RHS Knight Writers Vol. 64 Issue 4 | May 3, 2024

Smith’s Send Off

Coach Steven Smith departs from basketball

By ASHLYN MILLER, INCOMING EDITOR-INCHIEF

Since 1998, Robinson has been torn down, rebuilt, refurbished and rebranded.

Throughout all this, one factor has remained the same. Every winter sports season, Coach Steven Smith has led the boys basketball team to becoming better athletes, students and better young men overall. However, the ‘23-’24 season was the last time he would take the court with his team.

“I’ve had some great memories, some great players, some great teams, it’s been a great 25 years. I just enjoyed every minute of it,” Smith said. Looking back on his time at Robinson, one co-worker, a fellow coach and math teacher Joshua Saunders commends Smith’s service to his athletes and to his school. Having coached the boys basketball team with Smith for

six years, Saunders knows him as an extremely hard worker, and a true knight through and through.

“I don’t think anybody cares about their individual players more. I think that’s a pretty big deal, you have to really love players, thats the key to being a good coach. His thing was always the way he cares for his players and supports the program,” Saunders said.”He really pushed his athletes and always wanted them to play hard, coach smith is just super passionate about the game and passionate about robinson basketball, anytime you have that kind of pasion you are always going to get a positive enviorment.”

Over his years as the coach, Robinson has seen a lot of incredible athletes, especially under Smith’s tutelage. Unable to choose just one player, for Smith every student he has coached has changed him.

“I can’t really specify anyone

in particular, we’ve had some good victories over the years and it’s been a lot of fun,” Smith said.

“I love Robinson High School. It’s been the ultimate pleasure and joy and honor to be the head coach of the boys basketball team for the last 25 years. It’s been a great experience and it’s just time to do something different.”

Many students have heard the rumors of Smith’s departure from basketball. One of Smith’s current players Malik Williams (‘25) recalls his freshmen year with Smith and his push of encouragement.

“I’ve known Coach Smith since my freshman year because I tried out for the basketball and didn’t make it sadly, but he encouraged me to keeping pushing because he saw what a great player I could become. He is very passionate about the game of basketball and he love all his players and want to push you to be the best of your capabilities,” Williams said.

Continued on page 7...

Aniyah Ritch: ‘Model Student’

Ritch

gets her first booking for Macy’s Back to School campaign

By ANIKA SANKA, INCOMING FEATURES EDITOR

She’s every school’s dream with a sunny disposition and an impressive reputation. While carrying the load of being an IB student, she juggles several band ensembles, being president of Robinson’s Best Buddies club, playing for the tennis team, student government and national honor society. Junior Aniyah Ritch, the model student.

And on top of that: she’s an actual model.

Ritch began her modeling journey as a freshman when scouted at her local Target.

“I was just walking around Target and a scout came up to me and asked us if I was interested in modeling. We checked the legitimacy of course and I ended up being signed that year,” Ritch said.

So far in her modeling career, she has spent time building her portfolio with several photo shoots with The Industry, her mother agency. The Industry is geared towards younger women, and helped her develop as a model before getting signed with a booking agency. Recently, she received her first paid booking to model for Macy’s Back to School campaign.

“I got the email like a week before because it’s a superfast-paced industry. It was unexpected, but it was such a cool experience. The plan for my agency is to start with more commercial stuff and then work my way up to high fashion. I might try to stay with a commercial for now because it’s more sustainable,” Ritch said.

If Ritch decides to take the high fashion route, she’s determined to use her platform for good. With her presidency of Best Buddies club, a club based on inclusivity

for the intellectually and developmentally disabled, Ritch is a strong advocate for disability rights.

“I am very passionate about disability rights, and I feel like it’s a very prevalent issue and it’s international. Their community doesn’t have too much advocacy and I would love to take advantage of the privilege to be able to talk about things to empower marginalized communities,” Ritch said.

Including Best Buddies, Ritch has an incredibly busy schedule so flying out to New York to model isn’t always easy. Now that Ritch is officially seventeen, there’s more availability for a different market so she’s open to more bookings. Because she is still a minor, she needs an adult chaperone to accompany her to New York, so there is a lot of sacrifice when it comes to her taking new jobs. It’s also a lot to balance with her rigorous IB schedule.

“I missed a test on Tuesday when I went up to the shoot, and then the day after the shoot was the SAT. I came in at midnight on the flight the night before the SAT, and then I took the SAT the next day. So, it does kind of create a chaotic lifestyle when I do have to go away for these photoshoots, but I do think that from a career standpoint it is worth it, I just won’t be able to take every single booking,” Ritch said.

Despite the chaos, modeling is highly rewarding for Ritch, who describes one of her strengths as being personable. “I love meeting new people and in New York, it’s kind of like a culmination of people from all across the world who have come to pursue some sort of career in

mainstream culture. So, I think that it’s really interesting to be able to meet people from different cultures, different backgrounds, all with a collective dream of wanting to sort of pursue something in the modeling industry,” Ritch said.

As well as bonding with fellow models in New York, Ritch also forges connections with those who have similar aspirations.

“Aniyah’s modeling journey is very inspiring for me, and I think it’s important to boost each other up as we continue our journeys. I love watching her succeed and do amazing shoots,” fellow model Ally Linsky (‘25) who’s signed to the same agency as Ritch.

Networking with fellow models is highly enlightening for her to discover who she is as a model.

“I would say that modeling has taught me the importance of looking beyond a person’s face because while it is a very superficial industry, it has given me the opportunity to meet people beyond just how they’re viewed,” Ritch said. “It gave me a new perspective on the world of modeling because like one of my greatest fears is being seen as a ‘dumb model,’ but I also work super hard at school, so there’s always more beyond the face.”

A Portrait taken by Ritch’s model company as prom. Photo Courtesy of Aniyah Ritch

Steven Smith and Joshua Saunders coaching a boys basketball game in 2008. Photo Courtesy of Robinson Archives

As the perennial MC for the spirit chant, Steven Smith leads the students. Photo Courtesy of L. Montero

Ron DeSantis Signs Law Restricting Social Media Access for Minors

By: SOPHIE LE, INCOMING OPINION EDITOR

On Monday, March 25, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed HB3, prohibiting minors under 14 years to own social media accounts and requiring children 14-16 years of age to require parental consent.

Three days earlier, DeSantis vetoed HB1, which argued for a social media ban for all children under 16 years.  With an overall vote of 106-113 from the House and a 23-14 vote from the Senate, the bill was on its way. However, DeSantis disagreed with excluding parents from the control of social media usage.

“I have vetoed HB 1 because the legislature is about to produce a different, superior bill. Protecting children from harms associated with social media is important, as is supporting parents’ rights and maintaining the ability of adults to engage in anonymous speech. I anticipate the new bill will recognize these priorities and will be signed into law soon,” DeSantis said via. X.

With DeSantis’ approval, HP3 is scheduled to take effect in Jan 2025. The bill will specifically prevent minors under 14 years from holding social media, give parents the right to decide whether 14and 15-year-old children can own social media accounts, protect Floridians’ ability to remain anonymous online and require sexually explicit websites to verify age.

The bill also requires social media platforms to delete accounts and their personal information for the children if wanted by teens and/or their parents. Companies that don’t follow these

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signs bill banning the creation of social media accounts for children under 14 years old

regulations may be sued for up to $10,000 of damages each.

HP3 will also require many apps and websites to verify users’ ages but also require the option of “anonymous age verification”. This will be created so third parties cannot retain users’ personal information. Platforms that have at least a third of explicit content displayed are required to request age. Sites that confirm users are at least 18 years old are not subject to the requirements. Any platforms not following the bills’ order can face up to $50,000 in civil penalties each.

Taking extra measures so the bill will pass constitutional legislation, House Speaker Paul Renner, a Republican from Palm Beach, has made social media suppression a main priority of legislation this year.

“The internet has become a dark alley for our children where predators target them and dangerous social media leads to higher rates of depression, self-harm, and even suicide,” Renner said. “None of us can be on the sidelines when it comes to social media and when it comes to the hardcore pornography our kids are being exposed to. Social media is the primary platform that

Yearbook’s 2023-2024 Chapter Comes to a Close

By YESENIA ROSARIO, INCOMING CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

The 2024 Robinson yearbook is finished after a grueling eight months

After many long nights spent at school and many spreads later, Robinson’s 2023-2024 yearbook staff finally finished the yearbook and sent it off to the printing press.

With the process beginning before school in July, staffers began thinking of possible themes. Editor-in-Chief Jada Lupher (‘24) explained that it was a long, grueling, but rewarding, process that began towards the end of summer at Camp Orlando, a multi-day journalism field trip designed to help teach and better journalism students’ knowledge. At camp, yearbook staffers spent the last nights brainstorming possible themes with the newly learned knowledge.

“Our original inspiration came from a bunch of vintage Vogue magazines. It started at Camp Orlando, but it came together at elite weekend,” Lupher said.

Though they began plotting at camp, things didn’t pick up until Elite Weekend, which takes place at a hotel in Orlando where the staff presents their ideas to a group of professionals on the Florida Scholastic Press Association (FSPA) board who either give the green light and approve of their progress or inform them that they need to go back to square one.

“We got it [the theme] by Elite Weekend in September. We had a consistent theme all year, which was nice, and everyone was excited. It was very different than what we’ve done the last two years, and I think, for once, everyone was on the same page for what the vision was; but we lost more than half of our staff, which was difficult,” Lupher said. “We didn’t have as many people and everyone had their extracurriculars so people couldn’t stay after school or go to events, so it was really difficult to get the coverage that we needed, but it pulled together in the end, and we met deadlines.”

This year’s theme is “So Much More.” While the idea can be interpreted differently depending on the person, Photo Editor Stefany Moreira (‘25) explained that this theme is meant to highlight everything Robinson has to offer post-construction.

“It means that there’s a lot more to Robinson. The past few years we made it about construction and the portables, and I think this year, with the new school, we have gathered a lot more school spirit and we’ve also brought back more tradition,” Moreira said. “I think that it means there’s more to us [Robinson] and our small community.”

With an integration of IB and traditional students, the class suffered a loss of many

children are trafficked, and more crimes against children happen on social media than any other venue.”

Even students who actively use social media believe that for younger children it should be prohibited.

“I’ve definitely seen bad experiences online, especially for younger kids, who don’t know what’s out on the internet. I feel that some people take advantage of younger people,” Camila Parra (‘26) said, a sophomore.

HB3 is overwhelming supported besides some who believe the bill violates free speech expressed in the first amendment. Referencing recent bills that have failed because of violating the constitution, opposers see the bill as controlling.

“HB3’s sweeping prohibition of youth from social media runs contrary to a Supreme Court precedent and tells Florida families how to parent,” Representative Anna Eskamani (D) of Orlando said. “Though I agree more needs to be done in protecting our youth on social media, this bill goes too far in taking away parents’ rights and banning social media usage -- and thus First Amendment rights -- for young Floridians. Instead of banning social media access, it would be better to ensure improved parental oversight tools, improved access to data to stop bad actors, alongside major investments in Florida’s mental health systems and programs.”

students whose schedules changed second semester due to the way IB schedules worked. On top of that, some people up and left. Due to these absences, there were challenges along the way, but compromises allowed smooth sailing in the creation of the book.

“We just made it work. We learned that we all had to help each other out, and even though you were assigned your spread, we all kind of worked together to finish them; because not everybody could go to the event for their spreads, so it was a complete joint effort,” Lupher said.

Moreira agreed on the stressfulness of it all.

“The process was stressful, but we got everything done on time,” Moreira explained. “We procrastinated a little bit, but it was very cool seeing how the book was coming together with the theme and all the other elements that come into it.”

The staff’s many dedicated hours eventually created a 223-page yearbook, set to be released in the second week of May. Lupher suggests that this year’s yearbook

is different than ones of the past and that the yearbook staff have made some big improvements.

“I think it looks really good, very bold. We have some funny stories throughout, we brought back elements of old books, and it’s much cleaner,” Lupher said. “I think this year people are going to be excited about it because it’s sleek, it’s pretty, but it’s still colorful. It’s very Robinson.”

Moreira believes purchasing the book is a great investment of memories and is worth the purchase.

“It’s good to keep those kinds of memories and to see yourself or your friends and get it signed. It might not be something so important to you now, but once you’re out of high school and you’re in college it’s just something to look back on and remember those moments in high school,” Moreira said. “I look forward to people seeing almost everything, the pictures, the design of it all, everything just comes together so beautifully.”

Students nowadays are more occupied by their phones than class. Illusration by Janiece Mitchner

A photo of the Yearbook cover.

Yearbook Editor-in-Chief Jada Lupher works on the task list for the staff. The staff used a large section of the classroom whiteboard to stay organized and see the status of spreads. Photo Courtesy of Gabriella Toranzo

Controversy in the Classroom

Should teachers be allowed to discuss their political and religious views to students?

By: SOPHIE LE, INCOMING OPINION EDITOR

With each presidential election year, it gets harder and harder to get away from political talking points. One may think that at your own school you may be able to have some peace of mind, but this is not always that case. While your teacher initiates debate by encouraging students to share their views on the topic, they also disclose their own stance too. Looking around the classroom you can see an array of mixed reviews on the students’ faces. While some look unfazed, others are stunned. This raises my question if there are any specific guidelines for what a teacher can or cannot say.

Throughout my years in four different schools, I’ve been exposed to teachers of different backgrounds. Some have been very open about their political opinions, while others refuse to expose theirs.

The specific guidelines for teachers’ speech on politics in the classroom are still highly debated. With several bills for and against the exposure of opinions, the right amount of perspective is still uncertain among lawmakers.

However, I believe that based on circumstances the age of students, teachers should be allowed to share political views those opinions on students. While politics in classrooms considerably neutral, certain circumstances may open up controversial

Especially in a history class or social studies class, students should be exposed to different perspectives. Although in some classrooms where politics should be deemed inappropriate, the idea of a completely neutral classroom seems ignorant. Throughout students’ lives, the possibility of exposure to others with opposing views is highly possible.

“Education itself is political — who chooses the textbooks, who funds schools, how schools are funded. So to say that curriculum has to be apolitical is a misunderstanding of the fact that education is a political space to begin with,” Alyssa Dunn, an education professor at Michigan State University said.

In Florida, several topics are impossible to talk about but align specifically with education in schools. Not talking about the banning of books and certain classes directly affects us as students. Discussing these highly controversial topics is needed in a highly political place like a school. Since we are dealing with the unavoidable, respecting others’ beliefs and attempting to learn their side is very important.

I believe the lines of teachers’ political participation cross at this. Teachers should be able to share a view, not advocate it.  This is expressed in “The Political Classroom”, a book written by Paula McAvoy and Diana Hess, program director and dean of the Center for Ethics and Education University of Wisconsin–Madison, on the role of politics in classrooms including teachers’ opinions and controversial issues.

“Teachers share a view when they make their opinion about a political issue known to the class or a student but do so in a way that communicates this is just one view among many possible views. When teachers advocate for a view, they are trying to convince or persuade others to adopt that view,” McAvoy said.

While discussing different views on controversial events is a part of learning, we must keep our differing views respectful and educational.

Editorial: AI in College Admissions

Generative AI will lead to a shift in the US college admissions process

Over the past few years, the college admissions process in the United States has been completely shaken up. With the release and subsequent wide-spread usage of generative AI, students have begun to incorporate AI into their college admissions process.

Although many view using generative AI to write college essays as cheating, it might just be leveling the playing field. For decades the wealthy have had an upper hand in the US admissions process by being able to hire college counselors. These counselors help students craft applications and edit essays in a way which makes them more appealing towards colleges. In a system which values these essays so greatly, historically, poorer students have been at a disadvantage.

Now, with generative AI being able to generate decent essays for those who know how to properly command it, the essay writing aspect of college counselors has been made accessible to students everywhere. A downside, however, is that now colleges have no way of knowing who wrote a student’s college essays, and have no way of assessing writing ability. AI detectors can be used, but there is an ethical consideration when implementing them.

According to Wired Magazine, “as you increase the sensitivity of the instrument to catch more AI-generated text, you can’t avoid raising the number of false positives.”

Even one of these false positives can result in a permanent stain on a student’s academic career, a risk that is too large to take when dealing with a person’s future.

OpenAI, the parent company of ChatGPT, pulled their AI detector from the market because of “a high rate of human-derived text that the application flagged as written by AI.”  Based off of these events, it is quite clear that in

their present state, AI detectors cannot be implemented on a wide scale to police the use of AI, especially in the life-altering process of college admissions.

So, what can be done? It’s actually pretty simple. If colleges can no longer determine the quality of writing from essays, then they have one of two options: only consider the content and quality of ideas and/or become more interview facing. Interviews done either in-person or via a videoconferencing platform will allow colleges to get a better sense of an applicant and will mitigate any issues of authenticity posed by AI.

Some universities have already begun to go towards this direction. Duke University recently announced that because of AI and college counselors, they will no longer be assigning numerical values to applicant’s essays based on the quality of their application.

With colleges beginning to shift towards this new style of admissions, students will have to adjust to showcase output which they have gained from their experiences and extracurriculars rather than being able to somewhat rely upon writing a very persuasive essay.

Editor’s Letter

With the school year coming to a close and May creeping up on us, we have one last issue to realease for this school year.

This year was one filled with many accolades such as a Sunshine Standout award for online and All-Florida’s for both print and online meaning we have large shoes to fill. While anxiety inducing as it is we hope for a great last issue completed by a completely new editorial board. While the work is vigorous and already beginning to keep us on our toes, we howpe to send off the senior Knights and outgoing managing board with one last amazing issue.

This past year was filled with many memories and trips to remember. We traveled to USF for FSPA Districts, Orlando for FSPA States and some of us even travelled to Boston in early November for NSPA. Newspaper has given our publication many opportunities including not only travel but education deeper into the field.

As we continue to learn how to do our jobs to the best of our abilities, we hope to learn and grow alongside our staffers and new editorial board to maintain the high standards set by past Knight Writers. This issue is filled with many goodbyes from not only sport coaches but our senior staffers and managing editors. Though they’re leaving Robinson their legacy will remain as we’ll make sure of it. We hope you enjoy our first issue and stick around for our annual Back to School Issue for the 2024-2025 school year.

This Knight Writers newspaper is produced by the Journalism II-V class at Robinson High School.

Incoming Editors-inChief Ashlyn Miller Yesenia Rosario

Outgoing Editors-inChief Vikram Sambasivan Charlotte Stone

Outgoing Print Managing Editor Cecilia Cheng

Incoming News Editor Winter Carbajal

Incoming Features Editor Anika Sanka

Outgoing News and Features Editor

Yesenia Rosario

Incoming Sports Editor Jordan De La Cruz

Outgoing Sports Editor Ashlyn Miller

Incoming Opinion Editor Sophie Le

Outgoing Opinion Editor Keirra McGoldrick

Mission Statement

Outgoing A&E and Multimedia Editor Jadyn Grayes

Incoming A&E Editor Grace Shafer

Incoming Multimedia Editor Coleton Rone

Incoming Fun Coordinator Annabelle Bulger Malia Rodriguez

Senior Staff Writer Whittaley Bowden

Janiece Mitchner

Araya Stearns Briana Garcia

Staff Writers Mikesha Clarke

Jennie Gutman

Jasmyn Mitchner

Sofia Scott

Ryan Rolle

Gabriella Treviño

Publications Adviser

Nancy Webster

Principal David Brown

The Role and Goal of the Knight Writers is to inform, interpret and entertain their viewers through accurate and factual reports, and be accurate, fair and impartial in its coverage of issues that affect the school community. The staff of Knight Writers will strive to report all issues in a legal, objective, accurate and ethical manner, according to the Cannons of Professional Journalism developed by the Society for Professional Journalists.

Policies

For more information about staff policies, follow this link https://knightwriters.org/about/staff-policies/

Publication Memberships

Political mask of Biden wearing ReaganBush hat displayed in classroom by teacher.

Photo by S. Le

AI DALL-E 3 generated image of a student being helped by an AI robot.

Photo byV. Sambasivian

H2H: Easter Or Prom Dresses?

Let People Wear What They Want

There’s nothing wrong with “Easter” Prom Dresses

By JAYDN GRAYES, OUTGOING A&E AND MULTIMEDIA EDITOR

Social media bandwagon culture is getting out of hand; once one opinion is shared, it spreads like rapid fire. This time of the year, prom dress styles happen to be the victim of this. Every time April rolls around, the debates about what’s “in” for prom arise. Although fashion trends concerning dresses, suits and hair are ever evolving, one thing remains principle: prom is a celebration at the end of the year for upperclassmen to dress up, dance and have fun with their classmates. Judging what everyone’s wearing will do nothing but ruin your experience.

The most recent argument taking over social media platforms is whether TikTok-dubbed

“Easter dresses” are appropriate for prom.

When I say Easter dresses, think of flowy, floral print dresses. They certainly juxtapose the more common sparkly bright dresses, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have a place at prom.

Prom dresses are typically a topic of discussion each year, with last year’s trend being satin dresses. Satin dresses are arguably more simple than floral dresses, yet no one attacked them last year. The influx of hate towards “Easter dresses” is unusual based on recent fashion trends, which is why I stand by the fact that it’s just bandwagoning.

There’s nothing wrong with a prom dress that can be used for different occasions. Floral dresses have been worn at formal events for years, and buying a versatile dress is more affordable in the long run.

Pricing aside, a dress can still be formal regardless of whether or not it’s covered in sequins- it all depends on how you style it. A floral ruffle dress that’s paired with nice heels and an updo is much classier than a neon sparkly dress that’s worn with basic heels.

The most important thing to remember going into prom season is that just because something is trending doesn’t mean you HAVE to join in. Easter dresses are not the new prom dresses; it’s just a style that some people enjoy. As long as you feel beautiful, any dress can be a prom dress. Different types of fashion can co-exist without tearing each other down.

Go Big Or Go Home

Are Easter dresses the new prom dress? I think not

By SOFIA SCOTT, STAFF WRITER

Withit officially being Prom season I’m sure anyone who has been on the internet these past few weeks has seen the ongoing debate between the typical “Prom dresses” and the newly popular “Easter dresses.” The “ideal” prom dress is formal, sparkly and unique, while the new “Easter dress “ is plain, simple and floral.

Personally, I lean more towards the original prom dress side because I feel that prom is a formal event where everyone should dress formally.

People who want to wear the original prom dress even expressed feeling embarrassed to wear what they want. While my prom dress isn’t big and sparkly it’s still formal enough for a prom dress. I can pair it with heels, and it fits more of the traditional prom attire.

Now I’m not saying you need to go out and buy a big sparkly gown for prom, but some of these “Easter prom” looks are getting out of hand. I have seen some girls wear dresses that are almost brunch attire with sneakers to prom. This look is just not formal enough. Prom is a very nice event, so I think that a nice, sparkly dress is best paired with nicer shoes.

If that style of dress is what you feel most comfortable and confident in, then good for you. But for me personally, that style of dress is just not what I envision when I think of prom. I understand that sparkly, extravagant dresses are not everyone’s cup of tea, and some people like things a little more on the simple side.

Now I also feel that to have a nice prom dress you don’t need to go spend hundreds to thousands of dollars on it. I have seen people spend far too much money on dresses that you, one, only wear once and two, are way too plain and boring to be spending $300 on a dress that does not fit the occasion.

Girls only get two nights their whole lives to feel like a princess, their senior prom and at their wedding. Why not go all out, rather than follow niche trends? I see soo many millenials on social media regretting their prom choices, because they went trendy instead of timeless.

Overall, I think prom is a classy event that you should look your best for, and I think that starts with a formal, glam dress and nice shoes.

King Jake Abel (‘24) and Prom Queen Manasvi Vijayaraghavan (‘24) and posing together after just taking their crowns. Photo by C. Cheng Cheng

RJ Sharpe (‘24) dancing with a group of friends. Photo by C. Cheng

Madyson Carson (‘24) surrounded by friends on the dance floor during her senior prom. Photo by C. Cheng

Juniors Danica De Jenzano, Yesenia Rosario and Allyson Steele pose for Aniyah Ritch’s (‘25) digital camera. Photo by A. Miller

A stereotypical “Easter” prom dress. PhotoVia. House of Love Schack Fancy

A tradtional fancy prom dress.

PhotoVia. Sherri Hill

Robinson Royals

Juniors and Seniors gather for a royal night at TPepin

By YESENIA ROSARIO, INCOMING CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Association (SGA) was made early March of the theme “Royal Prom.” Upon arrival as far as the eye could see students were dressed to impressed channeling their inner Prince and Princesses.

Walking inside students were greeted by Robinson staff and admin. There were photo opportunities inside the venue where you could also find the dance floor which was occupied by lively students dancing along to music alongside a few hypemen onstage. Outside the doors students also had photo opportunities at the photo booth with a vast selection of props.

As the clock handle struck 9 p.m., students got to meet their Royal Court. Robinson’s possible Kings consisted of seniors Lakeem Johnson, Jake Abell and Darius Walsh while the possible Queens were seniors Katie Matysik, Manasvi Vijayaraghavan and Peyton Price. Abell was crowned first as the Prom King, followed by Vijayaraghavan crowned as the Queen.

As the clock struck 11 p.m. student’s fairy godmothers called them home and the night ended with more dancing. Sadly their pumpkin carriages awaited them until next year.

Photo booth pictures taken by Robinson students in the TPepin Hospitality center Photos Courtesy of Olivia Sovik (left) and Jada Lupher (right).

Prom King Jake Abel (‘24) accepting his crown. Photo by C. Cheng

Julia Barret (‘24) pinning a bouteneir onto RJ Sharpe’s (‘24) lapel. Picture by C. Cheng

Prom Queen candidates Peyton Price (‘24) and Katie Matysik (‘24) clap for their fellow candidates and classmates. Photo by C. Cheng

Robinson students dancing in the crowd on the dance floor. Photo by A. Miller

Manasvi Vijayaraghava (‘24) receiving her sash, signifying her as Prom Queen

Photo by C. Cheng

So Long, Joe Alwyn

Fall in and out of love with Swift’s newest album

By CECELIA CHENG, OUTGOING PRINT MANAGING EDITOR

Swifties from all over the world officially became members of the Tortured Poets Department. “The Tortured Poets Department” is Taylor Swift’s eleventh studio album and was released on Friday, April 19. Like the mastermind she is, Swift again has outdone herself with these new 16 songs as she emphasizes vulnerability and her raw emotions after her recent breakup.

The album begins with “Fortnight,” which features Post Malone. Without listening, I could already tell who the song was directed towards: Joe Alwyn and Matt Healy (two British men Swift has dated) as fortnight is a British term for two weeks. Swift composes deliberate and beautiful songwriting to emphasize how she is still not over her recent relationships. She emphasizes all the rabbit holes she has gone into since, which can be seen in the accompanying music video with the song. After listening to this first track, I could already tell I was going to fall in love with this album. A highlight of the album was, of course, ‘track 5,’ which was “So Long, London.” This is the second time Swift ever used London in her songs: first in 2019 in “London Boy,” which was about her love for Alwyn and now in 2023 after they had broken up. The song starts with Swift’s harmonization, which mimics church wedding bells. Throughout the song, she highlights the attempts she has given to revive their relationship, which ultimately ends up dying, with

mentioning two graves at the end of the track.

After the first listen, “Florida!!! (feat. Florence + The Machine)” was my favorite (this will change). This song stood out to me because it was written right after her breakup with Joe, which was the days right before the Tampa shows of the Eras Tour. Swift portrayed how the tour and Florida was an escape from her problems, to rebrand herself after the end of the six-year relationship. Not to mention, Florence + The Machine’s voice also adds an extra layer to the song, adding a mysterious and mystical vibe, which I really enjoyed. I also really liked the drums throughout the track, as it added an element of dramatism to it.

“The Alchemy” was Swift’s first song about her new boyfriend, Travis Kelce, and is definitely one to remember. This was a classic Swift and Jack Antonoff song; there were hints of Antonoff’s production dropped all throughout especially with the melody and the buildups to the bridge. What I found special though was that there are several football references scattered throughout the song, such as “Where’s the trophy? He just comes runnin’ over to me,” which Kelce did indeed do after winning a game that would the Chiefs’ spot in the Superbowl.

The 16-track album concluded with “Clara Bow,” which sounds like a song straight out of a fairytale. The song was named after silent film star, Clara Bow, who was Hollywood’s original “It Girl.” and whose life ended tragically. I think with this song, Swift is drawing an allusion to her own relationship with fame; she knows all the consequences it comes with and is trying to emphasize that a change is necessary for not only her but other female celebrities as well. “Clara Bow” has a mesmerizing melody to it and is a song I would listen to over and over again. But it doesn’t end there just yet. The night of the release at 2:00 a.m., Swift announced an additional ending, and at 2 a.m., she announced that “The Tortured Poets Department” was going to be a double album, meaning an additional 15 songs. Swift surely does not stop with her surprises and easter eggs. If you are a Swiftie, you are going to immediately fall in love with this album and even if you are not one, I recommend giving these songs a listen. She demonstrates the five stages of grief quite literally perfectly.

Girl In Red Does It Again

Girl In Red Breaks Into a New Bold Take On Her Iconic Indie Style

By ANNABELLE BULGER, INCOMING

FUN COORDINATOR

While known for her songs and album about love, depression, and the struggles of being a young adult in the modern world, girl in red took a new spin on her music with her new album “I’M DOING IT AGAIN BABY”. Taking her lyrical skills and iconic indie style that introduced many young people to the genre, girl in red shifts her style from pondering the depressions of life to shouting her name from the rooftops through her songs.

The opening track “I’m Back” declares her return to the audience and immediately shows off how her attitude and thoughts about life has changed, stating “I’m back, I’m better than ever.” With catchy synth and her iconic vocals, “I’m Back” certainly caught my attention and the chorus instantly got stuck in my head. Next was the title track; “DOING IT AGAIN BABY”, which changes up the vibe with instrumentals and lyrics that make you feel unstoppable.

One of my personal favorite tracks is “Too Much”, where instead of celebrating or mourning a relationship, girl in red expresses her frustration over how her partner has treated her in the relationship. With its catchy drums in the back combined with a catchy melody, “Too Much” is one of the best songs off the album in my opinion.

Never one to stray from her love songs, “Phantom Pain”, “A Night To Remember”, “Pick Me” and “New Love” tell the story of the end of a relationship that the singer blames the other partner for, but also longs for the person and is jealous when they move on. Across the four songs, girl in red demonstrates her musical range by not sticking to one similar setup. “Pick Me” has a soft, twinkling piano background to it that slowly begins to swell into more a soft pop, while “Phantom Pain” is more guitar-driven and has a faster pace to it. These four songs work very well back-toback and represent the variety across the album as a whole.

“Ugly Side” is also a callback to girl in red’s earlier album, where the singer wonders if her “ugly side” makes her unlovable and questions why she has “these ugly thoughts”. Compared to the heavy dealing of the lyrics, the instrumentals are very standard pop with a noticeable R&B tang to it. R&B elements can be seen across the album, but the closing track “” is definitely R&B with soulful synth and fast paced R&B drums making the closing track a smooth ending to this varied album.

The star of the album is girl in red’s collaboration with rising pop star Sabrina Carpenter, “You Need Me Now?”. Rock-driven, sassy, and a dopamine-hit of a song that calls out an ex for their bad behavior in a relationship and their attempts to get them back, “You Need Me Now?” cements girl in red’s spot as one of the best popular indie artists in the industry in this generation.

Overall, “I’M DOING IT AGAIN BABY” is an exciting new look into where girl in red is taking her music next. With the variety of themes, moods, and instrumentals, “I’M DOING IT AGAIN BABY” is a very fun album to listen to.

The Anti-Boring Summer Break Guide

The perfect activities to spice up your summer break

By JADYN GRAYES, OUTGOING A&E

& MULTIMEDIA EDITOR

If you’re anything like me; most summer days are spent lying in bed with the occasional walk around the neighborhood. But summer ‘24 is going to be one for the books, and the days of laziness and boredom are over. As cliche as the saying “you only have 18 summers of freedom” sounds, it’s true. It’s important to make the most of your summers at home before the responsibilities of adulthood take over. Here are some affordable activities to make your summer break memorable.

Painting Picnic: All you need for a successful picnic are a couple of pub-subs, fruit, and a drink. Pair this with some canvases and paint, and you’ve got the perfect creative day.

Movie Nights: Movie-watching nights are one of the most nostalgic and relaxing activities to do during the summer. There’s nothing like bonding with your friends and loved ones over a big bucket of popcorn and a cheesy romcom. These are easy to do from home and affordable.

Pool Day: Florida summers are notoriously hot, and a day lounging at the pool is the perfect cure for the blistering heat. Paired with a bowl of fruit and a cold glass of water, a pool is all you need to have a day full of fun. You can play games, take lessons, or simply float around and relax.

Escape Room: Escape rooms are a fun activity to not only entertain you and a group of friends but also stimulate your brain. Solving them takes cleverness and attention to detail that is sure to keep your mind sharp throughout the summer.

It doesn’t take a lot of money to have fun, say no to the summer bed rot and try some new things this year. Doing these activities with my friends has made me cherish my vacation time way more, and I know my last summer break before college will be well-spent.

Summer Fashion

By BRIANA GARCIA, SENIOR STAFF WRITER

Seal of “The Tortured Poets Department.” Photo by A.Miller

The Album cover of Taylor Swift’s 11th studio album, “The Tortured Poets Department.” Photo Via. Apple Music

Girl In Red’s new album highlights her change in attitude about the world. Photo by Via. Columbia Records

The “no trend” trend is in

Easy Street To States

Varsity flag football season ends in a state championship once again

By JORDAN DE LA CRUZ, INCOMING SPORTS EDITOR

As the 2024 season comes to a close, the varsity flag football team has experienced another perfect regular season. Although being commonplace for the team to follow through to Districts, Regionals and even State Finals, the 2024 season wasn’t without its own challenges.

Varsity had experienced an assortment of hardships throughout the season, one of which was Manasvi Vijayaraghavan’s (‘24) absence. Although holding a leadership role of Head Captain, Vijayaraghavan was unable to play alongside her peers, due to the tearing of her ACL, within the midst of early-season practice.

“I got injured in the beginning of the season,” Vijayaraghavan said. “Comprehending the fact that I can’t play, I would say was pretty upsetting at first.”

Although the ACL tear prevented her from participating in any games, Vijayaraghavan continued her role in leading the team.

Goodbye, Altimari

Cross country coach of 20 years retires

“I learned that this team still needs my leadership position...I still have to lead them, motivate them, and teach them everything I know,” Vijayaraghavan said. “Even though I wasn’t able to play, I am still able to make an impact off the field.”

Even with Vijayaraghavan’s absence from the field, Head Coach Joshua Saunders, still admits to the importance of all the captains this season.

“The captains are great, (Vijayaraghavan has) been really on top of things, and Tammy and Emma have been great,” Saunders said. “Our junior captain Haidyn, the QB, she’s been fantastic too.”

Alongside the captains, the team has also performed to a superior standard, set by the coach.

“This season has been great, as do most,” said Alivia Cocchiola (‘25), one of the cornerback for Varsity. “We have been showing great improvement.”

On April 10, Robinson went up against Tampa Catholic during their Senior Night and won against the Crusaders, scoring a staggering 37-0 and securing a spot in the Regional Championships. In total, Varsity has scored 669 points, which is an average of 33.5 points per game. Comparatively, the average Flag Football team scores 183 points during an average season, with an average of 13.8 points per game.

Later on April 23, the team participated in their Playoff States Championship against Brandon High School. The Robinson Knights prevailed with a 42-0, further cementing their likelihood of winning the state title, yet again.

“We were not nervous for regionals, but we will still play hard like every (other) game,” Cocchiola said. “We definitely are nervous for states, but we will not let that ruin our intensity.”

By ASHLYN MILLER, INCOMING CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

It’s 3:45, directly after a long school day.

Suiting up in their hokas and on-clouds, the Robinson cross country team begins another back-breaking practice. The honor of leading this team of motivated young adults has fallen upon the shoulders of Coach Mark Altimari for the past 20 years.

Altimari found himself at the R in 2004, when his son took interest in the team. He saw a need for a coach, and to help his son succeed, he stepped up to fill the position.

“At that point, they hired a coach, Raven Lewis.  He allowed me to assist and after a few years, I became the head boys coach,” Altimari said.

Current cross-country athlete and captain Brynn White (‘25) has been working with Altimari since her freshmen year. Attempting to improve over the summer in the hazardous heat and during the ultra-busy fall semester is no easy feat, so White was grateful to have found a support system in her coach.

“Coach Altimari has taught me how to push myself and have confidence with running and in general. I have learned so much from him in the past 3 years and what I’ve learned will help me through anything I do in life,” White said. “His coaching skills helped strengthen the team and always got us where we needed to be to succeed.”

Throughout his years, not only has he made impacts on his athletes, but they have made lasting impacts on him with many fond memories. Being able to watch his athletes grow really changed him overall as an individual, not just as a coach.

“There are many, many, fond memories.  The teams that stand out most, are both 2019 teams.  The boys finished as State Runner up and the girls were 4th in the State Championships. It was the best combined finish in the entire state that year,” said Altimari.

Over his years as a coach, moments with certain athletes have really stood out in Altimari’s mind.

“Additionally, we had the boys individual State Champion in Ethan Geiger.  Ethan was a 3-time State medalist in Cross Country and 2-time state medalist in Track, with a 2019 state Championship in the 3200 meters.

“In 20 seasons of cross country and track, we had over 30 State Medalist and 3 state champions. Altimari said. “Those races are burned into my memory for a lifetime,”

Having worked with the Robinson community for so many years, Altimari has grown an appreciation for the school as a whole, bringing him back to the school year after year, long after his son graduated. He believes that not only the way his student athletes’ standout on the field is impressive, but their upstanding character.

“The impact of being the coach at Robinson can’t be measured in words. It’s measured in action. “Every kid I coached left something with me, that I tried to pass along to every team and kid I coached,” Altimari said. “They were all significant in our success. Our team motto is “Heart and Soul.”  It wasn’t just words; it was our identity on and off the course.”

As of press time, the Knights have a match-up with Tampa Catholic on Tuesday, April 30, where they are favored to win. On Friday, May 3, they will host the State Quarterfinal game against Wildwood or Lecanto. Varsity Flag Football garnered a 20-0-win ratio, as of the Playoff States Championship.

Although the team has experienced an 100%-win rate, the Knights strive for as little of lost points of possible. as of the 2024 season, Varsity has only led up 52 points.

“We think that were in a pretty good place the road to get there is doable,” Saunders said. “the goal for the team is to always win the state title.”

Smith’s Send Off Continued

Coach Steven Smith departs from basketball

By ASHLYN MILLER, INCOMING CO- EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Continued from page 1 Williams commended Smith of his vocal character during games, as this verbal passion for the sport has really assisted him as an athlete while trying to make calls in his head in a face-paced game environment.

“He’s very passionate and very loud during games,” Williams said. “He’s very vocal about whatever he needs something to be done. I’m going to miss a lot about Coach like his vocalist [abilities] on the court and his urge for the game of basketball.”

Williams expressed his gratitude of Smiths coaching and will miss his presence on the court next year.

“I’m gonna miss him a lot because he really pushed me to play hard and brought the best out of me no matter,” Williams said. “I’ve only had him for two years, but these two years have

Spring Sports Recap

By COLETON RONE, INCOMING MULTIMEDIA EDITOR

Araya Stearns (‘24) leading her team to cheer after the latest touchdown. Photo by A. Miller

Haidyn Spano (‘25) throwing a pass during the district finals game. Photo by A. Miller

Dear Knight Writers...

As the school year comes to a close, the times comes to let go of our beloved senior knight writers. Our senior editors and staff recall their time spent in journalism, and look back on the memories made and the lessons learned.

Dear Knight Writers,

Vikram Sambasivan Co-Editor-In-Chief Co-Editor-In-Chief

This has been such an incredible year for Knight Writers. Full credit goes to our amazing staff and editorial board, with an extra special shout out to my fellow managing editors, Charlotte and Cecilia, as well as our incredible advisor Mrs. Webster. Being a Knight Writer has been an experience which I will always be grateful for with the incredible opportunities, friendships and just so many intangibles. I’m confident that next year’s staff will continue the legacy of Knight Writers and take it to farther heights than ever before. Thank you Knight Writers for making my senior year one to remember.

Dear Knight Writers,

Dear Knight Writers,

I honestly don’t know what the “right” way to start this is, but I can confidently say newspaper has changed me into a better individual. I came onto the staff as a scared and shy sophomore. I hated talking to people, and knew no one in the class. However, after being in the program for three years, I have learned to find my voice through storytelling, met some of the best people in high school and made crazy memories. I can find a million reasons why someone should join newspaper, but I don’t think you can understand it until you experience it yourself. Thank you Knight Writers.

Dear Knight Writers,

Expressing my immense love for this program in 150 words seems almost impossible. As grateful as I am for the writing skills that I’ve gained as a writer and editor, I’m most thankful to be leaving this program with the people that I can now call my family. Newspaper is the most welcome and open-minded environment that Robinson can offer. You’re given the freedom to express yourself fully. I was able to find my place as a student and felt so much more secure during the tedious process of college applications. Joining Newspaper is one of the most sane decisions made during my time at Robinson- give it a try, you won’t regret it!

Dear Knight Writers,

Initially, I doubted that newspaper was the right class for me, but persistence paid off. Through exploring different sections, I discovered my passion for storytelling and honed my writing skills. The newspaper staff became a place where I could expand my world, stepping out of my comfort zone to engage with people I would never even talk to. Now that my time has come to an end on staff, I highly encourage those who have a passion for writing to join the newspaper. It will be a rewarding experience that you will never forget and always fondly look back on.

When I first joined Knight Writers, I never would have imagined the impact it would have on me. Not only has it taught me countless valuable skills, my time on staff has brought me out of my comfort zone and raised my confidence exponentially. However, the most important thing that Knight Writers has taught me is to improve my poker face. Now looking back, I couldn’t imagine these last three years without Knight Writers even if I wanted to. I am so grateful for all the effort that my fellow staff members have put into the three years of published stories and 14 issues that I have had the privilege of being a part of. Knight Writers, thank you for everything

Dear Knight Writers,

Originally, I started newspaper by accident. Now I couldn’t even imagine what the last three years would’ve been like without it. Being an editor for this amazing program has taught me so much. Aside from the Oxford comma rule being drilled into my brain, it’s taught me a sense of leadership and has brought me out of my little bubble. From taking photos at football games to running around Wyndham at States, I loved every second of it. Thank you to everyone on staff for making every moment special; the last three years have made a lasting impact on me that I’ll remember when I’m old and grey. I love you all.

Dear Knight Writers, I will say taking journalism is worth it. I met so many amazing people by taking this class. Due to being a multi-sport athlete, in the spring, I wasn’t able to go to the biggest and my favorite field trip, FSPA States, but I was able to attend Camp Orlando over the summer. Going to Camp Orlando was one of my favorite memories of being on staff. Hanging out and staying in a hotel with some of my friends for a week and learning more about journalism over the summer was something that I never thought I would do. My favorite parts were staying up until two in the morning working on the poster and listening to Yesenia complain about how much homework Brit Taylor gave her.

Gabriella Treviño Senior Staff Writer

Dear Knight Writers, I’m glad I stuck with journalism even though yearbook was not for me. Any creative interest can be applied in your work and embraced by the Knight Writers. Long live 2P. Having access to the resources, equipment, and mentors of Robinson’s journalism program provided me with the knowledge and experience to be confident in pursuing a related career path. Being able to see your work be displayed and valued in the yearbook, newspaper, or online provides both a sense of accomplishment and ambition that is not common in most classes. Thank you and goodbye, Knight Writers!

Kierra McGoldrick Opinion Editor

Jadyn Grayes A&E and Multimedia Editor

Araya Stearns Senior Staff Writer

Senior Staff Writer