Since 2018, the Marin County Elections Department and the League of Women Voters have jointly run the Student Election Ambassador Program (SEAP), which allows students to become more involved in their local elections. The students have set up tables at the Marin County Fair, held a youth town hall meeting and spoken to elementary school students, all intending to teach the local community about voting. Currently, around 60 students participate in the program from over a dozen local schools.
Elizabeth Iwamiya works for the Marin County Department of Elections and is the coordinator for the SEAP. She believes that the program gives students the opportunity to get involved in their local community.
goal of the SEAP is to get young people involved and make them lifetime voters.
“There's been a lot of research that has shown that if students are introduced to voting, to civic education and to voter registration, then they are significantly more likely to continue to be a voter for their entire lives,” Harband said.
The state of California also gives students the opportunity to work at the polls on election day and get paid.
“We're having one student at each vote center on election day who serves as a greeter at the ballot box that's outside of the vote center, and they can direct voters to go inside the vote center,” Iwamiya said.
“I love the whole concept of the Student Election Ambassador program because it was initiated by a student. It has a tremendous amount of student input, and it allows students to take on the idea of voter outreach,” Iwamiya said.
Vida Harband works for the League Of Women Voters and helps to coordinate SEAP. The program is very flexible, allowing students to choose how big of a workload they want to take on.
“It impacts you more — the more you take on [in the program], the more you want to do and the more involved you are,” Harband said.
All students involved in the program must complete an online training that takes about an hour. The students must do at least two events per year, but the time commitment of these events varies.
“You can do tables at your school. There are also lots of opportunities for the Elections Department, the League of Women Voters and other organizations to do outreach and sometimes student election ambassadors will have the option to join those tables,” Iwamiya said.
Marin County continues to have high voter turnout, with 90.23 percent of registered voters participating in the 2020 election. However, these numbers are lower among younger generations, so the
Marin made a recent change from a polling place model to the voting center model Voting Centers are larger centers that are open for more days and with more trained vote center staff to make the voting process more seamless and adaptable and work better when more voters are mailing in ballots. This change shrunk the number of polling places from over 100 to just over 20, meaning fewer students needed to participate in the actual poll work. However, SEAP gives students an opportunity to get involved in other ways, like in the classroom.
“When the students go in front of a classroom and they give a presentation, they come back to the elections office with their arms full of registration and pre-registration forms. And you see there that the excitement that they're having a real impact, and that they're making a difference,” Iwamyia said.
SEAP allows students to teach other young people about the importance of their vote and aims to raise the number of youth voting by talking to elementary school through high school-aged students. This allows students to understand the impact of their vote and understand the voting system. In a time where misinformation runs rampant, becoming educated about politics and elections is essential. SEAP’s work to educate the community and register voters helps share the voices of all Marin citizens.
abennett@redwoodbark.org
Infographic by Skyla Thomas
Photo courtesy ofSEAP
Governor Newsom signs new bill: IVF access for all
By Paige Edelen
On Sept. 29, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 729, a law requiring certain insurance carriers to cover in vitro fertilization (IVF). The bill will go into effect in July 2025 and aims to make reproductive health and building a family much more accessible and affordable for all Californians.
Charlotte Henderson, a sophomore and president of the Reproductive Freedom Club, feels that having the option of IVF is essential.
“I think people must be able to live their lives the way they want. [For] people who face a natural barrier [to reproduction,] IVF should be available to help them, and they should be able to have children if that’s what they want,” Henderson said.
Infertility, the failure to conceive a child after 12 months of unprotected sexual intercourse, is a problem that millions face. Approximately nine percent of women and 11 percent of men experience infertility in the United States, and 15 percent of couples in America also have trouble conceiving. This often leads people to IVF, the process in which eggs from the uterus are retrieved and fertilized by sperm in a lab before being put back into a uterus.
Senate Bill 729 mandates insurance companies that cover 100 people or more to cover the cost of infertility diagnosis and treatment, including IVF. Insurance companies must cover a maximum of three egg retrievals and unlimited embryo transfers. However, while the new law applies to large state-run insurance companies, it does not require religious insurers or Medi-Cal, an insurance plan for lower-income families, to cover the costs of IVF, leaving many still struggling with infertility.
The process of IVF has been gaining popularity. Between 2012 and 2021, the use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) more than doubled in the United States and accounted for 2.3 percent of all fetuses conceived in 2021. IVF is the main method of ART, making up 99 percent of procedures. However, IVF can be an emotional and expensive process.
Courtney Earl, a Redwood parent with one child conceived through IVF and two adopted children, shared her experience. Earl believes that the procedure was especially emotionally taxing because of the feelings of uncertainty and expectations from both herself and the people around her.
“There’s just a lot of sadness around [IVF]. You [can] feel like, ‘Why didn’t [conception] come easy for us?’ Especially since my mom had six kids, my oldest sister had four and my next sister had three; it just came easy for them, so it was sad when [the same] didn’t happen for us,” Earl said.
Earl also conveyed that the price tag was a big factor in the IVF process and had to be well thought out.
“There were definitely doubts. [My
husband and I] were newly married and pretty young in our careers, and we had also just bought a house, so IVF was a huge investment given all the different things we were trying to do simultaneously,” Earl said.
High costs are a factor that many parents considering IVF face. The average cost of IVF in the United States ranges between $14,000 and $20,000. However, this price is only for one cycle of treatment. The average success rate after one cycle of IVF is extremely low, and it takes 65.3 percent of couples about six or more cycles before they can conceive, often bringing the price above $100,000.
Why didn’t conception come easy for us?
Courtney Earl, parent
In a written statement, Governor Newsom made clear the significance of having IVF covered by insurance and equal access to reproductive care, especially as IVF is not valued at the same level in other parts of the country.
“California is a reproductive freedom state. As a national leader in increasing
access to reproductive health care and protecting patients and providers, including those under assault in other states, I want to be clear that the right to fertility care and IVF is protected in California. In many other states, this is not the case,” Newsom said. The new law also expands equality for the LGBTQ+ community by changing the definition of infertility to include LGBTQ+ families, allowing same-sex couples access to IVF and a chance at starting a family without having to consider other methods of childbearing.
By expanding insurance coverage for IVF, California is now offering Californians more reproductive opportunities and freedom than ever before.
pedelen@redwoodbark.org
Infographic by Lily Skinner
THE PACIFIC FERTILITY Center offers treatment to patients in Greenbrae.
Photo by Julia Delsol
Newsom signs new reparations bill
By Ellie Braggs
California became the first state in the nation to enact reparations laws on Sept. 26, when Gavin Newsom signed a series of bills addressing the state’s history of racial discrimination and the effects of slavery in California. Along with bills targeting relevant issues like education and criminal justice, Newsom signed a formal apology.
In the California Apology document, the state acknowledged, “The State of California recognizes and accepts responsibility for all of the harms and atrocities committed by the state, its representatives thereof and entities under its jurisdictions who promoted, facilitated, enforced and permitted the institution of chattel slavery and the enduring legacy of ongoing badges and incidents from which the systemic structures of discrimination have come to exist.”
These measures are part of California’s larger initiative to tackle systemic racism and promote equity, following recommendations of the California Reparations Task Force established in 2020. While these bills don’t erase past injustices or remedy all current systemic issues, senior Devyn Johnson, president of the Black Student Union (BSU), emphasizes that they represent an essential step toward healing and making amends.
“We're acknowledging the harm done to Black people and Black communities in America. California, by giving reparations to people, acknowledges the hundreds of years of wrong-doing that slavery contributed to America and how [slavery] contributed to the position of Black people today in America,” Johnson said.
Advanced Placement African American Studies teacher Nikolai Butkevich feels that reparations often impact generations beyond those directly affected and a holistic approach is necessary to maximize impact.
in] the pattern: it takes a while for society to even recognize that it did something wrong, but [by then], the people that actually directly suffered from it are long gone,” Butkevich said. “One approach is to direct [reparations] to the broader community rather than specific individuals. This approach has certain advantages, especially because sending individuals a check is extremely unpopular, even in California. If we're being realistic, we can look at equalizing education and funding.”
Increased access to comprehensive education about California’s history are some of the most impactful bills for students.
“If you just make people aware of the actual history, they can then have an informed debate, rather than just a kneejerk reaction to the idea of reparations,” Butkevich said.
In school, discussions surrounding slavery and reparations are often situated in the past, leading many to overlook its ongoing effects. Johnson urges students to research and reevaluate how they treat their classmates and other people of color.
“[Something] we've talked about in [the BSU] is how we give back to Black people at Redwood, teach [students] and raise the standard for how much people know and how we can grow together through education and community,” Johnson said.
Despite claims of dedication to reparations, significant proposals like the California American Freedmen Affairs Agency and a reparations fund were withdrawn. As other states like New York and Illinois follow California’s lead in addressing the generational impacts of slavery, California’s next steps will be monumental in fostering justice for Black Americans.
“The historical lessons are [revealed ebraggs@redwoodbark.org
California enacts ban on legacy admissions
By Matthew Milan
On Sept. 30, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill No. 1780 (AB 1780), a new law banning legacy admissions at California’s private universities. Starting in September 2025, colleges like Stanford University and the University of Southern California will no longer give special consideration during admissions to students whose family members previously attended the university.
In an official statement after signing the bill AB 1780 posted on gov.ca.gov, Newsom announced that college admissions should be fair for all. Students should be accepted to institutions based on their skills and hard work rather than their family's attendance.
“The California dream shouldn’t be accessible to just a lucky few, which is why we’re opening the door for higher education wide enough for everyone, fairly,” Newsom said. “Everyone should be able to get ahead through merit, skill and hard work.”
Assemblymember Phil Ting, who authored the bill, believes it is time to make college admissions more equal. In a press release shared on calmatters.org, Ting commented on the matter..
“Hard work, good grades and a wellrounded background should earn you a spot in the incoming class – not who you're related to,” Ting said.
College and Career Center counselor Becky Bjursten, who works closely with students navigating college admissions, was happy with how the new law addresses inequity.
“[The ban on legacy admissions] is fantastic because it takes away what I consider an unfair advantage,” Bjursten said.
Bjursten believes that the law will give students more pride in their achievements.
“I think students will have much more pride in themselves if they get accepted without legacy,” Bjursten said.
Senior Willem Shayeb views the banning of legacy admissions as a chance for students to be recognized for their merits.
“Honestly, I never saw legacy admissions as something I needed to rely on despite them being helpful for certain schools my parents attended. I want to be accepted to a college for who I am, not because of my family’s history,” Shayeb said.
Shayeb feels that the ban will encourage colleges to prioritize candidates who genuinely fit their programs.
“I feel that colleges who weigh legacy admissions can sometimes choose a candidate who might not be the best fit just because of their history with that school,” Shayeb said.
California’s decision to eliminate legacy admissions could serve as a
model for other states, encouraging more institutions to prioritize merit over family connections. Ting believes the new law will create a more inclusive admissions process across private universities.
“If we value diversity in higher education, we must level the playing field. That means making the college application process more fair and equitable,” Ting said. “I thank the Governor for agreeing with me and supporters of AB 1780 — that every student deserves a fair shot at their dream school.”
mmilan@redwoodbark.org
AFTER WORKING CLOSELY with the California Legislative Black Caucus and the California Reparations Task Force, Gavin Newsom signed the first of many bills to confront California’s contributions to racial injustice.
Infographic by Lily Skinner
Finding middle ground: The path to greater voter turnout
By Hilah Brekhus-Lavinsky and Jake Post
When picturing a Republican, you may imagine a large, middle-aged white man holding a shotgun painted in stars and stripes with an eagle on his shoulder. When you picture a Democrat, you may imagine a blue-haired vegan girl. The truth is, many Republicans believe that gay marriage should be legal, and many Democrats disagree with radical tax policies. While extremists do exist, the majority of our country’s population falls somewhere in the middle on the majority of issues. There seems to be no candidate in this, or in the last three presidential elections, that represents the middle ground. It’s either far left or far right, and finding yourself in between makes for a difficult decision. The gap between the parties grows wider with every ridiculous false accusation against one side, making it more strenuous to identify with one party.
In the 2024 election, every vote is crucial, but neither party is effectively swaying independent voters. Presidential candidates
Kamala Harris and Donald Trump have attempted to engage the youth (ages 18 to 29) through social media and celebrity endorsements. However, this strategy seems to be ineffective. 51 percent of this demographic, according to a Harvard Youth Poll, indicate they won't vote. The same problem exists at Redwood, as an October that 22 percent of students are somewhere in the middle of the two political parties and are unsure of who they would vote for.
More school spirit creates community
By Evelyn Harper
Imagine this: a spirit day at school where the hallways are filled with excitement and all students are dressed up. Most importantly, all students feel a sense of community and belonging. What if we could amplify our school spirit to foster a greater sense of community? Embracing participation and excitement of spirit days can make our school a place where students feel more valued, connected and inspired. Increased school spirit can do much more than one may realize; it can build a better community and make school more enjoyable for both staff and students.
Research has shown that school spirit can be directly correlated students’ academic performance.
common ground on important policies, acted as an attempt to close the gap between the two polarizing sides.
The United States is one of the most diverse countries in the world, with various nationalities, ethnicities and cultures, bringing in a wide variety of opinions where many people don’t conform to the two sided-ideals of the present party’s. As of 2023, Forbes reported a record 43 percent of voters are registered as independent reflecting unrepresented viewpoints. Due to the negative connotation associated with identifying with either party, many new voters register as independents. When this happens, it creates ineligibility to vote in the primary elections, meaning the candidates will be on farther sides of the spectrum, as the voters in these parties are more extreme. This stemming issue results in new voters staying away from the polls because they do not resonate with either politically extreme candidate. The Redwood Bark survey showed that 53 percent of the Redwood student body wished there was a more neutral party. This demonstrates how the lack of a moderate, central party affects the newest generation of
The lack of this generation's votes is astounding, but it is not because they don't care about the election. The real reason is that they do not identify with either of the parties’ ideals. If more of a central party existed, voter rates would be significantly higher.
This year, presidential debates were televised and heavily covered by the media, however, they seemed to show no middle ground between Trump and Harris. Between every question, the opponents attacked each other's morals and twisted each other’s words. Since the candidates couldn't agree with each other’s ideas maturely and rationally, the political views of each candidate appeared to the public as more and more extreme. In contrast to this dramatic debate, the vice presidential debate, where JD Vance and Tim Walz shared more
To encourage voters and appeal to a wider range of people, the running candidates don’t have to be the most far-leaning right Republican or left Democrat. A party with aspects that appeal to a larger portion of the population would encourage people to vote because there would be a candidate that resonates with them. When these parties narrow down their focus on a few specific issues like gun laws, they lose interest in the average Republican and Democrat, leading to large misrepresentation, and in some cases, fewer voters.
In 1853, former President Millard Fillmore was a member of the Whig Party, which had ideals now associated with the Independents. He was the last president to be a part of this party. Since then, presidents have represented one side, lacking an appeal to members of the other. There needs to be more common ground between the two political parties, or a middle party must erupt to gain full representation for everyone in America so that their political views can be represented.
bark@redwoodbark.org
A survey by the National Federation of High School Association found that students with strong school pride perform superior compared to their peers who don’t. In fact, 61 percent of parents who felt their child had a sense of pride for their school reported that their child performed above average in school, whereas only 31 percent of parents of kids without school reported above-average academic performance. These statistics represent a strong indication that an increase in school spirit also brings along success in academic performance.
The energy that spirit days bring at Redwood already reveal that we have school spirit, but it could be greatly improved. I have felt the personal joy and sense of community on spirit days when my peers are filled with excitement and dressed in fun costumes. However, more people participating would foster a better environment overall. According to an October Bark survey, 74 percent of students wished that more students dressed up on spirit days, indicating a strong enthusiasm and desire for greater involvement.
Some may say that spirit days create room for social stigma or exclusion.
Conforming to social norms one of the most common factors prevents people from participating on spirit days. The pressure of fitting in and worrying about being the only one showing up in school spirit attire often prevents students from dressing up altogether. But in reality, these days are meant to allow you to showcase your individuality and uniqueness. Spirit days can enhance school pride and create an inclusive environment where all students feel welcomed and appreciated. It is crucial that we see these days as an opportunity for self expression and creativity. Looking forward to the next spirit day at school, make sure to get involved in any way you can, whether it be participating in fun activities or dressing up to match the spirit day theme. Our school must create an environment of inclusivity where all students are encouraged to feel comfortable and excited to
Illustration by Natalie Vinogradsky
Infographic by Hilah Brekhus-Lavinsky
A seat at the table: TUHSD voices need to be heard
By Ben Mueller
My parents love to tell me to take initiative with my education, and I love to tell them that that is easier said than done. At Redwood, the sad truth is that students have no say in decisions about their education and the happenings of our school. In the Tamalpais Union High School District (TUHSD), students are essentially powerless in important decisions made about the school with no way to elect representatives onto the school board and a politically powerless student government. In other school districts, such as the Berkeley Union High School District, students aged 16 to 17 are welcomed into polling places to participate in the democratic process that impacts their education.
In TUHSD, it seems to students as if the school board just doesn’t care about their opinions. The proposed Yondr pouch plan during school hours has the support of only one percent of surveyed TUHSD students according to a recent survey. To students, the survey only seems performative, a weak attempt by the board to display interest in student opinion with no real care for what students think. In the same hemisphere, an October Bark survey showed that 63 percent of students disagree with decisions made by the school board, such as decisions to restrict certain elective classes. Students should be able to vote in school board elections as they face unequal representation in school decisions and are unable to participate in democratic processes directly affecting their lives.
want is a better way to be engaged in their education than TUHSD provides.
Imagine this: the most powerful country on Earth provides minimal voter education to its youth. Then they immediately expect young voters to make important decisions regarding their safety, one that decides who controls one of the largest numbers of nuclear warheads on Earth. This might sound familiar because it describes democracy in the United States. In a country so heavily based on democratic ideals,
With a median age of 48.4, many TUHSD voters haven’t been in high school for 30 or more years. In 1994, the world was a vastly different place. Bill Clinton was elected president and the Public Broadcasting Service released the hit TV show “The Magic School Bus.” While one could argue that Ms. Frizzle transcends time, the early 1990s high school experience does not. TUHSD needs a breath of modernity from voters who are directly affected by board decisions. It’s easy for a wealthy 60-yearold southern Marin resident to vote for a board candidate who may promise no increase in taxes for residents rather than someone who advocates greater funding for schools at the taxpayer's expense. TUHSD needs voting from its own constituents because they understand the current issues that plague TUHSD schools. For example, low student morale, exhaustion and lack of engagement. A Gallup poll conducted between 2015 and 2018 revealed that as students get older and
It’s important to remember that the investment in student suffrage is not only an investment in students, but an investment in America’s future.
opportunities for students to put education about civic engagement into practice. In its mission statement, the school board claims that one of its purposes in developing a student’s character is civic engagement — and it can do this by allowing students to vote in school board
If TUHSD truly values student opinons, the board should be eager to implement student suffrage.
School board elections are decidedly smaller-scale than presidential elections and students to the ideas of political thought and research, an essential part of a well-rounded citizen. Voting in small-scale elections like school board elections demonstrates to students that their votes matter. In TUHSD, elections are often won by small margins, meaning that a student could sway the election with their vote.
With no way to elect representatives onto the school board and a politically weak student government.
The TUHSD mission statement claims that the board aims to maintain a student’s intercultural competence by “Advocating for a just and democratic society for all people.”
The board phrased it best themselves; a just society includes democracy for all people. My education at Redwood has instilled this core belief in me, yet the hypocrisy of the false statement made by leaders is unfortunately all too clear. In the U.S., students have some of the most direct representation in the world. For example, TUHSD students have a ratio of one elected official
resemblance. Our tiny island across the sea is a group of individuals who have never been in the modern high school system, yet make decisions for us. I would argue that a Redwood education paints the founding fathers in a mostly positive light; why shouldn’t we follow their moral example? What followed the revolution was an unfortunate, but necessary period of internal conflict. A big and valid fear of anti-federalists (anti-national governmentalists) was the tyranny of the majority. With students voting for the school board, this wouldn’t be a factor, as students would not be able to present a majority. In TUHSD, 94,767 citizens are over 18, meaning they are eligible to vote. If TUHSD sophomores, juniors and seniors could vote, only 3,658 new voters would be eligible to vote in school board elections. This means that public opinion won’t be disregarded, but neither will student opinion. Students have the opportunity to sway an election, but only with popular support. Antifederalists also feared that a central government would levy high taxes on the common man, leading to financial ruin and misuse of funds. An unfortunate implication of student suffrage is the introduction of slightly higher taxes to fund the student's ability to vote. Your average childless Marin resident is already reluctant to vote for the tax hike that comes with Measure B and is unlikely to find the idea of an additional tax appealing. It’s important to remember that the investment in student suffrage is not only an investment in students, but an investment in America’s future. The ability to vote in elections at such a young age leaves students with the lasting value of the importance of democracy. It teaches students that their vote matters. The ability to vote teaches students that they are an integral part of American democracy, making them more productive citizens in the long run.
59 percent of students said they would like to be able to vote in school board elections.
(representative) for every 946 students. Some of, if not the most direct representation voting-age citizens have is in their city council members. In Larkspur, we have a ratio of one elected official for every 3188.5 citizens. These statistics provide evidence for the fact that as students, we are some of the most directly represented individuals in America, yet we have no influence over our representatives. Instead, we are at the mercy of foreign individuals. The sentiment is similar to revolutionary America, where our forefathers had an unfortunate lack of representation in their own affairs. While our plight is decidedly less largescale and unfortunate, it nonetheless bears a striking
Many federalists in revolutionary America were rich aristocrats who felt that the common man was too naive to be able to make productive decisions. One could argue that students are too naive and potentially unwilling to research to elect a candidate in their youth. However, at Redwood, students seem eager to do the research and vote for a candidate. In an October Bark survey, 59 percent of students said they would like to be able to vote in school board elections. While currently, students might not be likely to make themselves educated on board matters, the introduction of voting for students would be a unique feature of the Tam district, meaning there would likely be an element of pride among students. This would encourage students to value their unique abilities and privileges, potentially making them more likely to educate themselves on matters of the local and school community.
If TUHSD truly values student opinions, the board should be eager to implement student suffrage. The ability for students to vote in school board elections shows the community what truly matters to students and gives them a consistent voice and an introduction to democratic values. Not only is it an educational opportunity, but it is also an opportunity to put TUHSD at the forefront of progress. I think it’s important to finish by asking the board a simple question: are you willing to invest in the future of your
bmueller@redwoodbark.org
Red, white and new: It’s time to take back the flag
By Matthew Knauer
A few years ago, Redwood decided that the American flag and the colors red, white and blue could not be used as a theme for any sporting events or school rallies. Once a common symbol of American high schools, the perception of the flag has changed dramatically over time. Today, it is often associated with ultra-nationalist protests like the Jan. 6 attacks on the Capitol Building, the “Unite the Right” rally and many other violent events. Instead of representing true patriotic ideals, the stars and stripes have come to represent chauvinistic, hateful and anti-progressive values. It’s time for Americans to restore the meaning of our flag and let it represent the values of patriotism.
in the world. In fact, it’s almost the exact opposite.
Showing “devotion and support” for your country, or being patriotic, means realizing the many flaws in your country. It means holding your elected officials accountable. It means expressing your beliefs and protesting for change when wrongdoings occur.
Patriotism is far from just believing your country is the best in the world. In fact, it’s almost the exact opposite.
Above all, it means working together with your family, friends, neighbors and fellow citizens to bring prosperity to all Americans.
The use of the word “again” in MAGA emphasizes that the party wants to revert back to previous times, which were filled with racism and inequality. Their beliefs support this too, as Project 2025 threatens to revert progress toward climate change prevention, LGBTQ+ rights and racial equality.
Patriotism: devotion and support to one’s country. To many, “devotion and support” means unconditional love and pride for a nation, regardless of the country’s wrongdoings or challenges. Despite the struggles of minority groups, many Americans have opposed crucial reforms toward greater equality, hiding behind the belief that America is the greatest country in the world and, therefore, doesn’t need to change. In reality, patriotism is far from just believing your country is the best
Unfortunately, many Americans believe that the Republican Party represents patriotism more than the Democratic Party. An October survey from The Redwood Bark found that 52 percent of students believe Republicans are more patriotic than Democrats, while only 15 percent of students believe Democrats are more patriotic. Similarly, a poll by YouGov found that the majority of Americans believed Republicans were “significantly more” patriotic than Democrats.
Americans believe this although the mantra of the Republican party is to “Make America Great Again” (MAGA). Being patriotic and showing “devotion and support” to one’s country means you must take steps forward to make the country more just for all citizens.
The 2016 presidential election between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton marked a clear beginning in the shifting interpretation of patriotism. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), following Trump’s election, hate crimes rose at the second highest rate in American history, only behind the period after the Sept. 11 attacks. Cambridge University reported a sharp uptick in xenophobia, or prejudice against those from other countries, alongside these hate crimes. Some examples of this xenophobia include blaming COVID-19 on Chinese Americans, perpetuating lies about Haitian Americans, threatening deportation of
immigrant American citizens and many more. Trump’s racist sentiment reversed the progress made when Barack Obama was elected as the first African American president, establishing that xenophobia is acceptable for American citizens. While minority groups and immigrants were ostracized, targeted and discriminated against, the American flag continued to wave. It became a symbol for this behavior, marrying the perception of the stars and stripes.
We’d all love to hang our country’s flag outside our homes or dress up in red, white and blue for Friday Night Lights football games. But, it’s difficult when these symbols have come to represent such hateful, anti-progressive values. The legacy of the American flag cannot be tainted by such bigoted behavior. It’s time to take back the meaning of the American flag, the word patriotism and what it means to be patriotic in today’s America.
mknauer@redwoodbark.org
The Republican Party has an obsession with Harris’s identity
By Tallulah Knill Allen and Nadia Massoumi
When Hillary Clinton ran for president back in 2016, her rallies were a sea of blue posters with bold letters reading “I’m With Her.” Clinton was the first woman to be nominated for president by a major political party and, as such, centered her campaign around her gender. Now,
distaste for his identity aligned with many Democratic voters’ beliefs. But Harris posed a challenge. She was young, she was female, she was a woman of color and she brought a seemingly fresh perspective to the electoral process.
Harris’s campaign has recognized what Clinton’s campaign could not: identity alone does not make a candidate. Rather, her campaign has focused on her
upbringing and her track record as a prosecutor. By making her identity a part of her campaign, Harris would be practically handing out reasons for conservatives to claim that she is an unfit candidate. In choosing not to use her identity as a primary campaign strategy, she is
Like the 2016 and 2020 elections before it, this election cycle reveals that the social climate matters more than the identity of your opponent.
other options, Republicans have taken Harris’s almost nonexistent use of her identity and run with it. Ironically, the Trump campaign has relied on Harris’s identity more than herself. Donald Trump and JD Vance are instead resorting to plain old racism. In July 2024, at a gathering of Black journalists in Chicago, Trump claimed that Harris “happened to turn Black.”
During 2016, Trump’s campaign did things right. He didn’t capitalize on his own identity—wealth and fame —but rather chose to recognize what people wanted: someone who felt relatable to them. These strategies powered him all the way to the presidency. And this strategy is precisely what Harris is doing this time around. There are certainly some instances where Harris uses her identity, such as capitalizing on the mispronunciation of her name by Republicans —a shirt on her website, for example, reads “Ka-ma-la.” While this could be viewed as a form of identity politics, it is a much more specific aspect of identity to which Democrats can become attached. This represents a difference from the right, which focuses on more general aspects of identity: race and gender more broadly, without specifics.
Harris’s use of identity proves her campaign’s competence in knowing both her voters and the potential political tactics of the right. Like the 2016 and 2020 elections before it, this election cycle reveals that the social climate matters more than the identity of your opponent.
Illustration by Zach Dinowitz
Illustration by Nadia Massoumi
editorial: The student body’s case against Yondr pouches
Your support strengthens our voice
In recent meetings, the Tamalpais Union High School District (TUHSD) board has discussed the possibility of implementing Yondr pouches in all schools. According to survey data from the TUHSD Board of Trustees, the proposed pouches, which cost over $160,000, would replace the current “Phone Jail” system. The pouches would lock phones in magnetically sealed slots for the entire school day in an attempt to improve students' mental health and keep them more engaged in the classroom.
However, just one percent of 1,288 students surveyed throughout the district supported full-day restrictions on phone usage, and less than half of 1,366 parents surveyed supported the phone ban. Students are so adamantly against the ban that they created a petition, accumulating 1,163 signatures in a month and a half. If TUHSD is genuinely dedicated to honoring student voices, as they often claim to be, they should listen to every student saying ‘no’ to Yondr pouches.
On top of the $160,000 to supply every student with a Yondr pouch, the district will spend an additional $20,000 to $30,000 annually on upkeep and replacement for lost and damaged pouches, according to the Board of Trustees. This endeavor is incredibly expensive, and there is no guarantee it will work the way the district intends. As seen in viral TikTok videos, fishing magnets cost just $11 and can easily pry open the pouches. Countless tutorials exist showing students how to break open the pouches using string and pencils. Spending this many of the school's resources while funds are desperately needed for other necessities is nonsensical.
POLICY: All editorials are unsigned and have been approved by the majority of The Bark staff.
One of the main concerns students, parents and teachers have expressed is that the outright ban will not allow students access to their phones during lunchtime. TUHSD high schools are open campuses, meaning students are allowed to leave to purchase lunch at local restaurants. Phones are used to pay for lunch, coordinate with friends and contact the school or authorities in an emergency. Without phones, it would be unsafe for students to go off campus, as well as incredibly inconvenient; therefore, students must have access to their devices during lunchtime.
A BARK to John Summit. We didn’t realize half the student body was 18+
A BITE to Yondr pouches. We won’t be putting our phones over Yondr that’s for sure.
A BARK to Trump’s self tan. With winter around the corner, soon all Marin girls are gonna be your doppelgangers!
A BITE to daylight savings. We can’t wait to watch the sunset with our 7th period classes!
Despite the unity of the student body against full-day restrictions, the staff is more split, with 50.7 percent of teachers supporting the pouches. Staff members have seen the detrimental effects of mobile phones on students in classrooms and some are hopeful that a full-day restriction will solve this problem. There is no doubt that taking students’ phones would limit classroom distraction and even have the potential to encourage face-toface interaction. However, almost half of the staff, 49.3 percent, agree that a complete phone ban is an overreach. Within this survey, teachers brought up issues like safety during an emergency or off-campus lunch and concern over the price and effectiveness of the pouches.
The current phone jail system mitigates the safety issues, giving students access to their phones during an emergency while restricting usage during class time. Many teachers have begun to take attendance using the assigned phone jail slots, mandating students to put their phones in the jail if they want to be marked present. Teachers who choose not to enforce the usage of a phone jail decide to face the consequences of potentially distracted classrooms. Individual teachers' failure to comply with district policy should not be the impetus for a district-wide ban.
Implementing Yondr pouches also prevents high schoolers from building self-control and responsibility. High school is supposed to prepare students for college and future life, yet having phones locked up inhibits students from developing restraint and personal initiative. Taking responsibility for your education is an essential skill meant to be built upon in high school.
If TUHSD truly cares about student input, they must listen to the 1,163 voices from the petition and the over 1,200 students surveyed who were against full-day phone restrictions.
Have an opinion regarding anything that appears in The Bark or in general? We encourage our readers to submit letters to the editor. Letters to The Bark should be 500 words or fewer, typed if possible and signed. They must emailed to bark@redwoodbark.org.
A BARK to Halloween. Who put the smoke machines in the bathroom?
A BITE to testing season. We are ACTually so done.
A BARK to an A in chemistry. Thank you Beyonce!
A BITE to the Klassy Kickoff this year. The game was short, but the injuries are long-lasting.
A BARK to Dr. Payne. It definitely doesn’t Payne us to say that you have drip.
A BITE to seniors’ November 1 deadlines. It’s an app-ocalypse.
BARKS and BITES are the collective opinions of the BARK staff concerning relevant issues. BARKS are in praise of accomplishments, while BITES criticize decisions or events.
Reporters
Jake Post
Adela Tabak
Richard Byrne
Tessa Marshall
Gabrielle Franklin
Hilah Brekhus-Lavinsky
Mason Garbo
Matthew Milan
Kate Morgan
Finn Nelson
Jack Block
Elsa Houtkooper
Mo Colaco
Henry Barker
Lily Bell
Evelyn Spiegel
Liam Healy
Kate Barker
Angelina Purvey
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Illustrations by Natalie Vinogradsky
The Games section now has online interactive activities under the Games tab at redwoodbark.org. We have a variety of different games including a daily word search, crosswords, strands, puzzles and more. Check out our games in the Student News Source app linked on page 1. To find the online
By Tessa Marshall
By Kate Barker
To view the keys and online versions to all games, scan this QR code or search games on redwoodbark.org
games@redwoodbark.org
By Jay Knopping
Kamala Harris inspires Marin City students
By Emma Rosenberg
On July 21, Joe Biden dropped out of the presidential election race. The question of who would fill the shoes as the Democratic nominee was quickly filled when he endorsed Kamala Harris, the former Attorney General and California Senator, Bay Area native and current Vice President. Harris promptly made headlines with her nomination, sparking increased voter interest within the Democratic party, and shifting polls in her favor, and away from former President Donald Trump. As a woman and as an African American and Southeast Asian, Harris stands out from the typical demographic of presidentelects. Her unique background and lived experiences bring fresh perspectives and an appeal to new groups that have rarely, if
ever, been represented in the
Oval Office.
Harris’s journey resonates deeply with communities long marginalized in politics, providing inspiration and a sense of visibility to countless individuals who now see themselves reflected in the nation’s leadership. According to the 2020 U.S. Census, Marin City, located about five miles from Redwood, has a Black population of almost 40 percent and a white population of 6 percent; in contrast, Larkspur is only 1 percent Black and 85 percent white. Marin City was initially developed as segregated housing for African American shipyard workers during World War II, leading to systematic racial segregation and limited economic opportunities. Over the decades, discriminatory policies have contributed to the community’s underprivileged status.
[Harris] being a person of color, biracial and a woman, is [all] fuel for the fire.
Debbie Mesloh, Kamala Harris’s
former
Director of Communications
Harris’s rise as a presidential candidate has profoundly impacted communities like Marin City, including the students and staff at Willow Creek School. As a woman of color who has broken political barriers, Harris provides these communities with a powerful role model and much-needed representation from someone who looks like them. Ten-year-old fourth grader Monet Hastings is particularly excited by the idea of a female president. To her, Harris’s candidacy represents a future where women, especially women of color, can hold the highest offices and make impactful changes. Monet sees Harris as a symbol of new possibilities and a source of hope, inspiring her and her classmates to dream bigger and believe in their potential to shape the world.
“If [Harris] wins, she will be the first Black female president. If she wins, this earth will have a good, big change,” Hastings said.
Fellow fourth grader Nyla Nicole also connects with Harris and hopes she becomes the next president.
“[Harris] potentially becoming president feels kind of strange, but at the same time, I feel very proud of her because she will be the first woman president,” Nicole said. “She looks super kind, but her words are also so powerful. I really hope she becomes president.”
Harris inspires not only to women of color but also boys. Ten-year-old LeTavian Leon Jefferson is motivated by Harris’s success and has big plans for his future.
“[Harris] was the one who made me think that I could do anything. She's the one who inspired me to want to make a video game because she makes me feel like I can even be a superhero,” Jefferson said.
Debbie Mesloh is Harris’s longtime friend and former communications director. Mesloh highlights how Harris’s beliefs shape her leader ship.
“It’s been so meaningful for her to live out her values. [Harris] believes in the fact that you define yourself. No one else does,” Mesloh said. “She has [always believed in] centering justice and equality” Mesloh also comments on the challenges that being a woman and a person of color has presented in Harris’s life.
“Her being a person of color, biracial and a woman is [all] fuel for the fire. Don’t tell her what she can or cannot do,” Mesloh said.
Harris’s success reaches far beyond inspiring women of color—it resonates with young boys, too. Ten-year-old LeTavian Leon Jefferson, for example, sees Harris as proof that he can aim
high and accomplish something big. Her journey has sparked his own dreams; he now imagines a future where he’s a leader who makes a real impact. Harris’s story shows him that obstacles can be overcome, and that hard work pays off. For LeTavian, she’s a reminder that no matter where you start, you can build a future you’re proud of.
“[Having Harris as a presidential candidate is] motivational because she’s a woman. She’s looking out for things we, as women, deal with regarding our bodies. I’m one of those women. I am ecstatic,” Jones said. Lawana Cook, another teacher’s assistant, recognizes the impact Harris, the party nominee, has had and will continue to have on the kids.
“It will be awesome for the kids to see that a woman can do anything. If a woman can become the president of the United States, they can just accomplish all goals, and anything’s possible. She is paving the way for all women of color,” Cook said. Jones also notices that when Harris gets brought up in conversation, she becomes a motivator for them.
“When I ask the kids, ‘What do you think about a woman of color becoming president?’ Many open their eyes wide and think, ‘Oh, women can do anything, too.’ Anything a man can do, a woman can too,” Jones said. “As a Black woman and as a Black person, it’s hard. You don’t always have motivators, so [Harris] is really special.”
Willow Creek Principal David Finnane emphasizes how important this time is for students of color and how Harris’s achievements should be celebrated in a classroom setting.
“It’s super important that all of our teachers stop and have conversations with the kids about this incredible historical moment, with regard to [Harris],” Finnane said.
For some students ike Hastings, Harris’s accomplishments are a reminder that dreams, no matter how big or small, are within reach.
“I want to become a vet. I hope someday I could help [Harris] if she has a cat and it gets sick,” Hastings said.
Illustration by Natalie Vinogradsky
How do students navigate political polarization and misrepresentation?
By Larkin Moffett and Isabelle Davis
Political polarization has become a defining feature of recent elections, particularly in the presidential race. Now more than ever, as a result of the twoparty system, people are forced to align with the extreme side of their party lines, leaving no room for middle-ground voters. As candidates and their parties grow further apart in their beliefs, policies and values, voters end up propagating this increasing polarization through biased media, misinformation, fearmongering and candidate extremism.
Senior Dylan Harms has closely followed local and national politics for much of his life and will be eligible to vote in the upcoming election. Although decided on his own vote, he worries about the divisions between the two parties.
“You have to choose one vote or the other. There’s not a lot of middle ground. You could vote third party, but the chances of a third party candidate winning is just so slim that you’re just throwing your vote away for whatever party you’re more closely aligned with: Republican or Democrat,” Harms said.
Social media plays a huge role in informing the youth and the general public. On most platforms, coverage tends to lean one way or the other depending on the algorithm, leading to a sharper divide between the two parties.
between parties.
“There’s a lot of things [on social media] that are not right, and it creates this understanding that maybe the other side is extreme or different. [Your vote] is something that takes a while to figure out. You hear all this stuff that isn’t necessarily true, so you have to dig through the mud,” Plescia said.
When misinformation is spread through social media, it can lead first-time voters to have extremely negative views of the opposing party. According to a study by Pew Research in 2016, about half of Republicans and slightly more than a third of Democrats said those in the other party were a lot or somewhat more immoral than other Americans. Today, 72 percent of Republicans regard Democrats as more immoral, and 63 percent of Democrats say the same about Republicans. Since the 2016 election, extreme party polarization has led to more overall negativity and a lack of knowledge about current politics. Due to the algorithm, first-time voters tend to only receive biased information promoting one party and its policies, which contributes to rising polarization.
You have to choose one vote or the other. There’s not alot of middle ground.
Dylan Harms, senior
“Information that most people are getting [about the election] is from popular social media sites like Twitter, YouTube or TikTok. There’s a lot of misinformation on the actual policies of the two candidates,” Harms said.
According to a survey conducted by Statista in 2022, 50 percent of Gen Z news consumers reported using social networks as their primary source on a daily basis. Social media is a valuable and effective way to broadcast information, but misinformation can spread just as efficiently.
Government teacher David Plescia has also noticed that many kids get their political information solely from social
According to The Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, less than one in five young people have heard about politics and issues this year from political parties, campaigns or community organizations. Social media has become the main avenue for youth to receive information about the election. Senior Julia Laury, an eligible voter in the 2024 presidential election, has felt the impact of misinformation on her ability to make an informed vote.
“I would say I base my [political] stance on what I hear from other people. I don’t do my own research. I should, but I don’t,” Laury said. “However, actual education on this is very important. I’m very passionate about [political education] because [while] the voting age isn’t young, I think that a lot of people my age are not as educated as [they] should be.”
Not only is misinformation impacting this continued polarization, but so is the extremism political candidates have
utilizing extremism to paint their opponent as an extremist towards the extreme right, and far left. [This creates] a really big political polarization between people, [especially impacting] first-time voters… you don’t have a middle ground,” Harms said.
Besides the extreme policy divide between the candidates for both the Republican and Democratic parties, new or soon-to-be voters are severely influenced by their differing personalities, rather than by their policies. Voters can oversimplify what a party stands for by making assumptions based on what they hear about the personality of the presidential candidate.
Tiburon Town Council Member and Redwood parent Issac Nikfar agrees that the 2024 election has seen a shift in ideology from previous elections.
“It can be polarizing for the youth to potentially have not seen broader issues, like the economy, that can impact their long-term success,” Nikfar said.
Without a middle ground, voters are forced to the edge of a single side, which can lead to negative views about the party that they aren’t a part of, contributing to this great divide.
“Everyone’s making assumptions about the party that they’re not part of, and there’s this overwhelming wish to win. But that’s where what the candidates are going
been “fear-mongering” by both candidates.
“One of the most effective ways to get someone to vote is fear-mongering and saying, ‘Well if you vote for this candidate, this is gonna happen,’ because [each candidate] is extremely left-leaning or extremely right-leaning,” Harms said.
Some of the most controversial issues between the two parties are actually what each uses as leverage to drive voters away from the other party.
“Arguably, one of the most prevalent issues of the election is immigration and the border, and that’s used as a huge tool. [Republicans] say, ‘If Harris gets elected like she’ll let every migrant, legal migrants, do your job,’” Harms said. “You see the Democrats use [fear-mongering] for Project 2025, and you see the Republicans use it for the border and stuff like that.”
Polarization, fueled by misinformation, is increasingly harmful to all voters, especially first-time voters. However, as we approach the upcoming election, increasing political education is the first step to combat misinformation.
“You as new voters [can] understand and codify what your values are right now. Find a candidate and do the research. There’s so much information available online, so you [can] go deep and understand what’s important to you,” Nikfar said.
bark@redwoodbark.org
Infographic by Hailey Carlton
Illustration by Zach Dinowitz
Uninformed and unprepared: The civic literacy crisis facing voters
By Nick Hartung and Henry Barker
Earlier this year, the United States Chamber of Commerce completed a comprehensive study of 2,000 eligible voters and found that an alarming 70 percent failed a basic civil literacy test. In a world of increasing political polarization and misinformation, the importance of civil literacy can not be understated.
Political literacy is vital for a well-functioning democracy. Without a basic understanding of how the government works, citizens are less equipped to critically assess policies and political figures and meaningfully participate in civic processes—especially voting. In a study by the Institute for Citizens and Scholars it was found that low civic knowledge correlates with lower voting rates. Only 44 percent of people with low civic knowledge intend to vote, compared to 66 percent of those with higher knowledge.
Civic knowledge is not just a luxury; it is a necessity. Democracies like our own thrive when citizens can be actively involved in the policies that shape their lives. A lack of civic knowledge restricts this ability, leaving Americans vulnerable to exploitation through misinformation and polarization, issues that are currently at the forefront of the 2024 election.
The United States education system is tasked with preparing young adults for the real world, but at Redwood, civil literacy is often pushed under the rug. Most students take government classes online simply to fulfill the credit requirements, a learning experience that often comes up short as new artificial intelligence tools do the work for students. Not everyone must
know how many amendments there are or who the current Speaker of the House is, but people should know their constitutional rights and the basics of government.
In our video, we tested students’ political knowledge at our school, asking them basic questions about the American government and political structure. The results offer a snapshot of the civic literacy crisis we are in the midst of. Despite being one of the most affluent and prosperous communities in the nation, Redwood students fared just as poorly as others across the country. We are two years from the 250th anniversary of our nation, but civic literacy is falling behind. As Thomas Jefferson once said, “An educated citizenry is vital for our survival as a free people.”
See how you would do with some of our questions!
How many branches of government are there in the U.S.? a. Two b. Three c. Four d. Five
What does the judicial branch do? a. Enforces laws b. Writes laws c. Interprets laws d. Vetoes laws
How many electoral votes are needed to win the U.S. presidency?
a. 250 b. 270 c. 300 d. 280
How many amendments are there in The Constitution?
a. 23 b. 25 c. 27 d. 29
Which international agreement did the U.S. rejoin after President Biden took office?
a. Paris Climate Agreement b NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement) c. TPP (Trans-Pacific Partnership) d. NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization)
bark@redwoodbark.org
SCAN THE QR code here to see the video interviews and answers for the political knowledge questions.
Illustration by Natalie Vinogradsky
Illustration by Cora Champommier
Online government classes: A hidden threat to America’s youth
By Emily Garcia
How do you picture a typical high school government class? Is it 30 students at their desks, participating in discussions about the election, or being lectured on the three branches of government? Maybe rethink that. Instead, picture a student sitting at home alone, not paying attention to the videos playing in the background, trying to speed through the class to get the credit needed to graduate. In recent years, many high school students have opted to take online courses instead of regular ones. However, with this decision comes the risk of not retaining the necessary information taught by these courses. The American Government course is a high school requirement for a reason, and students need to stop taking it online to solve the issue of decreased political literacy among the American population and its youth.
According to the Redwood course guide, “American Government is designed to help students learn to become informed, participating citizens of the [United States]. Students are introduced to the study of law and government through direct and simulated experiences in decision-making. Students are asked to explore their own political positions.”
While the traditional American Government class covers all the key points needed to create a successful American citizen, the recent trend of online courses has affected the overall political literacy of students and new adults. According to the Hechinger Report, in the fall of 2022, 54 percent of students took one or more courses online. As more students choose to turn to online learning, there seems to be a further decline in the understanding of basic political and civic knowledge due to a lack of structure and discipline in online courses. In a study from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, it was found that “more than 70 percent of Americans fail a basic civic literacy quiz on topics like the three branches of government, the number of Supreme Court justices and other basic functions of our democracy.”
Along with the teachings of different types of government, their structure and functions, students learn how to find accurate information surrounding political
issues in an in-person government class. According to a University of California, Riverside article, “[American Government and Civics] also covers how community members can participate in democracy by voting, raising awareness about important issues, communicating with elected and appointed officials, attending public meetings and hearings and working with communitybased organizations.” As many high school seniors become eligible to vote, it is even more crucial to stay informed about political issues and foster discussions that prepare students for tough political conversations. Survey, 39 percent reported being uncomfortable talking about their political views or politics in general. There are many reasons for this uneasiness, such as not knowing enough about the topic to be confident or fear of having an alternate perspective from someone else. Taking an in-person American Government course is vital to not only gain knowledge but also to gain confidence in engaging in difficult discussions further creating a more informed citizen who is unafraid to voice their opinions. Many believe that online learning may allow for more flexibility in students’ schedules especially when American Government is not paired with another onesemester course. While online courses may be more convenient for some students, in-person classes provide more opportunities to absorb information being taught. Especially regarding topics such as government and civics, it is essential for students to take advantage of the traditional classroom in order to listen to different views and gain knowledge that will be useful to them later in life or as they vote in the upcoming election.
As the trend of taking online classes continues to rise, it is vital that students consider and weigh their options regarding the traditional American Government class. Students may find that they actually enjoy the content and apply it to their current and future lives. As American citizens, it is our responsibility to be politically literate and understand what our position in democracy is.
egarcia@redwoodbark.org
Illustration by Nadia Massoumi
Title IX in schools acts to ensure equality
By Paige Edelen
Anyone who has looked at the Tamalpais Union High School District (TUHSD) website might have noticed the small blue tab under “About Us” labeled “Title IX (Sex-Based Discrimination).”
However, many fail to realize that this small blue tab represents a much bigger concept than it may seem: the civil rights law that protects students from prejudice based on sex in schools and promotes equality for all regardless of gender.
On June 23, 1972, Title IX was signed into federal legislation by former President Richard Nixon, stating “no person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits of or be subjected to discrimination under any educational program or activity receiving federal financial assistance.” This law essentially mandates that public schools cannot show prejudice based on one’s sex. This prejudice includes sexual harassment, sexual assault and any form of sexual discrimination, including any occurring in athletics and other school programs.
After being signed, the law went through multiple stages of review, including regulations from the executive, judicial and legislative branches of overnment.
believes in the importance of consistently updating Title IX within the district.
“We’re always updating our policies in the district; we just went through a very big update cycle with all of our board policies and administrative regulations,” Lara said.
She also mentioned how the district collaborates with others to ensure they have the most updated policies.
“We work with the California School Board Association, which is constantly pushing out new information about new laws, whether federal or state and new practices that we can use to update our policies. [And we collaborate with] partner law firms that constantly have information on new laws and are always looking at policies and providing new information,” Lara said.
Lara and district staff, especially administrators and student service groups, get updated training every year. This training requires staff to have the skills to identify the problems that fall under Title IX, know the general responsibilities under it and report issues to one of the district coordinators.
According to Lara, one of the problems that frequently comes up is studentto-student harassment.
Gathering consent is how we open up to one another.
Kelly Lara Assistant Superintendent of Education Services
The law also faced an attempted veto in 1988 by former President Ronald Reagan, who argued that it exercised unjust federal power over private organizations. The veto was overridden by Congress, halting any further changes to the law for the foreseeable future. However, in 2020, Title IX underwent a significant change which ensured that all schools receiving federal funding were updated in terms of Title IX for the start of the 2024-25 school year. This change was put into action on Aug. 1, 2024.
The new regulations were implemented by the United States Department of Education under the Trump Administration. The most notable changes included new staff training requirements and detailed procedures for dealing with formal sexual harassment complaints.
One of TUHSD’s Title IX coordinators, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services Kelly Lara,
“Students regularly report interactions they’ve had with one another that were harmful or made them feel uncomfortable. Then, we go through them to learn more about what happened. We want students to be able to go to a trusted adult, whether that be a counselor, a teacher or someone else,” Lara said.
Lara also noted that most Title IX cases related to student-to-student issues could have been avoided if clear consent had been established. Many students, she pointed out, don’t fully understand what consent means or how to communicate it openly, which can lead to preventable conflicts. A simple “yes” or “no” can sometimes be misunderstood without a proper discussion about boundaries and respect. By teaching students how to recognize and give consent, schools aim to reduce incidents and help students build respectful relationships, creating a safer, more supportive environment for everyone involved.
“Consent and coercion are the two things that come up most; gathering consent is how we open up to one another and how you’re certain that you’re both open to
engaging in whatever activity you might be about to do. I think our young people need to learn more about that,” Lara said.
Callie Mock, junior and member of Peer Resource, believes there is a lack of knowledge about consent in younger generations.
“In Peer Resource, we target sexual consent and study peer pressure and misconceptions of consent. [We’ve learned that] especially with teenagers and the use of drugs and alcohol, most people think it’s a ‘yes’ even if it’s just a head nod. But they need to be aware, conscious and feeling okay in their headspace [in order to consent], and a lot of people forget that,” Mock said.
Mock also addressed why having programs such as Title IX and Peer Resource are valuable for students.
“[Title IX and Peer Resource] give ways to spread awareness, and they also create a much more inclusive environment at Redwood,” Mock said.
LaSandra White, Senior Director of Human Resources at TUHSD, explained how having Title IX is important for not just awareness and inclusivity, but also equality.
Infographic by Paige Edelen
having [Title IX] as an avenue to report that information is important,” White said. Title IX is essential for creating a fair and supportive environment in schools. As the Tamalpais Union High School District continues updating its policies, it’s clear that teaching students and staff about consent, harassment, and inclusivity is crucial to ensuring everyone feels valued. By fostering a community where safety and respect are prioritized, TUHSD not only upholds the principles of Title IX but also empowers students to advocate for themselves and each other. This sense of responsibility is shared by students, teachers, and administrators alike, as everyone plays a part in fostering understanding, empathy, and mutual respect. Programs like Title IX and Peer Resource enable this mission by actively promoting awareness, inclusivity, and equity. Ultimately, when students and staff are educated about their rights and responsibilities, they can contribute to a school environment where all individuals are empowered to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
“[Title IX providews] equity and ensures there’s no discrimination against anyone, whether it’s women or people of a different gender or race. The district has done a lot to ensure [discrimination doesn’t] happen, but nothing’s perfect, so pedelen@redwoodbark.org
Illustration by Natalie Vinogradsky
Inspiring citizens with election campaign slogans
By Kate Harrison
Campaign slogans have served as the motto for presidential candidates since the 1840s. The first presidential slogan was used by the ninth president of the United States, William Henry Harrison, whose slogan was “Tippecanoe and Tyler Too.” These mottos tend to represent what the candidates hope to achieve if elected into office, helping to garner attention to and symbolize their campaign.
As elections have progressed, slogans have become more targeted to individual groups rather than the greater population to gather more support for candidates' policies and views. Nevertheless, slogans still have immense power over the results of the election. Here are some of the slogans used by recent presidential candidates, and the impact they had on their following:
Donald Trump
Former President Donald Trump has been using the slogan, “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) since the 2016 election. MAGA has been seen across his whole campaign trail through posters, hats and other merchandise. Most supporters of MAGA are conservative Republicans and people who have similar ideals to him. This slogan reflects Trump's goals in both his policies and leadership style. He kept the slogan hoping to maintain his original supporters from his 2016 campaign.
MAGA also reflects a sense of nostalgia and patriotism, the key foundation for his campaign. The slogan can invoke national pride and serve as a way to connect with various ideals in politics and the status of this country.
Kamala
Harris
During the presidential election in 2020, Vice President Kamala Harris used the slogan “For the People” to accumulate support for her and President Joe Biden’s campaign. “For the People” is symbolic of Harris’s role in leadership, as she aims to provide for her community and the people of America. Allies can connect with her views and feel more supported, as she would be elected “For the People.”
For the 2024 election, although there is no official campaign slogan, types of mottos can be seen at her rallies and events across the country. The most popular ones are “For Democracy” and “Let’s Win This.”
“For Democracy” is a newer version of her 2020 vice presidential campaign slogan. Her present non-slogans are more targeted towards Democrats and people who dislike Trump, as “Let’s Win This” implies beating her opponent in all aspects while “For Democracy” aims to keep democracy alive. These campaigns resonate with her past claims of Trump becoming a dictator in office and that democracy is slowly dying. Harris hopes to evoke a sense of justice with her slogans and wants her supporters to join her in the fight for democracy and the election.
Barack Obama
During the 2008 election cycle, former President Barack Obama posted his slogan, "Change We Can Believe In" to ignite support for the change he would bring to office if elected. Using the word “we” created a personal aspect of his campaign and implied that everyone who wants change can participate. After his success in the 2008 election, he retired his old slogan and created "Forward,” for his re-election in 2012. Obama’s second slogan holds the same beliefs of progress
and moving forward. This helped keep supporters on his second campaign trail. Slogans have a way of igniting candidates' campaigns, whether it be in presidential or local elections. Each candidate with a personalized campaign slogan can acquire more support as they target specific demographics and ideologies. Sometimes, slogans can be
Not sure where to find credible news? Start
By Anna Youngs
With the upcoming election, finding trustworthy news sources can make a huge difference in the credibility of the information you’re consuming. Unfortunately, this is no easy task. With the vast spread of misinformation and misleading bias, it can be comforting to know for certain that the information you’re reading is accurate. One way to seek out truthful news is through the Media Bias Chart, created by Vanessa Otero of Ad Fontes Media, which shows the political leaning and credibility of popular news outlets. Here are some of the best options
to scour for news that will make you a better-informed citizen.
Pew Research Center
Established in 2004, the nonpartisan Pew Research Center (Pew) provides data on a wide range of topics. Using random sampling, experts in survey methodology conduct an array of different polls to create digestible infographics for their readers. From voter expectations to gender discrimination, Pew has many resources providing insight on pressing topics. Their data can help you get a grasp of public opinion and trends as well as stay educated on politics and policy.
used to target opponents in campaigns, but they are sometimes unsuccessful at gaining more supporters for their election campaign. Overall, slogans serve as a way for candidates to express their ideas and create a motto that reflects each candidate's morals and their presidency.
kharrison@redwoodbark.org
here!
The Associated Press
The Associated Press (AP) provides an unbiased and fact-checked source of nonpartisan news, functioning as a collective organization. This means various news outlets contribute content, which can then be used by other publications. These other members may be other media outlets, businesses or websites who are given permission to use AP content which they can republish. What makes AP reliable is its global network and high journalistic standards. With reporters across the world, the content produced by AP is not only accurate and local but highly diverse. Neutrality and reliability are a priority for AP, making them a highly regarded news source and business.
National Public Radio
The National Public Radio (NPR) was established in 1970 by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting after the Public Broadcasting Act of 1967 was passed. Since then, NPR has provided news, educational enrichment and cultural content since its creation. NPR thrives in the current political landscape and has expanded to many different forms of media. According to the media bias chart, NPR offers factbased, reliable and balanced journalism, leaning slightly to the left.
The Daily (New York Times Podcast)
Another simple way to access the news is through podcasts. The Daily is a popular product of the New York Times, hosted by Michael Barbaro and Sabrina Tavernise. The episodes range from 20 to 25 minutes, covering various current events. This podcast will give you a digestible recap of some of the most pressing events of the week and updates on the biggest stories of the decade. The Daily tends to lean left politically, along with the other content produced by the New York Times.
Not every news source prioritizes ethical journalism, and misinformation can be extremely harmful, especially during this election. According to Pew Research, 73 percent of adults in the United States see inaccurate news about the 2024 election at least somewhat often. And inaccurate news spreads fast, especially amongst those who lack media literacy skills. These sources can give a well-rounded and balanced perspective to anyone looking to get into the current events of the local and global community.
ayoungs@redwoodbark.org
FORMER PRESIDENT BARACK Obama on his 2008 campaign trail with his slogan, “Change We Can Believe In” on posters from supporters.
Image courtesy of Flickr.com
VICE PRESIDENT KAMALA Harris shakes hands with her supporters, who wear her slogan, “For The People,” on their yellow T-shirts.
Image courtesy of Flickr.com
Photo Illustration by Penelope Trott
Image courtesy of Flickr.com
Harvest your watchlist: Fall’s best TV shows on Netflix
By Aurora Sreba
Amidst the chaos of the fall semester, with college applications and political tensions stirring, autumn brings a much-needed pause. Whether craving something comforting or suspenseful, fall is the season for curling up in your coziest blanket and diving into a new series. Here are the top five fall-themed television (TV) picks to add to your season's watchlist.
Gilmore Girls:
A timeless classic and an obvious choice for any fall watchlist, “Gilmore Girls” is truly the ultimate autumn TV show.
Set in the small town of Stars Hollow, Connecticut, the series follows the close-knit relationship between Lorelai Gilmore (Lauren Graham) and her daughter Rory Gilmore (Alexis Bledel) across seven seasons. With the small-town setting, crisp autumn backdrops and relatable characters, “Gilmore Girls” transports viewers to a simpler world. With many episodes set in the fall and Lorelai’s routine coffee breaks, this show is ideal for cozying up on a chilly evening, making it the perfect show to repeatedly watch.
friends Erin (Saoirse-Monica Jackson), Clare (Nicola Coughlan), Orla (Louisa Harland), Michelle (JamieLee O'Donnell) and James (Dylan Llewellyn), whose witty dialogue and comedic disputes keep viewers thoroughly entertained. With only three seasons, it is a quick watch that follows this lively group through their everyday adventures. “Derry Girls” offers not only laughter but also a glimpse into
The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina: If you are in the mood for something a bit more spooky, “The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina” is the perfect end to your search. This adaptation of the Archie Comics classic “Sabrina the Teenage Witch” unfolds in the fogcovered town of Greendale, where Sabrina grapples with the choice between living a normal life and embracing her identity as a witch. This show blends cozy fall aesthetics with spooky supernatural elements, making it a great option for autumn viewing.
Friday Night Lights:
How I Met Your Mother: Look no further if you are searching for a sitcom that offers consistent laughs and lighthearted moments. Set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City, this show follows Ted Mosby (Josh Radnor) in the year 2030 as he tells his kids how he met their mother. With memorable characters and clever writing, this series is perfect for days when you want an easy, feel-good watch. There is no need to catch every detail to enjoy the humor and warmth of this series.
Derry Girls:
Set in the 1990s in Northern Ireland, this underrated coming-of-age series follows the chaotic adventures of
Set in the football-obsessed town of Dillon, Texas, this show captures the autumn feel of Friday night games under the lights, chilly air and community spirit. While centered around high school football, it delves into the relationships and challenges faced by teammates and community members in Dillon. You don’t need to be a football enthusiast to enjoy this series; the heartwarming stories and intense emotional stakes resonate with the reflective nature of the season.
Each of these feel-good series, set with warm tones and vintage aesthetics, evokes the crispness of fall air and the comfort of sitting by a warm fireplace. So, when the season's chaos feels overwhelming, take a moment to unwind and let these top fall TV picks offer a welldeserved breather.
asreba@redwoodbark.org
A beginner’s guide to yoga styles in Marin
By Grace Gehrman
Within the realm of yoga, many different styles exist. Some of the most popular are Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Yin, Iyengar, Prenatal, Aerial and Hot yoga. Granted, not all types of yoga are built the same—nor are they all for everyone. This is my beginner’s guide to some of the most popular forms in Marin.
Hatha yoga
Hatha yoga dates back to eleventh-century India and emphasizes balance, rest and mindfulness. Unlike many types of yoga that flow between postures, Hatha yoga holds specific positions for longer and allows for rest between poses.
Hatha yoga is excellent for beginners who want to focus on flexibility and gentle strength with a meditative approach. However, Hatha may be slow or tedious for people who want more dynamic movement.
I would recommend Hatha as a method to de-stress, meditatively stretch out your body and calm your mind. However, it is not the best option for people seeking a high-intensity workout or cardiovascular activity.
My favorite studio for Hatha yoga is Love Story Yoga Larkspur for its peaceful, ambient environment.
Vinyasa yoga
Unlike Hatha yoga, Vinyasa emphasizes the positions and postures, as well as the transitions between them. In a Vinyasa class, there are little to no breaks between each movement—every position flows seamlessly to the next. Vinyasa is thought to be from 200 B.C.E. India, though it was refined in the 20th century.
Vinyasa is an excellent choice for those looking to focus on flexibility, gentler cardio and strength, as it is more upbeat than Hatha, though not as energetic as Hot
yoga. That being said, Vinyasa—depending on the specific type—can be great for beginners, though initially, it will likely prove challenging. The lack of breaks between movements is a departure from most other types of physical activities.
For Vinyasa, Metta Yoga in Corte Madera is a great option for a balanced class and a beautiful studio.
Hot yoga
Hot yoga is arguably the most popular type of yoga, attracting roughly 36 percent of American yoga practitioners, according to Asivana Yoga, a yoga database and yoga-material supplier. It was largely popularized in the 1970s and has only grown since then. Hot yoga is any type of yoga performed at 80 to 115 degrees Fahrenheit. Common types of Hot yoga include Hot Power yoga, Hot Fusion yoga and Hot Vinyasa yoga.
Yoga performed in higher temperatures strategically
uses heat to maximize participants' flexibility, the temperature allowing their bodies to be especially limber. Beyond flexibility, hot yoga is a great workout for your lungs and helps the body detox through sweating. It is a great choice for current yoga practitioners or athletes who are used to cardio or hot conditions. While you can undoubtedly attempt Hot yoga as a beginner, trying regular Vinyasa—which would employ similar movement, but at a more digestible temperature—would be a good prerequisite.
Even for regular practitioners, Hot yoga is a challenging blend of scalding conditions, strength, flexibility and cardio. It is an intense workout and great for anyone looking to challenge themselves and who doesn’t have health complications from heat exposure.
I recommend Now Power Yoga for a Hot yoga class if you like upbeat electronic music and a fun environment. In the world of yoga, there are so many different studios and styles worth trying. These are my guide to three of my favorites that are popular in Marin, not the best styles. Considering yoga has existed for centuries, there are so many different forms to try. There may be one, or many, that speak to you.
Infographic by Aurora Sreba
Illustration by Natalie Vinogradsky
Illustration by Natalie Vinogradsky
Infographic by Grace Gehrman
Image courtesy of Love Story Yoga
El mes de la herencia hispana en Redwood
El mes de la herencia hispana se celebra del 15 de septiembre al 15 de octubre. Como el mes llega a su fin, es importante recordar este mes y aprender cómo se celebra. El mes de la herencia hispana es un tiempo para celebrar la cultura de las comunidades hispanas. Hay muchos tipos diferentes de celebraciones en todas las culturas. El aniversario de independencia para muchos países hispanos es el 15 de septiembre. En ese día, el mes de la herencia hispana comienza. Los países que celebran la independencia en ese día son Costa Rica, Chile, Honduras, México, Guatemala, Nicaragua y El Salvador. Previamente, esos países estaban bajo dominio español. Sin embargo, el día de la independencia no solo se celebra ese día. La gente del mundo celebra la independencia hispana un mes después.
La profesora Anna Alsina es una profesora en Redwood y enseña Español 7-8, Español 7-8 honores, y Español por hispanohablantes. Alsina es una profesora con herencia hispana. Ella vivió en España durante 27 años y se identifica como española. Ella llegó a San Francisco cuando se casó con un hombre de los Estados Unidos.
“Viví en España toda mi vida hasta que me mudé aquí. Cuando estaba en la universidad, en la Universidad de Barcelona, conocí a un estudiante de intercambio de Estados Unidos y me mudé aquí para casarme con él,” dijo Alsina.
Profe Alsina tiene una gran definición de lo que significa ser hispana.
“Ser hispana para mi significa tener una identidad relacionada con un país de habla español” dijo Alsina.
La profesora Connie Vallejo se identifica como Latina. Vallejo enseña Spanish 1-8 en Redwood. Ella ha vivido en California toda su vida. Vallejo cree que es importante enseñar a sus estudiantes sobre
la cultura de los países que hablan español.
“Quiero que mis estudiantes vayan a los países hispanas y utilicen lo que han aprendido para encajar en ese entorno,” dijo Alsina.
El mes de herencia hispana es más que él independencia de los países. El mes de herencia hispana es sobre la cultura, historia y aceptación de los individuos que se identifican como Latinx, hispana y otras identidades culturales. “Por este mes pasado los estudiantes han estado trabajando en estos proyectos sobre una persona que contribuyó positivamente al mundo. Siendo un modelo a seguir para ellos,” dijo Alsina.
Vallejo enseña a sus estudiantes lecciones como la identidad hispana así como la geografía y terminología que vienen con eso. También cree que es importante que sus estudiantes sean educados y respetuosos sobre las identidades de las personas hispanas
hispanohablantes para el mes de la herencia hispana. En ese proyecto, los estudiantes eligen una persona de herencia hispana y hacen un cartel sobre esa figura. “Quiero conectar mis planes de lecciones con la cultura hispana,” dijo Alsina.
Quiero conectar mis planos de lecciones con la cultura hispana.
Anna Alsina,
Profesora
“Como alguien que creció en una familia bilingüe, enseñar a mis estudiantes [sobre que la cultura hispana] es muy importante porque la contribución latina a la historia y la cultura de los Estados Unidos es muy profunda y creo que es muy importante que la gente reconozca que las personas de los países hispana tienen mucho que aportar,” dijo Vallejo.
en Redwood
Además, Alsina creó un proyecto de clase sobre personajes de la historia de
Alsina quiere introducir la cultura hispana a los estudiantes porque quiere que sus estudiantes aprendan aplicar la cultura hispana a sus propias vidas.
“Es importante que [los estudiantes] reconozcan que personas de países hispanas tienen perspectivas diversas y tienen mucho que aportar a nuestra sociedad, creo que mis estudiantes reconocer la historia y las luchas que los países hispanohablantes y latinoamericanos tuvieron que enfrentar para independizarse,” dijo Vallejo.
Está claro que los estudiantes aprenden mucho en las clases de español porque tienes profesores que se preocupan por incorporar la cultura española a sus estudiantes. Las profesores tienen mucho que compartir sobre la diversidad de la cultura hispana. Los estudiantes aprenden mucho sobre los países, las culturas y personas que celebran el mes de la herencia hispana. En conclusión, el mes de herencia hispana es muy importante porque la gente de las culturas hispanas son celebradas y la importancia y la historia de esa cultura también son celebradas y aceptadas.
jblock@redwoodbark.org
Por quién deberían votar los hispanos en 2024?
La competencia entre Kamala Harris y Donald Trump por las elecciones presidenciales de 2024 es reñida a medida que se acercan las elecciones, particularmente entre los votantes latinos. Los votos latinos tendrán un papel más importante que nunca en esta elección. Según una encuesta del Pew Research Center, al 2 de septiembre, la mayoría de los votantes latinos registrados (57%) dicen que votarían por la vicepresidenta Kamala Harris y el 39% votaría por el expresidente Donald Trump. Si bien Harris está a la cabeza entre los latinos, estas cifras pueden cambiar en las semanas previas al día de las elecciones. Sin embargo, eso sería una pena, ya que a los latinos les irá mucho mejor bajo la presidencia de Harris, y deberían votar por los demócratas en noviembre, ya que esto servirá mejor a sus intereses.
Los votantes hispanos siguen a la izquierda del electorado general en temas clave como la inmigración y la política ambiental, según una encuesta de la Universidad de Harvard realizada a al menos 60.000 estadounidenses antes de las elecciones de 2020 y las elecciones intermedias de 2022. En otras áreas de política, los votantes hispanos son en gran medida similares al resto del electorado.
Este estudio sugiere que los votantes hispanos querrán un candidato que esté en el centro de la izquierda en temas de inmigración y política ambiental.
El enfoque de Donald Trump hacia la seguridad fronteriza es completar el muro fronterizo e iniciar deportaciones masivas, las más grandes de la historia en este país.
El enfoque de Trump es la seguridad fronteriza y le importa mucho más la deportación y la disuasión. Si bien los votantes latinos pueden querer una frontera más segura, esta política actuaría en contra de sus intereses, ya que los latinos no quieren ver a muchos de los miembros de su comunidad que son indocumentados ser deportados o perjudicados por la policía. En junio, NBC informó que los votantes
latinos quieren cada vez más ver patrullas fronterizas y clasificar la inmigración como una preocupación principal, pero no son partidarios de medidas severas. Harris, por otro lado, se centra en la financiación de tecnología de detección para detectar el contrabando de drogas. Trump también quiere reducir el asilo y el acceso al asilo en este país, hasta el punto de que podría esencialmente cerrarse. Esto no está en línea con lo que prefiere la mayoría de los latinos: el 59 por ciento de los latinos apoyan que se permita a los refugiados que huyen del crimen y la violencia en América Latina solicitar asilo en los EE.UU. Harris propone un enfoque mucho más sensato que aborde las causas fundamentales. Ella consiguió $9 mil millones en ayuda para ayudar a abordar
esas causas fundamentales de la migración. El enfoque de Harris en la seguridad fronteriza para detener la migración mientras está ocurriendo, en lugar de deportar a los inmigrantes que ya están integrados, está más en línea con las preferencias políticas de los latinos. En 2024, hay 36,2 millones de latinos elegibles para votar. Como resultado, los votantes latinos son ahora el segundo grupo más grande de votantes elegibles del país, detrás de los votantes blancos. Con tantos votantes latinos elegibles a nivel nacional, constituyen porcentajes notables de votantes en varios de los estados en disputa de este año. Si bien Harris actualmente lidera entre los latinos, es importante reconocer que sus políticas se alinean mejor con los intereses y las preocupaciones de esta comunidad. Su enfoque en abordar las causas fundamentales de la inmigración y evitar las deportaciones masivas, junto con su postura sobre cuestiones ambientales, resuenan más con los valores de los votantes latinos. Las duras políticas de inmigración de Trump, aunque atractivas para algunos que priorizan la seguridad fronteriza, en última instancia corren el riesgo de alienar a muchos en la comunidad latina que se oponen a las medidas extremas.
ohuneeus@redwoodbark.org
Arte por Jack Block
Arte por Cora Champommier
Por Jack Block
Por Ofelia Huneeus
By Bella Beach
By Grace Gehrman
The Literary section is another medium for self-expression within The Redwood Bark. Open to submissions from within the Bark staff and the general student body, this section serves to recognize creative work. If you are interested in submitting, scan the QR code below or email the editor at literary@redwoodbark.org.
Given the theme of this edition and the upcoming election, the need for students’ voices and creative expression to be represented is relevant now more than ever. Through both the creative work in this section and the nonfiction contributions of the other sections, we hope to emphasize the power of student voices within politics and beyond.
New NCAA roster cap reshapes college recruiting
By Evan Wang
In recent months, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) introduced a significant change, forcing many student-athletes to rethink their college decisions, and making it increasingly difficult to secure a coveted spot on a Division I roster in many sports.
The new rule was announced after losing a litigation battle to Arizona State University swimmer Grant House and Texas Christian University basketball player Sedona Prince, who sued the NCAA. The plaintiffs alleged that the NCAA's rules prohibiting name, image and likeness (NIL) payments for athletes before 2021 violated the Sherman Act, which bans practices that restrain trade and competition in the marketplace.
The NCAA agreed to a settlement paying up to $2.8 billion in ten years to current and former athletes for losing out on potential NIL deals and revenue sharing. Previously, most sports were only allowed to hand out a small supply of scholarships, but this limit has now been removed for all sports. Revenue sharing and scholarships are also still impacted by Title IX, meaning that universities will still have to provide an equal amount of scholarships to men and women.
scholarships, school revenue and NIL. However, in many sports, the new rule cuts the total amount of roster spots a team has. In baseball, for example,
In theory, the new rule is playerfriendly. It would add 800 new scholarships across all sports, streamlining the three ways college athletes are compensated:
they offer. With fewer spots on the team, [we] can’t just give a spot to everyone.”
University of Hawai’i at Mānoa’s (UH) mens’ volleyball coach Charlie Wade has the opposite perspective. His team typically
filled the roster with walk-ons, while rostering a significant number of players. However, with new cuts to roster size, they cannot keep as many players. Wade's team won the national championship two years ago, largely thanks to their walk-ons..
“[Our team] would load up the back half of our roster anyway. We’re all walkwould allow for grow and mature,” said Wade. “We were winning championships with walk-ons on the floor because you could recruit those
That said, high school recruits are a large portion of the people affected by the sudden rule change. For athletes like junior softball player Stella Belluomini, who committed to the University of Houston, the rule affected her positively. She’s excited to at the next the rule as addition to
the NCAA rulebook.
“On my team, we have five girls committed so far, and almost everybody got a full ride,” Belluomini said. “Softball players normally do not get a lot of money, and we used to have only nine scholarships.
Now, more players are getting full rides.”
Smaller roster caps mean fewer opportunities for non-scholarship players who aren’t at the top of their recruiting class. For senior Sam Gersch, a Redwood varsity baseball player who recently committed to Division III Middlebury College, this reduction in roster spots played a huge role in his decision-making process.
“Early on, I was looking at Power Five Division I schools,” Gersch said. “But in July, they changed the rules and cut the roster size. Those last six spots are just gone, so about 1,800 Division I roster spots are no longer available for baseball players.”
This sudden change forced Gersch and many others in his recruiting class to rethink their college plans.
“The schools I was talking to stopped recruiting when the cuts happened,” he said. “Even the schools that had already recruited too many players had to start cutting guys.”
Gersch believes the new roster rules have led many baseball players—who would have otherwise played at the Division I level—to explore alternative routes.
If you want to continue reading about the NCAA roster cap, see “New NCAA roster cap reshapes college recruiting” in the sports section redwoodbark.org. ewang@redwoodbark.org
The importance of reviving school sports attendance
By Jake Post
With the fall sports season coming to an end, it seems as though the successes of each respective team have not been shared by fans. Between both the girls’ varsity volleyball and boys’ varsity football—two typically well-attended sports—something has felt odd about this season: student attendance and spirit, or a lack thereof. Whether it be the usually anticipated volleyball game against The Branson School on Oct. 9 or the rivalry football game against Tamalpais on Oct. 10, the atmosphere hasn’t been replicated from previous years.
When I question fellow attendees at such events, the answer to why their friends aren’t in the crowd alongside them is always the same: seniors have college applications, juniors are drowning in stress, sophomores are getting used to a larger workload and freshmen are still figuring out high school. But in prior years, no matter the circumstances, highly anticipated volleyball games and football games were attended. Now, it seems like school spirit has gone down the drain. Boys’ varsity basketball coach Jay DeMaestri attends
almost all Redwood sporting events, and he weighed in on why he thinks attendance at these events is so varied.
“Some grades are just more enthusiastic than others. The class atmosphere is a big influence when it comes to attendance,” DeMaestri said.
Although some might say that the teams aren’t performing as well this fall compared to prior runs, the girls' varsity volleyball team ranks among the top in the Bay Area, supported by a 23-4 record and ranking sixth in the North Coast Section. DeMaestri regularly spectates the volleyball games and is a first-hand observer of each night's attendance.
“I don’t understand why [the senior grade] is not there, especially with how competitive the [volleyball] team has been this year,” DeMaestri said.
While the football team has been middling this year, boasting a 4-4 record, DeMaestri believes the lack of attendance at recent football games has to do with the
newly implemented rules, forcing longer commutes to cheer on the Giants.
“It definitely has to do with playing different teams on different days this year. In prior years, you would play a rival every week. This year, there is no correlation between teams besides the Tam game which also wasn’t well attended,” DeMaestri said.
Senior Sam Gersch, a dual sport athlete and Redwood sports fanatic believes these games are not being attended for other reasons. However, he also believes upcoming games will receive increased attendance.
“This year the games are just not being as publicized as much so people aren’t hearing about them. Also, students just have a lot going on right now. But, I know for sure during basketball season and upcoming playoff volleyball games everyone will be at those games, as they are super fun,” Gersch said.
Attending these games is more than just supporting your friends and teams. It serves as a great way to be a part of the atmosphere of a crowd and socialize with all of your classmates.
“You're only a high school student once. It’s always fun to get to as many games as possible and be a part of the culture. When you attend these events, it’s more than just the game going on,” Gersch said.
Not only do these games serve as an exhilarating social experience, but they also can impact the outcome of the game.
Senior basketball player Noah Tanaka commented on the effects of school support on a team’s performance.
“We are just more amped up and even more excited to go out there and play our hardest [when fans are there],” Tanaka said.
With more than half of Redwood’s student body involved in a sport, imagine if every single one of these athletes supported their fellow programs. The attendance
and atmosphere would be through the roof, attracting student crowds of over 300 people. While it is understandable that people have other priorities and commitments, on a Friday or Saturday evening when the student body has nothing to do, events such as rivalry and playoff games serve students two hours of hanging out with and supporting their friends, lifting their school's sports teams and experiencing the thrill of a high school student section.
jpost@redwoodbark.org
Want to learn more about sports? Listen to Mason Garbo and Sean Cunneen’s podcast, Sports at Dawn.
THE “HOME” LETTERS on the back wall of the gym shine brightly, as the student section sits empty at a volleyball game.
Photo by Julia Delsol
Sports Spotlight: Water polo captains drive historic success
By Matthew Knauer and Hilah Brekhus-Lavinsky
Boys’ varsity water polo is consistently ranked as one of the best teams in the Bay Area, having won two out of the last three Marin County Athletic League (MCAL) and North Coast Section (NCS) championships. However, this season, they’ve reached another level, ranking 17th in the country and eighth in California; this season marks their highest rank since MaxPreps began tracking water polo scores.
Leading the Giants into uncharted territory are their senior captains, Ossie Joplin and Sawyer Goldberg. Since Joplin moved from Texas to Marin County after his freshman year, the two have played alongside each other in the water yearround for both high school and club, cultivating a bond that has culminated in incredible success for the Giants.
said.
However, Joplin’s journey to becoming a captain didn’t start like most others. He had a late start to the sport, with no exposure to the sport until he began playing his freshman year in Texas.
“I lived in Texas before I moved here, [and] water polo wasn't [very popular] there. [One day] I saw a poster [and] thought to try it out because I was getting hurt playing football. It’s just stuck ever since,” Joplin said.
Despite Joplin’s inexperience, both captains started on varsity as sophomores, a testament to their talent and athleticism from a young age. However, their leadership skills have also grown as they’ve gained experience and learned from previous captains.
We know each other in and out and know what each other will do before [it happens.]
Ossie Joplin, Varsity boys’ water polo captain
“We've been the duo on almost every team we've played for. Every hotel we stay at, we stay in the same room. We stayed together on a water polo cruise; we've [practically] lived together for the past four years. We know each other in and out and know what each other will do before [it happens],” Joplin said.
Varsity head coach Rudy Kardos has coached both captains throughout their club and high school careers and has witnessed their chemistry.
“If [Goldberg] is passing to [Joplin] in the center, [Goldberg] knows exactly where [Joplin] likes the ball and they read the defense pretty well,” Kardos said.
This camaraderie has played out this season, as the Giants currently sit at 222, with wins over La Jolla, College Park
“[We’ve] learned from the captains that came before us and taken what they taught us [to become better leaders]. We've had some pretty good role models,” Joplin said.
In addition to transforming into a team leader, Goldberg shifted his skillset to score more goals and become a more significant offensive threat.
“I've moved from a more passive role as a passer and a utility player into more of an attacker,” Goldberg said.
While Goldberg developed his playstyle, Joplin adjusted his mindset and became a more intellectual player.
“My mindset about the game [has changed as I’ve gotten older], just thinking about the game differently and becoming a smarter player overall,” Joplin said.
As Joplin played in Texas, Goldberg was pulled up to Redwood’s varsity team as a
further [as leaders],” Kardos said. “ The [younger] kids respect them because of how they [lead] and treat their teammates.”
The senior captains must keep the team level-headed with such success this season and so many underclassmen.
“Us winning a lot can get to the [younger kids’] heads, and that was reflected in the Archie Williams game,” Joplin said. “As seniors, we have the experience of winning and being in that atmosphere, so we have to pass it on.”
Joplin and Goldberg exemplify phenomenal leadership both in and out of the pool. Setting an example for the underclassmen, as was set for them by past captains, they lead the team with determination. To cap off their high school careers, the duos’ dedication to the team and sport has led to an extraordinary season and will bring them closer to securing the MCAL and NCS championships once again.
bark@redwoodbark.org
SENIOR CAPTAINS OSSIE Joplin and Sawyer Goldberg have led the Giants to a 22-2 record, ranking as the 17th-best team in the country.
Photo by Graham Weir
OSSIE JOPLIN, THE team’s starting hole set, attempts to beat the goalie inside the five-meter line.
Photo by Graham Weir
Photo by Graham Weir
athletes. Pro basketball player Russell Westbrook of the Denver Nuggets collaborated with Jordan to make an appearance in high-profile campaigns to showcase fashion. Similarly, professional tennis player Naomi Osaka expanded her iconic name through a partnership
Within the past 40 years, the tie between athletes and fashion has become significantly more prevalent. What once started as a way to encourage fans to buy sweats and hoodies has now become a luxury opportunity for those able to purchase items promoted by athletes. The clutch that these players have on their fans is shown in varying
“If I ever see one of my favorite athletes wearing a bark@redwoodbark.org
Infographic by Skyla Thomas
The Democrat Club: Educating the student body
By Elle Wilson
As the presidential election approaches on Nov. 5, it is crucial now more than ever for student voters to be educated on political parties. According to National Broadcasting Company (NBC) News, eight million teenagers are eligible to vote in the upcoming 2024 presidential election. With this large number of high school voters, students have an immense impact on the election if they take the initiative to vote and encourage others to do the same.
Seniors Daniel Filler and Elle Hock are doing just this and hope to educate the student body through the Democrat Club. Both Filler and Hock have been in the Democrat Club for three years and have worked as co-presidents for two years.
“Our mission as Democrat Club is to inform [students] and get [them] more active in current events,” Hock said. “[Our goal is for members to] leave our club with the feeling that they have learned more about what's happening [in the world] and with the feeling that they can speak about current issues in an educated manner.”
implications, participate in political activities and listen to presentations on current news in politics. The club also engages in debates and Socratic seminars in hopes of learning from their peers and honoring different views.
“We believe in the power that citizens have in the political process. Everyone should be involved and actively voting and researching about the laws before casting their vote,” Filler said.
As of this year, the Democrat Club has partnered with the Marin Democratic Party to expand its reach in the 2024 presidential election.
“Through [the Marin Democratic Party], we're able to help with voter registration. [We are] going up [to people] and encouraging them to get involved, not only in our school but also in our community at large,” Hock said.
The club meets weekly to discuss current events’
Activities such as phone banking, postcarding and door-knocking educate voters and promote voting in our community.
Despite members being mostly registered Democrats, the club also has one Republican, one Independent and one Libertarian member.
These parties with differing ideas help foster deeper discussions and diversify the opinions of the group.
“A wider range of views helps facilitate those conversations and makes our conversations more useful for other places in life. We try to understand other people's opinions and our [club] members are not on a consensus on pretty much anything,” Filler said.
Senior Peyton Alexander is a registered Republican, as well as a member of the Democrat Club. As there is no Republican club, he joined the Democrat Club to be involved in politics and learn from other parties’ views. Alexander is able to bring other views to the table and teach the other members of his perspective.
“I was also disheartened by what I saw in the 2016 election, where there was a lot of division. I believe that fundamentally, we are all American,” Alexander said.
Alexander argues that recent elections have become less respectful than elections such as the 2008 presidential election between John McCain and Barack Obama.
“I think what we need to do is go back to that era of politeness [and] how we do that is dialogue. That's exactly what the Democratic Club does with their debates, where everyone can voice their opinion. By talking and voicing our opinions, we can move forward into a better political space where we're not just constantly attacking each other,” Alexander said.
Filler explains that the primary mission of the Democrat club is youth engagement.
“Lots of kids at Redwood and across the country are very disengaged with politics.
They feel like it doesn't affect them,” Filler said. “We want to get more people engaged and more people in the conversation.”
Members of the Democrat Club work to counter their generation's detachment from politics and hope to foster more engagement in the political sphere.
“We have a lot of young people who are enthusiastic and who care a lot about what is happening in the world right now. This community is incredible and it would be so great to have even more people [in the club] and even more diverse opinions and thoughts to contribute to what we are already doing,” Hock said.
It is a privilege for a United States citizen to vote in the upcoming election and it is important to take this opportunity as a well-informed voter. If you are interested in becoming more educated as an American citizen about politics and current events, the Democrat Club meets every Monday during lunch in room 263.
ewilson@redwoodbark.org
A new voice for Marin County: Heather McPhail Sridharan’s campaign for Supervisor
By Hilah Brekhus-Lavinsky
Amongst the abundance of plastic signs outside many Marin homes sits the easily identifiable green and orange Heather McPhail Sridharan sign. McPhail Sridharan is running for the board of Marin County Supervisors in the upcoming 2024 election, having over 35 years of experience in public service. McPhail Sridharan is aiming to represent the towns in District 2, including Fairfax, San Anselmo, Ross, Larkspur, Kentfield, Greenbrae, Sleepy Hollow and southwest San Rafael.
One of McPhail Sridharan’s main objectives is to address the need for affordable housing. Another policy she intends to prioritize is preparing for the consequences of climate change in Marin. Flood control, wildfire preparedness, sealevel rise and sustainable transportation highlight some of her primary initiatives.
“We can make progress on [affordable housing and the county’s response to climate change] by focusing on practical solutions in collaboration with our local leaders,” McPhail Sridharan said.
Marin has taken the initiative to provide affordable housing by incentivizing the development of more Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and housing in vacant areas like the Lucky Market in Larkspur, which McPhail Sridharan supports.
“The critical point is that we need to think about the solution holistically and what can practically be done today, not years from now,” McPhail Sridharan said.
She believes our community is constantly changing and steps must be taken to civilize that evolution.
“The way we balance everyone’s needs is by listening and ensuring everyone has a seat at the decision-making table,” McPhail Sridharan said.
Another prevalent issue in this election is education within the county. McPhail Sridharan has served on the District’s English Language Acquisition Committee (DELAC) for nine years.
“The mission of DELAC is to advocate for the needs and rights of English learners and their families to develop the skills necessary to be successful within
school districts,” McPhail Sridharan said.
Two current bonds on the ballet affect our district. Measure B supports facility improvements in the Tamalpais Union High School District (TUHSD) and Measure E supports facility improvements in the Kentfield School District.
support for our district, the issue of mental health in schools has influenced many voters in this election. Recently, there has been much controversy regarding how mental health is being dealt with in Marin schools.
“I wholeheartedly support the two current bonds on the November ballot to help modernize infrastructure and make our Tam Union High Schools and Kentfield School District safer,” McPhail Sridharan said.
In addition to the ballot measures promoting financial
“I have always been a strong advocate for every school having dedicated resources for mental health services, particularly at our high schools where mental health services are particularly needed right now,” McPhail Sridharan said. McPhail Sridharan is running against the incumbent Brian Colbert, who has served on the San Anselmo Town Council for eight years.
The race results will be announced on Nov. 5 and the winner will take office soon after.
To read the extended article, scan the QR code below.
Photo Creation courtesy of RawPixel
Photo courtesy of Tara Sridharan
EXPLAINING THE ACTIVITY for the day, Elle Hock leads the class discussion.
Photo by Elle Wilson
Meet Stephanie Andre: Redwood parent and Larkspur City Council Member
By Lynette Ki
On Mar. 5, Redwood parent Stephanie Andre transitioned from a successful career in corporate finance to a new role in local politics, winning a special election to join the Larkspur City Council. Andre filled the seat left open by former member Kevin Haroff, bringing her 25 years of experience in investment banking, corporate finance and bond trading to the role. Her shift from corporate to public service is rooted in her passion for volunteering and leadership.
“Volunteering has always been something that I’ve done, even when I was in banking,” Andre said. “I made it a point to sit on committees where we talked about recruiting women and minorities into investment banking.”
instance, sustainability. We’d like to build to have solar and battery backup, really trying to figure out where in the budget we can accommodate that,” Andre said. “There are also questions around parking, being respectful of the neighbors but also mindful of our broader climate goals.”
I made a point to sit on committees where we talked about recruiting women and minorities into investment banking.
Stephanie Andre, Larkspur City Council Member
Though she no longer works fulltime in corporate finance, the skills she’s learned in the past decades have been valuable in her new public service role.
“Before joining city council, I was a finance executive, working on capital market transactions, mergers and acquisitions. I was very comfortable working with highlevel senior executives, helping them with financial strategies,” Andre said.
Now, seven months into her term, Andre is actively engaging with the community and attending events and meetings to understand the needs and concerns of Larkspur residents. From sustainability efforts to affordable housing projects, her work reflects her commitment to improving the city.
Andre has outlined several priorities, one of which is the construction of a new library at Rose Lane and Doherty Drive, a project that has been in the making for over a decade.
“We’re working through a lot of decisions, for
In addition to the new library, Andre is also focused on affordable housing, particularly for frontline workers who serve the Larkspur community.
“[We’re] figuring out how we can build more affordable housing in Larkspur [such as] workforce housing for our firefighters, nurses and teachers so that people don’t have to commute [long distances] to work in our city,” Andre said.
Another item on her agenda is addressing the local impacts of climate change, which sits at the forefront of her concerns.
“Climate change is one of the biggest issues that we are facing currently. We as the city of Larkspur can do much more to combat climate change and reduce our greenhouse gas emissions. Not just the city, but also encouraging residents here to do more,” Andre said.
Additionally, Andre’s dedication to public service does not go unnoticed by her family, particularly her son, Max Andre, a current senior at Redwood.
“I didn’t know much about local politics, but now that I’m about to turn 18, I should probably know more,” Max Andre said. “Talking with my mom about what she’s doing has really inspired me to keep up with local politics.”
Max Andre attended one of his mother’s candidate debates earlier this year and felt a sense of pride watching his mom in action.
“I felt like a proud son in the back. I was the only kid there. It was really cool to see my mom. Personally, I thought she was destroying everyone,” Max Andre said.
“She’s super dedicated and very hardworking.”
Despite her busy schedule, Andre finds time to unwind through various hobbies, both indoors and outdoors.
“I love to read and write. Right now, I’m reading a lot of memoirs and biographies. I also sew. That’s been one of my hobbies for probably ten years,” Andre said.
As election season approaches, Andre encourages Larkspur residents, especially those eligible to vote, to get involved and exercise their civic duty.
“I think it’s so important to do your civic duty,” Andre said. “There’s something everyone can contribute. We all have different talents and skills, and there are so many talented people who live in our community.”
Andre’s term on the Larkspur City Council runs through 2026, and she remains focused on making a
lki@redwoodbark.org
Holly Hollenbeck creates local Guitar not Guns chapter
By Henry Barker and Liam Healy
in San Anselmo and her son’s involvement in a band, Hollenbeck decided to host an event to display the top rock bands in Marin County. All the proceeds from ticket sales and donations went toward purchasing guitars, instrument cases, music stands and other equipment.
Hollenbeck’s son, Walker Hollenbeck, is passionate about music. He plays the guitar, piano, drums and bass. Like his mom, Walker Hollenbeck recognizes the importance of a musical initiative in Marin.
“[Guitars not Guns] is a great opportunity to give back to the community,” Walker Hollenbeck said. “I think a lot of the musicians I go to school with really appreciate the opportunities they have to learn and play music with others. We want to share [this] privilege with others.”
school [musicians], we were able to acquire all of the bands for this event,” Walker said.
All Guitars not Guns chapters nationwide follow a standard eight-week curriculum with an advanced eightweek program for those who complete the first. However, 16 weeks is not to immerse musical journey. to extend the curriculum and also hopes to diversify the program, implementing lessons for kids who want to play instruments besides guitar.
IllustrationbyAaronWalden
“[Many] people make the misconception that Marin is uniformly wealthy, which isn’t true. There are kids who cannot afford [things like] guitars and [music] lessons,” said Holly Hollenbeck, director of the Marin chapter of Guitars not Guns.
Guitars not Guns is a nationally recognized nonprofit dedicated to helping underprivileged and foster youth learn how to play guitar. The organization offers kids an alternative to negative influences that plague at-risk individuals, aiming to help them develop passions and equip them with tools to express themselves musically.
Operating in 19 states, Guitars not Guns is a nationwide organization. Hollenbeck came across Guitars not Guns through her friend Miki Sacata, who had connections to the Contra Costa chapter. When she realized there wasn’t a chapter in Marin, she felt empowered to take matters into her own hands. Despite Marin’s affluent reputation, Hollenbeck has noticed that financial obstacles persist in local youth, which motivated her to create this local chapter.
Hollenbeck and Sacata founded Marin’s branch of the organization with the support of both of their musically talented sons. They soon realized a fundraiser was essential to raise money for equipment since each participant receives a guitar from the organization.
Inspired by the “Battle of the Bands” showcase
Although Marin’s Guitars not Guns chapter follows in the footsteps of the national organization, Holly Hollenbeck established a unique teen board to manage aspects of the organization to appeal to adolescents. This committee worked to acquire bands for the event along with t-shirts and a logo specific to the Marin chapter. Walker Hollenbeck is a crucial member of this teen board, acting as a co-teacher and junior founder alongside Jacob
As a nonprofit organization, acquiring guitar teachers who will provide free services is difficult. Director Hollenbeck is looking for volunteer teaching assistants—anyone over 18 years of age with guitar experience—as they only have one instructor and a few student co-teachers. Holly Hollenbeck emphasized the need for more instructors to support the growing program and the value of multiple teachers in each session to connect with each student properly.
“We need at least [one] adult in the room and ideally two or three teen instructors to assist,” Holly Hollenbeck said. “A one-to-three ratio would be fantastic because many of these kids are beginners, but one-on-one attention is the best way to teach.”
The sky seems to be the limit for the Marin chapter under the Hollenbecks’ leadership. Guitars not Guns Marin has already begun to work with Play Marin, which offers after-school sports to children of diverse backgrounds. Holly Hollenbeck believes this partnership will attract more kids to the program by introducing it as an after-school program. This connection will also provide a more permanent teaching space. She is further looking to connect with Canal Community Alliance— an organization that offers many types of services to the Latino community—so that she can provide Spanishspeaking guitar teachers.
Guitars not Guns is building a community where young people can find not only the tools to play music but also a positive path forward.
THE EMORIES PERFORM at Hollenbeck’s first fundraiser, showcasing Mika Kojima (vocalist), Cole Ocampo (bass) and Alex Rubin (guitar).
