Drone racing meeting
Boys’ soccer Sections
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Tuesday, October 8, 2019 Volume 93 Issue 2 St. Louis Park High School 6425 W. 33rd Street St. Louis Park, MN 55426
SLPECHO.COM
Roots and Shoots marches for
climate
change
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Community members take their voices to the streets
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2. Out of this world: Seventh grader Jason Kraft and junior Dahlia Krebs walk in the climate march. At City Hall participants expressed their feelings on climate change.
1 Photo Emmy Pearson
show the significance of climate change. “Climate change is a big issue. If we don’t have (events) like this, there will be no one advocating for what we need,” Long said. “I just want my voice to be heard.” According to Frank, the walkout was a last-minute decision, but Roots and Shoots was able to pull it off through teamwork. “It was kind of spontaneous actually, and in one meeting we decided everything (and) distributed the work,” Frank said. City Council candidate Larry Kraft said the event was about what students can do for the environment. “I wanted to support the club, so in speaking, I wanted to make sure I high-
Students react to new bathroom pass policy Instagram account creators hope to spread awareness Talia Lissauer talialissauer@slpecho.com
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Photo Ava Ashby
1. Walking with purpose: Seventh grader Micah Curtis leads the climate march of 37 people Sept. 27 to City Hall. He carried a sign reading “There’s no planet B.”
Kate Schneider kateschneider@slpecho.com
hile looking out at the crowd before speaking at the climate change walkout, junior Zoe Frank said she felt hesitant prior to speaking. “I was nervous, but once I was up there it felt really cool and there were so many faces. I was expecting like 15 people and this was better than I could’ve expected,” Frank said. Frank said the global climate strike inspired her to create a school walkout and to continue spreading awareness. “Climate strikes were happening internationally last Friday (Sept. 20) and there’s I’m hoping an importance to continue in repeating opening things,” Frank people’s eyes said. “So here we are, to to climate show that it’s change. not a one-time thing.” Junior AuZoe Frank, junior drey Long said these events
Photo Emmy Pearson
onfused about the new bathroom policies, junior Jade Shionoya said he co-created the Instagram page @letmeslpee page because the school’s new “no grab and go” policy is unfair to students. “People can’t expect you to go to the bathroom at a certain time,” Shionoya said. “That’s not how human bodies work.” According to assistant principal Jessica Busse,
lighted the role young people play,” Kraft said. Long said immediate action needs to be taken to prevent climate change and the first step is protesting. “I’m going to be living in the future, and if we don’t start advocating for change now, then it’s going to make change when we really need it much more difficult,” Long said. According to Kraft, it is important to have people in office who prioritize climate change, but there are other ways for teens to help. “One thing people can do is make sure that who you vote for is a climate champion,” Kraft said. “Then also look at what
staff members are not required to call a grade level coordinator (GLC) to escort a student to the bathroom, but students should not be going to the bathroom in the same class multiple times a week. “(Teachers) don’t have to (call a GLC). If they have a concern about the student (going to the bathroom) on a regular basis or they think that there is something else going on, then they can call a GLC,” Busse said. “We are stressing essential passes only.” Shionoya said an issue with the policy is when long lines form during the five minute passing time. “We need to make the bathroom more accessible,” Shionoya said. “(No classroom passes) clog up the bathrooms during passing time.” According to junior Liz Hodges, @letmeslpee has generated a lot of support from the student body and the buttons they are selling are a great way to protest the new bathroom policy. “Students who have started social media campaigns are rallying a lot of the student body behind the cause,” Hodges said. “I’ve purchased a button from them. I think that’s a really good way to show the administration in a subtle, but noticeable way the student body doesn’t agree with their policy.”
3. Speak for the trees: Juniors Thor Anderson and Zoe Frank speak to the crowd at City Hall. you can do in your own life — there’s lots of little things you can do.” Frank said getting involved with local events other than walkouts is an easy way for students to help out. With more people involved, more will get done. “Find ways to get involved with local policy because there’s stuff going on all the time in and out of the school,” Frank said. “There’s also power in numbers so the more we all show up to (events), the more we’re going to get enacted.” Frank said she wanted to use the walkout to inform others about climate change. “I’m hoping to continue opening people’s eyes to climate change and that policy needs to be enforced,” Frank said.
Photo Anna Benishek
@letmeslpee: Juniors Jade Shionoya and Hattie Heiland, creators of the @letmeslpee Instagram account, sell “Let Me SLPee” buttons for $2 Sept. 13 at the Nest.
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NEWS
Echo Tuesday, October 8, 2019
Park pride tasks take unnecessary time away from students. Sometimes the reasons for doing them are excessive. Emma Amon, junior
WEB PREVIEW
Photo Jade Claussen
Solar power education reaches middle school
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s middle school social studies teacher Molly Rosen prepares to help her students build solar suitcases, she said her goal for her students is to apply learning experiences with real-world results. “Within this unit of study, some of the learning experiences will be learning how to deliver solar energy to the developing world and how to meet immediate societal needs,” Rosen said.
Sam Swisher samswisher@slpecho.com
Photo Kaia Myers
On patrol: Grade Level Coordinator DJ Singer monitors outside of the high school during third lunch Sept. 27. As of the 2020-2021 school year, administrators said it is likely seniors will no longer have an open campus during lunch.
Administration introduces new discipline policy Photo Emma Leff
Local pet friendly restaurant to open
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ccording to Luke Derheim, director of operations at The Block, St. Louis Park was chosen to host Craft and Crew Hospitality’s latest restaurant because of a lack of dining options in the area. “We always look for an amazing neighborhood that we feel is underserved,” Derheim said. “We have always loved St. Louis Park and thought this neighborhood was a great fit for us.”
Sam Swisher samswisher@slpecho.com
Park Pride tasks implemented to give back Marta Hill & Isabel Kjaer martahill@slpecho.com isabelkjaer@slpecho.com
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ith new policies put into action, assistant principal Jessica Busse said Park Pride tasks are meant to restore damage when students commit simple infractions such as leaving the lunchroom. “Students will be assigned to Park Pride tasks to give back to the community when they leave campus or when there’s something going on that they shouldn’t be doing,” Busse said. “Students will re-
pair the harm that might have been done.” According to junior Evan Nelson, Park Pride tasks do not appear to be productive. “They are kind of pointless. I don’t see a reason why they should give us a task if we mess up on something,” Nelson said. “We should get rid of them.” However, Nelson said he can appreciate that Park Pride tasks can benefit students’ relationships with staff members and each other. “For some (tasks) you have to help out your teacher which is nice because they could use some extra help, or you have to pick up garbage or something. It’s little things that can help the school and our
school a little. For example, I relationships,” Nelson said. got a Park Pride task (where) I Principal Scott Meyers said had to make new friends and a list of possible Park Pride learn something about them, tasks has been made by teachand I gained a new friend out ers. Tasks correspond to the of that,” Nelson said. problem caused and are meant Meyers said Park Pride to repair any damage done to a tasks are a first step toward room or relationship. teaching students that there are “You had an issue in this repercussions. class, this teacher needs this “There are always consehelp. We’re going to have you quences for behavior. Whether help this teacher to repair the it be a consequence here in relationship,” Meyers said. school or laws Nelson said in the commuwhile he does nity (or) letting not enjoy the I don’t see a down your idea of Park reason why they parents, (there Pride tasks, he should give us a are) always acknowledges task if we mess consequences they help the up on something. and disappointcommunity. ing people,” “They Evan Nelson, junior Meyers said. will help the
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Locker rooms now open for athletes before school Students able to store equipment in lockers during school
Fair Use from Netflix
‘The Politician’ series has my vote
Harris Keekley harriskeekley@slpecho.com
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ollowing the life of senior Payton Hobart (Ben Platt), “The Politician” introduces viewers into a world full of corruption, power, love, murder and self-exploration — all centered around a high school presidential election. The Netflix original series begins by highlighting Payton’s strong ambitions, which evolve throughout the eight-episode season. Noah Orloff noahorloff@slpecho.com For more content go to slpecho.com twitter.com/slpecho facebook.com/slpecho
Photo Megan Hoenie
Knock-knock: Students enter the locker room to drop off sports equipment Sept. 20. Students are now able to enter the locker room 10 minutes before school starts.
When can students access athletic lockers? • •
Monday, Wednesday & Friday: 8:05 - 8:15 a.m. Tuesday & Thursday: 8:25 8:35 a.m. Infographic Lucy zumBrunnen Source Andy Ewald
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ccording to sophomore volleyball player Olivia Kelly, allowing students to use the locker room before school will help practices begin on time. “We’re more efficient and able to get on the court earlier since we don’t have to lug our stuff. It’s more organized for us,” Kelly said. Sophomore Georgia Charpentier said the closed locker rooms presented many issues to those who participate in sports. “(We had to) put our stuff in our regular lockers,” Charpentier said. “I had stuff that couldn’t fit in my regular locker so I had to put my stuff in the athletic office.” Athletic director Andrew Ewald said the change in locker room policy was
made with students’ opinions in mind. “It has to do with hearing student voices,” Ewald said. “(Students) sat down and came up with what we believe is the solution.” According to Ewald, the locker rooms are still undergoing additions. “(The locker rooms) are still not a hundred percent complete. In terms of aesthetics, there are some wall graphics that are supposed to be going up,” Ewald said. It has to do with Kelhearing student ly said voices. (Students) she besat down and lieves came up with the what we believe is new the solution. locker rooms Andrew Ewald, athletic director are an upgrade compared to the old ones. “I think they’re smaller but they’re better,” Kelly said. “It’s quality over quantity.”
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It’s messed up teenagers nowadays need to vape for no reason. The addiction to nicotine is crazy. It’s easy to get any type of e-cigarretes or any type of tobacco.”
STUDENT LIFE
Echo Tuesday, October 8, 2019
Kevin Garcia, junior
Healthy: X-ray appears black, lungs are filled with air
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ears ago, senior Quentin Cloutier said he began vaping, but noticed adverse effects as his dependence on nicotine grew. “I was 16 when I started (vaping). I’ve been doing it for a really long time,” Cloutier said. “It’s for the buzz effect, honestly. It’s a stress reliever, but it’s also really bad. It can hinder your abilities and focus, and can make it difficult to go 15 minutes without needing it — it’s extremely addictive.” According to pediatric lung specialist Dr. Brooke Moore at Children’s Minnesota Hospital, the effects of vaping resemble the inflammation of the lungs caused by pneumonia. “There seems to be some chemical in the vaping material causing irritation and inflammation in the lungs. That causes a bunch of white • Seek medical assistance blood cells to flood into the lungs, when trying to quit vapcausing more inflammation,” Moore ing or when experiencing said. “Patients are presenting with what looks like pneumonia in both the following symptoms: lungs, but their infectious workup is shortness of breath, negative.” coughing, fever, diarrhea At the time of the interview, and nausea. Moore said Children’s had seen 15 patients presenting with this lung dis- • Vaping and cigarettes both ease and required breathing support. carry significant risks. “Some (patients) have needed • As of Oct. 1, there have large flows of oxygen, several of them been 18 vaping-related being on a ventilator or respirator,” Moore said. “One patient went on deaths. ECMO (extracorporeal membrane Infographic Maggie Klaers oxygenation). It’s basically a bypass Sources Brooke Moore & Center for Disease machine where all the blood comes Control and Prevention out of your body, goes into an oxygenator and then goes back into your body because the lungs are so sick,” Moore said. According to Moore, the variety of chemicals vape users consume make it difficult to nail down the cause of the illness. “The problem is (vape products) don’t all contain the same substances,” Moore said. “Commercially based nicotine products are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, but they still have different substances in them, depending on what the flavor is.” Cloutier said temptations have challenged his efforts to quit vaping, but he has learned how to overcome these difficulties. “I’ve been trying to (quit) for the last week. I’ve been working really hard on it, but once you’re hooked, you’re hooked,” Cloutier said. “There’s been times where I’ve just wanted to (vape), but I can’t. I rub my palm with my thumb and twist it. Deep breaths help, so does trying to focus on something other than the thing that’s bugging you at the moment.” For those attempting to quit, Moore suggests users speak with their physician. “If people are using nicotine-based products, in addition to the marijuana-based products, there can be a pretty high level addiction. They may need to seek medical support to quit without having significant nicotine withdrawal,” Moore said. Moore said it is a misconception that vaping is a harmless replacement for cigarettes. “When e-cigarettes came on the market, there was a sense they would help people quit using tobacco products and were touted as a safe alternative,” Moore said. “The problem is, they’ve only been on the market for less than 10 years. Just because there’s no data prior to the last few months of adverse effects, doesn’t mean they’re not bad — it just means we didn’t have any data.” It is important, Cloutier said, to recognize the dangers of vaping. “For people who are currently vaping, see what it’s doing to your health, and for people who are trying to quit, good (for) you,” Cloutier said. “If you’re going to vape, at least understand that you have the possibility of dying.”
Biggest take-aways
Unhealthy: X-ray shows white fluffy patterns, white blood cells and inflammation in the lungs
can lead to serious pulmonary illnesses Over 1,000 reported cases of vaping-related diseases Maggie Klaers maggieklaers@slpecho.com
Art Maggie Klaers
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FEATURES Echo Tuesday, October 8, 2019
(Drone racing) sounds really interesting, and is a way for kids to get together that have some of the same interests that might not be represented at school. Ella Roether, sophomore
WHAT'S THE POINT
I am more than just a diagnosis Svea Bleske sveableske@ slpecho.com
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itting down on a couch for a check-in back in July, I wasn’t expecting my therapist to tell me something that would change my life forever. Earlier in the year, I had testing done to keep my medical file up-to-date. Most of these tests were simple, such as arranging blocks. Others were more complex, containing questions about intrusive thoughts and hopelessness. This took around three hours to complete, and by the end, I was exhausted. A few months later, the results from the tests came in. My therapist revealed the results to me and immediately my heart sank; I had Asperger's. Asperger’s syndrome, also known as ASD, is a developmental disorder that can affect communication and socialization skills. Those with the condition have hard What’s the atime doing POINT? things like A diagnosis reading social cues does not define us, it and interacting with helps us to others. understand They may also have ourselves. a highly literal interpretation of the world, leading to a difficulty in understanding expressions meant to be sarcastic or ironic. I remember feeling angry when I found out. My life as I knew it was a lie, and now I had to start over from the beginning, attempting to pick up the pieces. I was immediately fearful of how others would react if I told them; if they would only see me as a stereotype and not a normal teenage girl. These feelings were a heavy weight on my shoulders for several weeks until I decided to research. I read article after article, watched video after video, and slowly things began to make more sense. Eventually, I was able to find an online forum for people with Asperger's. I found a whole community of people who were just like me, who I could connect with and relate to. I finally felt like I belonged. So yes, I have Asperger's. It’s a part of me, but it’s just that. I am more than just my diagnosis. I am a daughter, a sister, a friend. I am normal. I am me, and there’s no shame in that.
Drone racing program takes off Leader works to form club, expand membership Gabriel Kaplan gabrielkaplan@slpecho.com
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t the first Park drone racing meeting Sept. 11, senior Will Schweitering, the program's leader, said he hopes to turn drone racing into a club in order to spread the sport to more people.
“We want to be a club, but it’s really just a way for us to come together and fly,” Will Schweitering said. “It’s definitely a unique sport, and we’ll see if it gains popularity.” According to engineering teacher Mark Miller, the activity’s adviser, drone racing came to Park through his connection to a community member. “The drone racing started last year. A parent who lives in St. Louis Park was really big into it and he wanted to try to get a couple of high schools to jump on board,” Miller said. Will Schweitering said he got involved last year, and chose to buy his own equipment. “I started flying with the engineering three group,” Will Schweitering said. “After that I kept flying with Hydra, the company (that runs the races).” Will Schweitering got his younger brother Nate — an 8th
Photo Noah Orloff
Flying into the year: Senior Rafe Covin practices flying a drone Sept. 11. The group's first meeting of the school year included flying around and an informational presentation.
Drone racing facts • • •
Began last year Apple Valley and Park first to compete Growing this year to potentially over 30 schools Infographic Gabriel Kaplan Source Will Schweitering
grader at the middle school — hooked on the activity as well. “Since my brother is starting the (club), he introduced me to the sport and showed me the basics. Then I started flying at my house,” Nate Schweitering said. Will Schweitering said the sport is growing in popularity across the metro. “(Last year) was the world’s first high school league drone race,” Will Schweitering said. “Hydra has reached out to multiple different schools. I believe we have 32 schools (in Minnesota) that are interested.” Miller said anyone, especially those interested in video games, should consider drone racing and stop by. “If you've ever flown a drone or if you haven't flown a drone but you're interested in joining the team, it'll be interesting.” Miller said.
Slices avalilable within Photo Colin Canaday
No notebooks, only Chromebooks: Juniors Julia Salita and Liz Madigan work on an online assignment in English teacher Andrew Wilkes's class Oct. 3. Wilkes works to go paperless this school year.
Teacher to go paperless Wilkes moves toward a more sustainable classroom Adin Zweigbaum adinzweigbaum@slpecho.com
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hen cleaning his room at the end of the year, English teacher Andrew Wilkes said he felt sad about the amount of paper he wasted. “I was throwing out just reams and
reams of, either student work that's been turned in, or stuff that I printed out and we never ended up using. It just was kind of depressing,” Wilkes said. Junior Isaac Scott sees Wilkes going paperless as helpful to the environment. “It's great to see teachers caring about the planet and taking initiative to do what they care about,” Scott said. Junior Jonah Smith said he was concerned students may not all have equal access to technology throughout the school year. “It just seems ethically wrong because not every student’s family can afford all the tech needed to do work from home,” Smith said.
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Walking Distance!
Go to SLP Nest after school or visit our bakery 10-2 Monday through Saturday. 200 flavors made from scratch
muddypawscheesecake.com 3359 Gorham Avenue St. Louis Park, MN 55426
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I would attend a MED Club meeting because that topic really interests me. I want to go to medical school, so attending a MED Club meeting would fill that interest in.
FEATURES Echo Tuesday, October 8, 2019
Lauren Whiteman, junior
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IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Senior heads fundraiser for breast cancer Hockey player uses skills to make a difference Sofie Geretz sofiegeretz@slpecho.com
Photo Kaia Myers
Eye on the goal: Senior Will Pinney blocks a shot on goal during a shooting drill at practice Sept. 23. For every shot Pinney blocks during his hockey games, he raises money to help women dealing with breast cancer.
Will Pinney, senior What is the October Saves fundraiser? October Saves is a charity for breast cancer that hockey goalies from all over (the country) can be a part of. Goalies create an account on the October Saves website where people can donate. The goalie’s job is to count the amount of saves they get throughout October and match the money they raise with the amount of saves they get. (People) can (also) donate directly to the organization. What compelled you to get involved in October Saves? I have a lot of family that dealt with breast cancer, so I really wanted to help make a difference. How did you become a leader for October Saves? I told (the organizer) a little bit about myself; where I play, my connections in Minnesota and (how I would) be a good fit.
What do you do for October Saves? I try to recruit other goalies to sign up and be aware of October Saves so they understand (and) can also help Breast Cancer Awareness by donating. What is the most challenging part about being involved in October Saves? The most challenging part would have to be trying to get goalies to register. In order for me to reach out to goalies, I have to find hockey clubs and search for the coaches’ contact information. After I find the contact information, I have to send (them) an email asking to have their goalies register for October Saves. What strengths do you have that help contribute to October Saves? A strength that helps me with October Saves is my work ethic. I am a hard worker when it comes to things I enjoy doing. For me, it’s a privilege being (one of) the captains
of October Saves for Minnesota, but I also feel because of my work ethic the state will succeed from the amount of goalies and clubs I have reached out to. What is your favorite part about being involved in October Saves? My favorite part about October Saves is being able to help those who are suffering with breast cancer. It’s the best feeling ever being able to help someone in need and October Saves is one of the best things in the hockey world to be a part of for helping (others). What advice would you give to other hockey players considering becoming involved in October Saves? I would tell them there are only positives in being involved with October Saves. It doesn’t cost anything and all goalies have to do is count their saves and get people to donate. The money being raised is going to help save lives and help women dealing with breast cancer.
ACTIVITIES & AWARDS
MED Club hosts speaker Daniel Klaers shares unique profession Ruthie Posada & Jane Pupeza ruthieposada@slpecho.com janepupeza@slpecho.com
Photo Rodolfo Zarate
Set the pace: Senior Sofia Seewald and sophomore Molly Schochet edit the Student Life page Oct. 3.
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orporate sales rep. for an orthopedic implant company Daniel Klaers said he agreed to speak at Medical Education Development club Oct. 1 because it allowed him to educate students on his profession. “What I do isn’t widely known or publicized, and a chance to talk about it and teach people sounded like a good thing to do,” Klaers said. According to senior and Medical Education Development (MED) club leader Sofia Seewald, she invited Klaers to speak with the intention of widening students' perspective on medicine. “It can open up people’s eyes to new opportunities and careers in the medical field,” Seewald said. Seewald said Klaers’ Hearing a job is unique speaker (who in that he is) really doesn’t interesting can operate on guide you into patients but what you want rather assists to do later in surgeons in life. using his medical inSydney Ring, senior struments.
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Echo named 2019 Pacemaker finalist
Photo Ruthie Posada
Best foot forward: Daniel Klaers speaks Oct. 1 at MED club. Klaers works as a corporate sales rep. for an orthopedic implant company. “(Klaers’) job is really cool (because) he doesn’t perform the actual surgeries, but he helps surgeons figure out how to use the medical devices he sells,” Seewald said. Senior Sydney Ring said she enjoyed learning about a different area of the medical field that isn’t too well known. “I liked to hear about the different side of medicine that’s not just the doctors,” Ring said. “There’s more people than just the surgeon (in the room).” According to Klaers, he is glad he was able to inform and teach MED club because a lot of people are unaware of his profession. “I don’t know if it will influence anyone to look into the industry, but it’s one of those things where there are so many things out there that nobody’s aware of. It's just good to pass along informa-
Who is Daniel Klaers? • Klaers sells Wright Technology foot and ankle medical devices. • He sits in on surgeries to guide surgeons on how to use his equipment. Infographic Tamar Gewirtz Source Daniel Klaers
tion,” Klaers said. According to Ring, listening to someone speak about a profession they're interested in is helpful in leading them on the right path. “If you’re hearing a speaker and what they’re saying sounds really interesting, it can guide you into what you want to do later in life,” Ring said.
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he Echo was recognized as one of the 49 National Newspaper Pacemaker finalists. The 2019 Newspaper Pacemaker winners will be announced at the Journalism Education Association/ National Scholastic Press Association (NSPA) Fall National High School Journalism Convention Nov. 23 in Washington, D.C., according to NSPA.
National Merit Semifinalists, Scholars
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eniors Ella Thomas and Mitchell VonEschen were named National Merit Semifinalists. Seniors Patrick Djerf, Mari Hanchi, Marta Hill, Jonathan Potter and Eitan Weistein were named Commended Scholars. About 1.6 million students took the PSAT, and Thomas and VonEschen make up two of only 16,000 semifinalists.
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IN-DEPTH
Echo Tuesday, October 8, 2019
64%
of Park students look at the source on social media, yet 54.7% do not fact check the information.
Where do students get their news from?
I think (social media) is a horrible place to get your news from. The bias is inevitable on every social media page. Sam Baudhuin, junior
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I mostly get my news from the internet and sometimes the newspapers. Thor Anderson, junior
IN-DEPTH
Echo Tuesday, October 8, 2019
Social media posts camouflaged as news Online sources allow for rampant spread of misinformation
Online News 20.4%
Talia Lissauer talialissauer@slpecho.com
Evolution of news
Newspaper 4.3%
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Social Media 75.3%
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ommunications and journalism professor at the University of Minnesota Chris Ison said the modernized media has replaced reliable news from trained journalists with posts from online bloggers. “Journalists used to be the gatekeepers. Those were the folks who decided what the news was. Today, while (different journalists) might have slightly different interpretations of the news, generally everyone was hearing and seeing the same (things),” Ison said. “Today everyone can publish their revision of what they Because call ‘news.’” teenagers use Many students re-post politicians to show what they believe in said junior Elie Grassley. social media so “A lot of people, especially in the younger generamuch, they tend to tion, think it is really important that everyone knows start to use that as what’s going on because it’s a part of our everyday life,” a crutch in place Grassley said. High school librarian Ellen George said social media of new sources. has allowed for the spread of false news and recommends students look elsewhere for information. Donnel Probst, NAMLE “We have had a lot of bad experiences in this country with social media and the ability to pass on false news without anyone making sure that something is correct before it gets spread,” George said. According to Ison, politicians skip the fact checking of mainstream media by using social media for communication. “Anybody can get news out there and it can get picked up and swept around really quickly,” Ison said. “Politicians among them are able to bypass legitimate news organizations to get their message out.”
Convenience attracts Grassley said politics have become increasingly inclusive through the direct communication of officials and supporters on social media, however, many fail to check the reliability of sources. “I think this election, politicians using social media is a really big thing, everyone running for president has an Instagram and is using it as a platform to reach young people,” Grassley said. “I think it is very important for politicians to use social media.” Associate Director for the National Association for Media Literacy Education (NAMLE) Donnel Probst said social media is more appealing than a news site because it is more straightforward making it more convenient. “Because teenagers use social media so much, they tend to start to use that as a crutch in place of new sources,” Probst said. “As they get older and start
to get involved in civic engagement, rather than reading a news story or a longer story, they will rely on their feed in order to inform themselves about what is happening in the world with politics and what’s relevant.” Students fail to do their own research, leading them to repost and believe in fake news, which in turn can confuse their followers, according to Grassley. “There are some things that people put on their stories where they didn’t look thoroughly enough or research it enough where it may not be true,” Grassley said. “I think (in) those cases people can be misinformed and people need to check that what they are putting out there is true and not fake.” Freshman Manny Shetaye said it is more effective for students to post their own opinions rather than blindly following potentially misleading sources. “People see (a post) and they agree with it a lot and decide to share it. It’s annoying that they never write anything on their own,” Shetaye said. “Some Instagram accounts can post (false information) and then if you repost it people might not know where it is from.” According to sophomore Abby Turcott, students are reposting stories in order to impress others in the mix of becoming popular. “I think people post for likes and popularity because if the person they are reposting is popular and agrees with something, they can get popular for liking the same thing,” Turcott said.
Learning to navigate According to NAMLE, people should ask these questions when analyzing posts from social media:
Who made this? Donald J. Trump Why was it made? @realDonaldTrump What is missing from this message? The Pledge of Allegiance to our great Country, in St. How erent people this message? Louismight Park,diff Minnesota, is interpret under siege. That is why I Who mightto benefi from this message? am going win tthe Great State of Minnesota in the Who be harmed thissick message? 2020might Election. Peoplebyare and tired of this stupidity and disloyalty to our wonderful USA! July 11, 2019
Analyzing real tweets Donald J. Trump
Affects Park
No source
@realDonaldTrump
The Pledge Allegiance to our great Country, in St. The New of York Times @nytimes Louis Park, Minnesota, is under siege. That is why I am going toof win the Great the Thousands migrants areState tryingoftoMinnesota reach the in U.S. 2020 Election.As People and at tired this by from Mexico. more are are sick blocked theofborder stupidity and disloyalty to many our wonderful new immigration policies, are usingUSA! riskier July 11, 2019 tactics to get in. "It is a question of stress, of despair," a Mexican aid worker said. Sept. 29, 2019
Reposting intentionally Ison said it is the responsibility of the audience to check the reliability of what they are reading. “What we are all talking about these days is the need for more media literacy in the public. It’s hard work being well informed these days,” Ison said. “The audience needs to work harder.” According to Probst, the reader has to evaluate every part of the information before believing it. “Students need to be very mindful about how they are using social media so that they can ensure that when they are posting things they are not stretching reality,” Probst said. “Really understand how to look at your sources. Critically analyzing every piece of information you come across.” According to George, there are many fact-checking sources available to high school students on the school website. “We have the online Britannica through the state library access. I have a lot of reference books.” George said. “We have on the high school website the database Symbaloo.” What really matters when getting your news is who is producing the story not the medium from which you get it, according to Ison. “Social media is just a vehicle for information. It doesn’t really matter whether you’re getting it from social media or regular media, the question is who is originating the information,” Ison said. Grassley said when she reposts something to her Instagram story, she double-checks to make sure everything is current and accurate. “Whenever I put something on my story, I usually look it up first and make sure it’s true and it’s not fake. Usually, it’s about something that’s happening currently,” Grassley said. “I think it’s important to check your resources.” There are many reliable sources, but it is essential that students are aware of any possible bias, according to George. “Are there any red flags? Did it come from a reputable journalistic source like The New York Times, The Washington Post?” George said. “We’ve got lots of resources here for you. Ask your teacher, ask the librarian.”
7
Unsupported claims
Interpreted by some as anti-Semitic
The New York Times @nytimes
Ilhan Omar Thousands of migrants are trying to reach the U.S. @IlhanMN Donald J. Trump @realDonaldTrump from Mexico. As more are blocked at the border by Israel has hypnotized themany world,are may Allah awaken new immigration policies, using riskier The Pledge of Allegiance to our great Country, in St. the people help them see the doings tactics to getand in. "It is a question of evil stress, of of Louis Park, Minnesota, is under siege. That is why I Israel. #Gaza #Palestine #Israelsaid. despair," a Mexican aid worker am going to win the Great State of Minnesota in the Sept. 29, Nov. 16,2019 2012 2020 Election. People are sick and tired of this stupidity and disloyalty to our wonderful USA!
July 11, 2019
Fails to back up claim
Omar CredibleIlhan publication @IlhanMN
Includes both perspectives
Israel has hypnotized the world, may Allah awaken The New York Times the people and help them see the evil doings of @nytimes Israel. #Gaza #Palestine #Israel Thousands of migrants are trying to reach the U.S. Nov. 16, 2012 from Mexico. As more are blocked at the border by new immigration policies, many are using riskier tactics to get in. "It is a question of stress, of despair," a Mexican aid worker said. Sept. 29, 2019
Source
Ilhan Omar @IlhanMN
Infographic Maggie Klaers Source Echo Poll of 287 students
Infographic Maggie Klaers Israel has hypnotized the world, may Allah awaken Source NAMLE, Donald Trump, Ilhan Omar, & the people and help them see the evil doingsThe of New York Times Art Maggie Klaers & Isabel Kjaer Israel. #Gaza #Palestine #Israel
Nov. 16, 2012
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SPORTS Echo Tuesday, October 8, 2019
OUT OF THE PARK
Ball chasing brings new perspective Anna Benishek annabenishek@ slpecho.com
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his past summer, my parents received an email from my club soccer coach asking for girls ages 14-16 to ball chase at the new Allianz Field. At first, I was confused as to why the Minnesota United team needed a ball chaser, but I later realized it was for the U.S. Women’s National Team. I remember watching Alex Morgan from my TV at home as a little girl. But now, watching the four consecutive World Cup champions live would be a dream come true. As ball chasers, we were supposed to present both flags during the National Anthem. I was a bit nervous because I did not want to mess up on national TV. I thought it was fascinating people were watching this game from different What’s countries the POINT? around the world. Megan Rapinoe, Rose Lavelle and Alex Morgan were all right in front of me. It was amazing knowing the top soccer players in the world were standing feet away. Watching women’s professional soccer live was captivating. They play at the highest level possible, and it was exciting to experience it first hand. At the end of the first half, Carli Lloyd finished with two goals. In the second half of the game, I tossed Mallory Pugh a ball for a throw-in. When the ball went out again, Casey Short asked for the ball. It was amazing to be able to pass them a ball throughout the game. Standing on the sideline, I wished I could reach the same level of competitiveness some day. Helping out during the game was an incredible experience to be a part of. Seeing the U.S Women’s National Team play soccer live is something I will never forget. Watching them play has inspired me to work harder as a player to reach my full potential.
Savor each moment
I think (boys’ soccer) will do great if they keep their team spirit up. I believe they can accomplish many great things at Sections. Josie Briant, junior
Boys’ soccer heads to Sections Team optimistic about style of play Adin Zweigbaum adinzweigbaum@slpecho.com
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ccording to coach Pat Hartman, the team’s mentality is very important to how they play, and will be essential to winning. “The team’s done very well, and a big part of that is the team’s spirit,” Hartman said. “The guys are all in it together and working hard, and it’s fun to see.” At press time, the team record is 11-0-1. The first Sections game is Oct. 10. According to junior Eli Seehof-Flory, the outcome of Sections has not been what the team desired, but good effort and concentration should change that. “I think we’re all going to be really focused,” Seehof-Flory said. “Obviously the last few years in Section finals (it has) not been what we wanted.” Senior Mohamed Mohamed said the boys have an advantage over other teams in both the short and mid game. “We are really good at short passes and have a really strong midfield, unlike any other team I’ve seen,” Mohamed said. According to Hartman, the team practices a lot of quick passes, which makes it difficult for other teams to play against.
Photo Megan Hoenie
Looking to pass: Senior Thomas Salamzadeh advances down the field, looking to pass to his teammates. Park tied 0-0 in overtime against Benilde-St. Margaret’s Sept. 24. “They play well when we have the ball in possession. (We) move the ball quickly (and) we do a lot of short passes,” Hartman said. “We practice that a lot and I think it makes it tough for other teams.” Mohamed said an important part to the team’s success will be working on defending set plays, a point in the game where the time stops. “We need to work on defending more set pieces,” Mohamed said. “We haven’t had a team score on us without set pieces.” Seehof-Flory mentioned it is important for the team to stay focused. “It’s important to stay grounded, and we’re still a really good team, but we have to work hard every single game and go game-by-game,” Seehof-Flory said. Hartman said he is looking forward to
Boys’ stat leaders 7 goals: Danny Lainsbury 3 saves: Luis Benitez-Matias 5 assists: Nick Riley Infographic Adin Zweigbaum Source mnsoccerhub.com
seeing how the team will do and is optimistic about its future. “We should have home field advantage,” Hartman said. “We’ll see how the seeding meeting goes. Hopefully we can make it into the Section final again.” In 2018 Park lost in the Section final against Wayzata 0-1.
Park loses to Chanhassen Girls maintain positive attitude Tamar Gewirtz tamargewirtz@slpecho.com
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ccording to junior Elie Grassley, the girls’ swim team swam well and had fun despite losing 35-57 to Chanhassen Oct. 3. “It went really well overall. We were all cheering a lot and everyone had really good times and swam really well and tried their hardest,” Grassley said. Senior captain Hattie Kugler agreed they swam well and thought winning was not the most important thing of the meet. “One of the downsides of this meet was we lost, but at the same time it’s not really all about winning or losing with this team. It’s just if we’re all together, then it’s a good meet,” Kugler said. Grassley thought one obstacle in their way was the mood prior to the meet. “Chanhassen is a very good team, and we didn’t expect to win,” Grassley said. “So I think
Photo Emmy Pearson
Don’t forget to breathe: Senior Hattie Kugler competes in the breaststroke with a time of 1.09 minutes Oct. 3. Kugler said even after the loss the team members were encouraging. that was kind of a damper on the mood.” Kugler said they prepared for the meet by working together and doing team activities. “As a team we all have really just come together in the past few weeks, talking a lot and getting people to come in to talk about team dynamics and how to really work together as a team.” Girls’ swim coach Amanda Forsberg thought one of the girls stood out but one challenge was that the practices had worn them out. “I thought Franny (Bevell’s) 100 fly was especially good. I
was really impressed with that,” Forsberg said. “We’re really tired right now because we’ve been putting in a lot of work, so we’re just a little bit off on our other times.” Kugler said everyone was positive and encouraging toward each other, which made the experience better. “As a whole, it went pretty well just due to the positivity of everybody but also everybody just coming together,” Kugler said. “And the coaches giving good feedback to us and letting us know what we need to do for next time.” The next girls swim meet is
Upcoming Events •
6 p.m. Oct. 8 at Oak Grove Middle School against Bloomington Kennedy
•
5:30 p.m. Oct.10 at Richfield MS against Richfield
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5 p.m. Oct. 15 at home against Hopkins Infographic Maggie Klaers Source gopark.org
against Bloomington Kennedy at 6 p.m. Oct. 8 at Oak Grove Middle School, according to gopark.org.
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The only thing I’ve heard that’s exciting about (tennis) is that they made new courts and I’ve heard there’s bumps in them.
SPORTS
Echo Tuesday, October 8, 2019
Thomas Hanson, sophomore
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MEET THE ATHLETE Smash it: Senior Victoria Contreras hits a volley at the Sections game against Washburn. Park lost 0-7 against the Millers.
Who Aliviah McClinton Grade Senior Sport Soccer What do you like most about playing soccer? I like the competition and it’s a hard-working sport — you have to put in a lot of effort. How long have you been playing soccer? I think I started in third or fourth grade. Why did you decide to start playing soccer? I was friends with Emma Roloff, and she played soccer so I wanted to try it and I happened to be really good.
Girls’ tennis loses Sections in shutout against Washburn The team faces a defeat of 0-7 Talia Lissauer talialissauer@slpecho.com
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lthough they did not get the ending they were hoping for, junior Selee Olmen said the tennis team came out strong, both mentally and physically. “We went into (Sections) with really positive mind-sets and good attitudes about the match,“ Olmen said. “Washburn has a lot of talent so we didn’t come out with the outcome we wanted to.” According to senior Victoria Contreras, the team did its best at Sections and has developed a lot since the first match. “I felt like we played hard, we tried our best. I’m sad that we didn’t win but we put in a pretty good effort,” Contreras said. “I think we really improved over the season, looking back at our first match. We improved a lot and I’m really proud of how we performed throughout the entire season.”
Olmen said the weather has affected season, especially when it comes to the amount of matches played in a short period of time. The team was also caught off guard when they had to move Sections indoors at the last minute. “I think some of the girls struggled because the last few weeks we have been playing a lot of matches and we had to play indoors,” Olmen said. “For the past two weeks we have been playing outdoors, and it’s been super windy during our matches, and then to be playing inside in a bright non-windy dome was a lot different for us.” Contreras said there were a lot of positives that came out of the match, like the amount of talking between doubles partners, but some doubles lacked competitiveness. “Some strengths were communication, I think we really communicated well and had good ball placement,”Contreras said. “Some weaknesses doubles had (was) not being as aggressive as we should be.” Coaches Abby Rose and Christine Tvrdik were unavailable for comment. Photo Ryan Barnett
Volleyball celebrates victory Parks honors its seniors with 3-0 win Kate Schneider kateschneider@slpecho.com
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hen playing for the first time in a varsity match, senior Angie Leno said she felt overwhelmed with gratitude for her last season. “I went in for serving and it felt good being in (the game), it’s a very special moment that I’m going to remember forever. I felt like crying the The seniors have whole time but the tears brought great were from leadership (and) happiness,” Leno said. great energy. According to coach Whiteny Meierotto- Whitney Simon, coach Meierotto-
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Photo Sadie Yarosh
Digging for the win: Senior Addie Warg dives for the ball during the game against Channassen Oct. 3. Girls’ volleyball won 3-0 on senior night. Simon, all the seniors had a lot to offer and set good examples for their teammates. “The seniors brought great leadership (and) great energy. They’ve been great student athletes and really good kids for all the younger girls to look up to,” MeierottoSimon said. Sophomore Elsa Bergland said the match was an opportunity for the seniors to shine on the court. “We did good when the seniors went in, we kept it up and didn’t let it change any-
thing,” Bergland said. Meierotto-Simon said she is very happy with how the team has improved and hopes to stay strong for the rest of the season. “We’ve had a really good season, we’ve had ups and downs but we’ve been getting better every single match and I think we’re definitely on track to finish the season on a really high point,” Meierotto-Simon said. Park volleyball will play its next game at 5 p.m. Oct. 11 at St. Michael Albertville High School.
What position do you play? Have you played any other position? (I play) center-forward. My high school coach has played me at left-back and defense (but) I don’t really like (those positions). How has your season been going so far? It’s been pretty good. We’ve been winning quite a bit, which is good. What has been the hardest part of this season? Getting everyone focused at practice is a big struggle because the culture of the team is way different from when I was a sophomore on the team. Who is your role model in soccer and why? Malaika (Bigirindavyi). She was a senior two years ago and also captain. I feel like we play similar. We both are very technical and like to dribble. She is playing in college right now and that’s my plan for next year. (Bigirindavyi is) someone I look up to, that I actually relate to. What is an element of your game that you plan to improve on going forward? My game awareness, just knowing where I am and where my teammates are on the field. If I learn my game awareness I could be an even better player. What are you hoping to achieve this season? Individually I hope to get some sort of state recognition; that would be cool for my last season, maybe All Conference. I’m not expecting all these awards though.
Sofia Seewald sofiaseewald@slpecho.com
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10 OPINIONS
Echo!"#$ Tuesday, October 8, 2019
!"#$
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I think that (banning open carry) probably should’ve been done decades ago and I’m supporting (the policy). Milo Bunting, sophomore
OUR PERSPECTIVE
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rump’s proposed ban on flavored electronic cigarettes will bring much needed change to combat the vaping epidemic. Without access to appealing flavor pods, such as mango and mint, many teens will be prevented from ever getting addicted to nicotine. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 31% of high school and middle school users chose to vape for the flavors. This, in addition to kid-friendly advertising from companies like Juul, has hooked millions of teens on nicotine, according to CNET. Trump’s decision acts as a middle-ground between fully banning and leaving vapes completely legal. By restricting the marketing and selling of vapes, teens will have much less incentive to try vaping and become addicted. The Echo Editorial Board
Editors-in-chief: Marta Hill* & Isabel Kjaer* Managing editors: Gabriel Kaplan*, Kaia Myers*, Noah Orloff*, Carissa Prestholdt & Sofia Seewald* Photo editor: Emily Ziessman Assistant photo editor: Anna Benishek Design editors: Maggie Klaers, Sophie Livingston, Lucy zumBrunnen Copy editors: Emma Leff, Ruth Posada, & Sofie Geretz Assistant copy editors: Ryan Barnett, Tobias Khabie News editor: Talia Lissauer Features editor: Tamar Gewirtz* In-Depth editor: Maddie Schutte Sports editor: Sadie Yarosh Opinions editors: Maria Perez-Barriga* Entertainment editor: Ben Sanford Video/Broadcast editor: Isabella Kanne Special Projects editor: Sam Klepfer Business Manager: Adin Zweigbaum Staff: Selam Anteneh, Ava Ashby, Mushtaq Barquab, Neb Bekele, Humna Belete, Svea Bleske, Henry Brettingen, Colin Canaday, Jayde Claussen, Tennam Gyaldatsang, Tenzin Gyaldatsang, Ayub Hassan, Megan Hoenie, Harris Keekly, Phoebe McKinney, Isra Mohamed, Emelia Pearson, Liberty Powers, Ayelet Prottas, Jane Pupeza, Riyan Said, Kate Schneider, Molly Schochet, Annica Schultz, Grace Schultz, Lily Simonett, Grace Stillman, Lillian Strathman, Samuel Swisher, Zuhayb Yassin, Rodolfo Zarate
doubts this ban will stop current nicotine addicts from continuing use; however, at the very least it will prevent new people from developing an addiction. If individuals are truly dependent on vaping, they will find a way to get pods, but it may block access for new users. The e-cigarette industry and its nefarious actions bring to mind Big Tobacco. Students need to be aware of this parallel and make healthy and educated choices. The Board believes it is essential that we ensure health and safety remain vital.
Ban on flavored vapes necessary
Printer: North Star Media
Art Sophie Livingston
Adviser: Lori Keekley
NSPA All-American and Hall of Fame member; 2011, 2016, 2017 NSPA Print Pacemaker Finalist; 2013, 2014, 2015 National Print Pacemaker Award Recipient; 2014, 2015, 2017 National Online Pacemaker Finalist; 2018, 2019 National Online Pacemaker Award Recipient; CSPA Gold Medalist; 2017 CSPA Hybrid Crown Finalist; 2013 CSPA Gold Crown; 2015 CSPA Hybrid Gold Crown; 2012, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 CSPA Silver Crown; JEM All-State.
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Hands-Free Law protects drivers across the state Large fines enforce new legislation Maddie Schutte maddieschutte@slpecho.com
M
innesota Gov. Tim Walz’s new Hands-Free Law will keep drivers’ hands off their phones and on the wheel again. This new legislation will ensure the safety and save the lives of Minnesotans every day. Gov. Walz signed the bill April 12 and it went into effect Aug. 1, according to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. Under the new Hands-Free law, there will be a zero tolerance policy for the use of mobile devices. Unless a driver is in an emergency situation, the use of phones while driving is only allowed through Bluetooth, navigation and voice command. According to the Minnesota Department
of Public Safety, the first ticket for violating the Hands-Free law will be $50, and the second ticket will be $275. Though the consequence may seem drastic, distracted driving is a life threatening issue and this is a necessary precaution to protect lives. The Hands-Free law couldn’t have been enforced soon enough. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, there are roughly nine deaths and close to 1,000 injuries caused by distracted drivers every day in the United States. Just like prosecuting drunk drivers, it is essential that we ensure drivers are not distracted by their phones. Although this law will save lives in the future, something should have been done years ago. With the massive amounts of Bluetooth and voice command technology, there should be no reason to touch your phone while driving. Even if you own an older car without modern communicative technology, nearly all smartphones on the market have voice command ability; paired with an auxiliary cable, there should be no problem
Photo Illustration Carissa Prestholdt
making necessary communication. Making the decision to use your device is selfish and even puts your own life in danger. While some might find using Bluetooth to be inconvenient, no text or phone call is more valuable than someone’s life. Picking up your phone while driving might seem harmless, but the brief amount of time spent looking somewhere other than
the road is enough time to take an innocent person’s life, or even your own. Your phone call, text or a change in music selection should never take priority over a human being. With this new driving legislation, our roads and community will be safer and the health of pedestrians and drivers will be protected.
Walmart bans open carry Policy designed to help company over customers Henry Brettingen henrybrettingen@slpecho.com
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ccording to The Washington Post, in response to the Walmart shooting in El Paso, Walmart decided to cease the sale of certain types of ammunition, as well as prohibit open carry in their stores. Walmart is “respectfully requesting” that customers do not open carry in their stores. However, they have decided to take a non-confrontational approach, according to The New York Times. This move is typical secu-
Stores should act decisively to invest in protecting their customers.
rity theater, designed to make customers feel safer, and thus spend money at Walmart, instead of actually protecting customers. As usual, companies are doing as little as possible until they all rush to change in order to avoid public scrutiny. According to CNN, Walmart has stopped selling .223 and 5.56 caliber ammo, as well as handguns. This approach does absolutely nothing to stop a future shooting in Walmart as ammo could simply be acquired elsewhere. Additionally, Walmart is still selling other firearms, such as long barrel deer rifles. This means Walmart employees will not confront those open carrying, unless it makes another customer feel unsafe. This new policy does not protect customers and is designed to shift blame away from Walmart. According to Markets In-
To Friends: They were just on a break.
Art Maggie Klaers
sider, this policy shift inspired similarly ineffective action in stores like Walgreens and CVS, who did not want to seem behind the curve. Additionally, the new policy change does not affect those who choose to carry a concealed weapon in the store. This means that customers will still be allowed to be armed while shopping, as long as it is not openly visible. This is a laughable attempt to prevent future shootings. Some measures these stores could take instead include installing metal detectors or hiring guards. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the stores to ensure the safety of their customers. Stores should act decisively to invest in protecting their customers. Unfortunately, it is unlikely that they will take this approach unless their bottom line starts to be affected. If Walmart and other stores truly wanted to protect customers, they would take measures to actually enforce their ban on carrying weapons, instead of respectfully “requesting” that customers not open carry.
To bathroom policies: Hey GLC, long time, no pee.
More Minnesotans opting out of state standardized testing for colleges Local high school student opt-out rates are rising as many students take advantage of the opportunity to not take standardized tests, according to the StarTribune.
*Denotes editorial board member
The Echo is the official studentproduced newspaper of St. Louis Park High School. It is published triweekly for the school’s students, staff and community. The Echo is a designated forum for student expression in which students make all decisions of content without prior review from school officials. The adviser will not act as a censor, but will advise students. Students have the final decision on all content. The Echo will work to avoid bias and/ or favoritism. We will strive to make our coverage and content meaningful and interesting to all our readers. We will make every effort to avoid printing libel, obscenities, innuendo and material that threatens to disrupt the learning process or is an invasion of privacy. We will avoid electronic manipulation that alters the truth of a photograph unless clearly labeled as a photo illustration. Staff editorials represent the opinion of the editorial board arrived at by discussion and will not be bylined. Bylined articles are the opinion of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Echo staff or administration as a whole. The Echo welcomes reader input. Letters to the editor and suggestions must be signed and should be no longer than 250 words and may be emailed to slpecho@gmail.com or submitted in room C275. Emailed letters must be verified prior to publication. We will not necessarily publish all letters received and reserve the right to ask the writer to edit for length and clarity. Anonymous letters will not be printed. Advertisements will be sought from local businesses and school clubs and sports. We maintain the right to reject any ads we believe to be false, misleading, inappropriate or harmful. The Echo does not necessarily endorse the products or services offered in these advertisements.
OPINIONS
Echo Tuesday, October 8, 2019
POINT COUNTERPOINT
Principal: Scott Meyers
MEDIA POLICIES
It’s a good law because going on your phone and driving is never a smart idea. (The law) is a good idea to make people aware that there are consequences when putting others lives at risk. Gabbie Kruse, junior
Standardized tests proven advantageous to students
Photo Rodolfo Zarate
Shopping: CVS bans open carry weapons throughout the community. Walmart began the policy and others followed suit, such as CVS, Walgreens and Aldi.
Walmart policy change • Discouraging open carry • Ended sale of .223 or 5.56 ammo • No longer selling sidearms • Only selling “long barreled” rifles Infographic Henry Brettingen Source The New York Times & Business Insider
To climate change: Looks like the school won’t need to pay the heating bill.
M.S., E.P., T.G.
Students benefit from standard curriculum Tennam Gyaldatsang tennamgyaldatsang@slpecho.com
S
tandardized testing is beneficial to schools because the testing allows staff to determine whether or not a student is up to standard when compared, “relative to other children in the next class, across town and around the country,” according to Education Post. Based on a study by Freakonomics, the United States has only increased in international score rankings. Being able to take standardized test is a key part of this success. According to Freakonomics, “American elementary and middle school students have improved their performance on the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study every four years since the tests began in 1995.” Without a standardized way of
PARK TRAIL
monitoring and testing students, how can we compare national, regional or city scores. Without standardized testing how can a school district monitor a certain grade, class or student growth over a year? Standardized testing is a tangible way that administrators can oversee improvement with a student. They mark progress over the course of the year and are beneficial for teachers. Standardized tests ensure students learn important basic skills. According to Education Policy Analysis Archives, “teachers in four Minnesota school districts said standardized testing had a positive impact, improving the quality of the curriculum while raising student achievement.” I believe that if schools no longer administer standardized testing, the point of teaching students core curriculum will be lost and students will no longer be able to make the transition from high school to college.
STUDENT VOICES Should state standarizied testing be required for students to take?
Standardized tests should not be required for students The American education system is harmful and unjust Adin Zweigbaum adinzweigbaum@slpecho.com
“Yes, II think it’s important that the state knows where everyone is at and see how schools are educating (students).” Siggy Cassuto, freshman
“I don’t think we should because I think that the regular tests during the year show how we’ve improved or not.” William Hoikka, junior
S
tandardized testing in the United States is not a sufficient way to measure education and intelligence. All standardized testing does is instruct students to not actually learn for a better education, but to memorize for tests and to achieve high grades. Standardized tests teach students that there can only ever be one correct answer. Not everyone is going to infer the same idea from a passage, so it is inherently unethical to decide that only one interpretation is correct. Standardized tests do not reward the ability to think deeply and strategically, they only reward those who can quickly come up with answers to questions and are strong test takers. Many colleges use standardized tests as a way to decide if students
are applicable. This creates an unfair system where children who are from wealthier families can afford assistance, while students from lower income families can’t, making it harder to get into college. In addition, the current education system in America is harmful to children. Students are on average dealing with more stress than the average adult does. Dr. Robert L. Leahy found high school students have the same levels of anxiety as the average psychiatric patient in the early 1950s. Testing only makes this worse, creating more anxiety for students. With all the stress of testing, students should have access to an adequate place to learn. However, this is not the case. Dr. Peter Gray goes as far as saying that in school children have fewer liberties than imprisoned adults. They have restricted speech and are forced by law to go to school. Children are forced into such a harsh environment, and still expected to learn at their best ability.
Isabel Kjaer isabelkjaer@slpecho.com
During class Can I pee?
No.
Do you want to call a GLC?
I guess I’ll just go during passing time?
During passing time
Are you kidding pee?
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12 ENTERTAINMENT
Echo Tuesday, October 8, 2019
I think that (‘Friends’) will be good, but I feel like it might be weird because they’re all much older now. Maya Lee, junior
Four claps for
Shared experience with live audience makes event memorable Talia Lissauer talialissauer@slpecho.com
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hen I heard there was going to be a “Friends” theatrical showing of 12 of the most iconic episodes from the show for its 25th anniversary, I couldn’t have been more excited. Watching “Friends” in theaters was like watching it for the first time. Although I can quote the majority of lines and was expecting every joke, having a live, energetic audience made it special. Every time Chandler Bing (Matthew Perry) made a joke, laughter reverberated throughout the room. Dramatic scenes silenced the theater. When a major couple got together, the whole theater cheered. Walking into the theater on the first night I was expecting 90 minutes of extras, behind the scenes and four episodes, but that didn’t happen. The event was just four episodes but if you got to the theater early, you could see one five-minute-clip that was repeated three times before the first episode started. I was hoping the extras and behind the scenes would play throughout the four episodes to make the night more spectacular, but was
disappointed they were only in the beginning. The four claps in the theme song are undeniably iconic and the audience proved that all three nights, by clapping along with the music. Although only a few brave people clapped on the first night, but by the last episode on the final night almost the whole theater was clapping along and every time this happened giggles filled the theater. This energy made me excited for the next episode every time the theme song played. When I first saw the episode lineup, I was disappointed that a few of my favorites weren’t included, but with the exception of “The One with the Rumor” and “The One with Unagi”, They did a great job highlighting the best parts of the show. They showed a majority of the major relationships, breakups, life-altering decisions, ups and downs of all the main characters. While still making sure to give us lots of laughs and cries. My favorite episode of all time is “The One Where Everyone Finds Out,” and seeing it on the big screen helped me pick up on hidden jokes I never noticed before. There were moments when the audience gasped, laughed and cried happy tears, all in that episode. The celebration wasn’t only in theaters, they also did a remake of the theme song with Meghan Trainor and a light show at the Empire State Building. Along with creation of a friends inspired app that has filters and stickers. Watching “Friends” in theaters was a great experience. However, other shows may not work as well in a live theater because they don’t have the same energy and heart “Friends” has. “Friends” is a timeless show and I could feel that in theater with dozens of people surrounding me, with the same love for it as I have.
Top three “Friends” episodes 1. The One Where Everybody Finds Out 2. The One with the Rumor 3. The One with Unagi Source Talia Lissauer Art Sophie Livingston
Art Maggie Klaers
METRO METRO AT A GLANCE Ben Sanford bensanford@slpecho.com
Fair use from Minnesota Museum of American Art, Epic Records, Warner Bros. Studios, Walt Disney Studios
Oct. 3. - March 1
Oct. 16
Nov. 8
Nov. 12
Minnesota Museum of American Art displays artist Sherin Guirguis’ Egyptian feminist work inspired by Doria Shafik in her new exhibit.
Sara Barellies tours “Amidst the Chaos” at Xcel Energy Center. Barellies will perform songs like “She Used to Be Mine,” “Gravity” and “Love Song.”
“Doctor Sleep” follows Danny Torrance 40 years after the events of “The Shining” (1980) as he relives traumatizing memories from his childhood.
Disney Plus, the new streaming service for Disney, will be available for purchase Nov. 12. Studios like Marvel and Pixar will also be available on the service.