Graduation issue by The Review

ST. JOHN’S SCHOOL STUDENT NEWSPAPER

SJSREVIEW.COM

2401 CLAREMONT LANE · HOUSTON, TX 77019

TSCHOOLS OP

UNITY COUNCIL

Top ten summer activities in and around Houston

Online NEWS..................2 FEATURES...........4

sports.............7 In Focus.............8

TITLE,

14-YEAR

AFFINITY

DROUGHT

GROUPS

COMMITTEE

UNDEFEATED CONSIDERS GIRLS’ LAX SCHEDULE

ONE AND DONE

WINSLOW

WINS TRIPLE CHANGES

CROWN FOR 2016

MOVES ON

TO NBA

GERMAN INT’L DAY

GAP SENIOR

YEAR PROVIDES SPRINTS TOWARD

OPPORTUNITIES FINISH OF RECORD

FOR TRAVEL, GROWTH

TRACK CAREER

LEAVES POPP ON TOP: DEAN LEGACY AFTER

WINTER

MOVING UP

SEASON

E-CIGARETTE POSSESSION

FEATURES

DIVERSE ONE-ACTS

SPREADS

AMONG AMLEY ARTFULLY OVERSEES CAMPUS-WIDE FORMAL GAMES TEENS CHANGES ALTERNATIVE COMPETITIONS FIND THEIR NICHE INCREASED ARTS

MEMBERSHIP CREATES OVERCROWDING ISSUES

WHIMSICAL

GRADS

‘CHAPERONE’

GARNER

PARODIES

1920’S

NATIONAL

ACCLAIM

PROJECT UNIFIES

FOOD BANK

UNITY

TEAM

COACH

ZIAD

CREATES

AND TECHNOLOGY DEBATE FARADAY DEPARTMENT SOCIETY GETS UPGRADE RETURN COLLEGE

OF ALL AGES

GUEST

VOLUNTEERS

BROADWAY

PART TIME MAINTNANCE CHOREOGRAPHERS WORKER; FULL TIME FOODIE

COUNSELING

MAKES ROOM

FOR NEW

ADDITIONS ‘WE

PREFECTS REACH OUT

‘A SENSE OF PLACE’

ARCHITECTURE

BLENDS TRADITION,

NEW SENIOR

COUNTRY DRAWS STUD EN T FEEDBACK WELLNESS IN ITIATIVES

STUDENT NCAETCH UP TO EDS SOPHOMORE

LANDSCAPE

SIDELINED

WITH COMPARTMENT

CAST MEMBERS

UNCOVER

SYNDROME

LIFE LESSONS,

PURSUE

PASSIONS

JUNIORS CONSTRUCT FOURTH WARD CHURCH LABYRINTH

GOLFER BRINGS TALENTS DOWN SOUTH, PROSPECTS FOR SEASON LOOK UP

BEHIND THE SHADES: WALKING THE BEAT WITH THE NEW

ALUM FOLOWS

THE DUCKS, ATTAINS LITERARY RENOWN

TAKES

LOMBARDI

OWE YOU AN APOLOGY’:

SECURITY TEAM

Later This Month:

R E V I E W

WINS

ENDS

AIMS TO LINK FRESHMAN SWIMMERS LEAD TEAM

ERCIA

HAVE L

BUSINESS INSIDER

COM

13TH ON

N TO H OND SE A M

LAWSFILES UI IN RE SPO T

SJS PLACES

EW N ES URASS TED FO CL CREA

Y E A R I N

VOLUME 66 · ISSUE 8 · May 18, 2015

PROMOTION,

RELOCATES

WITHIN

SPC

So Long, Farewell

Don’t Judge a Riot By Its Cover

Read about departing teachers and their plans for the future

Gabe Malek explores the ‘empathy gap’ of the Baltimore riots

BEYOND............11 OPinions..........14

ODDS & enDS....16 College..........S1

P14

sjsreview.com

Into the Brawl: Check out the colleges seniors have chosen for their next round

@SJS_Review

_thereview

SJS Review

NEWS

THE REVIEW I MAY 18, 2015

Hot off the press: Review wins awards News Briefs Students establish Young Political Organizations to encourage awareness

by Sukul Mittal

In the decades since the original four-page issue of The Review was published in 1947, the newspaper has been redesigned countless times, transmitted to color and expanded to digital media. In March, The Review won a Gold Crown from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA), the highest honor awarded to high school publications. “Every year when I come back to SJS and look at The Review, I’m honestly so impressed by the improvements in the quality of the content and in the creativity of the design,” current Yale junior and former Editor-in-Chief Pooja Salhotra (‘12) said. “The Review absolutely deserves awards to recognize those accomplishments.” In addition to the Gold Crown, CSPA awarded The Review five individual awards for the 2013-2014 school year: second place for cartoon portfolio by Katherine McFarlin (‘14); second place for the Class of 2014 college infographic by Parker Donaldson and Jake Nyquist (‘14); third place for senior Jessica Lee’s article on wrestling; second place for senior Rebecca Chen’s online profile on alumni director Lorin Crater; and an honorable mention for senior Jessica Lee’s online profile on Sloane Gustafson (‘14). “The Review plays a critical role in the life of the school because it represents one part of the student voice,” Headmaster Mark Desjardins said.

JARED MARGOLIS

Alongside the achievements of the print edition, The Review Online won its first major award, named a Pacemaker Finalist by the National Scholastic Press Association (NSPA). Launched by Samantha Neal (‘14) in 2011, the website continues to produce more content at a faster pace. “We’re on our third platform now, and I’m really happy to see it expand its coverage,” said Neal, a freshman at Duke. “To see it become such an integral part of The Review has been really rewarding.” Members of The Review, including current Editors-in-Chief Megan Routbort and Rebecca Chen, attend-

ed the NSPA Convention in November. The Review won fourth place for Best in Show and Front Page Design of the Year (Parker Donaldson and Jake Nyquist) as well as honorable mention for Story of the Year (seniors Iris Cronin and Oliver Ruhl). The Review also received an All-American rating for the first time from the NSPA. “Megan and Rebecca have done a great job on everything,” former Review Editor-in-Chief and Stanford sophomore Andrew Vogeley (‘13) said. “They have made The Review an organization that even more people want to be a part of.”

Extra! Extra! Editors-in-chief Rebecca Chen and Megan Routbort show off The Review’s awards with Headmaster Mark Desjardins. The Review received its first CSPA Gold Crown in March.

Havel settles copyright infringement suit by Christian Maines

After a copyright infringement battle, art teacher Dan Havel and his art partner Dean Ruck have reached a settlement in their legal suit. In 2005, Havel and Ruck deconstructed and rebuilt two condemned houses on the corner of Montrose Boulevard and Willard Street, a piece known as “Inversion.” The artists rearranged the wooden paneling of the houses to create a vortex shape that connected the two buildings through a narrow hallway and exited into a main courtyard. Honda Motor Company, in collaboration with advertising agency McGarryBowen and production company Rogue Films, produced a commercial depicting a Honda CR-V driving through a vortex in a house. Havel and Ruck won jurisdiction to try advertising agency McGarryBowen and production house Rogue Films in the U.S. Honda was dropped from the suit. Havel and Ruck began their lawsuit with hopes of receiving compensation. “Settlement was brought up because the judge suggested we settle before going to court,” Havel said. Havel, Ruck and the defendants’ lawyers met twice. The first time, they did not make much progress, but by the end of the second mediation, the parties had come to an agreement. “The big premises aside from the monetary compensation is that they

had to completely remove any existence of the commercial,” Havel said. Rogue and McGarryBowen had to take the commercial off their website as well as their Vimeo and YouTube accounts. “That was a good aspect of it,” Havel said. “As far as the monetary part of the agreement, there’s a gag order that prevents me from talking about those details, and obviously I want to respect that.” An alternative would have been to reject the settlement and wait for the court case to proceed. “We are happy with the agreement we came up with,” Havel said. Pursuing the court case might have involved several cycles of appeals that would have substantially prolonged the case. “If we won the settlement, they would move the appeal to the Texas Federal Court, and they are generally more favorable to companies than people. It worked out well,” but Havel notes, “I won’t be retiring early.” Havel and Ruck did not know how quickly the process was going to proceed. “It was a complicated legal case, and there were some legal precedents that could have been made,” Havel said. “The Internet is not in a country; it is a worldwide entity, so it opened up a lot of legal questions. In fact, I found out that one of the professors that we brought in to review the jurisdiction of the case, a

The formation of the Young Political Organization (YPO) marks a new direction for political discussion at SJS as the first club with party-affiliated factions. The idea for YPO was first created by sophomore Samuel Samson-Williams, the chair of the club’s conservative branch. “Be it with us, the conservatives, or over with the liberals, our generation needs to get involved now because decisions being made and issues going on will affect us all the way through our adult lives,” Samson-Williams said. The YPO has two branches, the Young Conservatives Club and the Young Liberals. Sophomore Joseph Coselli serves as co-chair of the conservative faction alongside Samson-Williams, while sophomores Irene Vazquez and Sadde Mohamed are the co-chairs of the liberals. “As high school students, these elections will shape our future,” Vazquez said. “Many students in my grade will be able to vote in the 2016 presidential election, myself included. We have to get ourselves educated and participate in the political process so that we have a say in what happens.” The stated goal of the YPO is to encourage political awareness and foster an interest in city and statewide politics. To do so, the two factions intend to organize several debates next school year. “Our goal is to bring in more speakers, make people aware of current events, engage in volunteer works with campaigns and start doing debates with the liberals on certain issues,” Samson-Williams said.

Taub House decides to change color to aqua

EMILY RAGAUSS

professor at University of Houston, had used our case as one of his exam questions.” While Havel and Ruck cannot definitively prove that the defendants were in the wrong now that a settlement has been made, the artists are happy with the outcome. “The case is closed; we’re happy with the settlement, and ‘Inversion’ continues to be seen on the Internet and all over the place,” Havel said. Havel and Ruck were named 2014 Art League Houston Artists of the Year.

Art Hound Art teacher Dan Havel and his art partner Dean Ruck won compensation for alleged copyright infringment on their 2005 art instillation, “Inversion,” recently.

After four years of donning earth tones, Taub House is getting a makeover like a bolt from the blue. The Student Affairs Council (SAC) gave the members of Taub an option to keep the color brown or change to orange, maroon or aqua. “There was an overwhelming degree of antagonism for the color brown,” Head Prefect Akshay Jaggi said. In an email that came from out of the blue to members of Taub, SAC sent out a survey giving four options. Members had two days to cast their votes via SurveyMonkey. In the end, Taub decided that the color would be aqua. When the house system was first initiated four years ago, the Taub mascot was originally the purple eagles. “There was a hue and cry that we would somehow create a house that mirrored Kinkaid,” Dean of Students Stephen Popp said. While Mulligan House may be green with envy and Chidsey House may turn crimson, Taub House members will receive new t-shirts in the fall. There is no truth to the rumour that they will have blue collars. Briefs by Christian Maines and Alexander Kim

NEWS

SJSREVIEW.COM I MAY 18, 2015

Construction prompts new fundraising campaign by Amy Liu

In April, the school announced the largest fundraising campaign in its history with a goal of $100 million. To date, the Opportunity of a Lifetime campaign has raised $88 million. “We knew people would be really excited. We’ve had over 100 conversations with individuals,” Headmaster Mark Desjardins said. The campaign started in fall 2011, but it was only known to a select group of donors. The campaign went public after it reached $85 million. “If you want to raise $100 million, you need to make sure there’s support and a template for how to do it,” said Greg Swan, Director of Finance and Operations. “We knew the community was supportive; we just needed to make sure their financial support was large enough to be able to do what we want.” The Opportunity of a Lifetime donations will be earmarked as follows: • Great Hall and Campus Center ($30 million) • Annual Fund ($17 million) • New administrative annex, parking lot, lighting, fencing, Senior Country and classroom renovations ($15 million) • School endowment ($13 million) • Payment on Taub property, which was purchased for $91 million ($25 million) Donors can make pledges and spread their giving out over time. The school endowment helps provide financial aid and professional development for teachers. According to Swan, full tuition covers about 85 percent of what it

JARED MARGOLIS

Building Blocks Costs for the Great Hall and Campus Center construction will total $30 million. The Opportunity of a Lifetime campaign will finance the construction, along with other construction and costs. The building is scheduled to open for the 2015-2016 school year and will house the College Counseling and Admissions Offices as well as a new dining hall, fine arts complex, bookstore and more.

actually costs to attend SJS. The difference is covered by the endowment and Annual Fund. “The parents that have children here and those that have graduated from here think highly of what SJS has been able to do for them,” Swan said. “They want to show their support so future generations will be able to benefit.” Campus construction includes the new administrative annex, a parking lot, lighting, fencing and Senior Country. The Board of Trustees recently considered constructing tunnels to connect the new

athletics and fine arts center but is still unsure of its feasibility. The Campus Center is scheduled to open in the fall of 2015 and will house the College Counseling and Admissions Offices as well as a new dining hall, fine arts complex, bookstore, underground parking and a café. The school has received donations for the construction since early 2012. According to Desjardins, many observers did not realize that the Campus Center was more than just a new dining area until construction began. “It’s going to become the heart and soul of the school,” Desjardins said. “I met individually with donors and told them it was much more than just a cafeteria. That got people more excited.” Desjardins sees the Campus Center as a way to improve interactions throughout the school. “The best schools are relationship-oriented. If you envision the importance of relationships, you must have buildings to allow those relationships to happen,” Desjardins said. “The way this community interacts is going to transform in ways that nobody can fully understand.” According to Mark Dini, Director of Advancement, Campus Center construction will allow more students to attend. “The scientific and medical community around us wants to see talented students go to school here. If we don’t grow, but the demand continues, it creates tension,” Dini said. “Right now we barely have enough space to do everything we want to.”

The school acquired the Taub property in late 2012 after three months of negotiating with lawyers, securing loans from banks and seeking philanthropic support before the the offer was closed. The school had desired the property for decades. “We were looking, hoping and trying to get it for generations. Then suddenly, we had an opportunity that wasn’t going to come around again,” Dini said. “It was like a solar eclipse. We had a ‘seize the day’ sort of moment. It will change the history of the school.” The expenses not covered by the Opportunity of a Lifetime campaign will be paid through increased tuition over four years, further donations and enrollment growth, since the school will be adding 25 more freshmen for the next four incoming classes. “Land is an incredibly valuable commodity for a school, especially for one that’s this close to a central business district,” Dini said. “It gives you flexibility and program space. If the school doesn’t grow in response to the growth of Houston, we’re not serving the community.” The Board plans to end the campaign in spring 2016. By then the campaign will have raised more than twice the school’s previous best fundraising campaign (20012006), which raised $47 million. “I’ve been inspired by the new levels of philanthropy established,” Dini said. “I’ve always felt that SJS had the capacity to raise funds of this magnitude, and I’m proud of the community to see it now fulfilling its potential.”

FEATURES

THE REVIEW I MAY 18, 2015

COMMENCEMENT

Graduation to relocate to campus, rain or shine by Ashwini Bandi

The Class of 2015 will be the first class since the days of the Walkman to graduate on campus. After almost three decades off campus, Commencement is moving home on the evening of May 19. “I think our grade has done a lot of trendsetting this year,” senior Sophie Gershenwald said. “Everyone’s been really great about accepting it and just going with it.” An upside to having Commencement on campus is that families will be able to invite more than eight guests. “Commencement is the single most important ceremony that happens in the context of the school,” Desjardins said. “For us to say that we’re going to limit participation is unacceptable. Last year we held it at the Hobby Center, but it was unavailable, as were other venues downtown that could accomodate us.” Graduation ceremonies were held on the Quad until the late 1980s, but constant rain forced the ceremony to St. Luke’s and it never went back. Skip Lee Field will be configured to accommodate 3,000 guests. In the event of rain, graduation will be moved to the new gym. Ticket holders will be seated, and others will watch a live stream in the VST. Though Commencement will no longer take place at St. Luke’s, Desjardins and the planning committee want it to maintain a formal atmosphere. “If you’re not careful, the outdoor ceremonies can tend to be a little bit more casual. You don’t want it to be a rodeo,” Desjardins said. “It’s a very special and important ceremony, so it needs to have the right tone and the right decorum,” Desjardins said. “We’re going to have to create the best ambiance that we can.”

JARED MARGOLIS

Hats Off Crowds will flock to Skip Lee Field May 19, but this time they will come to watch the Seniors receive their diplomas rather than a game. This could be the first time in decades that Commencement takes place outside, but rain might force a change in venue.

Dean of Students Stephen Popp recognizes the potentially positive aspects of holding the event outside. “When I graduated from a public school outside of Philadelphia, we graduated outside. Granted, it was the northeast, but still I think it’s great,” Popp said. “You can look at all things in pros and cons, but we’re on campus. I think it’s going to be a neat backdrop.”

According to weather projections, the temperature will be 80 degrees when graduation begins. “Even though it might be really hot, we’re all mostly going to be focused on celebrating,” senior McKenna Gessner said. “I think that it’s great to let everyone come.” Zartman works with Middle School registrar Kimberly Keany among others to

organize the event. The likelihood of rain is on everyone’s mind. Even if skies are clear, rainy weather in the days leading up to the ceremony might preclude hosting the event outdoors. “It’ll be a little bit tight, a little bit different,” said history teacher Wendall Zartman, who is also an organizer of Graduation. “But we’re flexible.”

by Emily Chen

Although students crowd the stage at the Upper School Awards Ceremony to receive certificates for graduating Cum Laude each year, not many know what the term ‘Cum Laude’ actually means. Some might know the Latin origins of the phrase, but a lot goes on behind the scenes to determine the recipients of this honor. “The National Cum Laude Society is similar to the National Honor Society at other schools, but without teacher recommendations or service hours,” committee member Roxie Allen said. “It’s just your academic record. The school decided many years ago that it was the best way to recognize distinction of the top students.” Cum Laude, which is Latin for ‘with honor,’ is a commendation given to 20 percent of a graduating class for high academic achievement and integrity over all four years of high school. An independent committee at each school is responsible for determining both the guidelines of the selection process and the recipients. “We look at the potential pool of people, and since we can take 20 percent, we usually look at a bigger pool than that. Then we see if any of them have been in what the school considers to be significant Honor

Code issues, because if you have been, that automatically disqualifies you,” said Dwight Raulston, chairman of the committee. “Assuming you’re in good honorable standing, then it’s mostly based on grades,” Raulston said. “If we come down to where we have to choose among several people with very similar averages, then we will sometimes look at the difficulty of the curriculums; if they took lots of honors classes, things like that.” Cum Laude is similar to the Phi Beta Kappa Society in some liberal arts colleges or the high school National Honor Society (NHS). Schools with Cum Laude chapters are usually private schools, while public schools tend to have the equivalent in NHS. Unlike NHS, the National Cum Laude Society limits the number of honorees to 20 percent of the graduating class but sets no GPA requirements or other specific guidelines. “Having Cum Laude means that we recognize that there is also a discipline to learning and a pattern, and that when people manifest that discipline and perform over time, that is a success worthy of noting,” said English teacher Ruth Bellows, Secretary of the Cum Laude Chapter. A unique feature of Cum Laude is its recognition of cumulative academic excellence.

AUSTIN ZHANG

Cum Laude Society honors senior academic excellence

“It’s recognition in two ways: recognition that is not subject-specific and is over the whole course of one’s high school career,” Raulston said. “So it’s not an award in a subject and it’s not even just for a particular year’s work, but for basically three-and-ahalf years’ work. The combination of those two ways doesn’t occur in any other sort of honor.” Cum Laude places emphasis on integrity and honor as well as scholarship. “National Cum Laude has its own requirements. They do expect the students to perform at high levels, to be good citizens and to be honorable

individuals. So there is that sense that scholarship is not separate from character,” Bellows said. “It speaks well for the school that we are recognizing the individual as a person of integrity as well as intelligence.” Graduating Cum Laude is, as the name suggests, a great honor for the recipients. “I think people that work as hard as students at this school do should be recognized for their very high achievements,” Allen said. “Everyone at this school works hard, and everyone’s very bright, but it’s nice to be able to recognize those who really have exceeded the goal.”

Not Without Honor (Society) Director of Curriculum Dwight Raulston and English teacher Ruth Bellows, who both serve on the Cum Laude committee, review potential honorees.

FEATURES

SJSREVIEW.COM I MAY 18, 2015

SCHOOL’S OUT

Departing staff leave mark, explore new paths Profiles by Cara Maines, Christian Maines and Michael VerMeulen

English teacher Ruth Bellows is retiring to travel and spend time with her grandchild. During her 20 years at SJS, Bellows has held several positions within the school, including department chair and Cum Laude secretary. “Dr. Bellows is a consummate professional and a rock in our department,” Department Chair Angela Flowers said. “She was my primary interviewer and watched me teach my sample lesson. Thankfully, she thought I might be a good fit for St. John’s.”

Snively will be moving to Missouri. Maintenance worker Edison Medina (34 years) and school nurse Rhonda Jones (23 years) are among retiring staff members. In the athletic department, Coaches Julie Russ (41 years), Daniel Muschalik and Ursula Quoyeser are departing. All three have taught Lower School physical education classes as well as coached Middle and Upper School sports teams. Head Trainer Melissa Russell will also be leaving.

Administrators are departing as well. Dean of Students Stephen Popp will become Head of Upper School at John Cooper in the Woodlands next year, while Head of Middle School Eric Lombardi will serve as Head of School at Fort Worth Country Day. Read about their legacies and plans in the Top 15. Visit the Review Online to see additional profiles.

In April, Bellows was awarded the esteemed Lamp of Knowledge Award for her accomplishments as an educator. According to Director of Curriculum Dwight Raulston, Bellows has had a profound impact on the English department. “I learned more about literary style and how style influences content from Dr. Bellows than from anyone else I’ve ever known,” Raulston said.

PHILIP KENSINGER

This year’s departing faculty span all departments and grade levels, from veteran teachers and staffers to more recent hires. English teacher Ruth Bellows, biology teacher Priscilla Elliot and physics teacher Doug Carr, pictured below, have all spent more than 15 years at SJS. Other departing Upper School teachers include math

teacher Chris Romero, biology teacher Toby Day and anatomy teacher Vicky Estrera. English teacher Ann Louise Hagerty is taking full retirement after teaching one course this year. Three college counselors are leaving: Director of College Counseling Bryan Rutledge, Nick Accrocco and Jina Patel. In addition, their administrative assistant Barbara McVicker is retiring after 27 years. Assistant Director of Admissions Matt

Biology teacher Priscilla Elliott is retiring after 22 years at St. John’s. She plans to travel to the Galapagos and Maine and participate in community service. Elliott is known for her interpersonal and organizational skills. “She was our fearless leader as our science department chair for more than 10 years, and she was always spearheading and instigating biology planning,” fellow biology teacher Paula Angus said. “She’s always been supportive and incredible to everyone. She’s very diplomatic in how she handles any interaction with a student or a faculty member.” Elliott’s exchange of teaching for a life of travel is understandable to those with similar interests. “Ms. Elliott loves birding and the outdoors, and we’ve done some things like that together,” Angus said. “She is going on to some pretty great adventures. Going to the Galapagos after leaving here — that’s the ultimate adventure for any biology teacher.”

After 34 years, maintenance worker Edison Medina is retiring. Medina is known for greeting everyone with a smile. “I will miss every single thing,” Medina said. “Teachers, coaches, but especially the students. They are the reason this school is so special. I can’t even express in words how special they are.” Medina was bestowed “Honorary Alumnus” status in 2010. “One of the things that’s very unique about Edison is that he knows every single person on this campus by name,” said former Lower School Spanish teacher Kathy VanWie. “He meets you with a smile and a ‘hello’ all the time. That sets him apart. I think he’s made the school a friendlier, happier place because of the person he is.”

JARED MARGOLIS

Physics teacher Douglas Carr is leaving after 16 years to teach physics and STEM at the Brunswick School in Greenwich, Connecticut. “I have been able to work with some great coworkers at SJS,” Carr said. “That and lots of super kids have made this a fun place to be.” Carr has particularly shaped his students’ paths beyond the classroom. “His knowledge, passion and innovation have caused students

PHILIP KENSINGER

to change the way they see the world and in many cases their career paths,” physics teacher Erol Turk said. Carr’s influence has been felt throughout the science department, earning him much respect. “He is a friend, confidant and a reliable source of laughter,” Turk said. “I’ve told many students and parents that I hope my daughters have a physics teacher like Mr. Carr.”

THE REVIEW I MAY 18, 2015

Ian Mellor-Crummey Photography Senior Portraits by an SJS alumnus Call/ Text/ Email for more information Phone: 713-591-8024 Email: imm2@rice.edu facebook.com/ianmcphotography

SPORTS

Softball places 2nd at SPC

Softball placed second in the Southwest Preparatory Conference (SPC), losing narrowly to Episcopal (4-3) in the Championship. “I am very proud of this group of young ladies,” coach Isis Barron-Hutchinson said. “They competed well during SPC and fought hard during the Championship. The team finished 16-8 in the regular season. “We played our hardest and fought for the win in every game,” sophomore catcher Alex Jones said. “I’m so proud of the team and how we played. We’ve come extremely far, and I wouldn’t have wanted to do this with any other team.” The team was 4-1 in conference play, with the only league loss to Episcopal. “Despite a heartbreaker, the team had no reason to hang their heads,” Barron-Hutchinson said. “It was the entire team contributing to our appearance in the championship game.” Briefs by Irene Vazquez, Christian Maines and Olivia Zhang

COURTESY PHOTO

Although Ticatch has had her fair share of competitions, her most dangerous experience came from a routine race. “The fog came on really fast, but I just kept going and assumed that I would reach the marker. Eventually, I couldn’t see anyone,” Ticatch said. “I could have died that day. Luckily I didn’t.” Ticatch has learned several life lessons from sailing. “It has taught me to believe in myself and trust my gut,” Ticatch said. Richard and his brother’s history of competitions has also yielded a number of intense moments. Richard especially relishes the thrill of the chase. “There was once a regatta where we were going toward the finish line for 30 minutes neck and neck with another boat,” Richard said. “We ultimately won, but it was exhilarating.” Beyond achievement in competition, Richard values the camaraderie he has developed with his brother through sailing. “As a team, I think it’s really wonderful, being able to train and to improve together,” Richard said. Throughout the years, Richard’s skills have developed significantly. He initially crewed

boats, which involves adjusting sails and keeping the boat upright. Eventually, he was able to steer by physically controlling the boat as well as tactically planning its course. He learned how to handle faster and more complicated boats, including the International 470, an Olympic-class boat, as well as larger sailing vessels. “He is able not only to sail the boat but also to determine the course and make tactical decisions during the race,” Mr. Appel said. Throughout the many years he has spent sailing, Richard has developed a fondness for many facets of the sport. “What I really like is that sailing is physically exerting, but then there’s also that tactical and strategic part of it,” Richard said. Richard considers himself most skilled at sailing strategy. “I think I’m very good at just seeing how the wind is working and the best path to the finish,” Richard said. His father attributes Richard’s success and improvement to his open-mindedness. “Richard has always been very receptive to instructions and welcomes advice to improve his game,” Mr. Appel said.

Cheer program offers competitive option by Inaara Malick

The cheerleading squad is stepping up its game next year: the team will be competing nationally, training at Discover Gymnastics and cheering at a handful of basketball games. “It is so satisfying to see a group of people that have worked so hard and come so far finally make an advance and tackle some new challenges,” junior cheerleader Isabella Sturgis said. After almost seven years of trying to provide cheerleaders the opportunity to compete nationally, Head Cheerleading Coach Jamie Everett will bring a squad of 18 cheerleaders of all grade levels to the National Cheerleaders Association Lone Star Classic, held at NRG Arena, Nov. 15. “I think we will be able to do a lot more by combining the four grades,” Everett said. Many cheerleaders are excited to engage in competition like a traditional sports team and have the opportunity to compete against teams including Episcopal and Kinkaid. In order to be eligible for competition, the squad must have the correct attire, keep their routine under two minutes and 30 seconds and stick to the skills

appropriate for their division. “Many people around SJS consider cheer a club even though we work just as hard as other sports teams,” junior cheerleader Leah Hampton said. Cheerleaders will also intensify their practice routine next year. Every Monday during football season, they will train at Discover Gymnastics. “It will help tremendously to get some practice time on an actual cheer floor and facility,” Everett said.

Many cheerleaders are looking forward to this new practice environment. “More emphasis on tumbling and practicing our stunting in a more athletic environment will hopefully help us improve,” junior cheerleader E Robins said. Once the competition is over, cheerleaders will continue to practice about once a week to prepare for the three predetermined basketball games where they will cheer. Cheering during the winter season is new for the team. “Showing support for basketball is a way to branch out more in support of the other SJS athletic teams,” Everett said. Some cheerleaders approach their new role with hesitation. “I want to be able to enjoy basketball games as a spectator instead of being involved in the action,” junior cheerleader Ellie Trent said. While every cheerleader has the option to compete, only those not involved in a Stick It Isabella Sturgis performs a winter sport will cheer at the three basketstunt for a cheer routine. Sturgis and ball games. the rest of the cheer squad will take Junior cheerleader Lauren Smith said, part in the National Cheerleaders “Basketball games will definitely be a new Association Lone Star Classic in November. experience for everyone, fans included.”

RT S

Maverick athletes will be playing sports from Cambridge, Massachussetts, to Cambridge, England. According to Coach Kathy Halligan, Athletic Recruiting Liaison, 10 student-athletes will participate in college athletics next year. Kendall Bernard (Washington and Lee), Nell Copeland (Northwestern) and Stephen Wang (Yale) will be playing lacrosse. Grant Guillory (Pennsylvania) and Jeffrey Lonnecker (Trinity University) will play baseball. Frank Spence (Carleton) and Jennifer Melcher (Middlebury) will run track. Libby Manela (Harvard) will play field hockey. Elena Skaribas (SMU) will be swimming, and Monica Dayao (University of Cambridge) will play golf.

Boating Buddies Richard Appel rides the waves with his brother Lawrence at Lake Conroe. The pair train together and placed second at Houston Sectionals this past year.

10 Mavericks to compete in college athletics

Junior Richard Appel had his sea legs before he caught his stride on land. “I’ve been around boats since before I could walk,” Appel said. “I’ve always been around sailing.” Appel’s father Matthias, an experienced sailor who once competed in the East German Championships, introduced Richard to the sport and continues to coach him. “Richard has grown up sailing boats and took his first sailing tours as soon as he was able to swim at a few years old,” Mr. Appel said. When Richard was 10 years old, Mr. Appel introduced him to sailboat racing. Richard and his brother Lawrence, a seventh grade student, currently train at a sailing club together as a two-man team. The duo practices sailing maneuvers and “boat trimming,” which involves taking advantage of the wind in order to chip away as much time as they can in competition. Their training simulates regatta-style competition and varies in wind and water conditions. “We try to train in different wind conditions so we are ready for anything in a regatta,” Richard said. The Appel brothers have won and placed in many regattas, notably taking second at the 2014 Conroe Spring Series. “Racing with my brother is always a great bonding moment whether we win or lose,” Richard said. The Appel brothers are not the only active sailors at SJS. Sophomore Jillian Ticatch goes to a camp to train and race. Ticatch has been sailing since age nine and enjoys the physical element of the sport. “It’s a good workout, and it’s really fun being on the water the whole time, especially in the summer,” Ticatch said. Ticatch competed at the Laser Open National Championships last summer. “I didn’t do too great, but it was a cool experience. I enjoyed being part of a big regatta with such a high level of competition,” Ticatch said.

Even though track and field finished 30 points behind Episcopal, senior captain Lee Hampton had quite a meet. Hampton won four events. He set school records in the 100-meter and long jump and won the triple jump and 200-meter. Senior captain Akshay Jaggi placed seventh in the 1600-meter and fourth in the 3200-meter, which broke the school record with a time of 9:45. Junior Hunter Hasley placed second in the discus throw, and junior Chris Randall placed third in the 110-meter hurdles and second in the 300-meter hurdles. “It was a great finish to the season,” Randall said. “There’s lots of hope going into next year.” The relay teams placed third in the 4x100, third in the 4x800 and fourth in the 4x400. “The only disappointment was that we were so close to the boys’ 4x800 relay record, just 0.22 seconds off,” track coach Richie Mercado said. “They had a sensational meet.”

by Dani Yan

NE E

Boys’ track places second once again at SPC

Sailors find satisfaction on the waves

Sports Shorts

SJSREVIEW.COM I MAY 18, 2015

THE REVIEW I MAY 18, 2015

YEAR IN

A year ago, Justise Winslow (‘14) roamed the halls of SJS in a navy blue shirt and Sue Mills shorts. This past school year, he donned a different shade of

Justise

The college counseling department is undergoing changes. After 19 years, Director of College Counseling Bryan Rutledge is leaving to take the same position at Woodward Academy in College Park, Georgia. Rutledge grew up in Mississippi and is looking forward to returning to the South. “I’m excited about this wonderful opportunity, although I will miss all the good people I’ve worked with and counseled at St. John’s,” Rutledge said. Nick Accrocco is moving on to become Co-Director of College Counseling at the Ramney School in Tinton Falls, New Jersey. Accrocco is returning to his roots. “I will miss the students, the faculty and the staff, Girls’ lacrosse won two championships in two days, culminating with a Triple Crown. After an undefeated season and a city championship title, the team beat Coppell 12-8 for the State championship and defeated Episcopal School of Dallas for SPC.

blue as he played small forward for the Duke Blue Devils basketball team, making headlines and amassing followers. Winslow followed up a 2014 SPC basketball championship with an NCAA title this year, highlighted by two regional games at NRG Stadium.

Wendy Chang, who previously led the U.S. college counseling office at the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa, will be the new Director of College Counseling. Kimberly Lord, the current Director of College Counseling at St. Stephen’s Episcopal School in Bradenton, Florida, will also join the department.

but I’m also looking forward to being closer to friends and family on the East Coast,” Accrocco said. On May 13, Jina Patel also announced her departure. Her husband took a position in Chicago last year, and she will be joining him in the Windy City. “Every day I’m taken aback by how talented these kids are and all the opportunities they’ll have in the future,” Patel said. “SJS is always going to be very special to me.”

College Counseling

“We had a talk before every game that even though we won before, it doesn’t mean we don’t come out hard this time,” junior goalie Winnie Brandfield-Harvey said. “We still have a fire even when we are up by 10 because we love the game.” The success follows that of the team two years prior, when SJS won its first Triple Crown. “Last year we lost the championship, which was a shock to us and our program, but we usually

LAX 3x

At the end of January, Head of Middle School Eric Lombardi announced that he would not be returning next August to greet middle school students with party horns and plastic top hats to celebrate the new school year. After months of contemplation, Lombardi decided that accepting the job of Head of School at Fort Worth Country Day would be the best decision for him and his family. “The fact that the school was in Forth Worth was big,” Lombardi said. “I grew The start of the school year brought a wave of changes to the technology department, with new technical support specialists, Brian Block and Jay Dela Cruz, as well as new laptop options for teachers. Teachers were given five choices

The culmination of March Madness was a free dress day in which the Upper School dressed in blue to show support. Duke won the finals over Wisconsin, 68-63. Winslow announced he is leaving Duke and entering the NBA Draft, June 25. He recently signed with JayZ’s sports agency and is projected by numerous experts as the probable fifth overall pick.

up in Dallas, and my parents, who are in their 80’s, are moving out of my childhood home. I watched friends of mine who had parents getting older, and they wanted to be around but couldn’t. I’ve also seen friends who’ve been around and how big of a difference that makes as their parents are moving into a retirement home.” Lombardi recognizes the lack of student interaction that comes with being Head of School, but he hopes to

get there and are very successful,” senior captain Jessica Nyquist said. This is the first year girls’ lacrosse has gone undefeated, with a 21-0 record. “The season’s been really fun, and this team is really special because the talent’s really well spread out,” Nyquist said. “There are a few stars, but there are just so many talented players. It’s a team where you can really trust everyone on the field.” remain involved.

“I won’t be able to get to know 1,100 kids, but I am going to try to know 220 faculty and staff members the way I know the kids now,” Lombardi said. “I imagine having lunch with team captains and production casts, for example, so I can learn more about them.”

Lombardi

of laptops and tablets this year: three PCs and two Macs. The department has a warranty repair system for Mac and Lenovo. “The response from the choice on the laptops has been widely successful,” Director of Technology Jeff Ritter said. “The teachers feel like they got to choose the machine that they were more functional with. Giving a Mac choice made some teachers excited.”

Ritter notes that the tech department continues to work over the summer. They will be implementing AV and wireless systems in the newly constructed areas, updating Promethean boards in the Lower School, updating the network and putting more wireless access points in the gym and creating a “maker lab” for Lower and Middle School students to study design principle in a hands-on environment.

The community service program’s year included not just a record total of 47,966 hours for the Upper School but also the first school-wide project. Nearly 300 students, kindergarten to seniors, as well as faculty, parents and alumni kicked off Thanksgiving Break by packing hundreds of holiday meal boxes at the Houston Food Bank. Community Service Co-

ordinator Marci Bahr and junior officer Sarah Bland coordinated the project. “I’ve worked with Lower School students before, and I thought they might benefit from seeing the Upper School students serve so that they learn to serve from a young age,” Bland said. Community service plans to create future all-school

projects in addition to the grade level projects each semester. “Our overarching goal was to find a project where everyone could use his or her sweat equity to help others,” Bahr said.

For the first time in Chorale history, there are more boys than girls, 53 to 36. Chorale’s total membership has jumped from 72 to 89 singers. “Based on the initial 2015-2016 sign-up lists for choirs at every divisional level, it looks as though we will be maintaining our historically high rate of participation,” Chorale director

Scott Bonasso said. The theater department offered six one-act plays along with the fall play, winter play and spring musical to account for the increasing interest. Growth in the bands has been more gradual. With the addition of the Beginner Band program in fifth grade, band director Darrell Parrish has noticed growth through the Middle and Upper School programs.

With class sizes expanding by 25 people starting next year, Bonasso expects a continued increase throughout the performing ensembles. “All signs indicate that the increasing popularity of the fine arts programs is not a passing trend,” Bonasso said. “The school as a whole seems to be moving toward a recognition of fine arts classes as part of its core curriculum.”

A new Senior Country emerged from the ashes of construction and took over Trammel Commons, formerly the territory of juniors. “The coolest feature about this new Senior Country is that it was the students who designed it,” Dean of

Students Stephen Popp said. Popp was part of a committee that selected 16 rising juniors, student council members, student leaders and those whom the committee felt demonstrated significant communal spirit to meet with the architects that would design the new Senior Country. “They met several times and even went furniture shopping together for new add-

ons,” Popp said. “It was great because these students really detailed how the space should be designed and set the overall standard for what should be done.” The current space has a whiteboard that occupies an entire wall where students can write their names, inspirational quotes or draw amusing pictures. The room also contains a dry-erase table for notation necessities and a “study zone” for those who desire a quiet area to focus on schoolwork.

I.T. Upgrade

Fine Arts

Score: 2015

Senior Country

Comm Serve

SJSREVIEW.COM I MAY 18, 2015

REVIEW Construction of the new Campus Center has continued since the demolition of the Winston Building last year. Due to the importance of the new building, designers took precautions to make it fit in with the rest of the campus. “The new building responds to the existing heights of Farish Hall and the Science and Library building, while the larger mass of the dining hall is strategically placed within appropriately sized roof masses to complement the surrounding residential neighborhood,” project manager Michael Driskill said. The administration has been pleased

with the result of the construction. “We have been fortunate to have some of the finest stone masons and mill workers assigned to this project,” said Greg Swan, Director of Finance and Operations. “I think our entire community will be pleased with the result.” The construction team is currently laying down and chiseling the limestone exterior of the building. The construction is expected to be finished by August in time for the 2015-2016 school year.

Wes Anderson (‘86) and Elizabeth Holmes (‘02) received impressive accolades in 2015. Director and screenwriter Anderson’s latest film “The Grand Budapest Hotel” became his highest grossing film and received nine Academy Award nominations including Best Picture, Director and Original Screenplay and won for Production Design, Score, Costume Design, and Makeup and Hairstyling. Moviemaking was not

Anderson’s only notable recent accomplishment. He also designed Bar Luce, a cafe that recently opened in Milan; its idiosyncratic decor is similar to the aesthetic in Anderson’s films. Holmes, the CEO and founder of health technology and medical services company Theranos, was named one of the TIME 100, Time Magazine’s annual selection of the world’s most influential people. Holmes is a revolutionary in the field of blood testing technology, and at the age of 31, she is the youngest female billionaire in the country. Her entry in the TIME 100 was written by former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, who described her as having “accepted only one option: making a difference.”

Construction

Alums

Leaderboard

2015 is the Year of the Sheep, but these events stood out from the herd. The school year started out with the installation of the new security cameras and culminated with the girls’ lacrosse Triple Crown. Chorale grew large enough to top the leaderboard in agar.io, the newest viral computer game, and teachers finally got to show off their Mac pride after years of PC domination. The school lost titans in college counseling and administration but gained a new Senior Country. Alumni made headlines with Oscar nominations, NCAA Championships and a place on the TIME 100. The following events are given in no particular order to highlight the biggest changes of the school year.

On the cover of our December issue, we asked whether or not Dean of Students Stephen Popp should be considered a friend or foe. After Popp received a generous standing ovation at this year’s Upper School Awards Ceremony, the answer is clear: best friend forever. Popp would later describe the ovation as “one of the most touching moments of his career.”

“I’m really proud of the way in which the students and the other offices of the administration have handled the last couple years of construction and change,” Popp said. “There was a lot of anxiety and trepidation about what was going to happen, and yes, things weren’t perfect, and I certainly made my fair share of mistakes—Thor Guard notwithstanding—I still stand by those.” Popp’s time at SJS has been shaped by the experiences he has shared with students. “Being part of the ups and the downs, the

According to Head of Security Richard Still, the security team has only checked the newly installed classroom cameras three times this year. “Officer Still is a force of nature,” Headmaster Mark Desjardins said. “He is deeply passionate about keeping us safe in this community. He did security detail for Secretary of State Jim Baker for decades, and we

are honored that he has chosen to spend his time with us.” When Still arrived at SJS this year, he implemented an initiative to make sure officers walk around and get to know students so that students would feel comfortable approaching the officers if in

After teaching at an all-boys’ high school in Manhattan, Hollis Amley discovered SJS almost by accident, originally applying for a position at a different Houston school. Yet after her first year, she believes that she has found a perfect fit. “SJS is such a friendly and supportive community,” Amley said. “It’s

After coming in second two years in a row, boys’ cross country finally ended its 14-year SPC drought. “In cross country it’s just that one race, and

Boys’ XC

Dean Popp

need. “I would say that it was done for promoting the highest level of safety and security for our students and faculty,” Desjardins said.

New Security

really one that cares about the individual students.” Her responsibilities as Head of Upper School include shepherding the school through construction and enrollment growth. Amley has already appointed one class dean per grade to help students manage their workloads. “I thought the students would be

Amley

Business Insider recently released a list of the smartest private high schools in the nation, ranking St. John’s as No. 13. Niche, a website that compiles statistics and reviews of schools, created the rankings, which Business Insider reported. The list drew from 1,993 schools across the country, from 15,000 students and parents.

championships but also the losses, all those I categorize as tremendous experiences. Coming to work here every day has been a privilege.”

“A high ranking indicates that the school has diverse, high-achieving students who are very happy with the quality of education, the teachers are intelligent and engaging, and the students go on to great colleges,” Niche’s website said. St. John’s placed above other SPC high

more competitive with each other, and I was surprised that they weren’t,” Amley said. “There’s a lot of collaborative learning and peer support.” Amley also taught an art history class, and her students took a trip with her to New York City in April to visit museums. “I like the access to the students that teaching provides — is the highlight of my day,” Amley said.

schools such as the Kinkaid School (48th) and the Hockaday School in Dallas (21st).

SJS #13

you’ve got to be ready,” senior captain Akshay Jaggi said. The team finally clinched the victory with Jaggi and junior Joe Faraguna coming in second and sixth, respectively. SJS finished with a total of 56 points, two points ahead of runner-up John Cooper. “This team is special,” sophomore Jake Schick said.

“With Coach Mercado and several other great coaches, we were able to have a good base. There was great leadership by our captains as well as the rest of the team.”

Design by Matthew Neal, Chris Zimmerman | Photos by Jesus Hidalgo, Austin Zhang, Collins Yeates, Jared Margolis

THE REVIEW I MAY 18, 2015

Storytelling Matters

A photography workshop with Karen Sachar.

Offering the opportunity to experience the art of storytelling through photography, this comprehensive workshop designed and led by Karen will inspire and spark your creativity as well as enable you to gain a better understanding of shooting with available light, and much more. • Learn to “think on your feet” with your camera so you can capture shots in everyday situations • Learn the basics of photographing people and still-life objects with available light • Learn how to apply these basic shooting skills to everyday and travel photography Applicants must be familiar with and able to use their cameras. The workshop is designed to help you to better define your individual style of photography using available light. It is not a technical course to better understand your camera or post-production applications. • We can create a private workshop with your friends and/or family. (Teens and adults welcome.) • Minimum of 3-4 participants per workshop. • Workshop locations will be determined once participants are confirmed. (Location examples: Houston, Galveston, Colorado, East/West Coast, Jackson Hole, Ranches, Round Top and Chappell Hill.) Prior to acceptance into the workshop and to better understand you and your photography, Karen will be interested in talking with you briefly and reviewing a few of your photographs via email. Please call for more details: 713.523.1150

www.ksachar.com

nantucket

Please visit our new website and art gallery. Follow us on Instagram Check out our blog

www.ksachar.com (karensachar) blog.ksachar.com

Call today to schedule Spring and Summer photography sessions. 713.523.1150 Available for travel worldwide or at your home.

The Fine Art of Photography

BEYOND

SJSREVIEW.COM I MAY 18, 2015

‘Houstorian’ Glassman commemorates local landmarks by Michael VerMeulen

As James Glassman (’88) stood inside the Astrodome on its 50th birthday celebration in April, he looked at the awed crowds that had never been inside the stadium, which was dubbed in 1965 the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” “It’s Houston’s Eiffel Tower and carries inside it the soul of Houston,” Glassman said. “If you stand inside, you instantly can feel on a gut level how significant it is.” Glassman is the founder of Houstorian, a website he created in 2006 to promote awareness of Houston’s history. “Houstonians have always had a bit of an identity crisis,” Glassman said. “We’re a very forward-looking city with lots of opportunity, which brings in new people and constantly replenishes our community. However, because we’re forward looking, we’re less mindful of its past.” Glassman acknowledged that Houston had a “history problem,” which he set out to change. “We have a lousy record for preservation of our history, and I feel that the best way for Houstonians to be more engaged with their city’s story is to know more about it,” Glassman said. In order to promote his message to a wider range of people, Glassman created a Houstorian Twitter account, now with over 14,000 followers, which he uses to give daily facts about Houston and its past. “I am always looking for new ways

for people to get engaged,” Glassman said. “Every day, I send out a ‘This Day in Houston History’ tweet to spread knowledge and facts of the city to more people.” An architectural project manager by trade, Glassman’s interest in both history and architecture started while he was a student at SJS. “My art teacher Virginia Roeder worked as a preservationist in the Old Sixth Ward,” Glassman said. “She was my introduction to architecture and preservation. My U.S. history teacher Orson Cook also was an incredible teacher, as he showed how gratifying the study of history could be as well as its importance to a community.” The most prominent example of Glassman’s appreciation towards Houston’s history is the Astrodome, arguably the most famous of Houston’s architectural landmarks. The Astrodome’s future has been the subject of much debate. “People who are not opposed to the Astrodome being demolished have said to me that in a similar situation in New York, the original Yankee Stadium was destroyed,” Glassman said. “That argument is not the same here because New York City already has hundreds of recognizable landmarks, while Houston has a much smaller number. There’s an underdog aspect to our city’s history.” Recently, progress has been made in the effort to ensure the Astrodome’s future. “Harris County owns the property, and they are thinking about the cost

versus what they get out of it,” Glassman said. “It might cost as much as $80 million to tear it down and turn into a parking lot, and they don’t have that kind of money. I’m optimistic that the Astrodome is no longer in jeopardy.” According to Glassman, the Astrodome should not be limited to functioning as a sports relic or museum. “A museum is too specific a use because it’s a great space,” Glassman said. “I love the idea of a multi-purpose area for events to happen.” Glassman is also an avid T-shirt designer, selling his Houston-inspired designs on his website. “To work on my shirts, I always keep a sketchbook with me in which I’m writing down and doodling ideas,” Glassman said. “Sometimes it’s a riff on an existing idea like the Astrodome ceiling, and other times it’ll pop around my head while I’m driving around Houston.” Glassman’s first book, “The Houstorian Dictionary,” will be published in July. “I hope that my book will be something that history nerds and tourists will be able to read and have fun with,” Glassman said. Though he is constantly searching for Houston’s identity, Glassman hopes that he never quenches his thirst for knowledge. “I just love the challenge and learning about what makes us tick,” Glassman said. “I know that there is plenty of Houston left for us to save.”

JARED MARGOLIS

Mr. Astrodome James Glassman’s office decor features Astrodome seats 110 and 112 as well as a metal sculpture modeled after the stadium’s roof interior. The ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’ turned 50 in April.

Catching up with Boys’ Track captains

Mitch Torczon (‘12)

Sykes Yeates (‘12)

Ryan Reza (‘13)

Many of the most important life lessons that I learned at St. John’s I learned from my time on the track and crosscountry teams. Coach Mercado, Coach Jensen and Coach Halligan taught me a lot about perseverance. I learned a lot about leadership from the mistakes I made as a captain. The challenges of being a captain gave me a lot more respect for people in leadership positions. Although I don’t run track or cross country in college, Rice has a shaded path around the outskirts of campus that I love to run on. I am also on my residential college’s bike team and I have competed in Rice’s intramural biking relay race for the last three years. I also now live vicariously through my little brother Owens’ (’17) SJS sporting accomplishments.

Serving as captain of the 2012 boys’ track and field team is one of my most treasured memories from my 12 years at St. John’s. Taking second place at the Finnegan Invitational and watching my best friend Jonathan Bradford break a long-standing school record were just a few of the highlights. Coach Mercado always said that, as a captain, you may not be the most outstanding athlete, but no one should outwork you. I am currently a junior studying finance at Texas A&M. Upon graduation, I will be working in Wells Fargo’s Energy and Power Investment Banking Group. I can say with certainty that a strong work ethic is, above all else, what it takes to succeed. Luckily, Coach Mercado and the track and field program taught me that a long time ago.

I’m a sophomore at Yale majoring in Mechanical Engineering, and I’ve continued with running in college. I’m on the Yale Club Running team, and I’m the treasurer for TeamU, which is an organization that raises money for charity by training for and running half marathons. Unlike my running at SJS, however, I’ve had to get used to running in the cold and through snow. I ran my fourth half-marathon this semester with TeamU in Central Park, New York, where we raised over $10,000 for charity. Here at college, running really helps me keep balance in my life and just relax, even if only for a short time. I’ve also continued my theater and singing with the Yale Dramatic Association and the Yale Glee Club.

THE REVIEW I MAY 18, 2015

SJSREVIEW.COM I MAY 18, 2015

Driver’s Ed is Dead! Driver’s Ed is Dead! OLD-SCHOOL DRIVER’S ED may bring up fond memories for your parents, but the days of musty classrooms, bad videos and driving beat-up old cars are over. Today’s roads are much more challenging — massive OLD-SCHOOL ED may bring up fondcell memories traffic systems filledDRIVER’S with distracted drivers, for your parents, but the days of musty classrooms, phones and giant trucks. You need to take driver bad videos and driving beat-up old cars are over. training seriously! Today’s roads are much more challenging — massive traffic systems filled with distracted drivers, cell Don’t justphones get aand license, learn to drive. giant trucks. You need to take driver seriously! Getting atraining driver’s license is not a rite of passage.

It’s a learned skill-set. Driving is the only dangerous Don’t just get a license, learn to drive. thing most people do every day and it requires a Getting a driver’s license is not a rite of passage. lot of skill. You don’t become a safe driver by It’s a learned skill-set. Driving is the only dangerous getting thing a driver’s license. You become safe driver most people do every day and itarequires a by spending of don’t time practicing in the car by lot ofhours skill. You become a safe driver getting aprofessional driver’s license. You instructor. become a safe driver with a certified driving by spending hours of time practicing in the car with a certified professional driving instructor.

m safewaydriving.co SIGN

ONLINE!

Today’s roads, tomorrow’s training. SafeWay Driving is the only local Driver Training service that offers the convenience Today’s roads,you tomorrow’s training. of an engaging online prep course integrated best professional SafeWay Driving is the onlywith localthe Driver Training service in-car training Texas. Take your Driver Training Seriously that offersinyou the convenience of an engaging online preptake course with the best professional in-car and it integrated at SafeWay! training in Texas. Take your Driver Training Seriously and take it at SafeWay!

Serious Training. SeriousDriver Driver Training.

THE REVIEW I MAY 18, 2015

OPINIONS

Withhold judgement against Baltimore protesters by Gabe Malek

On April 12, Baltimore police arrested Freddie Gray, a 25-year-old African-American man, for allegedly carrying an illegal switchblade. Gray fell into a coma while in police custody and died a week later as a result of spinal cord injuries. Many have attributed the death of Freddie Gray and the subsequent Baltimore riots to one of two problems: the growing militancy of police and the intense racial divide still present in the United States. While both issues certainly play a role in the current situation, there are many more nuanced factors involved. When approaching this topic, many of us at St. John’s must acknowledge our lack of understanding of the social tensions involved. Buck Showalter, manager of the Baltimore Orioles, who were forced to play their home game with no fans, spoke about the riots after their game on April 29 and took a stance that I think most SJS students should follow. “I tell guys all the time when they talk about [what’s happening in Baltimore], ‘I’ve never been black,’” Showalter said. “So, I don’t know; I can’t put myself there. I’ve never faced the challenges that [African Americans] face, so I understand the

emotion, but I can’t...know what they’re nearly 100 years ago, events such as the feeling.” Baltimore protests show that big cities are In the grand scheme of the Houston still not immune to racial issues. Discrimicommunity, St. John’s is a sheltered bubnation is not isolated to stereotypical backble. While we are becoming more racially water Southern towns recovering from the and economically diverse, the school Civil War. If we become too complacent, remains removed from Houston could be afflicted many of the problems that by the same unrest that hit Discrimination is not plague urban America. Baltimore. isolated to stereotypical Can the St. John’s comJust as Showalter backwater Southern says, those who cannot munity on its own end completely relate to the towns recovering from racism in Houston? Cerevents in Baltimore must the Civil War. tainly not. Will racism be careful when passing disappear during any judgment. We can watch of our lifetimes? the live feeds of the riots on CNN and No. While I disagree with criticize the protesters for their actions, but Dallas Mavericks’ owner most of us at St. John’s have never been Mark Cuban on most and never will be in the same situation as topics, he was corthese people in Baltimore. rect in saying after We can’t put ourselves in these protesters’ Donald Sterling shoes because, as Jon Levine of Mic.com was forced to sell said, an “empathy gap” exists. As we follow the LA Clippers Baltimore and other issues of race relations for making racial in the U.S., we should not fall into the remarks that trap of saying, “If I were in Baltimore I “we’re all prejwould…” udiced in one Just because we should not critique the way or another.” protesters for their emotional reactions We develop does not mean we should become apabiases towards thetic. In 1917, Houston went through its groups of people BROOKE KUSHWAHA own race riot, and although this occurred based on the envi-

ronments in which we are raised. In the long term we should strive to rid ourselves of these preconceived notions, but for now we should make sure these prejudices do not manifest themselves aggressively in society. Furthermore, as American citizens, we should hold our police officers to higher standards with more rigorous background checks and training. Police have the opportunity as “enforcers of the law” to act on racist tendencies and get away with potentially unjust actions. If Houstonians want to prevent police militancy in our city, we need to devote extra funds to teaching police how to handle high-pressure situations without acting impulsively. Washington Post political blogger Chris Cillizza wrote that, during moments as charged as the protests in Baltimore, the best course of action is “to act as non-politically as possible.” For the time being, all we can do — and all we should do — is listen to those who truly understand the situation, actually hear their complaints and, when the dust settles, help clean up the mess.

Law of Diminishing Returns: APs may not be worth the time by Sadde Mohamed

The single most satisfying feeling I’ve ever felt during my time at SJS is walking through the halls after my first AP exam and knowing that I didn’t have to be at school for the next three periods. Does this feeling of absolute bliss outweigh some of the struggles that come with taking an AP course? I get asked a lot (a little too much, actually) if the GPA boost is worth all the struggles that come with taking an AP course. For me, those 0.6 points at the end of the year are my saving grace, and tears start to form at the corner of my eyes whenever I think about them. AP courses and exams allow students to place out of college courses (if they do well enough, of course). Either way, AP credit has become increasingly obsolete. Elite colleges like Dartmouth, Brown, Harvard and Caltech won’t accept your credit because professors feel a high school course should not count for a substantial amount of college education. Top high schools like Phillips Exeter Academy in New Hampshire and Riverdale Country Day in New York have stopped offering AP courses, yet they still permit their students to take AP exams. Maybe these schools have the right idea and AP classes should be removed entirely from the SJS curriculum. If colleges have begun to accept less and less AP credit, shouldn’t we tailor our instruction to accommodate that? If the entire point to taking AP courses and exams — to get ahead in a college education — is being disregarded, is there any point to taking AP courses and exams at all? It isn’t likely that APs will become totally obsolete in the near future. How could they? A 5 on an AP exam and an A in the course have become the gold standard for secondary education in the U.S. To disrupt the entire system would not

be easy. There aren’t many other ways colleges can compare and evaluate applicants without these numbers, which are undisputed and easy to process. I don’t expect anyone to look me in the eye with a straight face and claim that a three-hour exam could be a testament to all the intellectual growth a student undergoes in a span of a year. The same could be said about a final, and I don’t think they should be weighted as heavily as they are, either. Yet a last chance to salvage my GPA at the end of the year is appealing. Standardized testing in and of itself is problematic, and when someone tries to mix this with school work and grades, knots in my shoulders start to develop and a general sense of unease sets in. The fact that our teachers must teach in accordance to the exam can be an obstacle to our education. More specifically, with the rush of an AP course, teachers don’t have time to emphasize what they really want. World History, for example, covers such a wide breadth of material that more interesting details may fall by the wayside to accommodate the pre-Neolithic era. Even though my WHAP teacher has prepared me for this exam to a tremendous degree, I still am terrified of doing poorly. What if colleges take one look at my score and proceed to send me an early rejection letter that goes something along the lines of “Dear Sadde, we thought you might possibly have wanted to apply here. We regret to inform you that we saw your Chemistry AP score. Don’t waste your time.” On the other hand, there is an incredibly slight chance I do remotely well and prove to be semi-competent. Then what? Some people say that taking AP classes will make your college application stand out. But is there really any point in taking an AP course these days to stand out from your peers if everyone is taking these classes? Another argument for AP exams is that

BROOKE KUSHWAHA

Best and Brightest? As more top universities including Dartmouth, Brown and Caltech have stopped giving AP credit, many wonder if the reward is worth the rigor. With elite high schools forgoing AP classes, AP exams may go the way of the typewriter.

they provide an opportunity to challenge yourself. I’m certainly challenging my posture and long-term spinal health by lugging around the over-1000-page “Ways of the World” textbook. The truth is, courses don’t have to be rigorous just for the sake of a standardized test. Sophomores could just as easily take “World History Honors” in lieu of an AP class. This way, teachers can tailor the material to their own interests and still challenge students. The Chemistry Honors course has recently decided to stop offering the optional AP in order to focus on more inquiry-based lines of thinking. Future sophomores heaved a sigh of relief. The AP test, although brutal, does not even effectively measure learned material. The AP curve only requires a 70 percent to

receive a 5. By creating their own exams based on class curriculum, teachers can more accurately evaluate their students. I have nothing against the GPA boost and the feeling of freedom after an exam, but if the AP system does not make changes, it may not stand the test of time.

CORRECTION A quotation in a news brief on page 2 of the April issue was misattributed to Head of Upper School Hollis Amley and was actually said by senior Martha Jamail. The Review regrets the error.

OPINIONS

SJSREVIEW.COM I MAY 18, 2015

STAFF EDITORIAL

Prefect election system should include primaries In 60 seconds, prefect candidates list their ideas for the upcoming year, explain how they would improve the house system and crack a joke about Dean Popp. And after 19 minutes, every student casts a ballot, circling the names of the students who high-fived them in the hallway or made the funniest quip. For juniors, this decision is an informed one. Most juniors have known the prefect candidates at least three years, enabling them to vote based on their knowledge of the candidates’ character and personability. But freshmen have had limited interaction with most juniors, and the list of 19 or more names can be daunting. For these underclassmen, a minute-long speech can be the deciding factor. A poll of 93 people conducted on the

Review Online indicated that for 31 percent, a funny speech is the most important quality in a candidate. Minute-long speeches containing vague promise of more dumplings in the cafeteria and thinly veiled inside jokes reveal little about the candidates. Writing a serious speech filled with ideas risks falling flat. Yes, affability is important, but so are ideas and experience. Prefects preside over all honor trials, take on more responsibilities in SAC and lead committees. They are the strongest connection between the students and the administration. The Editorial Board proposes a primary system for the prefect elections. A few days before the elections, juniors would receive a list of the candidates’ responses to three questions evaluating their qualifications,

ideas and values. Then, juniors would elect 14 candidates from the initial ballot. This vote, at least, would allow substance to take priority over style. A primary system would give juniors the opportunity to choose candidates based on their character and level of approval within the grade. Then, each grade level would elect seven from the final 14 using the current system of weighted votes. Students from other grades would still have a chance to contribute their opinions through elections, but juniors — who do not have an election specific to their grade — would have more of an impact, and candidates would be evaluated based on more than a short speech. With only 14 candidates, students

would have more time to speak and make a strong impression, relying on more than simply humor. A primary system would also prevent voters from being swamped with the dizzying array of candidates with similar ideas and slogans. For the past three years, around 20 students have run for prefect; it appears that this trend will continue. A narrower pool of 14 would make choosing seven more manageable. Prefect election day is one of the most important of the school year, but it has become overwhelming. At the end, students are left scrambling to decide which names to circle on their ballot. A primary system would make the process easier and fairer to both candidates and voters.

From the editors

The Last Letter JARED MARGOLIS

Dear Readers, When Megan and I walked into The Review room in August 2011, we found out that we were strangely similar. We both played flute, had little sisters named Emily and freaked out over Honors Biology. Over these last four years, we discovered that we are basically the same person. We both love food an unhealthy amount, obsess over our adorable puppies and are not the best drivers in the world. During senior year, we have spent more hours in The Review room than we have with our families. The Review crew is our adopted family. The paper itself has been our joy and our misery. We have cried during stressful production cycles, shrieked when the paper is error-free and on the press and beamed as we thrust copies into hundreds of hands after Chapel. A few lessons we wish that others had impressed upon us, although we’re sure they tried to and we just didn’t listen: First, calm down. As much as we hate hearing this advice ourselves, we must acknowledge that in many situations it is true. Think things through with a clear mind

instead of assuming that the worst is about to happen. Second, give yourself a break. After all the work that students put in day after day, we deserve a little time off to clear our minds. We’re not suggesting that everyone should behave rashly with no regard for consequences; instead, we acknowledge that a few hours of levity will not sidetrack you from all your dreams. Third, do what you love. Don’t think that amassing a litany of extracurriculars will impress everybody and get you wherever you want to be. Instead, focus on activities that actually excite and motivate you. Hey, why not join The Review? Lastly, take others’ advice. While it may seem self-serving to tout this tip, it is true. Whether you are ignoring your mom’s nags to bring a jacket or doing the opposite of what your teacher recommends by starting your paper 12 hours before it’s due, you will regret not heeding the words of your peers, parents and teachers. We are leaving SJS knowing that an inimitable era has ended. Whenever we return, these hallowed halls will be different — more crowded, perhaps, but also unfamiliar thanks to the addition of the new building.

We will also both leave our sisters, the Emily’s, when we depart for college. While we’ve had our struggles with our families, as all adolescents do, we know that some day soon we will wake up yearning for home. We will miss the friendly faces of those we have known for years, the tightly-knit community that is this school and even the simplicity of donning the uniform every morning. Enjoy high school while it lasts. Don’t stop yourself from exploring new things and then end up with a list of regrets because it’s only a few short years until you have to live like an adult.

Love,

Rebecca Chen and Megan Routbort

The Review · St. John’s School · 2401 Claremont, Houston, TX 77019 · review.sjs@gmail.com · 713-850-0222 sjsreview.com · Facebook SJS Review · Twitter @SJS_Review · Instagram @_thereview Member Columbia Scholastic Press Assn. – Gold Crown 2015, Silver Crown 2014, Gold Medalist 2012 & 2013 · National Scholastic Press Assn. – 4th Place Best of Show, All-American 2014 Editors-in-Chief Rebecca Chen, Megan Routbort Senior Design Editor Jessica Lee Online Editor Cara Maines Assignment Editors Brooke Kushwaha, Oliver Ruhl, Megan Shen Design Editors Matthew Neal, Tiffany Yue, Christopher Zimmerman Photography Editor Jared Margolis Video Editor Emma Gobillot Copy Editors Gabe Malek, Matthew Neal, Irene Vazquez Deputy Editor Iris Cronin Asst. Online Editor Amy Liu Social Media Editor Inaara Malick

Business Manager Gabe Malek Asst. Business Manager Lucy Elkins Staff Grace Amandes, Ashwini Bandi, Emily Chen, Lin Guo, Philip Kensinger, Alexander Kim, Sophia Li, Christian Maines, Sukul Mittal, Sadde Mohamed, Marisa Murillo, Emily Ragauss, Renee Roberts, Michael Steiner, Michael VerMeulen, Max Westmark, Dani Yan, Collins Yeates, Austin Zhang, Olivia Zhang Advisers David Nathan, Shelley Stein (‘88)

Mission Statement The Review strives to report on issues with honor, to recognize the assiduous efforts of all, and to serve as an engine of discourse within the St. John’s community. Publication Info The Review is published eight times a school year. We distribute 1,000 copies each issue, most of which are given for free to the Upper School community of 583 students and 80 faculty. Policies The Review provides a forum for student writing and opinion. The opinions and staff editorials contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Headmaster or the Board of Trustees of St. John’s School. Staff editorials represent the opinion of the entire

editorial board unless otherwise noted. Writers and photographers are credited with a byline. Corrections, when necessary, can be found on the editorial pages. Running an advertisement does not imply endorsement by the school. Submission Guidelines Letters to the editor and guest columnists are encouraged but are subject to editing for reasons of clarity, space, accuracy and good taste. On occasion, we will publish letters anonymously, provided the editor knows the author’s identity. The Review reserves the right not to print letters received. Either email letters and guest columns to review. sjs@gmail.com; give them to David Nathan in the Review Room (Q-210); or mail letters to The Review, 2401 Claremont, Houston, TX 77019.

ODDS AND ENDS

word Word for Soundbites around campus

Dr. Rawson: Today we’re going to watch my favorite movie of all time: ‘School of Rock.’ It will test your brain, your head and your mind. Post-AP English reveals Rawson’s true passions

Irene Vazquez: I’ve never actually seen ‘21 Jump Street.’ Aileen Zhang: There’s a ‘22 Jump Street.’ They just keep jumping. Channing Tatum’s workout plan explained

Snarknado

By Brooke Kushwaha

Sixty Seconds

MARISA MURILLO

Angel Casillas: What’s the name of that alien from ‘Star Wars’? Harrison Hawes: Which one? Angel: The weird looking one. Harrison: There are a lot of those, Casillas. The Force is not so strong with this one

with Christina and Eleni McGee

NAME GRADE STATE OF MIND KNOWN FOR COLOR HATE TO LOVE LOVE TO HATE HAPPINESS MISERY SPORTS TEAM OLYMPIC SPORT FAV SPOT ON CAMPUS DREAM DATE RELATIONSHIP STATUS COMFORT FOOD GUILTY PLEASURE CAFETERIA FOOD PLACE TO LIVE I WISH TREASURED POSSESSION THE BEST THING DOPPELGANGER FOLLOW US?

Various mispronunciations of Eleni Christina Nicole McGee Senior 10 We out Senioritis Being older but looking younger Being the other McGee Splash Me RAD Heels Katherine Smith Christina Eleni Chocolate Chocolate Mayonnaise Chemistry TCORE TCORE Heavy weight lifting Gymnastics Senior Country Looking into Senior Country Chris Hemsworth (or Liam) Liam Hemsworth (or Chris or both :) ) All the single ladies Put your hands up Chocolate chip cookies Chocolate chip cookie dough Foodstagrams Candy Crush Bring lunch ‘cause I’m that picky Kettle corn Paris I just follow Eleni I could dance to Beyonce like Lauren Smith I were Blue Ivy Carter Mints Floss Coffee that doesn’t burn your tongue Hugs from Eleni (which are never) Christina Eleni #follow4follow Or nah (jk)

New Review Editors 2015-2016 15 total Review Editors: 5

members of the Editorial Board: Editors-in-Chief Cara Maines, Gabe Malek, Chris Zimmerman Managing Editor Brooke Kushwaha Senior Design Editor Matthew Neal

Senior Assignment Editor Megan Shen Assignment Editors Christian Maines, Irene Vazquez Online Editor Amy Liu Photography Editors Philip Kensinger, Jared Margolis Design Editor Ashwini Bandi Copy Editors Sophia Li, Michael VerMeulen Asst. Online Editor Sadde Mohamed Business Manager Grace Amandes

EMILY RAGAUSS

GRADUATION 2015

Graphic Design by Jessica Lee

Illustrations by Brooke Kushwaha Cover photo by Philip Kensinger Senior group photos by Philip Kensinger, Marisa Murillo and submitted photo College choices as of May 15

Charles Alcorn BRANDON ALSTON JOHN ARMSTRONG Texas SEWANEE SMU

ben casillas harvard

sarah dyer

Washington & Lee

CATHERINE ARREDONDO

USC

AUSTIN ASKEW Texas

Jerald barbe Texas A&M

alexandra baskin

Texas A&M

mady beckner UChicago

kenda

Washin

anna cauthorn shehzad charania Texas a&M Wellesley

rebecca chen rice

alex cherches duke

sasha clonts virginia

peter cordill SMU

quincy cotton

connor eichenwald elizabeth elrod

georgetown

carnegie mellon

maren flood notre dame

noah flowers MIT

wilson foshee Shannon Francis joanna franco mit houston Texas A&M

evan friedman vanderbilt

lin guo rice

elissa hakemack vanderbilt

lee hampton baylor

sarah hansen virginia

mary harvey texas A&M

santi henning purdue

julian henry UPenn

orion hicks texas A&M

patrick kowalski smu

luke kramer wake forest

dara ladjevardian

deven lahoti mit

paxton lambright

lindy lamme TCU

richie lazear case western

billy guo Wash u

robert kempner texas A&M

eleanor-Day Kornberg

University of Edinburgh

georgetown

nell copeland northwestern

Gabe Bennett-brandt UChicago

USC

berklee College of Music

jennifer melcher middlebury

emery mintz vanderbilt

vamsi mohan mackenzie mott michael newar boston college USC Texas

reed Newell rice

rebecca nikonowicz

jessica Nyquist princeton

henry paradise rice

rebecca reza yale

ellie roberts NYU

charles rogers megan routbort virginia virginia

robert royce georgia tech

oliver ruhl case western

mia saade rice

andrew Saucer

audrey schulz texas A&M

josie toubin virginia

hannah tyler rice

tanvi varadhachary

dominik verstovsek

reece wallace

isabel Wallace-Green

stephen wang yale

brooke upchurch usc

grace vanloh texas A&M

Texas A&M 17 PLAYERS

rice

texas A&M

rice

tufts | University of Edinburgh

colorado school of mines

fordham

READY

Rice

15 PLAYERS

all bernard

ngton & Lee

ben bieser Columbia

ben bliss SMU

kate bomar Texas

jack britton Texas

cameron crain tulane

vinay gajula columbia

sophie gershenwald

turner hinrichs SMU

miranda hurtado-ramos

jessica lee rice

daniel leebron rice

tyler parrish OLE MISS

jake peterson richmond

will pfeiffer texas A&M

juan philippe duke

aanie phillips northeastern

vasia pobedinski texas

tamara shan nyu

university of toronto

alex sheinbaum

emily sherron columbia

elena skaribas SMU

stephen spears stanford

john henry wilson

amanda wolff texas A&M

katherine wu texas

boston university

collins yeates

taylor welch texas A&M

iris cronin brown

mckenna gessner marion gibson TEXAS barnard

emma gobillot NYU

eleanor jackson akshay jaggi colby stanford

priyanka jain rice

brandeis

sewanee

elizabeth cregan georgetown

daniel brenner case western

sloan crady Texas A&M

NYU

jordan cral georgetown

Ty boone notre Dame

morgan lerner jeffrey lonnecker lewis lyons trinity university northwestern Michigan

meghna dara rice

allison burch Vanderbilt

matthew davis virginia

danielle golub robin granberry Tufts rice

9 PLAYERS

hally carver virginia

monica dayao

valentina diaz Wash u

emily griffith colgate

grant guillory UPenn

university of cambridge

martha jamail St. edwardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

andrew jing harvard

eugenia kakadiaris

Rice

joe kang boston college

libby manela harvard

nina manian wash u

zoe margolis smith

eleni McGee tulane

jack ramzel

paige raun texas A&M

evan reynolds cornell

frank spence carleton

matthew steiner USC

peter strawn dartmouth

harlan ticatch texas a&M

raymond yuan rice

tiffany yue UPenn

raina Zhang brown

matt zlotnik texas

colorado school of mines

TO GRADUATE!

Texas

jack cain texas A&M

Virginia

7 PLAYERS

Prefects Gabe Bennet-Brandt, Akshay Jaggi, Tanvi Varadachary, Stephen Wang, Dara Ladjevardian, and Ben Bieser head to six distinct universities in the fall.

PREFECTS

Senior editors Oliver Ruhl, Megan Routbort, Iris Cronin, Tiffany Yue, Rebecca Chen and Jessica Lee, pictured along with adviser David Nathan, will attend schools in five different states next year.

Sports stars Jennifer Melcher, Nell Copeland, Libby Manela (front row), Stephen Wang, Kendall Bernard, Monica Dayao (middle row), Grant Guillory, Jeffrey Lonnecker, Frank Spence, Elena Skaribas (back row) will play lacrosse, field hockey, golf, track, baseball and swimming at the collegiate level.

ATHLETES

REVIEW

GAME OVER

Future Bostonians Miranda Hurtado-Ramos, Joe Kang, Quincy Cotton, Anna Cauthorn, Zoe Margolis (front row), Collins Yeates, Shannon Francis, Aanie Shah, Libby Manela, Vamsi Mohan, Noah Flowers (middle row), Reece Wallace, Ben Casillas, Deven Lahoti, Andrew Jing (back row) and Danielle Golub (not pictured) will encounter colder weather next year.

BOSTON

SENIOR SMASHBROS