paige Underwood is not only navigating school and marching band, but finding themself and their own gender identity.
07
Northern Dark: The Boring 20’s It’s a new year, even a new decade, but how much is actually going to change in these next 365 days?
14
Anne with an E
Women’s Basketball How the Portage Northern Women’s basketball team has been making a comeback after two losing seasons.
by Snigda Narisetty
To represent the ‘high school 2.0’ idea, we decided to use Photoshop to reflect the image of our own high school over water as a reflection on how we can improve the education system for the benefit of students’ learning and health.
News Staff Editorial
04-06 07
Opinion
08-11
Feature
12-15
Sports
16-19
Entertainment
20-22
02 Contents
20
17
09
On the cover
A timeless story in a new era: how the Anne with an E team has transformed Anne of Green Gables to incorporate modern issues.
Policies at the NL The Northern Light in print and online is the student-produced newspaper for Portage Northern HS. It is an open, designated public forum for student expression, and the newspaper provides staff members with independent reporting opportunities and individual evaluation. Writing is based on a wide variety of research for a broad and diverse audience and topics of coverage are decided by the staff and editorial board with consideration to what is timely, relevant, compelling, educational, and important to the student body. In accordance with best practice for student media, the Northern Light is not prior reviewed by administration. Building and district administration do, however, reserve the right to oversee the paper if necessary to ensure that the mission and vision of Portage Public Schools and the safety of students and staff are maintained. As a MIPA, JEA, and NSPA publication, the Northern Light adheres to Design by Gabe Flota
the highest standards of journalistic integrity. Photos, art, and other visual elements are created by Northern Light staff, formally designated for free use, or part of the public domain. In rare circumstances, we may use other media with the owner’s written permission. It is our desire that our readers join the discussion on our published work. We welcome letters to the editor and guest contributions, and the Northern Light will publish online all pieces received provided that they include the author’s full name and are appropriate for publication in a school setting. Letters to the editor are limited to 150 words in length and guest contributions are limited to 350 words in length. Pieces can be delivered to Amanda Thorpe’s room, 3.129, emailed to pnhsNorthernLight@ gmail.com, or mailed ATTN: Portage Northern Light to Portage Northern High School, 1000 Idaho Avenue, Portage, MI 49024. Portage Northern Light
NL Staff Snigda Narisetty Malcolm Gaynor Editors in Chief
Gabe Flota Creative Editor
Kylie Clifton Feature Editor
Astrid Code News Editor
Arushi Mithal Opinion Editor
Cerena Read
Entertainment Editor
Liam Fagan Sports Editor
Brianna Neuhouser Digital Media Manager
Natalie Grinder
Associate Digital Media Manager
Abby VanderBerg Business Manager
Kellie Miles Photographer
Rawan Alsaedi Cynthia Brown Maya Daniels Syed Daniyal Ciara Dragicevich Komalpreet Kaur Katie Knight Kaylin Kyle Lilly Lisznyai Lucy Madelung Carrie Jacobson Melissah Morris-Adkins Kylie Pennington Lindsey Peterson Gavin Stevens Staff Writers
February 2020
Thank you to our sponsors and business partners! Brenda Marsh and family Rathco Safety Supply Jersey Giant Subs UTan
Lafayette Creamery Portage YMCA Bookbug
Jaqua Realtors Dear readers... Our staff is so excited to bring to you our fourth edition of the PN Light! For this edition, we focused on the new strategies that high schools are implementing to make learning more productive and help students, such as later school start times, a more balanced calendar, or eliminating standardized tests. For our staff ed, each member of our staff picked three positive school changes that they would like to see implemented at Portage Northern. We hope that this issue resonates with you, and we would love to hear your thoughts, ideas, or suggestions about anything you read in this edition! Contact us at PNHSnorthernlight@gmail.com, and we’d love to publish your comments either online or in our next edition! Make sure to check out all of the articles on our website, portagenorthDesign by Snigda Narisetty
ernlight.com, for extra coverage and especially news. Finally, we thank you all for reading! All of us here at the PN Light have worked so hard to produce this edition, and we can’t wait to start working on the next one! See you all next edition! Sincerely, Astrid News Editor
Scan to follow! About 03
Huskie Headlines Save a Life program stresses the dangers of distracted driving By Astrid Code
On February 3rd, the Save a Life program hosted an assembly to raise awareness about distracted driving. Save a Life has been to all 50 states and over 30 countries, and stresses the fact that safe driving is a choice. “I think we all have experiences where we have witnessed distracted driving and probably been guilty ourselves, but we
have to keep this in the forefront for the health and safety of all,” said Principal Jim French. “It’s a great opportunity to hear as a whole school more about distracted driving to ensure we are doing our best to inform students of the potential issues that come with such dangerous behaviors.” Juniors participated in driving simulations
for the rest of the day, an impaired simulator that delayed reaction times, and a phone simulator that forced students to answer simple questions on a phone pop-up while still driving in the simulation. “The phone one [was more difficult] because I had to be more aware of my surroundings,” said junior Katelyn McNutt.
Interact Club leaders pass the torch to five new sophomores and juniors By Astrid Code
As the new semester is starting, Interact Club is looking to the future. “For the future of this club and as a leader, I’m excited to see new ways to bring more awareness to our causes,” said sophomore Abby Placido. She is one of Interact Club’s new leaders for next year. Another new leader is junior Sophie Novak, who said, “Being a leader will help give me a voice.” Since all but one of Interact Club’s current leaders are seniors, the club has to plan ahead for a new leadership team. “I want to be able to portray the aspects of what Interact Club has done for me and my own personality to the new leaders of next year,” said senior and current leader David Le. Le remembers his very first meeting at Interact Club. “Members came to me and introduced themselves as if I 04 News
was their long-lost best friend. That moment truly made my day and ultimately set my opinion on Interact Club as it is not just one simple club that meets every so often. It is a club that has members actually interacting, connecting with each other, building bonds, and spreading joy.” Current leader Karen Robles-Garcia agreed. “The group is a small family with diverse people who understand the true joy of being selfless. I would hope that in the future, Interact continues to grow and thrive with new members and that more students realize the importance and benefits of putting service over self.” Next, Interact Club is hosting Two for Tuleeni to raise money for the education of orphans in Tanzania. Design by Astrid Code
L to R: Interact Club’s new leaders Abby Placido, Irene Choi, Aiden Gleason, and Sophie Novak. Not pictured: Austin Smith. “Although I have not yet transitioned to the leadership role, I’m excited to be able to input my ideas for future events in our school,” said sophomore Irene Choi. Photo by Snigda Narisetty.
Portage Northern Light
Annie Jr. celebrates the past and future of North drama By Astrid Code
North Middle School will be putting on Annie Jr. this March. The production seeks to honor Robert Jordan, the previous choir and musical director of Northern. “[Annie] was actually the first show that Robert Jordan produced at North Middle when he started this wonderful program in 2008,” said director Denene Mulay-Koch. “He has moved
to NYC this year and I thought it would be a great way to initiate our wonderful new Musical Director and choir teacher, Mrs. Hellmers, and honor Mr. Jordan at the same time.” Charlie Gross will be playing Oliver “Daddy” Warbucks. “He is a very wealthy man who has been left with a void in his heart,” said Gross. “I would describe Annie Jr as a show about love,
family, having enough, and always being optimistic about tomorrow and what that may bring.” Along with Gross, the play will star Carly Koch as Annie herself, Ava Grunder as Miss Hannigan, Ysabela Cerbo as Grace Farrell, Elijah Parker as Rooster and Grace Birko as Lily. The performance dates are March 20, 21, 27 and 28 at 7:30pm and March 22 and 29 at 2pm.
Book Buddies club joins the Portage District Library By Malcolm Gaynor
The Book Buddies club, which gave students the opportunity to read to children at the YWCA in Kalamazoo, has expanded to include volunteering with the Portage District Library. “Book Buddies takes place outside our turf in Kalamazoo, and that is awesome because we are expanding past just our community,” said senior Aliza Garcia. “But with incorporating the PDL this is us getting in our community too and interacting with people in Portage.” In the past few years, the Book Buddies club has given over 1,000 volunteer
hours and 500 books to the YWCA. “We came up with the idea of Book Buddies after doing a linen drive for the YWCA, and noticed these children needed books in their lives, and we were presented with an opportunity to change that,” said senior Scotty Fargo, who started the club in 2018. “The best part of Book Buddies is surely sharing that connection with the young ones, and to see how excited and grateful they are to have the opportunity to read a book with a book buddy.” The Book Buddies club also
recently received a $750 Strengthening Schools Grant from Midwest Energy & Communications to fund book donations to the YWCA. The club reads to children on Tuesdays and Thursdays, along with participating in various other volunteer events, including LEGO building competitions at the Portage District Library. Any student interested in being a part of the Book Buddies club can talk to Fargo, Garcia, or Jeanne Friedman.
Scan Me! to read additional articles online and keep up with the news
portagenorthernlight.com Seniors Aliza Garcia and Karen Robles-Garcia and junior Judson Fargo play with kids at the Portage District Library. “The best part for me is getting a chance to be a part of the community and just have fun with the kids,” Garcia said. Photo courtesy of Scotty Fargo.
February 2020
Design by Astrid Code
News 05
Fires in Australia rage on by Gavin Stevens
The Australian bushfires, which have been raging on for months, have captured the attention of the world. Hot weather, strong winds, droughts, and climate change h a v e all been blamed for the devastation which has left millions of acres desecrated and millions of animals dead. But, according to a recent CNN article, in areas controlled by Aboriginal people, the fires are smaller and fewer in number. Conversely, areas controlled by white people--mainly in southern Australia--are experiencing far bigger, widespread fires. Jackson Diggs, a Sophomore at Portage Northern High school voiced his thoughts on the issue, “Since September, 27 million acres have been burned, and have killed 33 people and destroyed 3,000 homes,” Diggs exclaimed. “The fires are supposed to burn for the first few months into 2020”. The strategies utilized by the Aboriginals have been in use for centu-
06 News
ries and involve the setting of small fires which rid the land of excess debris. Smaller, controlled fires lessen the effects on insects and animals inhabiting the land and preserve the trees and the canopy. Although these tactics used by the Aboriginals yield effective results and have existed for over 50,000 years, firefighters continue to combat the fires using fuel control and hazard reduction strategies. Additionally, the most likely reason why the Aboriginals’ met hods
are n o t a d opted on a widespread scale is that early European settlers failed in
Design by Gabe Flota
their attempts to emulate the indigeneous peoples’ techniques. Their efforts only made the fires too hot which burned even more of the flammable scrub. Despite the proven methods of the Aboriginals, Australia will continue to use more common, modern methods of controlling forest fires. According to NPR, the wildfires have now claimed the lives of twenty five people. A majority of these deaths--about 19--have taken place in New South Wales, while the other casualties have been in Victoria and South Australia. “The number of cattle and sheep killed is still being tallied, but the losses are expected to be enormous,” claims NPR’s Jason Beaubien. Property damage--thought to be extensive--continues to be assessed. As BBC notes, these devastating fires will continue to wreak havoc on the Australian landscape--climate change, strong winds, droughts, and an arid atmosphere must continue to combatted.
Portage Northern Light
What changes do we want?
The PN Light staff chooses their three most important progressive school changes By the staff
Later start
No homework
4 day week
December2020 2019 February
A later school start time is an issue that not only would improve the lives and well-being of students, but also their academic performance. If students were given even just an hour of extra sleep in the morning, it would lead to more productivity and engagement in class. With the current start time, students feel trapped in the draining, repetitive cycle of waking up early and going to bed late. Moving the school start time would help break up that cycle and allow students to develop healthy morning routines. This change would lead to more engaged students with healthier habits, which would also play a part in ending the culture of hating school and allowing students to become more passionate in pursuing their education.
Some say that ‘practice makes perfect,’ but homework adds more stress than practice. Forcing students to spend their free time after school doing more work deprives students of their social lives and gives students fewer opportunities to socialize, which can lead to poor communication skills in the future and children becoming reserved. On the other hand, reviewing in class with a teacher there to help is far more valuable than sitting at home struggling with a concept with no way of knowing whether or not the work is being done correctly. The time spent in class checking homework answers could be put toward actually building a solid understanding of concepts. The stress that homework adds to a student’s life can lead to a lack of enthusiasm, knowledge and unavoidable academic burnout.
Currently, the five day school week can feel like a tiring grind, and the weekend can feel like a fast paced rush to accomplish everything a student wants or needs to do. It is difficult to balance homework, studying, extracurriculars, social life, family life, work, and relaxation in just two days. If another break was added to each week, this would alleviate this stressful pattern, not only leading to students who had more time away from the stresses of a long school week, but also to students who would care more about the work they are doing rather than just rushing to get everything done. One less day of school a week may at first appear to decrease learning time, but sacrificing Fridays in exchange for healthier, happier and more passionate students is a worthwhile tradeoff.
Design by Malcolm Gaynor
Staff Editorial 07
Breaking the mold: why high school doesn’t prepare everyone for college by Komalpreet Kaur
Four years, eight semesters, and count- quirements that student athletes must pares themselves to fit into. In public less hours. High school. We sit in these meet in order to keep playing and quality schools, learning a strict 7 am to 3 pm classrooms, cycle through several credits, for collegiate level sports. Therefore, the routine with certain credits and classes and go through the many stages of grow- notion that only excelling at core classes that are required creates a “stencil” out of ing up. Inside of our heads, most of us are ensures the most fulfilling future is cre- high school that even takes the creativity wishing for the time that is already speed- ated by the “stencil” of high school that out of places where it would’ve been otherwise. Students must alter themselves ing by to go even faster. As the clock ticks, students feel they must fit into. Furthermore, clubs are not prepara- to fit into this “mold” of high school, so college gets nearer and nearer, and we rely on the knowledge we have acquired dur- tory for college because the students are that they may get into the best colleges ing our time in this one building of our getting involved in a much less rigorous and thereafter presumably have the most high school to get us through the whole activity than college would expect. For successful careers. However, with most new experience waiting ahead of us. High example, one can be in several clubs in things during this time not being prepaschool surely helps, but in some ways, it is high school, yet have lesser expectations ratory for college, the mold of high school not sufficiently preparatory for the strug- in comparison to a sorority or other ca- often creates issues for students regarding their academic self-esteem and gles, victories, and paths college offers. In one way, though high school The design is flawed in the pattern worth in terms of things they enjoy is known to be a time when one gets of schooling itself. The ideal seven doing. Overall, the school dynamic a better sense of self, identity, and other passions and hobbies, the de- class schedule with a short lunch in could evolve to become more welbetween is what a student prepares coming. If there were clubs offered sign is flawed. that were more career-based for While we are all working on betthemselves to fit into. students, then they could find more ter finding ourselves, there are pressures limiting that from happening. For reer-based club or affiliation in college. It value in attending and doing things for instance, if extracurriculars such as clubs builds the notion that “getting involved” that club. For instance, if someone knows and sports are put in place for students as is always going to be as simple as high they want to go into the medical field in outlets for passion, creativity, and hobbies school puts it. The lesser impact of ex- the future, then a club pertaining to medithere are still certain restraints that they tracurriculars when compared to other cal and healthcare professional routes in carry. High school sports such as basket- aspects of schooling is due to the imbal- college could be beneficial in terms of enball and football carry a stereotype that ance of importance placed between core hancing the student’s interest and seeing if they seldom work out as careers for grade classes and activities like clubs and sports. that is what they really want to do. Clubs school athletes in the long run.This is This imbalance skews the image students should be making the high school experidiscouraging for even those players who have built for college by the time they be- ence better, rather than being something that a student can list on an application have loved and worked hard at the game come seniors. Moreover, the design is flawed in the to get into college. The American school since they were young children. However, dedicated students do have a chance to pattern of schooling itself. The ideal sev- system’s design would look less flawed if that is created had a en class schedule w i t h the mold make a career out of their balanced apa short lunch i n more passion for sports. Asproach to between i s sociations such as the education and what a N C A A set grade creativity. student point averpreage re-
08 Opinion
Design by Kylie Clifton
Portage Northern Light
SATIRE
The Boring 20s By Liam Fagan Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to a new decade. With the hard work of everyone in our global governments and offices, along with the work of regular people like you and me, I’m sure we can move the world into a new decade of prosperity, hope, and…oh, it’s all awful already? Well, that’s really nothing new. Yes, it’s officially the 2020s. And from the looks of it, not much is going to change. Here’s a quick rundown of just a few of the boring things going on right now: Vladmir Putin Is it even surprising to say that Putin’s up to something anymore? This time, it’s major constitutional reform to maintain his power forever. When the news of these reforms broke, many high ranking government officials resigned. Putin is placing term limits and power limits on the presidential office, expanding the power of Congress, and allowing them to choose a Prime minister. Sound too good to be true? It is!! He is also establishing a special state organ that he will be able to lead, essentially removing his daily chores while keeping all of his power. He’s having his cake and establishing a large cabinet of puppets to eat it too.• February 2020
Climate change It’s still a problem! Yay! While scientists can’t necessarily agree on an exact timeline for the total destruction of the human race, they can agree it’s not a long one. Human activity is causing even more erratic weather patterns, which can be seen even
here in Portage. One day it’s a snowstorm, and the next it’s 60 degrees. That’s climate change, and we still haven’t done much about it. Australia Everything is on fire. That’s really all I can say about that one. Impeachment Donald J. Trump became just the third President in US history to be impeached, facing charges of abuse Design by Gabe Flota
of power and obstruction of Congress. Not to worry though, he used his influence as Supreme Leader to threaten his way to a clearance in the Senate and is well on his way to serving the next twenty years in office. On the Democratic side, primaries have begun and despite there being nearly a dozen candidates, there is no clear frontrunner, and there’s a chance that Trump’s 2020 challenger will be another billionaire businessman. Completely routine business here in the American political system. Coronavirus What’s that? A deadly disease that no one can explain is killing people and we can’t figure out how to stop it yet? Oh well, here we go again. It’s SARS all over again. It has killed 100+ people and is scaring people all over the world. It started in Asia, but has traveled all the way to Australia and the U.S. and has sent cities into lockdown, and patients into quarantine. I’m sure it will soon be resolved, but what a great way to start off a year. • So, yeah! Pretty mundane start to the year so far.There’s still time, but for now, I might just spend as much of this year inside as I possibly can. But hey, It’s a leap year so… that’s fun, I guess.
Opinion 09
T A BLETS By Snigda Narisetty
Most of us have grown up surrounded by technology. We are known as the Generation z or even iGen. So, it only makes sense for the education system to adapt to the technological developments. Portage Public Schools has definitely taken a step towards preparing students for the future by providing them with Chromebooks over the past three years. Other schools across the nation are also making similar choices in regards to the way they provide learning resources for their students. Using technological resources for educational purposes has turned out to be much more effective than textbooks and paper resources. Importantly, it doesn’t really matter what devices students have for their educational resources. Any type of portable device, can be helpful to the students, teachers, and even to the environment.
10 Opinion
Firstly, having resources such as Google Drive helps students keep track of all of their work and be able to access it from wherever. As long as they have an internet connection, they can pick up where they left off. The automatic saving of files prevents students’ work from being lost like it may have been if they did it on paper. In addition, having all school work saved on an online drive can save paper which in turn saves money and helps the environment by reducing the number of trees cut down and the amount of paper waste. Students no longer need a new sheet of paper for each assignment, and teachers don’t need to print out every handout. They can simply upload their documents to Google Classroom, a resource specifically created by Google for students and teachers, or even share the documents on Google drive. Tablets and computers also provide the students with access to the internet, which has a lot of resources that will
Design by Gabe Flota
aid in the students’ learning process. Mainly, schools can provide online versions of the class textbooks. This cuts down on the paper wastage in making hundreds of textbooks for each student. It’s also a lot easier to update the textbooks when there are new versions and schools don’t have to waste money repurchasing the same versions of the textbooks because of damage after years of use. Considering how many classes each student takes and how many textbooks and workbooks each class has, the online resources act as a weight taken off the students’ backs. Not only do they not have to carry the heavy textbooks for every class, but they also have less notebooks to carry as most of their work is contained in their devices. As the world is moving to a more technology-oriented life, it is important that we do not continue with educational techniques that were used in the past. We need to teach students how to use the resources that are readily available for them just as much as we need to teach them how not to use them. Grades K-12, is the perfect time to introduce students to the technology that they will be using for the rest of their lives.
Portage Northern Light
TEXTB
KS
By Katie Knight It is virtually impossible to avoid technology in the modern era. Every aspect of life has been intertwined with a digital world of unlimited possibilities. In response to these changing times, institutions around the globe are leaping at the chance to modernize themselves with technology. Schools in particular have been adamant about replacing traditional learning methods with digital ones. The textbook, once crucial to the success of the classroom, has become subject to the criticisms of technology advocates and is rapidly being removed. The light weight design of tablets and the relative affordability of e-books make them superior to textbooks in the eyes of many teachers. However, there is little research to support the effectiveness of tablet learning. In fact, the use of tablets has been shown to hamper students’ comprehension skills and cause physical discomfort. Textbooks on the other hand, prove to be both a safe and effective tool for learning on all levels.
and others on a screen) and then relay the information contained in the text in as detailed a manner as possible. Both those who read on screen and on paper were able to describe the main idea of the passage. When asked about specific details, the print readers recalled more information than those who read on screen. The use of tablets in the classroom inhibits students’ ability to pick up the kinds of specific information contained in tests, making textbooks the more preferable choice. As well as reducing reading comprehension ability, the use of tablets in the classroom leads to negative physical effects on students. According to the American Optometric Association, students who use tablets frequently in-class experience, “eyestrain, headaches, blurred vision, and dry eyes.” In addition to eye strain, prolonged use of tablets can also cause back and neck problems. The ways in
which students hold their tablets over extended periods of time can result in back and neck pain. Textbooks do not cause a decline in the physical health of students. As they emit no blue light, students eyes are unaffected by using them. Furthermore, textbooks are often too heavy to be held in the various positions that result in neck and back injuries. It is for these reasons that textbooks are the safest choice for students. Clearly, the tablet cannot compete with the textbook. Not only do textbooks increase students’ reading comprehension allowing them to perform well on tests, but they prevent the painful distractions of eye strain and back injuries. Together, these benefits demonstrate that it is the tablet, not the textbook, that should be replaced.
A Fuller Understanding A key factor in the practicality of textbooks is the deep comprehension that students gain from them. In 2016, a study was performed in which 90 students were asked to read a short text (some on paper February 2020
Design by Gabe Flota
Opinion 11
HIGH SCHOOL 2.0
How schools are changing to meet the needs of today’s students by Kylie Clifton and Arushi Mithal
In high school, every day can be a rough day. Dragging your lethargic and energy deficient self out of bed at 6:30 am every morning to walk the fluorescent-lit, anxiety-filled hallways of school becomes second nature for every student. It is hard to realize just how much energy school and extracurricular activities can take out of the average teenager. But recently, there have been active efforts made in order to change this school dynamic. It is time to introduce High School 2.0: what does it mean and what will it entail if eventually implemented all across America?
School’s early morning schedule High school 2.0 includes a later start to the typical school day. “Later school times would be nice I guess, but I guess it is good that we start early so we can leave early and have time for extracurriculars,” says senior Fahima Hossen. With so much emphasis being put on the extracurriculars in high school, a big obstacle actually rises when it comes to enforcing later start times. However, later start times likely will result in a less lethargic school day. This can also mean students will receive more sleep and therefore demonstrate better academic performance. Assistant Principal Nate Ledlow says, “I think we should push back the start time as late as possible, ideally until 8:30 (am). Having to go to school so early disturbs a student’s internal clocks and teenagers seem to constantly be in a state of fatigue.” With a later start to school, students could get the chance to sleep in more and eventually feel healthier in school. 12 Feature
According to University of Washington News, “In a paper published Dec. 12 in the journal Science Advances, researchers at the University of Washington and the Salk Institute for Biological Studies announced that teens at two Seattle high schools got more sleep on school nights after start times were pushed later — a median increase of 34 minutes of sleep each night.” More sleep gives the body more time to relax, and the high school dynamic begins to look more welcoming to students. History teacher Kim Palmer speaks to her own experiences, “Ideally, we know that it would be better for high school students to start later, but there are so many logistics that make that difficult such as extracurriculars then needed to start later, etcetera.”
A conquest of a balanced calendar The proposed High School 2.0 sparks change in many facets of the public school system, starting with a new trend in schedules. According to 1A NPR, “More and more school districts across the U.S. are embracing the four-day school week. Nearly 560 districts in 25 states have adopted the change, with most implementing a Monday-Thursday schedule.” This change isn’t simply in the name of High School 2.0, but a critical change for some schools, especially those hit the hardest by the nationwide teacher shortage. This new weekly schedule is commonly coordinated with an alternative yearly schedule. Schools across Michigan have adopted this newly formed year schedule. Flint’s Superintendent of Davison Community Schools, Eric Design by Snigda Narisetty
Lieske praises the schedule when he says,“If you were a runner, if you were a pianist, if you focused on any certain activity for nine months and you went strong on it for nine months and then you took a three month break, you’re going to slide backwards.” Beyond Flint, In regards to new schedules in Portage, it’s met with mixed responses. Ledlow comments,“I would agree with four day school weeks. This would potentially mean 36 fewer days of school than usual, so we must carry into the summer. I would agree that year round school is ideal,” he explains. “My ideal school schedule would look like this: year round school, Monday to Thursday from 9 (am) to 2 (pm), two weeks off in the winter, summer, and spring.” Additionally, Palmer speaks on potential for a change in schedule, “I really like the idea of a balanced calendar. It would keep things more consistent and help with transitions for everyone.” Although, some students expressed concern, sophomore Carter Batt explains, “Having a longer summer gives you something to look forward too, I’d rather just get it all done (the school year) then have a break.” Despite the mixed opinion, High School 2.0’s schedule tries to not only break the mold, but attempts to make a stronger one.
The dispute on homework According to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, “One of the most striking facts about Finnish schools is that their students have fewer hours of instruction than students in any other OECD country.” Finnish students still perPortage Northern Light
form incredibly well academically despite minimal homework and school stress. Usually homework is given to students to help them, but it ends up hurting them due to all the assignments piling up from each class. Palmer says, “There is not enough time in a class period sometime to apply the information taught and without application it is more difficult for students to internalize and actually learn the material. I do understand that it’s tough to balance for students sometimes.” Despite this widely-held belief, which perpetuates the practice of assigning homework, research has consistently shown that homework does not increase student learning. In one study done to measure the effectiveness of homework, a teacher found interesting results. “Pope described one teacher she worked with who taught Advanced Placement biology, and experimented by dramatically cutting down homework assignments. First the teacher cut homework by a third, and then cut the assignments in half. The students’ test scores didn’t change,” according to Healthline. #DitchHomework has been trending on social media in an attempt to reduce the homework load put on students. A wide range of people including parents, students, and even teachers themselves have participated in the movement. Numerous have tried to make a February 2020
difference by tweeting or posting complaints on the unnecessary stress haul which doesn’t even have significant positive effects. It is
easy to complain about the homework load that students get on a daily basis, but it is also plausible to argue that homework is necessary in order for someone to fully understand the content. Ledlow says, “I think homework should only be assigned if the teacher of that class believes that it is associated with them understanding the content properly, and will help them”. Instead of getting rid of homework completely or increasing the amount of homework to assign, maybe school faculty can come to a compromise. High school 2.0 includes a different approach on homework: assigning homework that serves to be effective without completely clouding a student’s schedule.
Hopeful for the future It’s only a matter of minutes, the fluorescent halls are empty, devoid of tired teenagers and all signs of anxiety, until the moment we have all been waiting for. As every tedious second passes, the eight hour school day comes to a close. The unruly first period’s efforts against the hefty weight of tired eyes is a battle long over, now the enemy is time. The clock strikes, it’s 2:40, and the day is done. Finally free, albeit only for sixteen hours until the cycle starts again, caught in the middle the thought arises: could it be different? Maybe with high school 2.0, it can be.
Design by Snigda Narisetty
Feature 13
Beyond binary: junior Paige Underwood uncovers their gender identity
A moment mid music: Underwood not only expresses themself through their gender and clothing, but their love for instruments and marching band. Photo by Andy Krieger.
Septmber s week of climate action, ended on Friday the 20th with a unified student collective walkout across the country. Out of the classrooms and into the streets, says Underwood. Photo by Astrid Code.
In sync: on and off the field. Both avid members of Portage Northern s Marching Band, Lambrix (left) and Underwood (right) ride together to state competition. Photo courtesy of Paige Underwood
14 Feature
“I actually knew I wasn’t a girl for a very long time. Starting even from age 4, I didn’t like the feeling of being a girl, and I grew up very tomboyish; I hated everything typically associated with girls,” says junior Paige Underwood, “she/her pronouns always made me uncomfortable, but so did he/him; when I learned that singular ‘they’ was a pronoun of choice, I immediately clung onto it.” The concept of gender non-binary, meaning not male or female, a fluidity between the gender spectrum is becoming more widely recognized. According to a study from APAdivisions. org, “it is estimated nonbinary individuals make up 25-35% or more of transgender populations.” Underwood now identifies as non-binary. “I’d call it very freeing. The non-binary label is very broad and encompasses every gender falling outside of male and female, so it’s perfect for me.” Since discovering their true gender identity, Underwood has a new and exciting outlook on their style. “I don’t care if it’s mens’ or womens’ or unisex clothing; if I like it, I’ll wear it. Some days I dress very feminine, some masculine, some androgynous, and some completely void of either,” they share. “I shaved my head for the sake of expression, since I didn’t want to worry about styling it to fit with my identity. It’s very straightforward, and I never have to think about how to wear my hair—since I don’t have any.” Underwood has experienced no shortage of negative interactions and discrimination along their path to gender non-binary peace. “Half of my family doesn’t—and will never— know, and the fact that I can’t tell them weighs heavy on my heart. They’re
Design by Kylie Clifton
very conservative in their views, and vocally homophobic and transphobic,” they explain. “The rest know, and while many are supportive, there are a handful who do not agree with it. Knowing they don’t actually support my identity has me constantly questioning whether or not their love and respect for me is facetious.” Their parents, however, were supportive. “I came out last year to my parents. I had already been out to them for two years as a lesbian, and they were incredibly supportive of me, so I knew I had nothing to fear. They were very supportive and accepting,” Underwood says. “I’m very lucky they were.” Underwood has also found support within the school community. Senior Cole Lambrix is in marching band with them: “I’ve found that in supporting Paige in their identity, I haven’t had to change anything in my life except for the pronouns I use to describe Paige. Some people think that supporting the LGBT community means putting your life aside to meet their needs,” he shares, “but really all you have to do is treat the people of that community with the same dignity and respect you would give anybody else.” Getting here was a long road, and Underwood struggled through an early adolescence that involved a significant amount of heartbreak. “I struggled with a lot of internalized homophobia and transphobia. I didn’t know how to express myself,” they say. They’ve come a long way since then, finally feeling confident in boldly expressing who they are. “I don’t feel like I have any role to fit into, and not feeling like I have any restriction has let me express myself as genuinely as possible.”
Portage Northern Light
Counselors offer a variety of career paths for students By Abigail VanderBerg Couselors pose in front of the homecoming sign. Photo courtesy of Cindy Figeroa.
gate and explore each student about their goals and inearly on in high terests. That sometimes involves tapschool.” ping into their childhood dreams of “ I n One of the newest in- what the student wanted to be when our changing novations in college or after high they grow up. That is a starting point,” world and economy, there is a growing school readiness, is the aforemen- Counselor Cindy Figueroa says. Durneed for all types of jobs and careers… tioned career fair. This very idea actu- ing sophomore year, counselors give not just those that require a college ally developed from a previous prepa- their assigned students a packet with education or degree,” Amy Dimaggio, ration program: Lunch and Learn. “I career quizzes, scholarship informaH e a d realized that students weren’t tion, anything that could give students CounI firmly believe we each taking advantage of the a helping hand in their career choice. selor at Lunch and Learn events be- Krista Hovastadt, a fellow counselor create our own life path Po r t a g e cause they didn’t want to give at Northern also mentions the special N o r t h - and these paths vary from up their lunch/social time, classes Northern offers. ern says. person to person. That is Dimaggio says, “they didn’t “We suggest students try elective M a n y a part of what makes life want to miss time with their classes, EFE/EFA classes to get exkids feel friends… and the events were perience in different career options.” an ob- beautiful and interesting. only once a month.” Although Counselors will meet with students at -Cindy Figeroa l i g at i on Dimaggio is the main point least once a year, or more if the stuto go to person for the Career fair, dent sets up an appointment. college. the other counselors are often This effort made by the counselWith how fast society is changing, involved “the other counors is seen and many career paths are opening up, selors, including myappreciated by We are hoping to creating a new demand. The counsel- self, were there as her students. Kyla ors of Portage Northern offer many [Dimaggio’s] support,” provide a variety of re- Wightman a opportunities for students on the brisk Counselor Shari Smith sources to all students for sophomore at of picking a career that determines says. “Helping to set Northern shares their future. Dimaggio explains, “We up, organize students a variety of plans for life her experience after high school. are hoping to provide a variety of re- into groups, helping with career sources to all students for a variety of with take down, getting guidance. “our -Amy Dimaggio plans for life after high school. We students checked in, school counselwant to give students options and in- helping with presenters as they came ors help us decide what we want our formation about all types of work / in, food...just anything that she need- future to look like,” she says. “Even if career / college plans”, Dimaggio says. ed us to do for support” we don’t know at the moment”. The “We provide a ton of online and paper The career fair is only a small part counselors are making Portage Northresources for Career Exploration and of what counselors do to prepare stu- ern a better place. Development for students to investi- dents for their careers. “I talk with February 2020
Design by Abby VanderBerg
Feature 15
By Malcolm Gaynor For senior Dylan Butler, stepping up to the mound and throwing a strike is a common occurrence. However, this year, Butler is racking up the strikes on both the baseball and bowling team. This winter, the bowling team includes seniors Gannon Andrews, Adam Rowlson, and Butler, who were all part of the state championship baseball team last season. For
Senior Adam Rowlson, one of the few returning varsity bowlers, pitches against Orchard Lake St. Mary’s (above), and bowls against Vicksburg (right). “Basically the whole team is new and they’ve never bowled before,” he says. Despite this, the camaraderie of the team hasnʼt suffered. “The team chemistry is great,” Rowlson says. “It formed quick.” Photos courtesy of Adam Rowlson and pnhsbaseball.com
Andrews and Butler, this is their first season as a part of the bowling team. “I decided to join because I enjoy competing with my friends,” says 16 Sports
Butler. The baseball team often spent time together off the field at the bowling alley, and even helped raise money for both the baseball program and the Crayons 4 Kids charity organization with a Bowl-a-thon fundraiser. “After a successful high school baseball and summer baseball season our relationship has continued to grow as we are together bowling this winter,” says Butler. “Bowling is helping grow our chemistry for the spring.” At the beginning of the season, bowling coach Rich Teusaw wasn’t sure how successful the team would be. “This season I was really sort of expecting some sort of a rebuilding seas o n ,” few he says. “However, a guys from the soccer team and a couple from the baseball team showed up, and their athletic ability and desire to be coached and competitive drive have really made this season more of a reload.” So far, this reload has propelled the Huskies to a dominating start to the season. They are undefeated, and coming off of a blowout win against Kalamazoo Central. “They have some bonds from their other sports that they play, and I believe that that has been the best case scenario for me as a coach,” says Teusaw. Andrews is able to use his competitive naa long ture cultivated through h i m baseball career to help even in the very different sport of Design by Malcolm Gaynor
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Baseball state champs join bowling team
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Strike Season
bowling. “The competitive nature is similar to baseball because you want to do your best personally to help the team win,” he says. “It’s a different feeling when bowling from baseball because you’re the only one on the approach compared to 8 other people on the field with you.” Butler has a very similar mindset when comparing his mentality during both baseball and bowling. “Bowling is more of an individual sport than baseball,” he says. “That being said, when someone is relaxed and having fun competing we all do better as a team.” Andrews, Butler, and the rest of the bowling team have an ambitious goal for the sea-
i s cona 3rd cons e a s o n ,” says Teusaw. The Huskie ers conwards that against 14th and on the
son. “We are also trying to accomplish something that has never been done before in our conference, and that to win the ference for secutive
bowltinue to move togoal in matches Plainwell on the Portage Central 15th.
Portage Northern Light
No longer winless
Junior Cora Bigelow and freshman Addison Bobbio on the court. Photo by Heather Bigelow. Bayliegh Kamm, Jordan Wesaw, Allison French, Mckenzie McDaniel, Brooke Hoag and Coach Grubius go over last minute discussions for the game. Photo courtesy of Brooke Hoag.
By the time Huskies approached their game against Watervliet on December 19th, the team was starting to feel frustrated. Not only were they 0-4 on the season, they were coming off two straight winless seasons. “We hadn’t
won yet and I was feeling a little
Varsity girl’s basketball gets their first win in 2 seasons By Melissah Morris-Adkins
frustrated,” says freshman Jordan Wesaw. “Everyone on the team works so hard, and it almost felt like we couldn’t put it all together on the court. I knew we could win though, we were so close. Then that one game, everything came together.” The team defeated Watervliet with a score of 49 to 38. “It felt amazing to get the first win in a while,”says junior Brooke Hoag. The team contributes their experience to the victory. “This year we got some girls that have played basketball in the past and know what it’s like and how to play,” says Sophomore Melody Yang. “In years past, we’ve got girls that never played before so they had to be taught all the basics which took time.” They also credit their hard work. “We try to push each other as hard as we can. We have to treat every practice
as if it were a game,” says Wesaw. “We have to practice at game speed, if we don’t, we will never be able to keep up with the pace and intensity of the game,” says Wesaw. The girls have also intensified their practices. “We have intensified practices and gotten some good freshman in,” says junior Sydeny Swinehart. This hard work and determination comes directly from their coach, Randy Grubius. “Our goal each and every year is to play hard, play smart, improve our skills and be better tomorrow then we were today,” he says. He is also enjoying working with the girls. “I can say it has been fun to coach a group of girls this year that are committed to getting better and trying to win,” says Grubius. The team has one more game against Mattawan on February 28.
Junior Cora Bigelow dribbles the ball, determined to make a shot. Photo by Heather Bigelow.
February 2020
Design by Astrid Code
Sports 17
Slow motion:
Myles Johnson diligently works his way back from a traumatic injury By Carrie Jacobson One second, junior varsity trated,” Neal recalls. “I told him of the nearest facility that could basketball player Myles Johnson he was going to have to take it to handle the severity of his injury. was flying through the air for a the basket harder.” Johnson did There, he had surgery to repair dunk in an increasingly-physi- take it to the basket harder, com- his fractured leg. cal league matchup against Niles ing up with a big dunk attempt Fast forward high school. The next second, he but then landing awkwardly was on the ground with a com- on the way down. “I asked the Johnson’s road to recovery pound fracture of his right leg. trainer, did he roll his ankle? And he just looked at me and has been difficult, but he has Rewind said, no Coach, he has a com- stayed the course with deterpound fracture. By that time, mination. Once he was able to While Johnson had played his mom was with us, and [TJ] return to school, he did so on a for the Huskies the previous Tyus was praying over him.” The scooter, and then progressed his two seasons, this year was dif- realization happened slowly for way to crutches, and ultimately ferent. “I was really focusing on Johnson, too. “I thought about to a boot. “As time started going my grades first,” he explained. “I getting up, and I couldn’t,” he on, everything started to get easwas even on the honor roll for remembers. That was when I ier,” he says. “At physical therathe first quarter.” Johnson had looked down at my leg and did py, they push me really hard, also practiced more diligently a double take. My first thought and it’s tough. I fully accept all than ever before, and his com- then was, I’m done.” the hard work though because mitment was not lost on his Concerned for their team- I want to get back.” Johnson coach, Ben Neal. “In 25 years mate, the Huskies went down still attends practice and comes as a coach, I’ve never had a kid 9 immediately before coming to games. “It’s obvious that he work harder in the offseason,” back for a late lead and ulti- struggles with not being able to he shares. “He would text me mately losing the game 49-50. play the game he loves, but he’s and we would get in the gym as “It was heartbreaking, honestly,” grown up a lot through this exoften as we could.” recalls teammate Jeff Wilson, perience. After he was hurt, we shaking his head. “To see his talked about how he could deal Stopping the clock season taken from him instant- with it, grind through it, and be ly, for him not to be able to show better because of it. With disciThe matchup against Niles how hard he worked.” While pline and toughness, that will was close and physical when the Huskies played and prayed happen.” Johnson was injured early in for their teammate, Johnson the game. “He was fouled 3 or 4 was on the way to South Bend, times with no call and was frus- Indiana, which was the location 18 Sports
Design by Brianna Neuhouser
Portage Northern Light
Junior Khaddijah Siddiqui foils traditional sports By Brianna Neuhouser
Siddiqui and another club member warm up before a practice. Photo courtesy of Khadijah Siddiqui
February 2020
School sports like basketball, football, and swimming are always in the announcements, whether they win or lose. However, there are many students who do a bevy of other very unique sports, including sports students may have never seen. Junior Khadijah Siddiqui is one such uniquely athletic student.
not many opportunities are available and junior year is busy!,” Siddiqui says as a member of the National Honors Society and Superintendent Student Advisory Board, “But I’m hoping that when I go to college, I can really com-
Siddiqui has been fencing for three years at the Tri-Blade Fencing Academy and took classes they hold at the Portage YMCA. As much as she loves the sport now, “I had no interest in the sport when I first start ed. My younger sister had really wanted to do the sport since she was five and my mom signed me up with her so she didn’t have to go alone,” she says. Siddiqui’s sister, Aisha Siddiqui, says when she fences against her sister, “I think it helps me a lot because she doesn’t go easy on me.” It’s not only her sister and family that recognize Siddiqui’s talent. Her coach, Josh Hatley, says, “ Her wheels are always turning, working to determine the best course of action in the bout. Considering this is something that needs to happen in a split second, it’s impressive that she has this drive and ability.” “I’m not the best and it’s not a sport that is easy to practice everyday because
mit to it more.” Fencing can take up a lot of time, especially for how the matches can fly by. “Everything goes lightning speed and each fencer is on their toes in almost a dance-like state,” Siddiqui says. After being warmed up, Siddiqui says her favorite part of fencing is when the two opponents drop into a rhythm. When her season starts again in March, Siddiqui is most looking forward to “be ing more committed and playing more consis tently. I really want to hone in on using my agility and speed to its full extent.” Her competitions are usually at the end of the season and two competitions in the spring against different fencing clubs.
Design by Brianna Neuhouser
Sports 19
ALBUM REVIEW BY CERENA READ
H
alsey’s new album Manic is a drama�c and beau�ful presenta�on of her life experiences, and has been a way for her to work through her own emo�ons in a very personal way. It includes two popular singles: Graveyard and Without Me. It also includes three featured ar�sts: Dominic Fike, Alanis Morise�e and BTS. Some songs are louder and more drama�c than others, but they all have an amazing energy that is representa�ve of herself. Compared to her previous music, she has come back more vehement and powerful. Her work is heartwrenching, and I cannot stop listening to it. Manic is definitely an album worth listening to, the value of its content is awe-inspiring and effec�ve at bringing out the listener’s emo�ons.
R
are by Selena Gomez, released in early January, has a so� and upli�ing sound. It portrays Selena’s journey to self-love through her sweet and upbeat style of music. The album features ar�st 6LACK on the track Crowded Room and Kid Cudi on A Sweeter Place. They contribute a bit to the interest of the album, making it not as boring as it could be. It also includes the hit single Lose You To Love Me, which is an empowering song about coming back stronger than before a�er a tough breakup. Compared to her older music, Selena has mostly stuck with the same sound, but has evolved in her sophis�ca�on and meaning in her lyrics. In my opinion, Rare is pre�y, with good beats, but it’s lacking diversity between tracks, it seems repe��ve and therefore boring. Overall, I wouldn’t say that this album is really worth listening to, but if you’re a big fan of Selena and her sound then you should check it out.
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“Anne With an E” By SnigDa Narisetty In a world full of shows about adult topics such as sex and drugs, and the supernatural, Anne with an E is one show that focuses on the curiosity and innocence of Anne and her growth and maturation through her teenage years. The critically acclaimed movie, Little Women also has a similar appeal in the sense that it follows the story of a group of young adults finding their place in life and finding love. Not only is it set in a very similar time period, but it captures the youth and purity of friendship between the characters, giving the viewers an insight into life in the late 1800’s while drawing them in by lightly hitting on issues present in today’s society. “The show has such a refreshing view of life,” says senior Sarah Maniscalco, “It is also really interesting to see a show where actual children play children instead of adults... When adults play teenagers, it gives the young viewers a distorted view of how they should look at their age.”
Anne Shirley-Cuthbert has been one of the most beloved characters in children’s novels since her first introduction in 1908 in Lucy Maud Montgomery’s book Anne of Green Gables. Her popularity has been prominent since the mid twentieth century and her story, a classic, has many adaptations. The most recent one, Anne with an E, has been a public favorite over the last three years of its running. The show, adapted by Emmy Award winning writer and producer Moira Walley-Beckett, has been airing on CBC Television in Canada while it has been available to the rest of the world through Netflix. Actress Amybeth McNulty has captured the hearts of thousands, playing the cherished role of Anne (with an E mind you), and the show has attracted a wide variety of viewers because of the diversity of the show. Not only does it portray 1899 and its social struggles, it also incorporates today’s issues into the folds of the show. From gender
equality, racial equality and LGBTQ+ rights to the freedom of the press, there are so many things that Anne and her group of friends fight for throughout the three seasons of the show. As a result, the story has connected to so many young people, ones who grew up with the older versions and ones that have just been introduced to the coming of age journey of Anne and the story of Avonlea. Freshman Ashika Gullapalli says, “It allowed me to see the world through the eyes of someone who doesn’t stick to what is considered normal... people feel empowered by Anne and her character. Despite being in an environment where she struggled, she took life by the reins and people want to see more of her resilient character.” If the show, Anne with an E, is so loved by the public, then why is it being cancelled so abruptly? Find out the whole story on our website, www.portagenorthernlight.com.
It’s very empowering for Looking back at it, the women, especially how show kept getting better Anne is super outgoing and as the seasons progressed. puts herself out there. The audi- ence can It’s very relevant feel the characters to what’s going on growing in each today. episode.
Junior Sarah Reed
Freshman Ashika Gullapalli
by Katie February 2020 by Knight Katie Knight 1000 Idaho Ave. Portage, MI 49024 DesignDesign
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