October 2017 Warrior Post

The bigger the better Martin does everything bigger, especially Homecoming, with extravagant mums and blowout game scores Lauren Worth • Features Editor & Ashley Odom • Reporter

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1. Seniors Carrigan Slover, Autumn Jones, and Maddie Cinquepalmi with their senior mums. Photo by Aivrey Zaiger 2. Football players race onto the field against Paschal.

The final score was 76-0. Photo by Matthew Flores 3. Newly-crowned senior Homecoming King and Queen Alex Wilson and Tatum Tran. Photo by Jessica Cude 4. All the senior cheerleaders flying at the Homecoming pep rally. Photo by Zane Stewart 5. The Fundancers performing at the Homecoming pep rally. Photo by Zane Stewart

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Warriors help out Houston Concertmaster Nick Alvapartnered with Red Cross rez plays to a new beat Will Jeffery • Reporter On Friday, Aug. 25, Hurricane Harvey struck Houston. The hurricane left Houston with many destroyed homes and a flooded city.

Martin has had one Harveyaffected student enroll since then.

Hundreds of millions of dollars have been donated from charities such as Red Cross, GoFundMe and more.

Student Council launched a fundraiser shortly after the events in Houston. Martin

Hurricane Harvey Fund to raise funds for the tragedy.

Martin competed with the other schools in the district to raise funds for Harvey.

“We raised $3,500 in total,” Student Council junior Shane Burleson said.

For more ways to help the Houston-area homeowners, go to redcross.org.

“Working on this fundraiser made me feel like I was making a difference, and I enjoyed working on it,” Student Council officer junior Halli Speeg said.

Senior Nick Alvarez performs with the band at the football game against Bowie on Sept. 29. The Warrior Band placed fourth at the Birdville Marching Invitational competition Oct. 14.

Photo by Curt Leland

The extra mile

Students express problems with the CTC scheduling dilemmas Curt Leland & Rayn Martin • Editor-in-Chief & Reporter This year, Arlington ISD this led to a complicated puzzle launched a new Career and to solve. Some students’ schedTechnology Center to provide ules were stretched or have bestudents with more class oppor- come inconvenient because the tunities. Students can now take new center’s schedule is differcourses in Advanced Welding, ent than Martin’s.

Cosmetology, Law, Police AcadSophomore Morgan Damon emy, Tourism, and other path- is taking Medical Interventions ways. This center offers more at the new center during third class periods than the average period. high school to accommodate “We have to take time to the demand because all high travel, so we start class later,” school students across the dis- Damon said. “Instead of starttrict can take classes there. ing five minutes later, we start The CTC is located in east Ar- 30 minutes later in order to lington off of Pioneer Parkway get over there in time. Instead and New York. of getting out at 12:22, we get With the new center’s equip- out at 12:46. It’s hard to get to ment and opportunity, many lunch meetings on those days,” students are drawn toward it.

Damon said. “I have to come “It’s such a cool place that late or get information from leaves an awe impression every them at different times.” time you enter or leave,” junior This may inconvenience some Tiffany Dinh said. “Although students, but the majority of many people don’t want to trav- the scheduling has been workel the extra miles to go to a class ing out. The Martin counselor’s off campus, it’s still worth the and administrator’s goal was to visit.” keep the students from having With all six high schools hav- to make large changes to take ing slightly different schedules, classes. and distances from the center, “Other schools changed the

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Wendi Rivera • Reporter As the Friday Night lights are flashing and lighting up the field, senior Nick Alvarez starts tuning his violin and nods his head to the drum majors to indicate he’s ready. Weeks of preparation have led to this moment and hopefully more.

Alvarez is performing for the first time as part of the marching band in its show, The Concertmaster.

Alvarez began marching when band director Brad McCann decided to add a violinist into their half time show.

“Band is so different from orchestra, from the type of music to the structure,” Alvarez said. “In band, they use a metronome and everything has to go together at the same time. In orchestra, it’s less strict and specific where each note goes.”

When the show was announced last year, the band members were excited for this new idea for their year-long show.

“Nick really brings color and can lift the band up to the next level,” junior Derrick Hardin said.

Band members said that having a violin in the show brings a more unique flavor than the traditional marching performance.

“My orchestra teachers have been supportive,” Alvarez said.

“It’s useful that this is their second time going through with strings being in a band show. They are already experienced and are always trying to help me succeed. I really do like the experience of football games, competitions, and practicing. I hope this band year is successful.” schedules for the CTC,” counselor Suzanne Bandy said. “We are the only school that kept our lunch the same. We knew that if we created three or four

lunches it would create havoc.”

Administrators are going to have a meeting later this semester to reflect on how the scheduling and transportation has worked and where to improve.

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Tumbling for success Ex-gymnast Jake Kravitz navigates his way into the cheer world Nicole Salas & Savannah Thompson • Reporters cheerleading was where he wanted to showcase his tumbling and stunts. Earlier in 2017, he made the decision to try out for the Martin cheerleading team for the upcoming season.

“I knew gymnastics was going to come to an end and I wanted to try something similar,” Kravitz said. “I would like to continue cheering in college, so I figured I should get a feel for it Senior Jake Kravtiz holds sophomore now.”

Olivia Martin on his shoulders at a The Kravitz football game. Kravitz is the first guy family and friends cheerleader on the squad in four were happy to see years. Photo by Zane Stewart him pursuing his passion in cheers senior Jake Kravitz leading in high school. Being walked out on the field a senior, Kravitz started late in for his first Friday Night the game, but his teammates Lights game, the crowd yelled said he’s proven he’s up for the his name. For Kravitz, this challenge. He said he knew was brand new and a bit overthat it was not an easy task, but whelming. For Martin, having hoped that his gymnastics exa boy cheerleader is new and perience would aid him. More exciting. than anyone, head cheerleading As the first male cheerleader at coach Kristen Session-Brown Martin in four years, Kravitz has said she was astounded that a been working toward adjusting male had finally stepped up to from gymnastics, and although be a part of the cheer program. there have been some struggles, “I was excited for the he emphasizes that doing cheer possibilities we could have with is a positive element in his life having a male cheerleader,” and has boosted his confidence.

Session-Brown said. “Anytime Kravitz has been in gymnasthere is a new element brought tics since he was seven years old. into the program, there is Ten years later, he decided that excitement.”

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It’s no surprise that Kravitz brought a certain element into the program, but not just because he is male. Attitude and skill can make or break a cheerleader.

“Some of Jake’s movements may not be as advanced as some of the more seasoned cheerleaders,” Session-Brown said. “But his energy, voice, and tumbling set him apart.”

The cheerleaders have and will continue to create a strong bond between themselves and Kravitz.

“We have bonded so well, all of us,” cheerleader senior Mya Wright said. “He’s very extra and fits in perfectly with the cheerleading squad.”

Wright said Kravitz fits in because he is just as invested as a cheerleader as he was as a gymnast.

With breaking a new barrier comes along new obstacles, and that’s exactly what Kravitz had to do.

“There certainly are some stereotypes that follow being a male in this sport,” Kravitz said.

“But being a male gymnast, I’ve had those stereotypes follow me my whole life.”

However, he said he doesn’t let that bring him down a bit.

“It doesn’t matter,” Kravitz said. “Because people who want to say things like that, they’re really insecure about themselves, and I’m not.”

Colorguard dedicates themselves to Friday night halftime performance

Flippin’ Friday

Ashley Byrd • Designer The bright fluorescent lights shine onto the field. Heads are turned, eyes are locked. Twentysix girls stand facing the crowd in uniform, ready to blow away the show.

The band sounds and the color guard team begins to dance. Their flags flow, their rifles rotate, and their sabres soar as they perfectly perform what they have practiced over and over, time and time again.

Junior Shai Brandon is the co-captain of Martin High School’s colorguard team. This is her third year as a member of the team.

“When I wasn’t a part of colorguard and I saw them perform at the varsity games, I thought it looked really simple and easy,” Brandon said. “But once I got into it, I realized how physically and mentally strong you had to be to be a part of the team.”

As co-captain, Brandon makes decisions that will benefit the whole team. And that can be very tricky when a big group of girls all want things to be done their own way.

“The captain and co-captain are basically the social workers of the team,” Brandon said. “If there’s a problem, they come to us. If they want to know how to do their hair or makeup for a game or competition, they come to us. If they have an idea, they come to us. They literally come to us for everything, so we have to be responsible and be able to keep up with everyone’s individual problems.”

There’s a lot more to the colorguard team than what most people might think and

Junior Abbi Weglicki strikes a pose in the middle of the halftime performance at the varsity football game against Bowie Sept. 29. Photo by Zane Stewart what everyone sees on Friday nights at halftime.

“My favorite part about colorguard is performing because the crowd goes nuts for you and it makes you proud of all the hard work you’ve put in to get to where you are now,” junior Sabrina Conaway said.

These girls, along with the rest of the team, practice wherever they can find unoccupied space.

“We practice anywhere we can, which could be outside the upper gym lobby entrance, the MAC, or the band grid,” Brandon said.

They practice on Monday and Tuesday from 3:15 to 5:45, Thursday from 3:15 to 6:15, and on Friday for about an hour after school before they get ready for the game.

They learn new material every week for each performance so the long hours after school are necessary to look good on Friday nights as they represent the school.

However, with the extensive amount of practice throughout the week, there’s not much room for personal time.

“It’s really challenging to go to practice all the time and also have time for my own social life afterwards,” Conaway said. “It’s

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just a matter of learning how to balance my time. The only thing that gets me through all the difficult parts of colorguard is the feeling I get when I

perform and knowing I have all those girls backing me up all the time. They’re just my people, my people to go to no matter what. It’s my second family.”

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Cancer does not define her Freshman diagnosed last fall does not allow cancer to restrain her Rylee Richardson • Reporter As her hairless head bobs through the hallway, whispers of, “Do you think she’s okay?” follow closely behind her.

Freshman Kristen Garcia was diagnosed with T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia on Thanksgiving of last year. After months of chemotherapy and being home-schooled for almost a full year, she is now in remission with maintenance treatment once a month until April of 2019.

Garcia has faced adjustments with not only her school life but her social and physical interactions. Being a soccer player takes a lot of strength both

physically and mentally, and for her to not have her full strength makes it difficult to even think about playing again.

Relating with friends has also turned out to be a challenge, especially when people first find out about her condition.

“My friends don’t treat me differently, but people who don’t know me feel sorry for me,” Garcia said. “I’m fine the way I am. I’m happy and I am the exact same person I was before, so they don’t need to walk on eggshells around me.”

Making the transition from junior high to high school, juggling medical treatment and a

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Freshman Kristen Garcia with sophomore Cassady Frey walk at the Fabulous Faith Walk in September.

They sprinted to the finish line to raise money to fight childhood cancer. Photo by Rylee Richardson

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heavier school load, while not having full energy can make it difficult to keep up. Garcia said that sometimes she needs a break from the limelight.

“Adjusting to high school life is a big transition as it is and having to add her situation makes it harder,” family friend and attendance secretary Laurie Swinney said. “It's also difficult from an emotional standpoint with people constantly asking if she is okay or how she's feeling.

Really listen to what she has to say and get to know her.”

Knowing how to treat a cancer survivor just like a normal person is something that not all students are comfortable with. For most students, it’s not a situation you can truly understand unless you've been in their place. Sophomore Matthew Grogan, an 11-year cancer survivor, provides an interesting perspective on how someone like Garcia wants to be treated.

“Through my experience all I

can really say is that I have a ton of compassion for her,” Grogan said. “She’s a human being and she’s like every other person.

She’s going through something most people don’t experience and you have to respect that because her life is on the line.”

Sophomore Cassady Frey has spent plenty of time with both Garcia and Grogan and has learned firsthand the importance of treating everyone equally. She knows how important it is to ask questions that aren’t just about their treatment or well being, and she understands the importance of loving them for who they are and not the disease they have.

“You shouldn’t make them feel different,” Frey said. “You should treat them like a normal person, and show them what they went through they overcame. Introduce yourself, make a new friend, and don’t be afraid to talk to them. It’s how you should treat everyone.”

Crisis averted The criminal justice class hosts a mock terrorist attack to learn how to respond and help Curt Leland • Editor-In-Chief people because I didn’t know all what to do,” Black said. “My faint fire alarm can be mind went blank. I tried to reheard in the west hallway member what he tells us to do.” of the school. You wonder While searching through why only one alarm is going off victims, the students were and if anything is wrong. taught to look for the three Turning the corner, you freeze main killers: obstructed airway, as students are lying on the shock and bleeding. ground, moaning with pieces of Once identified, the students wood sticking out of their legs would bring the victims to the as other students kneel by their makeshift hallway triage. This is side. where victims are organized and No need to panic: it is all in their needs are taken care of. the name of learning.

One student would organize Criminal Justice teacher them and take on this role.

Patrick McCray decided to “Triage can be pretty tough,” incorporate disaster response McCray said. “The student lessons into Criminal Justice. could get pretty overwhelmed.”

The class recreated a disaster Leading up to this fake crisis, scenario Sept. 28 and 29 to test the class has been covering the students’ response skills that sensitive topic of terrorism. they have been learning this last Besides just learning how six weeks. to respond to a disaster, they They have been studying how had to predict the details of to react correctly in the midst of a terrorist attack if it were to a crisis in order to save lives. happen today in our city.

“If there was ever an attack, They needed to anticipate an we would know how to treat attack by choosing a location people, or if we can, help them,” that would need more security freshman Ariana Black said. or precautions.

The class took turns searching “In my group, we decided for classmates who could be on the AT&T stadium because treated and possibly saved. the A&M and Arkansas game “They are trying to treat for is held there,” junior Russell those things in case one day Norris said. “We planned how they’re in an office environment many people there would be, and something terrible where they would attack, and happens,” McCray said. “If how they would attack.” they decide to, they can come The class also shows the out, treat it and help. Or even students some essential skills to maybe in a Katrina situation use to save themselves. where people are injured by a “We learned how to purify storm disaster.” water,” junior Vinh Dao. “This Some students acted as if could be helpful in times like they were victims while others Hurricane Harvey when you took the role of emergency may need water for three days responders. or so.”

“I was kinda nervous when The class is one of several I was the one trying to help offered that directly prepares

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students with skills useful for life such as Fire Academy, Ready Set Teach, or Woodshop.

“You hope you won’t need to use it, but you never know,” Norris said.

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Photos by Caitlin 2 Harwell 1.Freshman Lizeth Plata tends to the fake wound on freshman Ariana Black’s knee.

2. Students pretend to lie hurt in triage in order for a classmate to organize their needs.

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Dangling keys to the kingdom Outdoor production of Miller’s The Crucible lights up the stage Elizabeth Prickett • Copy Editor The crickets chirp as the curtain rises on all sides and the open sky peers down upon the bleak stage in front of the audience. The dark atmosphere permeates the air as the opening lines are uttered, each person in the crowd hanging on every word. The thrilling performance captivates the audience and gives The Crucible a more three-dimensional feel, seeing it as a part history rather than a form of fiction.

The Crucible, in all its dramatic and historical glory, played in the Art Courtyard Oct. 4, 5, 7 and 11 through 14. The decision to recreate The Crucible

by Arthur Miller was a part of a trend Martin Theatre started last year.

“We want to have more student-oriented performances that will get the student body excited to watch,” senior Kallie Menard said. “Last year we did Macbeth, a required read and this year, The Crucible. We just want to have people more involved and excited to see the performance they are reading come to life through their classmates.”

This performance was like none other put on here at Martin.

“We had an audience around the stage and be more involved,” senior Landry Beckley said.

“We’ll have the cast sit close to them so they can get into the action.”

The performance had a different feel from the other department productions. This

year The Crucible was a required read for the juniors around the district and many students from other schools had been invited to come see the production.

“I think of it as an opportunity for other people to see how different it was back then,” Beckley said.

But the play was more than just a thing of the past. With the current political and social climate, the play took on a new meaning.

“It is actually a very political play and it has underlying meanings in it,” senior Kyla Clift said. “When you listen to what they’re saying and what’s happening in the story, you can see it now in the times that we are going through. It’s an eyeopening experience.”

Historical pieces always raise questions of authenticity and the theatre troupe pulled out all the stops.

“The costumes are coming from New Hampshire and the costumes are exactly like they used to use at the time,” Clift said. “They are using the same cotton, same types of dyes they used. It’s a lot of layers, really hot, but we were ready for it.”

And the actors have really gotten into their roles through research and intense studying.

“It’s pretty interesting when you are looking up your character,” Clift said. “You can actually see what my character Susanna did. It’s really cool to play history and to relive it.”

But nothing is perfect. Even with all the preparation, things

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1. Seniors Kallie Menard and Alyssa Carrasco argue their fate. Carrasco’s character was the ring leader accusing 200 people of witchcraft. 2. Seniors Kallie Menard and Andruw Rodgers fight over morals before going to trial.

Rodger’s character was one of 20 who died during the Salem witch trials.

Photos by Brandon Chrabasz go wrong.

“The performance, to be honest, had a rough start, but as soon as people found their own commitment and way in their own roles, then we saw it as a great success,” Beckley said.

When a show is put together there are always ups and downs, people dropping lines and forgetting blocking. But it is the final product that matters.

“We came all together this past week and it came together a a great show for everyone,” Beckley said. “Having people committed was a struggle at first, but I really think everyone came together and made it a success.”

And quite the success it turned out to be.

“All of us, after the first show, we just came off the set, dripping with sweat and it was definitely our best run,” Menard

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said. “All the adrenaline and we were just terrified that we wouldn’t do it well. But we were throwing each other on the ground and killing people.

It was such a rush. And then we had to do it six more times!”

The Crucible ended up selling 600 tickets for all six shows, and the department had even bigger turnouts for their next performances.

“You are getting live theatre and honestly it’s a great experience that I think everyone should be a part of because it changes your life, changes the way you think about things and it gets you talking,” Clift said. “That’s the whole point that we do this.

We want people to talk.”

And people have continued to talk long after the last breathtaking performance.

“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience,“ Clift said. “Honestly.”

Do you feel like a rap god?

Students try to make their mark in the music industry Nikk Hernandez • Sports Editor Some of the greatest rappers we know started off at a young age – Eminem, Lil’ Wayne, Tupac, to name a few.

Most people think rapping can be done by anyone, but separating yourself from the rest of the rap culture is a challenge.

Several students have attempted to make their mark in the rap game, and a few are actually making a name for themselves.

Senior Keon Koontz has only been rapping for five months, but he has already made multiple songs and his name is spreading in the music world.

“Artists like Tupac influence me because he stood for real life issues, and his lyrics still impact people to this day,” Koontz said.

The rap industry impacts each artist differently.

Some artists drop everything they have in life just to pursue a rap career, yet others are handed golden tickets to the top by having social connections with big time producers or other rap artists.

“I’ve sacrificed everything,” Koontz said. “My schedule is constantly filled, so I struggle with balancing my school and personal life. I’ve invested a lot of money into my music whether it’s purchasing Beats, streaming distribution, or booking studio time.”

New artists are often doubted on their abilities to make it big in the music industry by their families and peers, yet many still continue to try for their

shot at fame.

Not many artists strike fame on the first attempt, so it’s important for them to surround themselves with people who can encourage them.

The industry is harsh to the young artists, so it’s good for them to have their friends and family to rely on for support.

“We motivate him to become the best he can be,” Koontz’s father, Conford Livingston said. “He seems to be more happy with making music, and we open up his mind to other styles of music, so he has the best opportunity to make it.”

When trying to become a full-time artist, they have to do everything they can in order to get their name out to as many people as possible, whether it’s posting videos or clips of their music online, or getting the opportunity to perform, even to a small crowd.

Most upcoming artists are often criticized for trying to give their music the necessary exposure it needs.

“I get ridiculed all the time, but people are always going to have something negative to say,” senior Nick Hight said. “You just have to make a decision to let it hurt you or strengthen you.”

Performing under the lights with thousands of people chanting your name is a dream come true for an artist.

Usually up-and-coming artists start by performing small gigs, and then over time they get opportunities to perform in bigger venues.

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Rap artists seniors Nick Hight and Keon Koontz rap their new singles. Hight and Koontz have performed on stage and in studios. Photo by Zane Stewart “I’ve performed at The Green Elephant in Dallas and a small pop up in Fort Worth, but I’m waiting until I get the opportunity to perform on a bigger stage,” Hight said.

One of the biggest questions new rappers are often asked is: what makes you different from

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the other rappers? In order to maximize an artist’s shot at success, their lyrics, musicality, or personalities have to separate them from the other rappers..

“Every rapper has something unique that they bring to the table,” Hight said. “But it’s the energy I bring to my raps.”

Kickin' it on the sidelines

Junior Faith Miller performs at halftime at the game against Bowie Sept. 29.

Sundancer tryouts were more selective this year, resulting in a smaller team of only 48 members.

Photo by Curt Leland

A day in the life of a Sundancer Sydney Pugh • Reporter

The stadium lights glisten off of the sequins of the uniforms as the announcer proudly presents the drill team. Dedication and practice has sunk in with every pulled muscle, ripped bandage, and calloused foot.

The behind-the-scenes work put forward is about to be on full display for the school – five minutes of performance to represent the hundreds of hours of practice that every Sundancer has devoted.

During Sundancer try-outs in the spring, everybody learns a dance then performs it.

Once everybody has performed a few hours later, their number can be checked online to see the results of the team.

“When I tried out for Sundancers I was very nervous, but when I figured out I made it I was overwhelmed with excite-

ment,” sophomore Caroline Nash said.

Trying out for Sundancers can test your ability to perform under pressure.

“Last year, I didn’t think I was going to make it,” senior Natalie Pugh said. “Then I did, I almost cried tears of joy.”

Sundancers practice early in the morning, as well as during first and seventh periods. Many Sundancers wake up at 5 a.m. to get ready for 6 a.m. practice in the gym.

“By 5:50, I’m grabbing a bagel and rushing out of the house running to make it on time,” sophomore Jadyn Green said.

At 6:15, practice is starting, beginning with a nice, warm stretch before beginning to learn the dance chosen for the halftime performance.

“I love practicing a dance then performing it because practice makes perfection,” junior

Bailey Smith said.

By 8:30 a.m. the dancers are are tired and exhausted from fan kicks and running leaps.

“I’m sweating and my legs are numb,” Nash said.

The Sundancers are usually released by 8:35 a.m. to get ready for the day. Many performers use the time to shower and get dressed. After the school day is over, the Sundancers rush and get changed into their uniform.

“When that 2:50 bell rings I’m usually still trying to get dressed,” junior Kaylon Lightfoot said.

Last year’s tryouts were more

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selective, so this year’s team has less than 48 members, and is under the coaching of a new director “I like being able to share my love of dance with my students,” Sundancer Director Adriana Woods said.

Sundancers is more than a P.E. credit to the team. It’s a family within the school that can share the successes of not only drill team accomplishments but of individual achievements as well.

“Sundancers has given me a sisterhood and a bond that can’t be broken,” junior Cherish Hayes said.

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' Many people are worried right now' Martin feels effects of the DACA immigration debate Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) was passed in 2007 as an Executive Order under Barack Obama. DACA offered minors who were brought by their parents illegally to the United States the ability to enroll in college, get a driver’s license, apply for life insurance, and acquire a job without needing a Social Security number and without risk of being deported.

Since its passage, more than 800,000 so-called Dreamers have been protected under DACA. On Sept. 5, President Donald Trump gave Congress a six-month deadline to formalize or terminate the DACA program.

This acronym has been a hot topic for weeks now. Every politician and citizen seems to have an opinion, but not much is known about it. Here’s a guide to how DACA is regarded from the Martin perspective.

Shelby Simmel • Reporter What is DACA? “DACA is the plan that is slated to be eliminated by Donald Trump that protects our families, and mainly children, that are here under illegal circumstances,” Assistant Principal Mychl Buckley said.

What’s going on with DACA right now?

“Well all I can say positively is that stress levels are very high,” Buckley said. “We were built on immigrants; it’s what America is. So many people right now are worried about getting their documents sorted and in order.

Many people also don’t know what to expect because laws are different in different cities, as well as states, due to sanctuary cities.”

A sanctuary city is a designated place where illegal immigrants can be somewhat protected, able to report crimes or seek medical attention without risk of being deported in the process.

How many students are protected by DACA? “We don’t get this information, as it’s not necessary in the child’s learning, but if I had to make an educated guess I would say 25 percent of Martin students (about 875 students) are immigrants,” Buckley said.

How do you help students in this situation?

“I think the most we can do is make them aware we are all open to talk anytime,” Buckley said. “We realize we cannot do much except listen and let the student vent. We feel it’s our responsibility to let students voice their concerns.”

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Senior Vidal Rodriguez, who is protected under DACA, gives his insight.

military are being betrayed.

How can doing or trying to do the very best thing for us, hurt anyone else? How does it truly affect anyone else?”

How has DACA benefitted your life and your family?

“It gives me security of getting a job or going to college,” Rodriguez said. “All I can do or say is I’m trying to do my best and that’s what I tell my little

How old were you when you came to America?

“I was a month old and we came from Mexico,” senior Vidal Rodriguez said. “My parents wanted a better life for me than they had. My dad got a job where he moves around a lot, but recently he stays in the metroplex.”

Was DACA difficult to apply for?

“We had to get lawyers, and it was very expensive,” Rodriguez said. “It made me feel kind of insecure. Like, why am I not applying for myself?

How do you feel overall about DACA possibly being terminated?

“I’m very upset,” Rodriguez said. “People who are about to be in college here or in the

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sister, too.”

What’s the status of DACA? President Donald Trump gave congress six months, ending on March 5, to either terminate or pass DACA as a protected law.

There are many guidelines to apply or re-apply to DACA. Many people in Trump’s party have opposed him, while he has also had unlikely supporters.

Somewhere over the

ra in bow Foreign exchange student starts her ten-month journey living in Texas

Brooklin Bruno & Marleigh Richey • Video Editor & Reporter

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unior Thanit Piyaosotsun boards an undersized, shaky, one-seater plane and takes off from Bangkok, Thailand en route to her destination in Arlington, Texas.

Twenty-four hours and four layovers later, they arrive in the hot, bustling city of Dallas.

Sixteen year-old Piyaosotsun, better known as “Penny,” is staying with a host family and attending Martin for ten months as a foreign exchange student.

Penny flew overseas and navigated through a maze of airports by herself, and is now making friends out of what used to be complete and utter strangers.

“At the New York and London layovers, I thought Texas was going to be really cold,” Penny said. “But the temperature actually feels a lot like it does back home. Before I left, my family thought I was going to be really homesick, but I’m not at all yet.”

Last summer, Penny found out that she was eligible to make the trip after she had passed the required English fluency test.

Although she wasn’t necessarily jumping for joy, Penny said she was still really excited to be making the trip.

“At first I was really nervous about coming – a little afraid and a lot excited,” Penny said. “I was most scared to be speaking only English. My brother at home didn’t even want to come because being

around only English speakers is so intimidating.”

Penny is taking almost all electives at Martin.

At her old school in Thailand, she was not allowed to choose any of her own classes, so Penny jumped at the opportunity to try something new.

She is now taking Art, Photography, Journalism, Fashion Design, U.S History and Archery classes.

“My classes here are so different than they were back home in Bangkok,” Penny said. “At home we stay in the same classroom all day and the teacher is the one who rotates rooms, and all the classes are mostly curriculum. My favorite class here is Photography. I want to be a photographer when I’m older.”

Penny has only been in America for two months and has already impacted so many peoples’ lives – other students, her teachers and her host family as well.

Brenda Fields is the Martin mother who decided to host Penny for the 10 months she would be in the States.

“Having an exchange student is challenging, exciting and a wonderful learning experience for the whole family,” Fields said. “It is an opportunity to provide someone with the chance to expand their English while living the American Dream. We are very fortunate to have Penny stay with us this year.”

So far, the Fields family has already shown Penny quite a bit since she’s been in America.

They’ve gone to the zoo three times, the Fort Worth Stockyards and to Penny’s first ice cream shop.

“We have discussed many different customs, foods and traditions from both cultures,” Fields said. “We encourage anyone interested in this opportunity to take the chance and experience having an exchange student.”

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Penny has also gotten the chance to make many friends in the short time she’s been here. Junior Sabrina Wenneson and Penny said they are excited to see where this year will take their friendship.

“It’s really great being friends with Penny,” Wenneson said.

“We always laugh at the same time and at the same things.

We’ve become great friends and she said that because of me, she wants to stay in the States.”

features

Impossible? Not quite.

A step-by-step guide to doing nearly impossible tasks Katie Kohutek • Reporter Students witness the seemingly impossible every day.

From memorizing entire play scripts to effortlessly completing backflips, students and teachers reveal their secrets to achieving the impossible.

How to memorize an entire play script, according to senior theatre student Brady White: 1. Go on your phone and record yourself saying other peoples’ lines.

2. Leave a pause where you would speak.

3. Listen to the recording and speak your lines where the pauses are.

4. Repeat step 3 again and again until you have every line memorized.

“It’s really not as hard as you would think because it’s like a conversation,” White said. “It’s a natural response to what they would say and what you would say back to them.”

How to do a backflip in cheer according to varsity cheerleader junior Christin Bandy: 1. Stand with legs together and clap your hands together.

Unleashed Aivrey Zaiger • Reporter

For most students, Wednesday’s lunch time is normal lunch. But for students who are members of Poetry Club, lunch on Wednesdays can be liberating.

“I have had depression for a while and it’s really helped me through it,” sophomore Emma Barry said.

For these students, poetry is a way to talk about their struggles.

“I feel like I need a place to reflect how I feel and show other people how they can express their own emotions,” junior Alex Johnson said.

In room 296, these young poets can talk about whatever they want.

Although reading in front of everyone in the club can be nerve-wracking, these students do not have to worry about

you don’t fall on your head and hurt yourself.”

How to say “Hello, my name is ...” in three different languages?

1. Spanish - “Hola, me llamo ...”

(OH-lah, MEH YAH-moh) 2. French - “Bonjour, je m’appelle …” (bohn-ZHOOR, zhuh mah-PELL) 3. German - “Hallo, ich heiße …” (huh-LOH, eesh HIGHsuh) “Speak it. Practice,” Spanish teacher Alice Henderson said.

“Learn the vocab. It’s essential.

Learn five words a day and use them.”

Poetry students free the words in their minds on paper and communicate their inner thoughts

other peoples’ opinions ruining their thunder or trying to control their thoughts.

“I have high anxiety but they’re not judgemental so it kinda helps that I don’t feel judged,” sophomore Braianna Seniuk said.

Many of these kids don’t even share their poems with family, but find comfort in sharing with other Poetry Club members.

“Occasionally I’ll share something I’ve written with my mom, but not really with anyone else in my family,” Barry said.

Poetry Club impacts our school because in your usual classroom, students are sometimes afraid to raise their hand in fear of judgement from other kids. In Poetry Club that stereotype disappears.

“It’s a safe space for students that enjoy creative writing and

news

2. Hit a low “v” with your arms.

3. Swing arms up and jump really high.

4. Swing arms back to gain momentum and keep back as straight as possible.

5. Tuck knees to your chest as you spin backwards.

6. Once you can see your landing spot, untuck your knees and straighten out.

7. Land on your feet, slapping your legs together.

“If you’re attempting to do a backflip,” Bandy said. “You should probably try it on a trampoline first or on grass or on something soft or off of something high to make sure

interpretation through emotion and poetry,” Johnson said. “It is a very vital place to have and it's a great place to find people who think like you and experiencing the same things as you.”

But why start writing? Why write more than required for school? Why sit quietly in a classroom instead of talking to friends during lunch?

“When I was younger, my grandma passed away,” Seniuk said. “I found one of her old poems recently and it’s about a sparrow and my grandma always really loved poetry so I started getting into it. I just came to share some of my grandma’s poems when I found her poem book.”

Some members said they write to tell stories that they don’t want to go to waste in a STAAR formatted essay.

“My poems are stories about my nephew and niece,” junior

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Nicole Williamson said. “And then I like to tell stories about how I see the world.”

Another way to utilize poetry is to articulate struggles on paper and have ears and hearts to acknowledge how you’re feeling.

“Mine are mostly about me and the struggles I’ve gone through,” Barry said.

Poetry Club president, sophomore Matthew Downs took on his leadership position to continue a seven-year legacy.

“I try to make it where everyone feels involved and like everyone’s welcome from all backgrounds and all walks of life,” Downs said. “I want to make it kind of like a place where you can talk about your problems or what you’re going through but also for it to be a happy place.”

Poetry club meets every Wednesday during lunch in room 296.

New kids on the block Students describe the ins and outs of being new to Martin Meridith Moore • Reporter Among the multitude of teens squeezing through the masses in the hallways during passing periods are the new students of Martin, grasping their schedules, trying to figure out where their class is.

Sophomore Cassandra Lopez transferred to Martin after attending Seguin High School her freshman year to be with her brother his senior year.

“I like how everyone is proud to go to Martin High School,” Lopez said. “There are so many more opportunities to join different clubs and classes. I think the best way to meet new people when you are new is to talk to the people you sit by in your classes and join clubs.”

Lopez attended Seguin freshman year because it was her brother, Milson Lopez’s, senior year.

Unlike most kids who transfer to Martin, Lopez already had friends who attend Martin.

“I was a bit nervous leaving Seguin because I didn’t know what Martin would be like,” Lopez said. “The only challenge I had was getting lost in the halls.”

Freshman Jada Whitaker transferred from Gunn Junior

High to Martin instead of attending Arlington High School.

“I would never go back to my old school,” Whitaker said. “It’s not Martin. Don’t be afraid to ask for help because the people at Martin are so nice and sweet.

If you need help they will help you. Just ask someone because then they will lead you to your class. Martin is a great community of people who stick together and help each other.”

Freshman Khoi Nguyen came to Martin for the STEM program after attending Arlington Classics Academy in middle school.

“The environment of Martin is great,” Khoi said. “Just don’t make the upperclassmen mad. I love how all of the teachers care about you and your education.”

Sophomore Mason Keels came to Martin for his sophomore year after his dad got a job in the Arlington area and the family moved.

He previously attended Abilene Wylie High School.

“Put yourself out there, don’t be shy or nervous about being new,” Keels said. “It was a slow transition for me from my old school to Martin. I was sad and it was hard because I didn’t know anyone, but after I got to know people it was good.”

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“I would never go back to my old school. It’s not Martin. The people at Martin are so nice and sweet.”

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features

The start of something A tribe called MHS

at the end with a Homecoming proposal from two of our tribesmen,” Proffitt said. rallies,” Session-Brown said.

“If Sofia Viscuso • Copy Editor but I did think there could be The Tribe attends varsity I get them on the pep rally and he dark sky is illuminated a tribe of kids who are there to football and volleyball games, on the floor, maybe when kids by white powder that rally and support the team.” and later will be at basketball see them at the games, they will flies into the air. The Senior cheerleader Bethany games. know to join in when they are drumline pounds rhythmically, Tran was put in charge of “At games our goal is just to cheering.” signifying the beginning of recruiting kids for the job. hype up the student section,”

The crowd appeared to love the third quarter at the varsity After the first few boys joined, Doan said. the group of boys and the football game against Southlake the group became popular, “We try to keep the players intensity of school spirit they Carroll. The Martin Tribe loud and fun and even formed engaged and with high energy,” brought. leads the student section in their own Snapchat and Twitter Eger said.

“The First Event pep rally was chants, hyping up players and accounts.

Many of the tribesmen said one of my favorite moments,” spectators alike.

“It is just a different way to be they share some of the same Eger said.

“It was awesome and Seniors Matthew Doan, Ist- in a different friend group and favorite moments van Eger, Will Grind- Junior Chloe Christenson, seniors Bethany Tran, Ana Brush, Toni Cavazos, Matthew Doan, Nick including a staff, Adam Lavelle, Gardner, Isaiah Pittman, Drew Sequera and Will Grindstaff. Photo by Bella Whitmore “rollercoaster” Tanner Proffitt, Nick at half-time, Gardner, Brandon as well as the Swinney, Isaiah Pittwhite out game man and junior Drex against Southlake Roscoe are members Carroll Sept. 8. of Martin’s pump up

“It’s fun squad, The Tribe. being loud and Newly-appointed o b n o x i o u s ,” Varsity Cheerleading Gardner said. coach Kristen “But everyone Session-Brown likes it and took on the task of getting the crowd organizing a group hype and just of boys who could everybody vibing provide energy with us and goand school spirit ing along with our flow. It’s just my nerves were going.” at different Martin sporting it’s definitely something to look fun.”

The Tribe performs short events, taking over a similar role forward to on Friday nights,” skits at the pep rallies, Follow them on Twitter/Snapof the earlier “Heckle Squad.”

Grindstaff said. chat @ATribeCalledMHS “Last year, the Heckle Squad The Tribe made its first official choreographed with some help kind of went dull, nonexistent,” appearance at the First Event and ideas from Public Speaking teacher Michelle Fratto.

Session-Brown said. “So, we pep rally. renamed the group. We didn’t “I want them to be a part of “We made a fairytale skit want them to heckle anyone, what we are doing at the pep about us beating the Southlake Dragons, and it had a surprise Senior Brandon Swinney, junior Drex Roscoe, seniors Tanner Proffitt, Adam Lavelle and Matthew Doan cheer at the varsity football Pink Out game Oct. 13 against Mansfield High School. Photo Senior Matthew Doan wears Tribe

by Zane Stewart headress at football’s first scrimmage at Martin. Photo by Caitlin Harwell

T

features

16

ing new

Up in the club(s)

Olivia Dague • Features Editor With a high school comprised of almost 3500 students, it’s easy to drown in the sea of students in the hallway. Answer the questions and then tally how many of each letter you get to see which club best fits your personality and the things you like to do. d) Playing fun and different sports with friends 1) What do you spend the most time doing? e) Hanging out and worshipping with people who have the same a) Drawing, painting, writing, playing music or making art religious beliefs as you b) Hanging out with friends or family, helping others c) Social media 5)What do you do when you hang out with your friends? d) Playing games or sports, going to the gym a) Listen to or play music e) Reading scripture, going to a religious service b) Help each other complete homework or study c) Discuss current events and/or have political discussions 2)Which of the following set of adjectives best describes you? d) Play a group sport or play video games a) Expressive, artistic, creative, musical e) Hang out at a religious space or worship together b) Helpful, kind, caring, considerate c) Political, argumentative, informed, critical 6)What do you wish to gain from your high school experience? d) Athletic, coordinated, energetic, extroverted a) Learning how to express myself e) Religious, expressive, social, open-minded b) Collecting experiences that make me a well-rounded person who can help others 3)What do you do when you’re stressed out? c) Understanding how the world works a) Color or doodle, listen to music b) Help someone else to take your mind off your personal stress d) Practicing better exercise habits and maintaining an active lifestyle c) Get on Twitter or look at news to take a break e) Growing in my religious faith d) Exercise, play sports or watch sports e) Pray, listen to religious music 7)What kind of career do you wish to pursue?

4)Which of the following are you most interested in doing at a) Musician, artist, poet, author, critic b) Teacher, scientist, businessman/woman, nurse, psychologist, enMartin? vironmentalist a) Listening to or writing poetry c) Politician, government work, lawyer, b) Helping the environment and bettering our school c) Being involved in political discussions with peers who have sim- d) Athlete, coach, PE teacher e) Motivational speaker, preacher, religious studies ilar or opposing views If you got mainly A’s; You may already know about Art club, but did you know that Martin has a Poetry club that meets Wednesdays at lunch in room 296?

In Poetry Club, students can share or listen to song lyrics and poetry of all kinds, read aloud by students and faculty.

If you are more of a reader rather than a writer, Book Club may be the place for you. Led by librarian Suzanne Severns, Book Club meets once a month in the library for an exciting discussion of their novel.

If you got mainly B’s: Join the Geo Club that meets in room 115 on Wednesdays or the HOPE Club that meets once per six weeks to help recycle and clean up the environment. These clubs offer amazing service opportunities at school and around the community and look great on college resumes.

If you got mainly C’s: If you enjoy political debates and discussions about current issues and events, stop by and spend your lunch in room 202 on Wednesdays for YAPA, (Young Americans for Political Awareness).

GSA, (Gay Straight Alliance) is a safe place for LGBTQ+ students to meet every other Friday at lunch in room 103.

If you got mainly D’s: You may be aware of Quidditch, the sport played in Harry Potter, but there are many more athletic clubs that anyone can join. If you want to tell your parents you’re being active, join the Bowling team that meets in room 287C. If you’re more interested in exercising your brain than your body, you can join the Ace of Clubs.This club is open to anyone who likes playing cards or board games, and meets Fridays at lunch in room 108.

If you got mainly E’s: You probably know and have heard of large Christian organizations on campus like Ignite and Seekers, but did you know about 2020, a student led group that meets at lunch on Fridays? 2020 meets in room 108 and is a great place for underclassmen to meet and worship.

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features

Starting young

Varisty sophomores make an impact Humberto Rodriguez • Reporter As the game narrows down to the end on Sept. 8, the players start to get tired and sweat vigorously as Southlake Carroll snaps the ball going for a pass.

Sophomore linebacker Julian Johnson rushes like a bull coming down on the blitz and hits the quarterback so hard the pads and helmet crack.

Southlake loses yards after the hammering hit from Johnson, who plays a lot bigger than he actually is. Sophomore is not what comes to mind when you hear his name.

In a public school as big as Martin, it is hard think that ten sophomores made varsity, especially in a sport where people compete to have a starting position where people work their hardest every day.

“This is the most sophomores that have been on varsity since I’ve been here,” offensive coordinator coach Chad Rives said.

“I didn’t feel like I never deserved it,” Johnson said. “I’ve worked hard for this spot.”

It might seem odd for sophomores to start over upperclassmen who have had more time in the program, but what people don’t realize how much work or the athletes do to improve themselves.

“I’ve always looked up to senior Darrell Wair [linebacker and football Captain] ever since I’ve seen him play, and he’s pushed me to get better,” Johnson said.

Some people work for their dreams every day, but they don’t just do it for themselves.

They do it by the help of other influential people in their life.

“My papa, he pushed me everyday,” sophomore starting outside linebacker Ty Proctor

said. “He was always there ever since I was real little. He taught me everything I know.”

Everyone is influenced by someone different.

“I play football for my mom, my home state, and my team,” sophomore Chris Craft said.

It is not just the athlete who gets excited. Along with them, their family can lose their minds because all of the hard work that their kid put in has finally paid off.

“I kept it calm on the outside but on the inside I was super happy,” Proctor said on getting the varsity starting spot. “They just expect more out of you.”

When coaches see young players, they think about how to make the athletes better.

“The first thing I think about is the former sophomore varsity starters and how it prepared them after high school,” defensive line coach Adley Eshragipour said. “Everyone is developed or practiced the same way, and at the end of the day the best 11 are gonna play.

When people have early success, they want more. They’re either hungry for more work or they’ll shut down like it’s all about them.”

When an underclassmen gets onto varsity, the upperclassmen treat them differently.

“They treat me like a little brother,” sophomore Adam Nix said. “I’m either dirt or a little brother.”

Since it is the first time for this many sophomores to be a part of the varsity squad, their presence is felt by their upperclassman teammates.

“They’ve made a big impact because they had big shoes to fill,” Wair said. “And they stepped up and did it.”

Sophomore outside linebacker Ty Proctor rushes to the ball carrier to make the play against South Grand Prairie Sept. 15. Proctor is one of 10 sophomores on varsity. Photo by Matthew Flores

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A forever love for baseball Former Warrior plays in MLB

Sydney DeCanio • Reporter If you’ve ever been to a Martin baseball game, you’ve probably seen 2017 graduate Tristen Lutz smash a ball into left field and over the fence.

Now he’s doing it with the Helena Brewers, a minor league farm team of the Milwaukee Brewers. Lutz turned down his scholarship to University of Texas for the opportunity to play in the MLB. “I don’t regret it at all,” Lutz said. “I love being here and playing baseball every day.”

After just one season, he’s hit nine home runs with a batting average of .311. Lutz was the 34th overall draft pick and was signed shortly after for a minor bonus of $2.3 million.

Lutz said Martin got him off to a very good start.

“Martin got me prepared for the grind of pro baseball both mentally and physically,” Lutz said. “I worked very hard to get where I am, but there is a lot of work left to do.”

Lutz said he spends his time hanging out with his fellow teammates and playing video

games while getting to follow his childhood dreams.

“We play every day, so we do a little practice every day, but some days we do more than others,” Lutz said. “The day depends on when the game is.

We get there about six hours before the game.

We stretch and hit, throw and field. Wait a little bit then go hit again on the field.”

His former baseball coach Curt Culbertson said he wouldn’t be surprised to see him on the big screen one day.

“He was a first-round pick and that doesn’t happen very often,” Culbertson said. “I’m definitely excited for him and not surprised it happened.”

sports

Started at the bottom Junior redeems himself on the field Micheal Sandoval•Reporter It’s late in the fourth quarter and the game has been all but won, but an added touchdown would put the finishing touches on a tone-setting opening season game. Head coach Bob Wager has more than enough running backs in his arsenal to turn to late in the opening season game against Skyline, but instead he chooses junior Kelvin Spencer, starting middle linebacker of the defense.

Spencer left a sour taste in the mouths of the opposing defense with a blistering run up the gut – a tone perfectly set by the middle linebacker that embodies the Martin mantra: all gas, no breaks. The student section at UTA stadium that night was given 55 reasons to celebrate.

For those on the outside looking in, it might be a confusing sight to see the player who was accused of stomping on a North Crowley student his sophomore year given a leadership role on the football

team just a year later.

“Last year at the end of the game, my brother Kamray was walking toward the sideline when players on the opposite team laid him out,” Spencer said. “My teammates and I reacted the wrong way, but our goal was honestly just to stand up for our brother. The thought process was right, but not the way I handled things.”

Students and even close friends have doubted Spencer›s ability to lead his teammates in the right direction, but the odds being stacked against him isn’t a new concept. Moving to the Arlington area as an eighth grader, Spencer saw his initial playing time in junior high diminish game after game. He saw himself constantly get put at a position that wasn’t quite fit to his athletic abilities or to the team’s best interests either.

Eventually ending up as a defensive lineman, Spencer found a way to make his presence felt on the team regardless of his position, something that would help him grow as an athlete and more so as leader later in life.

“A lot of people think that the way you play makes you a leader, and in some aspects

Junior Kelvin Spencer leads the team out onto the field. Photo by Jessica Cude I guess that’s true, but Kelvin leads by example in more ways than just field play,” junior Tre Jon Hughes said.

Leaders aren’t only made in the fourth quarter or late in crucial games.

Leaders are made in the summer during two-a-days, and during the grueling workouts that leave athletes questioning how badly they really want to be successful.

In the summer, Spencer began to get put in the goal line package plays as a running back, but he questioned how many times he would really put those runs to use. Becoming a leader during each and every work out, run, and practice, Spencer eventually understood why he was being set up as a

running back.

His teammates were beginning to look at him as a leader and his coaches were the first to notice.

What was once a newcomer and a supposed troublemaker is now exactly what his teammates need, a friend and a leader.

“On the sole fact that he was elected onto our leadership board says a lot about him, his work ethic, and how his teammates view him,” coach Adley Eshraghipour said. “We allow the players to elect ten teammates to go on the leadership board a year – a group of students who are viewed as the leaders in the locker room and on the field, so for him to be on it as a junior speaks for itself.

He’s learned to lead his teammates by example.”

Cross Country kills at the Keller Classic Athletes show true dedication at the crack of dawn Meridith Moore • Reporter The sleepy Cross Country team shuffles onto the bus at 6 a.m. on Saturday, Sept.

23 while Lola the bus driver’s groovy R&B music plays quietly in the background.

The runners with pillows and blankets in hand quickly find their seats in hopes of taking a nap before their race. The bus is taking them to their fourth meet of the season, Keller Classic.

Freshman Francesca (Frankie) Beberstein got fourth place in the Varsity race, running a 18:48 5K. Beberstein has the ninth fastest 5K time in Texas for 6A freshman girls.

“I like how it feels to run,” Beberstein said. “Cross country is an important sport. It’s not just a little sport that is not difficult.

It’s tough. You have to work hard in cross country.”

sports

20

The night before every race, the Cross Country team meets up for a pasta dinner at either Moni’s Pizza and Pasta or one of the team members’ houses.

“I love the positive environment on the Cross Country team,” junior Trinity Deatherage said. “Cross Country is a very inviting sport. No matter what your time is or who you are as a person, the Cross Country team accepts you.”

Deatherage ran a 21:30 and got third place in the JV race.

She said she hopes to go under 21 minutes in the 5K. “I have to push myself to reach my goals,” sophomore Madeline Pederson said. “I like how running makes me feel strong and in control. It also is a great way to relieve stress.”

Pederson received 17th place in the JV race after running a 22:39 5K.

Switching it up

Position change tests new skills Senior Juma Otoviano celebrates after a touchdown against South Grand Prairie on Sept. 15. Otoviano switched from running back to quarterback this year. Photo by Matthew Flores

Chloe Christenson • Sports Editor This time last year, senior Juma Otoviano was Martin’s star running back. Lacking a quarterback for the 2017-2018 season, the football program was desperate to find an efficient player to fill the position.

Otoviano made it his business to adapt to the team’s needs, no questions asked.

Otoviano’s main goal was to succeed, which set his focus on the team. Never apprehensive to stand out, he stepped up.

“He really will do anything for this team,” varsity running back senior Andrew Williams said. “Whatever we need done, he can do, and is willing to do it. Juma had never played quarterback and didn’t plan on it either, but saw a position that the team needed and became that.”

So far this season he has 12 touchdowns, nearly 500 rushing yards, and 600 plus passing yards.

“Getting the routes and

timing down was hard,” he said. “Everyone has a different athleticism, so delivering a good ball to a variety of athletes was something I had to get used to. Coach Rives helped me a lot by teaching a lot of flipping my hips and turning my shoulders on throws.”

Otoviano could not make that transition on his own. He had a huge coaching staff behind him every step of the way.

“The whole staff had a meeting to discuss the decision of swapping Juma’s position,” quarterback coach Chad Rives said. “His attitude about it was awesome. Juma is a running back who is unselfish to play quarterback.”

Stepping into a position that important requires a lot of qualities and characteristics, especially with the weight of the team on his shoulders, being QB and a captain.

“On the field and off, Juma

is a leader,” senior Spencer Trussell said. “He is respectful, but isn’t afraid to tell us what we can do and how we can do it.

He is encouraging and leads by example.”

Along with the interactions between a quarterback and his teammates, there comes reaction, especially when the coaches sacrifice a star running back to take on a new role.

“It was a sudden change, but opens a lot of doors for his future, him being a dual-threat quarterback and all,” wide receiver junior Willie Roberts said.

Otoviano said he has his mind set about his college plans.

“I’ve always played running back, it’s what I do,” he said.

“It’s what I succeed in. I have the frame and am fast on my feet. I plan on playing in college.”

Coaches said that Otoviano has several factors that make him a stand-out player.

“He has the it-factor,” Rives said. “People want to be around him because he is a leader and always finds a way to win.

People want to know what happens next for Juma Otoviano.”

Seniors use past defeat to push them to victory Caitlin Harwell • Entertainment Editor Timber Creek’s first ever playoff win against the Martin Warriors was seniors Brayden Willis’ and Juma Otoviano’s first time promising it would be the last time their team goes out like that in playoffs.

“Juma and Brayden have a special bond because they have literally put blood, sweat, and tears into this team and each other,” coach Robert Mills said.

Emotions were all over the place after the two teams came together to shake hands signifying the end of Warrior football season.

“I walked back to our sideline and as I look around I see Timber Creek fans going crazy,” Willis said. “Jumping up and down and climbing over the fence trying to get on the field. Then, I look back and our sideline is dead, everyone in tears.”

Although the seniors on last years team do not get another shot, Willis and Otoviano get one more. This season, keeping their promise and making sure the whole team gives it their all, they hope to go all the way and win state.

“The goal has always been state, nothing else,” Willis said.

With the non-district season ending three and zero, the team hopes for just as good as play in district. The Warriors are 4-1.

The team’s bond clearly helps them on the field.

“We have shared suffering,” Otoviano said. “The intense workouts and simply just hanging out with each other has forged a relationship between us all.”

With last year’s season ending so soon in the first round of playoffs, the team has a new goal and mindset.

“I want to make 2018

21

the class that did it,” Otoviano said.

Both boys have been playing since they were four years old.

Now, they each face multiple college offers. Willis has 18 and Otoviano has four.

“I’ve sacrificed thousands of hours to be in the position I’m at right now and I’ve also lost a few friends as well” Willis said.

Football has brought these boys together.

“Brayden Willis. That’s my guy,” Otoviano said. “Since freshman year, we’ve always been together through football.

We grew with the same mentality about taking this team far.”

sports

Tennis twins McCurdy seniors hold first and second ranked spots on varsity tennis team Ashley Odom • Reporter

H

ave you ever been to a varsity tennis match and thought you were seeing double? You are watching the top-ranked varsity players, twin sister seniors Miller and Mallory McCurdy.

Most players on the Martin tennis team started playing tennis in junior high when they got the first opportunity to play with Martin, but Miller and Mallory have been playing tennis since they were much younger.

“We have been playing tennis since we were nine years old,” Miller said.

Miller and Mallory’s parents play tennis so they have been exposed to the sport since a young age. They started off just playing around, but it turned into a passion for the sport.

“They would go to the courts and pick up racquets and hit balls together,” Miller and Mallory’s dad, Jeff McCurdy said. “They thought it would be cool to be twins playing tennis, and of course watching the Williams sisters encouraged them even more. They started taking lessons and fell in love with the sport.”

Once they fell in love with the sport, they took it to the next level and stepped up their game.

“They have come a long way since starting tennis,” Jeff McCurdy said. “They wanted to be better and excel to the highest levels. They have learned hard work always pays off in the

end and the bond they share while playing doubles is extra special and fun to watch.”

All of this practice under their belts contributes to them being exceptional players.

Rankings on the varsity squad are determined by a squadwide tournament where players move their way up the bracket to the top to determine what their rank will be.

“I won the match so I am ranked number one on varsity and Miller is ranked number two,” Mallory said.

Players are able to challenge the rank above them and take the spot if they win the match.

This brings out the competitive side of the athletes.

“I don’t plan to challenge Mallory to take the first ranking spot because at the semester we have to try out again for ranks, so maybe I can get it then,” Miller said.

Fighting for the number one and two ranks brings competition as it is, but being twin sisters causes even more rivalry.

So is there more rivalry than other players on the tennis team?

“Yes, absolutely,” varsity tennis coach Derek Moore said.

“They hate to lose to each other.

It is a battle and they really go hard to win. Even in doubles, when they play together, there is rivalry.”

Both Miller and Mallory are ranked in both school tennis and USTA (United

sports

Now and Then: Miller and Mallory playing doubes for Martin varsity tennis and as 12-yearolds. Photos courtesy of Jeff McCurdy

States Tennis Association) tournaments out of school.

“As far as girls in the district they are the third and fourth best, so they are very, very high up there,” Moore said.

Identical twins have the same DNA, so is one twin better than the other?

“I think sometimes Miller is a little more consistent, but neither is better than the other,” junior Mauricio Flores said. “Mallory can be more competitive though.”

Being such outstanding players comes along with being competitive with each other and other players.

“I think Mallory is more competitive and always trying to win,” junior Megan Bishop said.

Being competitive on the court, either when playing singles against each other or by bringing their competitive

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side to play doubles together, is valuable. Miller and Mallory’s competitive sides often travel off the court and into their everyday lives.

“Yes, we are often competitive off the court,” Miller said. “We are competitive too with grades and always being the best.”

However, Mallory thinks differently.

“No I think we are only competitive when playing tennis,” Mallory said.

After high school Miller and Mallory plan to go to separate colleges. They said they do not plan to play tennis for a college, but will continue to play competitively and recreationally.

“I want to go to University of Arkansas, but Mallory wants to go to TCU,” Miller said. “We do not plan on playing tennis in college, but will still play for fun.”

Can you dig it?

Junior commits to playing sand volleyball for Arizona State Faith Smith • Opinions Editor

I

magine going so far, you have made it to the Junior Olympics. Then, imagine working that hard to get there and getting sick on the one day that matters most.

Junior sand volleyball player Shane Burleson was in California over the summer playing in the Junior Olympics when she got so sick to the point where going to the hospital was an option.

She decided to play the odds and push through, and the outcome was worth it.

“I knew I only had to win two more games to qualify,” Burleson said. “I ended up winning the tournament and it was such an adrenaline rush, I was so excited I forgot I was even sick.”

Burleson has being playing indoor volleyball since she was in third grade, but only about a year ago she decided to pick up beach volleyball for fun.

Then she said she realized that sand was more up her alley.

“It was tough choosing between the two because I was worried that if sand didn’t work out, I would be set back a year from the indoor girls,” Burleson said.

Her tournaments were held in California this past summer. Burleson said she was thankful that she had a friend who lives there who she also plays sand with, so she didn’t have to worry about finding a hotel to stay at on top of everything else that goes into preparing for a tournament.

“I practice from 5 to 8

after school and work on homework when I get home,” Burleson said. “I usually do 45 minutes of weight room, 30 minutes of sand training, and an hour and 45 minutes of drills and playing.”

Being dedicated to a sport like this costs their players a lot of free time.

“My least favorite part is not being able to do anything on the weekends and finding partners, because you have to play with different people each tournament,” Burleson said.

July 7, Burleson verbally committed to play for Arizona State University.

“Arizona State emailed my coach saying they were interested in me and for me to keep in contact,” Burleson said.

ASU ended up giving Burleson a scholarship to play sand volleyball for them.

“Since I committed to ASU, I’m just focusing on getting better,” Burleson said.

Moving out of state for college can be a hard transition from the city you know like the back of your hand.

“Whenever I think about how far away she will be from us I have a mini panic attack,” Shane’s mom, Kimberly Burleson, said.

“But I know that she is going to an incredible school. We could not let our selfishness of wanting her close to us get in the way of her reaching her full potential as an academic and beach volleyball player.”

Junior Shane Burleson (left) hits the ball during a tournament. Shane plans to attend ASU next fall to play sand volleyball. Photo courtesy of Shane Burleson

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sports

Switching for success A previous basketball player switches to football Morgan Lloyd • Reporter

of their family.

“We knew when he joined the team that it would benefit us because of how hard working he is and we needed a big defensive tackle,” senior running back Andrew Williams said.

“He is very quick and brings pressure to the defense.”

Sadala said the varsity team has always been extremely welcoming to him and feels like a family.

“When we all found out that he had joined the team, we were ready to see what he had in store for us,” senior Keelan Chilton said. “Everyone took him in like he has played with us from the start.”

Sadala was motivated by senior Spencer Trussell.

“I started getting into football because of Spencer,” Sadala said.

“He was showing me highlight videos and telling me that they

On and off the field, senior Emmanuel Sadala has been rumored to be one of the most hardworking people at Martin.

“I never expected that football would be in my future because I haven’t played since the eighth grade,” Sadala said. “It never caught my eye until I saw the opportunities that the other players were getting.”

Sadala started off dropping more than 40 pounds to play basketball through high school.

He stayed dedicated to what he loved.

“Emmanuel is extremely hard working,” defensive coach Sherman said. “He shows up to practice every day ready to work hard with a positive attitude which is what this team needs.”

The Warrior teammates said they love having Sadala as part

needed someone my size to advance the defense.”

This team has impacted Sadala so much that he has things in mind that he never thought would happen.

“Losing all of the weight felt good while it lasted, but now I have to gain some of it back to be bigger and better,” Sadala said. “If want- Senior defensive tackle Emmaning to play in college uel Sadala rushing to tackle a wasn’t in mind, then Mansfield player Oct. 13. SadaI wouldn’t worry la lost more than 40 lbs to get in about it, but it is. shape for football. Photo by Zane I hope to go to the Stewart Army or Air Force Academy and play football there.” he said. “I was ecstatic and With all of the summer prac- ready to come back harder and tices, daily weight lifting and tougher the next play. I had a intense games, Sadala already substantial adrenaline rush has memories that will last. against Southlake Carroll. But “So far my favorite moment once I got put into the game, it was when I made my first sack,” was lit!”

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the warrior post

Curt Leland Editor-In-Chief

Elizabeth Prickett & Sofia Viscuso Copy Editors Elena Regalado News Editors Olivia Dague & Lauren Worth Features Editors Chloe Christenson & Nikk Hernandez Sports Editor Caitlin Harwell Entertainment Editor Faith Smith & Haleigh Trevino Opinions Editors Brooklin Bruno Online/video Editor

Respect senior status

Being a senior comes with many privileges that seniors have waited years to enjoy. Seniors have been stripped of some of these privileges by underclassmen disrespecting seniority. Prom, parking spots, late arrival, off periods and front row at football games are all some things seniors wait years to be able to enjoy.

This year, for the class of 2018, there has been a more visible problem where the underclassmen have boldly gone out of their way to undermine the process of seniority.

For example, it is a known fact that seniors are reserved front seating at football games

Stop judging groups at lunch and branch out

Zane Stewart Photo Editor Tricia Regalado Adviser

The Warrior Post is the official publication of Martin High School. Opinion columns don’t necessarily represent the opinion of The Warrior Post or of Martin High School.

regardless of a senior’s time of arrival. This has now become an issue for many seniors who still show up an hour early to see the front row filled with sophomores and juniors taking their spots at the front of the student section.

Another senior right is late arrival.

If you happen to be late for school and see an open senior spot up for grabs, don’t assume it is okay to park there. In some cases, the senior may not be at school, but in most cases, they will come back to claim their spot once they get to school

or come back from off campus class.

While it is okay to obtain permission from the senior, it is not okay to assume the spot is vacant for the day. After all, seniors spend hours painting, and a large amount of money to claim their spots. So don’t be surprised if you come to your car after class, and find a nasty note or missing hubcap.

Senior year is full of fun, and most seniors love to interact with their younger schoolmates, but when it comes to seniority, this is a line that is not to be crossed.

Underclassmen and juniors, wait your turn just like we did.

Let’s do lunch

Ashley Byrd Design Editors

Marlene Roddy Principal Staffers: Emma Beard, Sara Blain, Sydney Decanio, Alyssa Deluna, Rama, Ensor, Madison Everett, William Jeffery, Katie Kohutek, Saber Lamb, Morgan Lloyd, Rayn Martin, Cameron Mayes, Megan Mitchell, Meridith Moore, Ashley Odom, Sydney Pugh, Annika Reeves, Rylee Richardson, Marleigh Richey, Wendi Rivera, Humberto Rodriguez, Nicole Salas, Michael Sandoval, Shelby Simmel, Savannah Thompson, Aivrey Zaiger

[STAFF editorial]

Annika Reeves • Reporter Anyone who’s ever spent a day inside the walls of a high school of any kind could agree on one thing: regardless of the amount of money in your pocket or the model of the phone your parents paid for, everyone’s felt a little lost at some point.

In a school as big as Martin, I’m sure everyone’s wandered down the wrong hallway by chance, but that’s not the kind of lost I’m talking about.

This kind is accompanied by butterflies and maybe a cold sweat, compelling you to whip out your earbuds or a phone to prove you’re not alone. The

first thing that someone thinks about are those stereotypes in classic teen flicks – the jocks, the emo kids, the band nerds and the preps.

These cliques appear everywhere, but it comes to a boiling point at lunch.

I made it my mission to find these different people, force my way into their free time and give some of them a voice – even if it was just a few words on a high school newspaper.

The first people I approached sat in a loose group removed from the buzz of the Upper Gym Lobby by the stairs near the science hallway. One pair sat in their own little bubble removed from the rest of the world.

Their names are Jesse and Megan, and the pair of juniors has been together for months.

“We just usually sit here and hang out with our friends – watch the craziness,” Megan said. “It changes every day. This

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is kind of an outcast group, with just a bunch of different people.”

After the initial small talk, I asked how they think other people perceive them, “Probably not that great,” Jesse said.

“They probably think we’re weird or something. I just wish people knew that we all really just care about each other. We have a bond, just like everyone else.”

Across the school, a group of sophomores call a small room at the edge of the school their home (for lunch at least), where they eat lunch and play cards or talk about their days.

“I think people see me as a preppy frat kid that wears the same thing and goes around shaking everyone’s hands, and is super smart,” sophomore Cole Dodson said. “I guess I’m cool with it because it describes me.”

continued on pg. 31

opinions

Spooky movies reviewed Caitlin Harwell•Entertainment Editor The month of October means 31 days of Halloween for the majority of us.

It means pumpkin-flavored drinks, caramel apples, cooler weather, childhood movies on Disney and of course, many new horror movies coming out.

Starting in September, movie theaters are filled with thrillseekers and scream queens. And through October they walk out of those theaters either laughing at the so called “horror” movie they paid $10 to see or shaking with satisfaction and fear.

I’m here to save you that $10 you begged your parents for to watch that “must see” movie and also to tell you what movies

are worth begging for money.

Mother! - Go see!

Now in theaters, Mother! has received a 70 percent Must-See rating from Rotten Tomatoes.

Mother!, starring Jennifer Lawrence, is about a couple that moves into a home and gets an unexpected guest.

After welcoming the guest in, sinister things stir in the house bringing more guests, more questions and more thrills.

Friend Request - Redbox it!

Coming to theaters Sept. 22, Friend Request is much like the movie Unfriended, which also got a terrible rating.

It’s about a college student, Laura, who accepts a friend

request from a not-so-popular peer and soon after, Laura takes her life.

After this, other people on her friend list start dying, of course, and like most of these Facebook movies, someone always has to get to the bottom of it. Friend Request has received a 40 percent rating, so not really a must-see. Rotten Tomatoes rated this a four point six out of ten.

So, basically, if you’re not up for a horror movie but a comedy, this movie is for you. Just wait for it to come to Redbox.

Save nine dollars.

Happy Death DayDefinitely Need to See! Opening in theaters Oct. 13, Happy Death Day is about a self-centered sorority girl who

gets killed on her birthday by a masked murderer. She then wakes up the next morning alive and relives her birthday over again.

This movie got a lot of attention on Twitter when the trailer was first released. I would for sure call this a must-see.

Jigsaw- Definitely Need to See! In theaters Oct. 27, Jigsaw is a suspenseful horror movie about the return of a masked murderer who was supposedly dead. To the town’s surprise, he was not. Bodies are being found gruesomely murdered with the same pattern as the victims over a decade ago.

This is a must-see and like the Saw movies will probably have you at the edge of your seat.

17 album addresses depression and life Madison Everett•Reporter

When Jahseh Dwayne Onfroy, a.k.a XXXTentacion, released his debut album 17 on Aug. 25, it immediately received attention from the internet for its controversial topics and abstract style.

Explanation In this opening statement for the album, X states that by listening to this album you are literally entering his mind. He stresses that if you aren’t willing to fully accept his thoughts and emotions, then the album simply isn’t for you. 17 is made in hopes of curing or at least numbing his fans’ depression.

Jocelyn Flores In order to fully understand this song and the meaning behind it, you have to know a little backstory. This past summer, X flew a friend named Jocelyn

Flores out to his hotel to model for him. Then she abruptly killed herself in X’s hotel room when he wasn’t there. This song is dedicated to her as he talks about how he suffered from severe depression after she took her life. X has said that Jocelyn showed no signs of depression or interest in suicide and that her death took everyone by surprise. He encouraged his fans to speak up if they feel suicidal or feel someone else may be.

Depression and Obsession Though X hasn’t released a explanation for this song, I took it as a breakup song. X says, “Depression and obsession doesn’t mix well. I’m poisoned and my body doesn’t feel well.” I took it as being depressed over a breakup and yet still being obsessed with the person to the point where he feels physically ill.

Everybody Dies In Their Nightmares X says he’s, “tired of feeling like I’m trapped in my mind, tired of feeling like I’m wrapped in a lie, tired of feeling like my life is a game, really wanna die in the night time.” I interpreted it to be about those late nights when you’re up tossing and turning and just overthinking everything. If you’ve listened to this album, you know X suffers from depression and this song is about his depression and suicidal thoughts torturing him late at night.

Revenge X has said this song is dedicated to Jocelyn Flores. The first line seems to be a reference to the philosopher, Confucius, who once said, “Before you embark on a journey of revenge, dig two graves.” He reinforced the theme of revenge in the song’s

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SoundCloud description. “Rest in peace, Jocelyn, I will have my revenge upon the world,” X wrote.

Dead inside (Interlude) I immediately got the idea that this song was about cheating.

X talks about how he’s “under the assumption love is dead.”

I think that when X says “seen the vivid pictures in my head.”

I took it as him replaying his girlfriend cheating on him in his head.

entertainment

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Reversal of faiths

Christian has religious experience at mosque

Saber Lamb • Reporter For me, going to church is a routine. We arrive and join together for a few songs about Christ, then we begin the sermon, learning something new about the Bible every week. Church is something that I enjoy and genuinely look forward to doing.

For me, it is an escape from the troubles of everyday life and a place to pray and make connections with new people every week and try to meet new people through God.

My weekly routine was recently turned on its head however, when I was approached and asked to experience a mosque prayer.

I have never known any other faith besides Christianity, and at first I was nervous at the prospect of this new experience, I was unsure if I felt comfortable with the “switch” that I was going to make, even if it was only for one service.

However, when I journeyed to the mosque, many of the butterflies were gone.

I realized that the mosque and church had more similarities than differences, and I was comforted by the amazing people there.

I even found out that the father of the student who asked me to go to the mosque helped

build it.

She told me that it was the first ever mosque built in Arlington and that her father and some other people contributed resources to construct it.

When I arrived, I could hear the mosque’s version of a preacher, the Imam, preaching to the silenced crowd and I felt warmed by his words that were foreign to me.

Although the service was not in English, I felt a connection to the faith, not through the words, but through the people that I was experiencing the service with.

The prayer was a calming time where people listened to the Imam, and although I may have looked out of place, being a very white guy wearing jeans and a t-shirt, I felt like I

belonged because the people were so welcoming.

Not one of the people that I saw at the mosque treated me differently or even so much as looked at me differently before, during or after the prayer.

When the roughly two hour prayer was over, I can’t say that I had experienced some magical “revelation” of faith, but I did feel a connection to the people at the mosque.

They offered a different viewpoint from what I am accustomed to and I relished the opportunity to experience it. After the service was over, I could return to church with a fresh perspective because of the amazing opportunity that I had.

It’s not every day that you get to instantaneously change faiths and see a new side.

A Muslim walks into a church...and it feels like home

Rama Ensor • Reporter

Here’s a joke: A Muslim and a Christian walk into a bar….

Nothing happens they just sit down and watch a game together.

There’s always been a misconception and a division between Muslims and Christians that exists in our society to this day.

My classmate and I decided to see if this division truly does exist, if these “differences” are still prevalent in our society.

That’s when a Muslim decided to walk into a Church for the very first time.

There shouldn’t be a separation because when I walked into church, it almost felt the same.

Now of course there were minor differences, like the way they sing, the way their church is open on Sundays, or the way they go on mission trips. However, the similarities were uncanny.

Walking into a church almost felt like walking into a mosque.

The environment, the attitude, and the energy all reminded me of being home.

When I got to know the church, I came to realize how similar we are. We both do volunteer work, we both are inclusive of everyone, and we

both have services of a pastor/ Imam on a certain theme that’s retrieved from our holy books.

My church experience started off by being greeted by almost everyone. They immediately took me in and were extremely nice and welcoming.

Going through the actual routine they do was definitely an experience. They sang songs about Jesus while playing the guitar, they played games, and they all just talked to each other.

It felt like everyone had a place there, everyone just seemed so happy and at peace; and I did too.

I walked into this experience not knowing what to expect, but I was greeted with a spiritual experience that I will forever be

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grateful for. It provided me with a new experience that impacted my life. The experience made me more open and welcoming to new experiences, allowing myself to be open to change.

What we need to do as a society is to stop trying to separate and exclude each other and start appreciating our differences and embracing our similarities.

No one is different unless we choose to enforce and only see those differences. Instead of sitting down and trying to separate and grow hate, we can educate ourselves.

We can be open to other people’s cultures, sexualities, religions, and traditions instead of choosing hate, because in the end, love trumps hate.

opinions

Unequal ecosySTEMs Extend STEM advantages to all students

Elena Regalado • News Editor

P

encils tap.

Nervous glances scan the room as the test is being passed around. On the other side of the school, there’s another classroom filled with kids taking the same class I am, yet they are separated from the rest of the students because they belong to an elite organization that is not open to every student at this school.

The STEM Academy was brought to Martin in 2015 after several faculty members put their dreams of a STEM-geared program into motion. Since then, the program has brought positive changes, and has also taken away opportunities for students who are not in STEM. Applications are available for those wanting to be involved in STEM, but the organization does not accept all participants who show an interest in STEM fields.

The resource perks

Students involved in STEM can join free of any costs. They have access to UTA college courses for dual credit and have separate teachers on site for core classes and STEM-oriented electives. STEM students are recruited from high schools all over the district, and many of them would not typically attend Martin.

With the STEM membership, students receive technology they can use throughout their time as a member. All students should be given the opportunity to request resources STEM students have open access to such as laptops and free printing.

A student could request to apply to receive a laptop for the school year, and based on their conduct and academic grades could be eligible. If a student is already on a free-and-reduced lunch plan or does not have access to printing at home, an application could be filled out to decipher those who could receive free printing for school assignments.

You don’t need to be interested in a specific career field to be given a chance to further enhance your learning environment. Being able to request access to free equipment needs to be open to all, as opposed to only students who have chosen a specific area of career interest.

Unfair GPA advantage

Many advantages STEM Academy students receive are possible for non-STEM kids to have, too. However, the treatment between the two groups is different. In the senior class, all of the student’s GPAs and Dual Credit classes are weighted equally. But in the other three grade levels where there is the STEM Academy, there is a division between the two groups.

Several of STEM’s Dual Credit classes are weighted as AP courses, when those same classes are not weighted into the GPA of non-STEM students.

opinions

This gives STEM students an unfair advantage when GPAs are taken into account.

Better for everyone

Class ranks sends a message to colleges and mentors about how our progress in school is compared to our peers. Since STEM is “another school within Martin,” their class ranks should be separate from non-STEM participants.

This would allow non-STEM students to be eligible for more of the spots in the top ten percent. STEM and nonSTEM would each have their own valedictorian. Portrayal of the two groups would be more accurate when grouping of success rates is taken into account based on specific criteria.

No one is better

I admire the amount of passion and time several teachers and advisers have put towards the STEM program.

Their dedication to build the organization from the ground up is inspiring.

However, if STEM is going to be receiving special attention through GPA weighting and access to free equipment, the equivalents of the STEM Academy need to be made circled around other endorsements like fine arts and humanities.

A student should not walk the halls of our school feeling lesser because they do not want to enter a math or science field.

STEM kids are great at what they do. The brilliant minds behind their accomplishments have brought a lot to the table, like strengthening

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the Robotics and Math and Science UIL teams. But a student who is academically gifted in science, technology, engineering or mathematic courses is not necessarily more gifted than a student who excels in areas of social work and humanities, business, language or fine arts. STEM’s perks and opportunities should not reflect that.

The royal treatments that The STEM Academy students have received has set a tone of favoritism in the eyes of the student body. The enormous amount of opportunities available for STEM students is amazing.

Here is what we need

There should be nothing stopping the school district from presenting those same possibilities to students who could possibly not have any of those opportunities in the future.

It’s time for our district to proudly and equally promote every endorsement available to students because all are valued and a necessity in the career worlds outside of high school.

AISD needs to consider: • Providing equal access of technology and printing to students who apply •Separating the class ranks and GPAs of the two schools so it does not impact the host school’s ranking of students not in STEM Academy •Creating magnet schools for all endorsements at high schools throughout the district to equally show the importance of all endorsements by providing the same perks of STEM

Continued from page 25 You can never judge a book by its cover – a message stressed from preschool to the retirement home.

Even with that little rule though, it’s human nature to create your own opinions on someone based off outward appearances. That’s why these

little cliques exist.

It takes a little more work to force yourself out of the protective blanket of your phone or your friends and approach someone to ask permission to implant yourself in their lives if only for a lunch period, but the results are rewarding.

Want more WarPo? Check out our website: mhswarriorpost.com for more stories, photos and videos.